Gavea has to be one of the nicest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro. Not only does it have the infamous "baixo gavea," which boasts Hippodromo Up and the Jockey Clube and the Jardim Botanico, it also has the nicest spa/relaxation lounge in the city, "Nirvana" and it has some of the nicest places to live. Because it is not a tourist hotspot the crime is less obnoxious and the locals are friendly--and beautiful. Walking distance from the beach in Leblon and Ipanema, as well as from the Lagoa where you can get exercise or a nice night out under the stars, Gavea offers the tranquility of a small town in the midst of the Cidade Maravilhosa! You can also hop on a bus and be in Rocinha, the largest "shanty town" in all of South America, which is mind blowing.
There is nothing not to love about Gavea!
