I went to Brazil to see friends and tour and the Paysanadu Hotel was just a couple blocks from their apartment. It is located in a residential part of Flamengo, two blocks from the beach (Aterro beach, I could see it from my window) it over looked Rua Paissandau (the street) which is lined with palm trees. There are many resturants, juice bars, small sundry stores, a laundry within walking distance (if you need clothes washed the hotel can charge a fortune, the local laundry charged 18R for a large bag of clothes, they wash/dry/fold, and you can pick up the same day). The local Juice bar is an inexpensive way to eat lunch, I had the abacate juice with a little sugar (avacado) it was a delightful surprise. Taxis are available day and night and are the best form of transportantion. This location is about a 8-10 minutes from Copacabana via taxi/bus. (Copacabana is overrated, and more dangerous, better to stay in Flamengo or Ipanema/leblon)
The Paysandau hotel is an older building with nice architecture.. It has 6 floors and an old-style elevator. I upgraded my room to a deluxe (specify the style of bed or you will get a twin) that over looked the Rua and a peek a boo view of the beach and mountains ;) very worth it..I spent mornings watching Rio wake up from my window..,. The room was simple but all the essentials were available; TV, shower, ample space, mini bar refrigerator, table/chair and WIFI :) ( for a fee) The breakfasts were very nice! even nicer than a 5 star hotel I stayed at in Buzios. One dinner I had at the hotel was very nice also (and inexpensive)
Let me say, it is very rustic, and the building is very old, this is not luxury accomondations, but everything is cared for. The price was about $53 USD per day... a bargain. The staff were very helpful and pleasant. Being a woman alone in a big city I felt very safe here.