By Saira Ansari, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – In our series of articles that listed apartments for rent in Rio within the R$3,500, R$2,500 and R$1,500 price range, we covered the most sought after neighborhoods of Zona Sul (South Zone). We now look at another option, albeit one that is more popular for younger travelers, students and those on a budget: apartment sharing.
While R$1,500 per month will barely rent a studio in some areas of the Cidade Maravilhosa, it does open up some nice roommate options.
This neighborhood remains among the most coveted and famous locales in Rio, and because of the relatively high level of tourists and semi-transient expatriates, it is easier on non-Portuguese speakers.
Example: This one-bedroom option is in very comfortable quarters and is furnished with a double-bed, closet and its own TV and wireless internet connection. It has its own exclusive bathroom, bed linen is included, and the room is serviced once a week by a maid. Access is also allowed to the washing machine, microwave and iron. At R$1,500 rent per month, utilities are included. The housemate is a 39 year-old woman who prefers that the renter be male.
Leblon shares all the high-end amenities of Ipanema, but with less tourists and more luxury shopping and dining. Unfortunately, along with that privilege comes the higher price tag, and sharing an apartment will be your best option in this price range.
Example: This one-bedroom option is three blocks from the beach. The room is spacious and has a double-bed, closet and wireless internet service. Communal facilities include sharing the lounge with cable TV, broadband internet, washing machine and kitchen. All utilities are included in the R$1,500 rent. The housemate is a thirty year-old woman who has no preferential criteria for a prospective renter.
Copacabana remains to be one of the most popular tourist destinations the year round, and rents have increased manifold over the past year. Even the smallest of studio apartments can be well beyond one’s budget, but the roommate option provides an easy and affordable opportunity.
Example: This one-bedroom option comes with its own television, DVD player and wireless internet connection. It has lots of closet and shelf space and has its own balcony. At R$1,250 per month, all utilities are included. Bed linen is provided, as well as access given to kitchen and washing machine. The housemate is a 42 year-old woman who has no preferential criteria for a prospective renter.
Flamengo is home to Brazil’s largest urban park, which runs alongside the Guanabara Bay and has three major museums situated within it. Due to its proximity to popular tourist attractions across the city, interest in real estate is rising.
Example: This one-bedroom option seems like a great deal at R$1,000 per month (R$300 for utilities separate). The thirty year-old male owner’s style is very modern and trendy. The house has hardwood floors and is equipped with all household appliances. The room has a phone jack, television, internet and air-conditioning. The best part is that the room has its own private bathroom. The building has a doorman service and is close to the metro station. The owner prefers that the renter be male.
The neighborhood of Botafogo is located between Copacabana and Flamengo, but it is relatively cut off from all sides by mountains. Recent additions like the Rio Sul shopping mall, many new restaurants and a bustling nightlife have lifted the spirit of the area.
Example: This one-bedroom option is located near the Rio Sul Shopping center, making it quite close to the beaches of Copacabana and Leme. The room also has a view of Christ the Redeemer on top of Mount Corcovado. At R$1,500 per month, the room includes television, internet and, most importantly, a private bathroom.