Rio de Janeiro - Gringo Management Apartments [Archive]

Yodcha

06-24-06, 15:57

Bill and Mel finally completed their much anticipated Rio Adventure - what a trip in so many ways - but firstly I must do a bit of housekeeping first - Mel you please feel free to chip in with your comments at any time.

Firstly the apartment we rented was an ABSOLUTE FUCKING DISASTER - we used Gringo Management (GM) to book this apartment and I will NEVER EVER use them again.

I did contact GM on my return to Australia and requested recompense for this disaster but it was refused so I will now post my honest and accurate impression of the fiasco.

Here is how the apartment is described on their web site - Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartment - here is the url - http://www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html and we paid US$170 / night.

When Mel and I first discussed this vacation we kinda decided on going for a 'top end' place with 'double showers' in both bedrooms so we could play with the girlies.

After I found these so called "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments" I had a number of emails between myself and GM and I specifically asked the question "Are the showers double showers – as in can 2 people comfortably shower together?"

Hers is the response I got from GM - "Are the showers double showers – as in can 2 people comfortably shower together? Yes"

OK after much discussion with Mel and considerable review of the Apartments we decided to rent 1 solely on the basis that they had "double showers" as we both love playing with the girlies in the showers.

BIG MISTAKE.

The response from GM that they were double showers and that 2 people could comfortably shower together was an absolute LIE in relation to the shower downstairs - it was as single shower. No big deal you might be saying - well let me continue.

The beds were absolute CRAP - they were almost impossible to sleep on. El cheapo wooden slatted bases with 5 inch foam mattresses on top - no sprung base - no support of any type or form - like sleeping on a morticians slab - I would suggest these beds would be buyable at any flea market on any weekend for $20 - hardly becoming of a "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments". These beds were almost impossible to sleep on - were totally unsatisfactory for fucking on - it was totally out of the question to have a girl sleep the night - it just did not work.

But wait there is more.

There was totally insufficient curtaining / blinds to stop daylight filtering into the room as soon as the sun started to rise - they had these pissy bamboo type slatted blinds which may have been decorative but were totally inefficient at stop light entering - once again hardly good enough for a "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments".

The level of traffic noise from early morning on was unbelievable. Yes the apartment faced a main road - yes maybe I should have checked this - yes it is / was world cup football time - BUT - I still would have thought a "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments" may have had sufficient glazing / noise prevention that might have allowed some sleep after 6am each day.

The aluminium windows and doors rattled incessantly as soon as there was any wind / air movement outside - which there was most of the time once again hardly what I think would normally be the case in "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments".

And now for the toilet upstairs - IT WOULD NOT FLUSH FOR 4 FUCKING DAYS. The first time I tried to flush it just would not work. I literally had to bucket water into it for first 2 days to get rid of the turds.

I contacted the GM representative next morning who arranged the 'fix-it' man to visit - he left with the problem still existing. I finally had to remove the lid from the top of the cistern and I finally got it to a situation where I could get it to flush but only by physically putting my hand inside the cistern EVERY TIME and manually operating the flush system - once again hardly what I would have thought one would be required to do in a "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments".

Finally after 4 days 'fix-it' man returned and did get it working.

Oh and the main light in Mel's bedroom downstairs did not work and it took 3 days to get 'fix-it' man to change a globe.

OK OK I can here some of you saying this is just Rio - maybe so - maybe not.

Here is a link to the apartment I stayed in last October - http://www.rioapartments.se/default.asp?c=...subcat2=421&id= - it is the first apartment listed on this page. This apartment - unlike the one we rented through GM - was exactly as described on the site - but it only had a single shower - so I did not rent it again.

The point I am trying to make with this comparison is that the false and misleading representations that GM made as to the quality of the "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartment" that we rented turned what was going to be my 'trip of a lifetime' into what was almost a disaster. I was trying to survive on something like 2-3 hours sleep per night - it was fucking impossible to sleep in THAT APARTMENT with all the problems associated with it.

If GM had been honest with that initial question - "Are the showers double showers – as in can 2 people comfortably shower together?" - where they answered YES - which led me to rent this apartment - had they been honest and said NO - then none of this negativity would need to be appearing and it would have saved a lot of embarrassment to a lot of people.

NEVER EVER AGAIN WILL I CONSIDER USING GRINGO MANAGEMENT TO BOOK AN APARTMENT.

=================================================

Guys,

I really, really did not want to have to post what I posted above - but I feel so aggrieved by this whole affair I just had to do this - there is a final 'kicker' to this whole affair but you will need to wait to the final day of this report - UFB.

Mel's Take on the Apartment Provided by Gringo Management

My first reaction to the apartment that Gringo management described as a luxury apartment was that the place was more or less a dump. Words having meaning and in Rio luxury suggests almost as good as the Marriott. The apartment we were provided was terrible in many ways. The bed was just a thin mattress on a wood slab-not even a queen size bed. The aircondtioner was set way up out of reach so you could not adjust the temperature controls without standing on a chair! The Ac was from two old loud wall units. The floor was not carpeted at all. We were promised that we would have two walk in showers. This was a must for me but we were simply lied to and told we had two walk in showers when we did not. The pool is little more than 5 by 6 more a cold tub than a pool. The street noise is horrible. The lobby is out of the 1950s. (the front desk staff were nice) The living room furniture (a small plastic covered counch and a chair) is way below low end Walmart Quality (I think you could find it for 10.00 in a yard sale) The TV was on a stand like out of a college dorm. In Order to run that a lap top you end up with cords everywhere as the number of electrical outlets is too small (I am sure the electrical outlets are way below American codes.) The door keys were a pain to use. We had as BBB said problems with the lights and the toilets-the repairman said the problems came from the fact that the fixtures were all of very low quality. We came to see the apartment as more or less a joke. I can see why Gringo management wants payment in advance as I cant imagine any one paying 180.00 or so a day for this place after seeing it. It is way below the quality level of tthe Princess Copacabana hotel. I attach some pictures of the hotel to validate my point. (it should be noted that Priscilla is not included in the rent) The picture of the TV set shows the tv in one of the bedrooms-the ceiling fan shows how cheap the fixtures all were. The TV set and its stand speak for them selves. IF BBB and I did not both have a good sense of humor we would have been even more upset by this worse than a motel six quality apartment. it became a standing joke with us and others who saw it when we told them it had been advertised by Gringo Management as luxury. The beds were so small you really could not have a comfortable sleepover if you wished. The beds were low to the ground and would work well as the set for a remake of "Animal House". We bought our own toilet paper as none was provided. I would not stay there again for $100.00 a night let alone the $180.00 we paid. Everything BBB says is correct and if anything he is to kind!

Sunset Strip

06-24-06, 20:33

Yodcha

06-24-06, 20:39

Yodcha and others,

Did the apartment mentioned in the post not resemble the web picture at all?

I have had the switch-a-roo put on me by gringo once and was a little upset. I have also been promised Cable-TV by gringo only to have 3 Brazilian channels.

I have used them quite a few times and only once has the apartment truly resembled the photo. However, only once has the apartment been much worse.Can others chime in about there experiences with gringo, please?

And do you think it is the owner, or is it the locals who are pulling the switches by themselves?

Again, I would like to mention that the majority of my experiences with gringo have been satisfactory.

I am sure the descriptions of the apartments posted on the web page are written by Gringo Managment not the local owners. On the last day a woman in the lobby stopped us and asked us how much rent we paid-we told her and she said she also owned a Penthouse apartment and would rent it to us for less next time.

Rio Bob

06-24-06, 22:47

In my limited experience in Rio with apartments what I have learned is if you find an apartment that meets most of your needs then you should stick with it. I have only rented 2 different apartments in Rio, the one I always rent right now is not perfect but for the most part it fits my needs. Yes if you were spending $170 a day then you certainly have a right to expect a lot but I'm not sure how readily available a double shower is going to be available in Rio, here I think your expectations were a little high and unrealistic. If you had an apartment in the past that fit most your needs but didn't have the double showers then I think that is the apartment you should have stuck with.

Live and learn, in the future all of your decisions will be based upon you mistakes of the past and someday you will return from Rio with no complaints but nothing was perfect, it's all about experience.

Yodcha

06-24-06, 22:58

In my limited experience in Rio with apartments what I have learned is if you find an apartment that meets most of your needs then you should stick with it. I have only rented 2 different apartments in Rio, the one I always rent right now is not perfect but for the most part it fits my needs. Yes if you were spending $170 a day then you certainly have a right to expect a lot but I'm not sure how readily available a double shower is going to be available in Rio, here I think your expectations were a little high and unrealistic. If you had an apartment in the past that fit most your needs but didn't have the double showers then I think that is the apartment you should have stuck with.Well you have a good insight if you find what works stick with it-my point is that we were told it had two double showers-that does not seem like a huge expectation in a luxury apartment -if it did not have it we should not have been told it did have two double showers-our expectation was that we would not be totally given false infomration-a double shower is not like two Jacussi or a heliport-not that big a deal to have so I dont thinbk our expectatins were too high and even if they were that is not really relevant.

Bubba Boy

06-24-06, 23:46

If the apartment was on the 11floor of 94 R R P, then I rented the same apartment that you rented for $110 a night, not from Gringo management but from rioapartments. I thought the layout was great but the furnishings and in particular the bed sucked. I was moved over to another apartment accross the hall, owned by the same guy. This apartment had a great view, but again the bed sucked big time. I actually spoke to the guy from the company about the beds and he said the owner put some steel reinforcing rods in the bed - what an idiot!!! The beds just sucked. The pity is the apartment could have been awesome if just a little bit of thought and a tiny bit more money was spent on it.

Shemp

06-25-06, 07:18

In the last few years I have read posts about gringomgmt. apartments with accusations of bait & switch. This is what I found while shopping for apts. for my upcoming trip to Rio.

I saw pictures & descriptions of an apt. I liked on rua Bolivar. I found the same apt. on 4 different apartment rental web sites, I e-mailed them all asking about price & availability. 3 of them e-mailed me back saying that the apartment was unavailable for that time period. Guess what? Gringo mgmt. said the place was available. If this isn't a set-up for bait-&-swithch nothing is.

I found another apt. I liked on rioapartments.com, also on rua Bolivar near the beach which I inquired about. Rioapartments.com said the place was unavailable. Surprise, surprise, gringomgmt. said the place was available. Very suspicious don't you think?

So while I haven't personally been put in a place I didn't book, it looks like I was being set up for such a swindle. In my opinion David is a liar, a cheat & a theif.

Happy mongering,

Caipirinhas & Termas Forever,

Shemp

Big Jon

06-26-06, 05:02

Hi to all,

I stayed with GM in November of 2005 in Rio. It was a bate and witch with me also. However, it ended well for me. The were three of us. I reserved a three bedroom from the website. When I arrived, we were shown a differt three bedroom that was so old that it was unacceptable. So, we were given a one bedroom and a two bedroom apartment that was nice, for the same price as a three bedroom. This was OK for us because it was what we really wanted from the start but we did not request it because I did not want to hurt the feelings of the third person by telling him that the two of use did not want to room with him in Rio. I like GM because Divid accepts Paypal for deposites. Does anyone know of another apartment rental company that accepts Paypal for a deposits?

Wanderer1000

06-26-06, 14:40

I've used Kenn on my last three trips - am currently here for a month. He uses PayPal for deposits. Kenn is from NY, has lived in Rio for five years, and has always been helpful (in a timely manner) with any problems. He´s on the ground here - unlike David S. who is in the States. I've never read of anybody having problems with Kenn.

I used David on my first two or three trips here - never had a problem two and three years ago when I did. However, when I contacted him several times over the last year for information, I didn't find him as quick and responsive as in the past. It took four or five days to hear back from him on my last request.

Kenn just began to inspire more confidence in me. David seems to have lost his edge for this business.

Sunset Strip

07-03-06, 18:13

Overall I think gringo gives adequate service. However, the apartments are little overpriced and I think that is why you get the angry responses here. For what you are paying you should get a better bed, rather than the flimsy mattress supported by a wooden board. And the pictures on the web should correspond with the apartment you get once in Rio.

But in the end Brazil is a third world nation and things are never going to be perfect.

TJ

Yariv

07-03-06, 19:31

Hi to all,

I like GM because Divid accepts Paypal for deposites. Does anyone know of another apartment rental company that accepts Paypal for a deposits?My first time in Brasil I used GM and just like everyone here I was so disappointed with the apartment, and I think there was even an incident that i was shagging a girl and the damn bed fell apart. Anyways while I was there I met this guy Nereu Caldeira (21 2256 2264) that's his number www.globecondos.com is his website and he does take paypal and he is actually in Rio so if there is any problem you deal with him directly not like GM.

Sunset Strip

07-07-06, 20:52

Ok Maylay. You are right that I may be being a little too easy on David S. (gringomanagement) And, first timers probably should avoid him. For regulars, like myself, I can always find another place when I get there.

So my disclaimer is that my comments were geared more towards regulars. Newbies should go elsewhere. Avoid gringomamagement as Maylay says!

But renting an apartment is still preferable to staying in a hotel. All of us regulars agree on this point.

So other than kenn can you guys provide us with some more reliable renters?

I think copacabanaholiday.com.br is reliable. They are listed in Lonely Planet and Fodors travel guides. However, they have a lot of rules and a fairly high deposit.

TJ

Rio Bob

07-08-06, 17:57

When Mel and I first discussed this vacation we kinda decided on going for a 'top end' place with 'double showers' in both bedrooms so we could play with the girlies.

After I found these so called "Modern Luxury Duplex Penthouse Apartments" I had a number of emails between myself and GM and I specifically asked the question "Are the showers double showers – as in can 2 people comfortably shower together?"

Hers is the response I got from GM - "Are the showers double showers – as in can 2 people comfortably shower together? Yes"!Ok, what I have learned about some apartments on all of these websites is that some of these apartments are on other websites as well. So I have found that if I want to get a clearer picture of what an apartment looks like then I Google the address and see if it is being advertised somewhere else with different pictures. I have done this and in most cases I ended up with more information and better equipped to make a decision about my needs.

I goggled the address of the apartment in question here; there are 2 of them identical in that building the Penthouses. I saw pictures of both showers, pretty good pictures for someone who was interested in the size of the showers to make a good decision on. One shower looked larger than the other which you might expect as the master bathroom might have the larger shower. Everybody has their own tastes and level of tolerance, I could fit in that shower with 1 girl but maybe not 2. The other shower is smaller but I think 2 could squeeze in. Anyway my point is that going forward we can all be better informed consumers by doing some due diligence.
http://rentalo.com/properties/images/214762.html

The following 2 lines were in the description about the apartment:
o 2 marble bathrooms, one of them in the suite.
o Big mirrors, new toilets, big showers.

I believe this is the other Penthouse, this site has a clearer picture of the shower upstairs, from what I can see if someone asked me if this was a double shower or not I would say it is a very big shower: Click on the photo section and then click on the bathroom upstairs
http://www.moveandstay.com/rio_de_janeiro/rio-de-janeiro-maracana-penthouse-6901.asp?id=6901

Yodcha

07-09-06, 12:59

Ok, what I have learned about some apartments on all of these websites is that some of these apartments are on other websites as well. So I have found that if I want to get a clearer picture of what an apartment looks like then I Google the address and see if it is being advertised somewhere else with different pictures. I have done this and in most cases I ended up with more information and better equipped to make a decision about my needs.Good suggestion on googling the address. You could also search for reviews of the hotel the apartments are located in. As we left an owner of an apartment on our floor asked us how much we were paying. She then offered us her place for 30.00 less a night saying it was identical to the one we obtained via gringomanagment. Any way one could do better than the place we stayed at and I hope others will do better.

Sonic67

07-18-06, 08:32

I also had very bad experience with Gringo Management 3 months ago. I rented that penthouse on 11th floor Raul Pompai (? ) or something like that next to Bunker night club. It looked very good on picture. Me and my buddy fell for the pool but when we moved in. The shower in upper room was not working- either hot or real cold. View is ok (nothing great). Lots of street noise- very hard to sleep. Water was dirty and very cold in that bath tub on terrace (he advertised as pool). After 2 days of complaining to them nothing happened. Finally gave up my rent since we were there only for 7 days and it did not want to spoil our trip because of some money (even it hurts) and with the help of Hotel staff got a penthouse three blocks from that place (Francissco Sa? ) less than the price of that stupid penthouse- brand new remodelled - all the girls we brought there loved it. Customs lights and Varandah party. Wow. Still miss it. NEVER rent from David. Discussed with all my buddies from Miami who rented from him in the past. All had some kind of bad experience with him. Never a repeat though.

FreeWilly

07-28-06, 20:26

OK, I really wish I had seen this info about GingoM before, but I have booked an apartment (he says I will be in Copa #100) & I am staying for one month.

I arrive next Thursday and now you guys are scaring the crap out of me.

I am not a newcomer to Rio, but my regular apartment is taken next month so I browsed for another and came up with his site.

I need an internet connection in my unit, so I asked him specifically for that.
He also came way (Way) down from the asking price for the month, so I was very happy with what I am getting so far. He has also called me several times and been very responsive to all my emails (within hours of sending for the most part).
I have never stayed with him (david) before so I have no idea what to expect.

2 Questions:

1. Has anyone stayed in this unit? The Link: (First Apartment)

http://www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

2. Do I need to try to find another place? This location is perfect and the apartment does not look bad. I don't need the Ritz, but I don't want the bed falling apart during my first shag either.

I think I am going to send him an email to voice some concerns and see what he says... but an OBJECTIVE viewpoint would be nice as well...

Thanks Guys.

BTW, Anyone else going to be around in August? Love to meet up with anyone who will be around.

Aloha.

Sunset Strip

07-28-06, 23:39

I did not stay here but a friend of mine did and loved the place. It was his first time in Rio.

Everything should be fine. The apartment has cable and a Cd/DVD player according to my friend.

But, of course, the real issue is the switch a roo. Will you really get this apartment are another in the same building. My first time with gringo I was placed in another apartment, not this one, when I got there.

If I were you I would not call Dave and be rude. But I would make it known that I wanted the apartment on the website.

And since this is slow season I think you will be ok. When I went down I made the reservation a week before and it was almost Carnaval, so I got cheated.

My firend went in slow season, too, and got what he wanted.

TJ

Rio Bob

07-29-06, 22:34

1. Has anyone stayed in this unit? The Link: (First Apartment)

http://www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.htmlI stayed in this apartment several times, it's his apartment so he is not an agent for it. It's a great location, right across the street from Help and Meia Pataca if you like those types of things. The bed and the apartment is fine, the bathroom is a little small, no parties in this shower.

I still use him but I now stay in another apartment and never really had any problems other than the usual types you would have staying in any old apartment building which looks like most of Copa has.

Don't worry I think that the criticism here about him is a little overblown.

I'll tell you what to expect since you asked:

Things have always gone smooth for me with him, his driver Bruno picks you up at the airport, he knows where you are going, while he is taking you there he is on the phone with Edna, Daves sister in law because she will meet you at the apartment with the keys so they estimate when you will get to the apartment and she has always been there no waiting. Edna will show you around the apt and how it works, give you a cell phone if you need it and you can call her if you have any problems plus she provides maid service with clean sheets and towels when you want for a fee. I never had a problem with these people, things always went smooth.

Member #4217

10-08-06, 03:19

Don't worry I think that the criticism here about him is a little overblown.I stayed in the last apartment for a month and had absolutely no problems. In fact, David picked up half the tab for the last phone bill for me!

Tom

Gladiator

10-08-06, 23:55

I tried gringomanagement once and all I can say is that in the future I will avoid them like the plague.

I had to move to a different apartment as soon as I could, in the meantime I had the opportunity to enjoy gringomanagement's roach-infested shit hole.

Bubba Boy

10-20-06, 03:59

Maylay, I know how you feel but some people are just born to be ripped off. I have a good friend that comes to Rio 3 or 4 times a year, has been for a few yeras. He gets ripped off every time he comes here. Some people just don't learn. I try to sit him down and tell him to wise up but he is just plain born to be ripped.................This is why Gringo Managament can survive, some people liked to be ripped off, I think they get off on it. Me on the other hand hate it with a passion.

Negao

10-26-06, 16:40

I have been a long time client of Gringo Management. I have been going to Brazil the last 5 years and always stay in his apartments. I have always found David at Gringomanagement.com to be honest, responsive and provide excellent value and service.

A few of the posts mention the duplex penthouses #200 on page www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

All I can say is that I had a great experience. The pictures do not lie. The apt is a duplex with a nice pool and balcony on top. The showers are made of marble and are ample size for at least 2 guests. They had internet so I was able to do my work. The girls loved the places too.

About #100 in Djalma Ulrich. David recently remodeled that one when I was down in July and the place looks awesome. Even has a computer. www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

I think you are giving Gringo an unfair rap here. He is a good guy!

Negao

Negao

10-26-06, 22:13

Seems like the majority of GMs clients ain't satisfied with their service.

At least Negao is satisfied. Honest, responsive, excellent, great, nice, awesome...
First post... hmmm...I think Tom n Jerry and Also Rio Bob senior members agree with me.

Have you rented from GM?

Gringoman

10-26-06, 23:21

Hi Everybody,

A friend of mine tipped me off about this discussion so I thought it would be a good idea that I made a post so the discussion is fair.

First off, there appears to be a few people that were not too happy with the service. That is part of business. I handle over 1000 reservations in Rio every year and have been doing this for several years now. I aim to make everybody happy and try to describe the apartments well, document them with pictures and try to match the requests with the proper units.

I can say out of 5000+ clients most folks are happy and return to do business with me. Some have become very good friends. It is unfortunate that a few bad posts can go far to distort and portray something that is not really fair or accurate.

I can really only address issues when I know who the people are and where they stayed so reponding to this board is difficult without details.

I do know the 2 guys that started this post... Mel and Billy and I can respond to their complaint. They have written this post and slandered me on several other boards about this reservation.

The sad thing is that the 2 bedroom penthouse they stayed in is actually a nice unit. I think the guys were way overboard and I have never seen anyone go out of their way to hurt someone as much as these 2 guys have.

They rented apt #200 on my site www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

As you can see from the pictures the place looks very nice.

Modern Duplex Penthouse Apartment in Copacabana / Ipanema border area. Top floor of Apart/Hotel "Atlantico Palace". 2 bedrooms, A/C, Cable TV in living room and bedrooms, DVD player, Stereo, Internet, 2 baths with marble floors, Private pool, maid 2 times a week and towels and linens included. Many extras. Close to all !!

When folks make a reservation with Gringo, they are required to make a small deposit, usually one night, and then they pay the balance in cash when they arrive.

If these guys thought the place was so terrible why would they pay over $1500US in cash when they arrived ???? I know if I arrived in a place that I thought was misrepresented or not what I wanted, I would walk out, and go elsewhere, which is the option that anyone has.

These guys paid in full, had my phone #, email address, and my assistants phone #, and THEY NEVER CALLED OR EMAILED ME ONCE !!!!!

My good friend Carlton was staying across the hall from these guys and even introduced himself and they mentioned nothing to him either.

They stayed for 10 days, had over 50 girls in the place, partied, had a great time, then came back home. 10 days AFTER THE FACT, I get an email telling me how I destroyed their vacation. They then asked for a refund and I told them that you cannot stay in a place for 10 days and get a refund. They then threatened to bad mouth me on the internet if they did not get their money back. And that's what they did. Bad mouthed me everywhere.

Their complaints were:

1. Noise : Rio during World Cup Soccer is not quiet anywhere, unless you are in the back of a building. Nothing we can do about that.

2. The shower was not big enough for 2 people: As in most 2 bedrooms, the master bedroom has a big shower, can fit maybe 3, a long rectangle, and the 2nd bedroom has a smaller bedroom, a square which in my experience can only handle 2 people. Mel was complaining because he said that the bath could not hold 2 people. I found out from my friend that Mel is a very big guy. So that case maybe 2 people could not fit.

3. The mattresses were not soft enough, or hard enough: Anyone who has travelled to Rio knows that mattresses are not like they are in the USA. I have not seen an pillow tops or kings... mostly thin mattresses supported on a wood or metal frame. That is the way it is every where in Rio. Some mattresses are better than others.

These guys took fabulous pics of the apt and posted them on other sites... the place looks great. Not the Marriot but they were not paying Marriot rates. ($450US a night)....

Every once in a while I come across pretty picky folks and I think these guys were a bit picky. It's is hard to please everyone. I sort of feel this was about getting money back.... EZ-rentals also rents this apt and I think if anyone asks him he will verify the places are nice.

Please take a look at the pics of #200 - #203... all the same owner in the same building and decide for yourself. The pics were taken in the last year so things have not changed much if at all. www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

About any other complaints.... I would love to handle them one at a time, but I need to know who you are.

I think some of the folks on this post are simply trying to do damage, maybe put up by some of my competitors???

Please feel free to call me anytime at 480-882-8373 or email me from the website. www.gringomanagement.com

I stand by my service my goal is to make everyone happy.

I will check this board to answer any questions or complaints.

Sincerely,

David Schneider
www.gringomanagement.com

Sperto

10-27-06, 07:28

I think Tom n Jerry and Also Rio Bob senior members agree with me.
Have you rented from GM?
No, I have not.

I prefer to use personal contacts when renting apartments. No middlehands means lower price. When I go to Rio I just visit one of my contacts and they show me what they can offer. Paying R$ 35-55 will get me what I look for. Being a good customer and a good friend helps me getting a good price. Might also help that I bring a gift (imported whisky/vodka or nice sneakers). :)

If you'll be satisfied with an apartment depends very much on your expectations. I'm satisfied as long as the apto is clean, cockroach-free, wellfurnished, has a nice view and is equipped with a comfy bed, cable-TV, AC, washing-machine and located between Av NS Copacabana and Av Atlântica and less than 3 blocks from Help.

Pana Nyc

10-27-06, 09:54

I used Gringo my 1st trip and I had no problem with them what so ever David and his staff where very helpfull while I was there. I recommended gringo to my friends who are in Rio right now. My next trip I will not be using gringo, I have a contact in Rio now on apartments down there who is the actual owner and not the middleman who make a couple of dollars extra for renting out owners apartments. I save some extra money for a couple more Terma sessions at Quatro por Quatro.

Mangera

10-27-06, 12:26

There really is no true accurate stat, because people will always be able to play with the numbers to make them look however they want. What I wrote was mean't to be a reflection of most people's sentiments about this particular buss.

I will give you some facts. I have stayed at Gringo's apartments, I have also used E-Z Rio rentals, and I have also used many independents. I have also spoken to quite a few tourists staying at apartments that are rented out by these companies. So I have every right to compare.

The reality is that there are always going to be a handful of unsatisfied customers no matter what buss. your in and how you run your buss. I know, I have a successful buss. in the states. I have plenty of friends that own buss. too, and we share ideas about this very same topic.

After conversing with different past clients of these rental companies mentioned above, along with my personal experiences, I have concluded that there have been more than just a handful of these complaints, and there is obviously a problem.

I am not going to waste your time or my time going in the he said, she said details. I am not going to get into all of that b.s. I am above and beyond that silliness.

My experiences? I had mentioned in an earlier post that the service and apartment provided in my particular case by Gringo was ok, but as for pricing, it was over market pricing in comparison to other options. I noticed this after the fact. So I live and learn and have saved a ton of money since then.
It somewhat irratates me that he is over charging in comaparison to other Rio rentals, which by the way, he has every right to. But in this case, he is mainly targeting american clients that are blind to the fact, and I take issue with that.

As for Kenn at EZ RioRentals, I can say he provides slightly better rates, and he is a stand up guy. I have only heard of one or two minor complaints. I do not have any. Nor do I have anything to gain by mentioning it.

Overall, if people do their research, they will be able to cut out the middleman, and deal with independents resulting in significant savings. In fact huge savings. I do not like to see tourists getting a exposed to a possible bad experience, and over paying, especially american one's. So my intentions are not to insult anyone, but only to help out other tourists. So if I offend anyone in the process, my apologies. But I call them as I see them.

I think I have already wasted much time, brain cells, and forum space on this topic. This is the last I write about this particular topic. Good luck to all, and be safe. Laters!

Rio Bob

10-27-06, 12:56

Rio Bob, First off your a fraud and I happy to see you have nothing to do in your meaningless life that you time to research my posts. Flake? Think not but your a certified fake.It takes 2 minutes, just click on your name then copy and paste, very easy and quick.

Look one time I had an experience that was not satisfactory too in one of his apartments similar to yours but I didn't flip out over it and try to put the guy out of business. I spoke to him about it so that in the future he could do something about it and I spoke to him about how I am going to choose my future apartments. I now stay in one apartment that fits my needs, not perfect but no problem.

I personally think that your reaction to this is over the top, ok you had an apartment whose bathroom smelled like mildew and you had roaches in the apt, well, this happens in these old apartments in Rio, calm down and choose another one next time but you act like you have been bilked of your life savings and all future earnings, calm down my friend, it's over.

And there are others here on this thread that just popped in and posted and never even rented from this guy, why do you need to do that?

And if you can find the same apt cheaper or similar type cheaper then so be it go ahead and do that. All these guys who rent apartments add some profit to the rental fee. And do you think that if you rent from a Brazilian you can't be screwed? Sure they will. I mean if you really read the original post that started this whole thing it was about 2 guys who originally complained about the size of the showers, I mean please come on? The size of the shower, and maybe some other appliance in the apt didn't work and it was noisy. Yes for sure this can happen but does it warrant its own thread, I believe the complaints don't hold water, they're legitimate complaints but you make the complaint to him and then move on.

Gringoman

10-27-06, 18:29

Guys,

I have been travelling to Rio for over 10 years and lived there myself for 4 years. I have stayed in many places in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leme, Leblon, and even lived in the favella for a while. So I have seen the best of the best and the worst of the worst. I can say I am an expert on accomodations in Rio.

Some of the complaints are quite common and simply part of the landscape of Rio and I will use this discussion to help educate newbies as to what to expect when they come to Rio.

It appears that some guys on this thread have other motivations other than truth and resolution, otherwise they would contact me directly or give me details on this post so I can explain. ?? Again my phone # is 480-882-8373 and my email address is on my website. www.gringomanagement.com

Some of the guys have not even stayed in my places and they have something to say?

David

Gringoman

10-27-06, 19:03

I saw several complaints on this thread of noise heard from the streets in Rio from my apartments.

First off, I would like to stop the generalizations about my apartments. They are all different and unique to one another. If you have an apartment that is bad for you, it might be someone else's "perfect pad ".

If Gringomanagement apartments have noise from the street so does every other rental service out there. Not fair to put that on me alone.

To place this in proper perspective, I have very few complaints of noise in Rio. Maybe 1 out of 500 people. Most people coming to Rio understand they are coming to a large vibrant city.

I would not consider Rio to be the quietest city in the world. The city boasts over 6 million residents and Brazilian people like to party.

The first complaint on the board was about noise which coincided during World Cup Soccer week in Copacabana. Whenever there is a big soccer game in Rio, the city sort of shuts down and everyone is crowded around tvs. Everytime there is a goal or near goal you will hear roars and fireworks across the city. Loud booms at times with the M-80's they set off. I actually enjoy the revellry and think it's cool. Folks that don't like noise should not come to Rio during World Cup Soccer, or any big soccer game for that matter, avoid Carnaval, New Years and the summer period because the city of 6 million inflates to over 10 million.

The first complaint mentioned that there should be suffient "glazing" on the windows. DOES NOT EXIST IN RIO. In fact double pane windows do not exist in Copa. 90% or greater of the windows I have seen are single sheets of glass.

Location is important when looking to avoid noise in apartments.

Certain streets have more noise than others.

Rua Pompeia for instance is a street with noise because of the car and bus traffic and because of a few local disco's, Le Boy and The Bunker, (which coincientally just closed this week)

Avenida Copacabana and Barata Ribeiro also have alot of Bus and car traffic so those could be noisy if you are facing the street.

Folks that want ocean front on Avenida Atlantica will also have to deal with some noise because Avenida Atlantica is actually a 4 lane highway and has foot traffic most of the day.

The quietest places will be on the side streets and away from little bars and discos. If you select an apartment in the back of a building, (fundo) you will have less noise too. But then you won't have the ocean view. Always a sacrafice.

Around Help Disco there is alot of people on the street at late hours and there is a street fair until the wee hours of the morning where they are playing bongos and guitars.

Some guys are extremely sensitive to noise. I myself sleep like a rock and it's really not as bad as some of these guys are portraying. During the summertime most of the time you have the window closed and all you hear is the humm of the airconditioner.

I personally don't hear the street traffic, maybe my mind blocks it out because I lived in New York City for 15 years....

About noise within the apartment buildings, over the years I have heard recurring complaints about construction in the buildings. Rio is an aging city and there are CONSTANT rennovation projects on the buildings. They do not have licenses and can start without notice ANYTIME. They are limited to work between 8AM and 5PM. WE do not receive any notice about these projects and I usually only find out when someone tells me about it.

Again this is not a unique GM problem, all the apt buildings in Rio deal with this one time or another.

When this happens, sometimes we can move you to another unit, and sometimes we can't.

It's funny that the 2 guys in the post that complained about noise were guys that PARTIED until the wee hours of the morning, had over 50 guests in one week, even had parties with 8 or more people and then they complain to me about noise from the street? Huhhh?

So I guess what I am saying here is that guys that are super sensitive about noise and want peace and quiet should probably select another destination.

Gringoman

10-27-06, 20:45

These letters speak for themselves. I have hundreds of emails like this. I can't post them all here.

David,

I got back from Rio earlier this week. I want to take a moment to thank you for the excellent service you and your helpers in Rio provided. The apartment #701 ocean-view was excellent. Very clean, modern, spacious with incredible views. The staff at the building were very attentive and helpful. Bruno and Edna, as usual, provided very prompt and courteous service. The weather was perfect, 80 to 85 and sunny all four days, as were the garotas. I'll be sure to pass along the good word on the message boards. Thank you and hopefully in the not-to-distant future I will be needed your services once again.

Patrick
___

Hello David,

Once again I had a fantastic stay at the apartments and so did my friend. I will look forward to my next trip to Rio in may 07. This seems to be the best time for me not to hot. Thank you for everything please let me know of any other thing that was not taken care of during our stay. Had a ball.

Willie
___

Hi David,

I just want to say thank you for the gooooooooooooood service we had a great time in Rio, actually I had the best week in my life and am going back there soooooon, and all what I can say to you LOVE YOU MAN and thanks for every think.

Amir
___

David,

I just wanted to thank you for all your support in the most amazing experience of my life. I can't explain to anyone in words the experience I had. The people of Rio are truly awesome. We didn't even make it to the Termas or the places in Copacabana, nor needed to thanks to the wonderful people of Ipanema/Leblon. Neuru and Bruno were very supportive in anything we needed at anytime, including the building staff as well. It was truly amazing, I don't know what to say except I'll be going back very shortly. My only complaint is, for the last week I've been used to seeing atleast 15-20 of the most beautiful women of the world every 1-2 minutes everywhere night/day. What am I supposed to do now? I feel homesick/I'll.

Shetal

__

Mr. Schneider, I just wanted to drop you a line and thank you and your entire staff for a great trip. I was never left in the lurch nor did I have any concerns or problems during the trip. The total lack of concern for details made for a relaxing and exciting trip. I plan to make another trip in the future.

Thanks again!

Octavious
___

Hello David,

I just want to let you know that we are back. We had a great time in Rio. The location of the apartment is great. Happy New Year.

Sharon
___

Dave,

Thank you for arranging that nice apartment. I would be mesmerized and stare at that nice view of the beach, for hours. That was a very colorful neighborhood with great Juice bars and I really liked gulping down many a big cold Skol at those little carioca bars on the street below and shoot my limited Portuguese breeze with the locals.

I want that same place, same time next year if possible. Arnold was great and did stuff way above the scope of the job. Sometimes he'd just call to check if I was having fun, or if everything was OK.

Straight up people Best Regards & thanks again,

Paul
___

David:

I would like to thank you for your service and I would definitly keep it in consideration for future plans with your service. I would also recommend my friends for your service as well in the future. Also before I forget I tried to reach Edna for the apartment keys the day I left Rio but no answer. I left the keys with the doorman. Edna had left me the keys before I got there with the doorman so if you can ask her and you can email me. Again David Thank you and hopefully be looking forward for my next visit to Rio.

Rodney
___

Hello David,

Just wanted to let you know everything went great. The apartment was in a great location with nice views at a good price. I will look you up for future trips.

Thanks,

Robert
___

Dear David,

I'm back from Rio and wanted to thank you for your services. The apartment was clean and nice, Bruno kindly provided transportation from/to the airport and answered my questions. Overall, I enjoyed my vacation in Rio very much. Thanks again.

Art M.
___

Hi David,

I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for providing the apartment to my friend and I over the course of the past two weeks. The apartment location, cleanliness and ameneties were great and served us very well, and your partner Neureu was a great help (and a super nice guy).

Will definitely recommend your apartments to friends traveling to Rio in the future. Rio is a fantastic city, and I hope one day I can return there again.

All the best,

. Drh
___

David,

I just wanted to touch bases. I've been back for over a week and still feel sort of like I am between two worlds. You plan for so long and then it'sover so quickly.

I had a fantastic trip and in large part to a really nice apartment in a great location. Thanks again to you.

I'm sure I'll go back again at some future point so you are bound to hear from me again.

Thanks,

Kim
___

Hi David,

I was back to Canada yesterday and back to work this morning (Feb 17). The two week stay in Rio was very memorable for me and I like it very much. Looking forward to come back again when any occasion will arise, hopefully by next year.

The apartment is very clean and pleasant to stay as everything I need is just next door.

Also thank you for having Bruno pick me up and drive me back to the airport. It was nice of him to drive me all the way to the Sambadrome and walk me to the gate which gave me security at best.

I have left Edna an envelope thru Bruno. Pls send my best regards and thanks to her as well.

I will definitely use your services again in the future. Thanks again for all your help and the details you communicated to me before my trip. I will definitely refer your services to anyone who would like to stay in Rio.

Best regards,

Nick - Canada
___

Rio Bob

10-29-06, 17:03

Off Road

10-29-06, 17:21

I have never used gringomanagment, BUT I have been in plenty of apartments in Sao Paulo and Rio. I have rented some in Rio from low end brazilian companies that were so small, plenty of cockroaches, and just happy the hot water works in the shower.

Maybe I should start a service to visit the selected apartments for gringos that are coming to Rio to give an fair evaluation! (I am gringo too).

I have also seen some negative posts about some other companies I know are totally professional and that really confused me. I guess people need a place to vent.

My 2 cents.

Negao

10-30-06, 21:18

I have used Gringomanagement.com for the last few as well as others. Bobby, EZ-Rio, John Thompson. I have had great experiences with some and negative with others. When I have had a negative experience I haven't gone back and chastised them. To be frank with you, I am happy just to be in Rio tearing fat asses da' frame. Like most of us on this board.

But all this Gringomanagement flaming shit is ridiculous and this Malay Sparks talking pure shit about coming down to Phoenix to beat some ass needs to watch what he is saying because this is a double edged sword. It cuts both ways. Dave has many friends like me in Brazil and the US and if you really want to sit down and discuss this face to face, That could easily be arranged. This is what I suggest you do if you really have a problem!

I understand from the post that you paid $35US a night for the apt. You are talking about a very low end room for that price. You sort of get what you pay for. BE REAL & threaten no body because that could come back to haunt you! If anyone has a problem with an apartment, you need to tell the agent when you are there, and cut all the crap and crying like bitches, . MAN the fuck up, and let people know from the start. You will see that will stop many problems from the outset! I just bought a brand new chrysler 300c SRT/8 with the 6. 1 litre Hemi, all black. Se chama "NEGAO". Got a fat ass just like a brasileira, and they didn't do shit for me on my roadside assitance, when I had a tire problem this past week. I let them know immediately how I felt, and I'm giving them a chance to make me happy. If they don't, I go straight to Cadillac on my next move, and they have been made aware of this from the git' go!

Oh, by the way. They are doing their level best to "satisfy me" right now, . Get the picture?

I'll be there in brasil on the 9th of Nov for 7 days, I will let all the good folks know how we spanked that FAT ASS YO'! Wit' some nice fotos.

Eu falarei com voces depois. Tchau!

NEGAO!

Gringoman

10-31-06, 00:23

I just received this email today from a client staying in one of my ocean view apartments. This guy is a member of this board. I blocked his name to protect his anonymity.

www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

I am very happy with your apartment. It is bright and cheery and so far everything works. A pretty good deal. I'm glad I stuck with you on this and didn't listen to that goober on the net. I can even hear the waves crashing in at night. Fantastic.

And having this computer here is a giant plus. This saved me from having to bring a pile of stuff from home and also I don't have to go seek out an internet shop every morning. Very pleased.

Also, Edna is a very nice lady. Very helpful and kind. Bruno was informative, and even the doormen at both apartments have been helpful.

Couldn't be happier.

K__

Pounddog

11-01-06, 03:32

I (and friends) have used David at Gringomanagement.com on three occasions and always received the best of service and the apartments have been great. I read some of the negative posts on this thread and find it hard to believe. If you arranged to rent an apartment from David, you would have paid the balance upon arriving and inspecting the place. Why would you have paid the balance if the place was a dump? Further, the poster stayed the week and then waited until they arrived back in the US to post complaints on this website.

Sounds like bullshit to me.

Anyone out there considering renting with David should do so knowing that there are many satisfied customers out there. He and his staff in Brasil (props to Bruno and Enda) are always courteous and helpful.

I am setting up my next rental with him for this coming Carnaval without hesitation.

PD

Exec Talent

11-01-06, 07:26

What is ridiculous is Gringos in Brazil (or in the case of David, in Phoenix) trying to make a buck off of other Gringos, getting a bad reputation and then trying to redeem it by posting over and over again under multiple names how wonderful they are.

David -- anyone who is anyone in Rio knows how you run your business. I personally have heard at least 10 complaints about you and after that I stopped listening. People like you simply need to go away or find some other scam.

If someone uses your service they clearly have not read this board or communicated with any regulars here. Don’t go away mad, but do please go away.

Member #4156

11-01-06, 12:53

I used grigomanagement on my last trip and clearly I am a reputable member of this board. Don't get me wrong, I'm not advocating for the dude, but at the same time I had no complaints. However, I stayed in Ipanema. What I've noticed here on this board is most of the guys with bad reviews are the ones who've stayed in Copa at one point of time. I may be wrong but I think that might be the common denominator. Who knows?

Like I said, I had no complaints, Arnold and Nereu took care of me. I still talk to Arnold every now and then b/c we had good conversation and he's street smart, won't tell you anything just to cause it sounds good, sr8 up guy. I'd rent the same apt again if I didn't adopt the "don't do the same thing twice in a row" philosophy.

Gringoman

11-03-06, 00:19

Missed your emails. Sometimes it gets busy. I think you used to stay in my ocean view studio on Rua Djalma Ulrich 49

#100 on my site www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html .

You wouldn't recognize the place now. I completely rennovated it in July and everything is new and looks great.

I put in porcellenato tiling, recessed lighting, glass box shower, marble counters, I spent R$1800 on a American size Queen mattress and box spring and even put a computer in their with a dsl connection. Small apt but excellent quality.

You should check it out next time you are down. Email me when you get a chance.

This apt is right around the corner from Help and has a full view of Copacabana Beach down to Sugar Loaf Mountain. No taxis at night, you are home in 30 seconds.

I used David on my first two or three trips here - never had a problem two and three years ago when I did. However, when I contacted him several times over the last year for information, I didn't find him as quick and responsive as in the past. It took four or five days to hear back from him on my last request.

Pipe Layer99

11-06-06, 19:44

I have only been to Rio once. But I have a friend who has been there numerous times and he gave me some good intel. I also read lots of posts on this board before making decision. Having said that, on my 1st trip to Rio, I rented from rio apartments. I only paid a small deposit and after inspection I paid for the rest of my week. If I did not like the apt, I would have told Claudio immediately, and requested another. If they won't help, then I would have asked for a refund or only stayed for 2 days.

Another idea - I know I read this on the board here - I was also told by my friend - get a hotel for 1 or 2 nights - then go find an apt when you get there. This way you know what you are getting. So on my 2nd trip, starting tomorrow, thats exactly what I'm doing. I already have a hotel for 2 nights. Then on Thursday afternoon, I plan to go look at a few apartments. I will contact my apartment renter to see what he has available and verify the price. Then off we go for a look. I will look at maybe 2 or 3. If they all suck, I will go to another agent and do the same. I figure this will take about 2 hours max (out of the afternoon). For me, thats not much for my peace of mind in finding a good place to lay my head (and work the night shift).

Good luck, DD

Ryjerrob

01-30-07, 01:53

Hi All,

I've been to Rio on a few occassions, have have rent from Gringomanagement w/o any issues. On all trips it was only for two days inbetween staying at other places. Dave has always been good to deal with. I'm sure there's alot of things that have happened to others, but I guess I've been luck thus far.

Ryjer

Dutch44

01-30-07, 22:28

Hi All,

Just want to let you know that I rented a (small) apartment from Gringo Management in the middle of January in Ipanema. Everything went fine. The apartment was clean, the service was good and the price was right. (US$ 65 per night) Gringo management responded quickly to my emails and made sure things were arranged as agreed. I picked up the key from the doorman in the morning when I arrived and could immediately use the apartment. No hassles.

I will certaily rent a room or apartment from them again next time I'm in Rio.

Dutch44

Mr Enternational

02-02-07, 09:40

Brazil Lover

02-03-07, 01:44

I am surprised to see a thread dedicated to this guy, but I'll chime in with my experience.

I rented from David a few years ago, only to find on arrival that I had been a victim of a bait-and-switch. The apartment was not the one promised, and it did not have a safe as promised. After complaining, I was informed that I was lucky to even have a place during what he considered to be a high season (it was not).

I moved out to a hotel 2 days later.

Perhaps things have changed since then, but I know I will never try him again.

Gladiator

02-03-07, 17:51

I am surprised to see a thread dedicated to this guy,

So am I, but I suppose that advertising revenue is, after all, revenue, even if it comes from a guy like this.

By the way, you are not the only one that decided not to try him again after the first time: there are many of us.

Ryjerrob

02-05-07, 20:28

Is it true that you are cutting out the short stay rentals (1, 2, or 3 days) at your apartments?I just called Dave the other day to inquire about a 1 day rental. He says that most owners won't do that. I guess nothing is better than something. THe time I was loking for is also low season. He did say to get back to him a couple of weeks before the trip, and maybe he could do something. I'm optimistic.

Ryjer

Bubba Boy

02-06-07, 05:43

Ryjerrob

02-07-07, 08:50

If a senor member with a good deal of posts says they are ok, like Keldeson, I would believe them. The amount of senor members that have said Grino M are ok are extremely small.

Having said that there are a worrying number of people with less than 10 posts saying how great Gringo Management is. These posts I find have no credibility and I would suggest they could possibly be from Gringo management themselves....IE. SPAM. This would not be out of the ordinary for this less than ethical company.

I have spent a few years in Rio, spoken to hundres of people that have rented apartments. The apartment management company that has the greatest numbers of complaints by a long way is Gringo Management. Anybody that would rent off them is just foolish. Yes they may get you a good apartment, but chances are you will have problems. When you have problems in Rio with apartments you are basically f**cked. Just don't take the risk, avoid this company.I don't work for the guy. I'm just saying that on my past two trips, I needed a place for 1 night, nd it worked out for me. It was clean, and had a bed, that's all I wanted for 1 night. I've never used their services for more than one night. If you guys say they're shit, ok. I was just lucky. There are way too many other places to stay to keep talking about gringomanagement.

But to proove that this isn't spam, I'll be the biggest anti-grinmanagement spokesman if you want. Just because I'm not a senior member, doesn't mean I don't have something to contribute. And I never said they were great.

Gringo Management sucks!

Ryjer

Rio Bob

02-08-07, 17:30

Ryjerrob

02-08-07, 18:19

Look if you have never rented from gringomanagement then I think you should keep your mouth shut here and stop spreading crap, I heard this and I heard that like old wash women, stick to your own experiences noy what other people say because you dont know those people, they could be cronic complainers.

I am in Rio now and used Gringomanagemnt and although things are not perfect everything gets fixed. My tv didnt work, it was fixed in an hour. My safe didnt work 2 times, it was fixed in an hour, my hot water didnt work 2 times, it was fixed in an hour. This is my experience not some elses. Also trying to be so smart that figuring out that just because a member has few posts it must be bogus but you could be wrong and all your doing is causing problems for people that you have no business to.Why all the complaining. My original post said that I had used them, and I had no problems. Then the person comes along and tries to say I can't have an opionion because I'm not a senior member, and only senior members should be listen. All I did was share my experience. I rented on two different trips for a total of two days each time. I didn't have a problem. That's it.

Jan 156

02-08-07, 20:14

Never used it but have bookmarked his site. It's true that most agencies aren't keen to rent for one or two nights. If you use a hostel you are paying the same money for pretty basic accommodation. I would maybe try my usual ones and they might cos they know me, but many people would think it not worth the hassle to rent you a place for one or two nights.

I generally arrive very light and so can easily carry luggage to an agency and leave it there while I look at properties. But I know some folk are still addicted <g> to carrying more than they need, so having somewhere lined up is a good idea at least for the first night or so.

The other thing that might be useful to know is if he has an arrangement for people arriving late (ie after office hours).

Bubba Boy

02-08-07, 21:20

Hey Bob,

Is it just me or did you rent a crap apartment? Your Tv didn't work, your hot water didn't work, your safe didn't work. What a shitty apartment you rented.......

Jan 156

02-08-07, 21:25

Hey Bob,

Is it just me or did you rent a crap apartment? Your Tv didn't work, your hot water didn't work, your safe didn't work. What a shitty apartment you rented.......

ROFL yep - but he did get them fixed lol. Someone PM'd me asking to recommend an apartment and it occurred to me there is no one agency I've come across that doesn't have ones on its books at times that need repair - mostly they find out about stuff when someone tells them.

Always look at the place unless it's just for that night and you can't be bothered with the hassle.

Reminds me, once in Delhi I asked to see the room in the 'hotel' before I paid. Very nice. Fridge tv and so on.

later I realised the fridge was ok as a cupboard and the tv was great for putting ornaments on. The room had no electricity except for an overhead bulb . . .

Rio Bob

02-08-07, 21:57

Hey Bob,

Is it just me or did you rent a crap apartment? Your Tv didn't work, your hot water didn't work, your safe didn't work. What a shitty apartment you rented.......

This is really ridiculous, these apartments are on many different websites, I thought you knew at least that writing that guide and everything

Bubba Boy

02-09-07, 02:01

ROFL yep - but he did get them fixed lol. Someone PM'd me asking to recommend an apartment and it occurred to me there is no one agency I've come across that doesn't have ones on its books at times that need repair - mostly they find out about stuff when someone tells them.

I agree with this, many apartments in Rio do need TLC, but I just thought the post was extremely funny how Bob thought he was promoting Gringo M by saying how many things in the apartment broke.

Jan 156

02-09-07, 04:55

I agree with this, many apartments in Rio do need TLC, but I just thought the post was extremely funny how Bob thought he was promoting Gringo M by saying how many things in the apartment broke.

Well yes, I'm pleased it was a good-natured post - I hope Bob sees you weren't having a go at him.

Bob - I think it was funny the way you expressed it - I didn't read anything too serious into it (or Bubba's response) one way or the other.

Gringoman

02-09-07, 19:34

I just read some of the recent posts, many of which were extremely positive and again I don't mind constructive criticism from members that have actually tried my service but I see several posts from people who have never rented from me. Bubba boy seems to have alot to say but I don't recall him ever staying with me.

Additionally I don't think it's fair that people like yourself invalidate the opinions of other people. It seems like everytime someone makes a complimentary post, the same people come on the board and intimidate, belittle and bully the other members.

I think everyone can see through this.

The object of this thread is to inform our audience of the best possible apartment options in Rio at the best prices.

I am dedicated to doing just that.

Now lets talk about apartments !

Thanks,

David

www.gringomanagement.com

Gringoman

02-09-07, 20:07

help disco is situated on avenida atlantica between rua miguel lemos & rua djalma ulrich.

i manage 5 ocean view apartments in rua miguel lemos 8 which is conveniently located right on the corner of miguel lemos and avenida atlantica. directly across the street from the beach, right in between the meia pataca cafe and help disco. awesome location.

the picture i attached shows the building in white and baby blue a few buildings to the right of help.

i have also attached a few pictures of unit #905 in the building.

you can see the apts on my website. apt# 102, #103 and #104 of my website www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

the units are $60us a night and have all the basic amenities. a/c, cable tv and digital safe.

3 of the units i have are equipped with high speed internet access.

the miguel lemos 8 apts are very popular.

if you want to be close to help, beach and the meia pataca, these units are great!

Bubba Boy

02-11-07, 03:36

I just reread every post in this section. There are approx 12 complaints. Most complaints say the same thing, that the apartment they booked was switched out to another apartment. In context of the total number of posts, that would appear to be a very significant number of complaints.

Even people that have used Gringo Management services put a disclaimer in there. Basically they are saying that the management needs to be watched very carefully because they feel a bait and swtich is always on the cards.

The reason there are so many negative comments is entirely due to the dishonest business practices of Gringo Management.

Your so called "good posts" mean basically nothing. Most of these posts are by people that don't post here, they have less than 10 posts to their name and have obviously been either asked by yourself to post here or are yourself posting under an alias. Either way, they are posts with little creditibility.

Bubba Boy

02-11-07, 04:03

Gringoman

02-11-07, 04:39

www.gringomanagement.com is the most successful and reliable apt rental agency in Rio. We do over 1000 reservations a year in Rio because we DELIVER. I have built my business on word of mouth and referrals and I have made literally 1000's of people happy in Rio over the last 5 years.

Again Bubble boy, I don't know you and you don't know me so I don't see how you can get on the internet and write bad things about someone if you have never even stayed in one of my apts. Every one is entitled to their opinion but you have stepped over the line of what is called libel and slander. I am starting to think you are being put up to this by one of my competitors. I would definitely watch yourself because this is a double edged sword my friend.

Anyway I went through every person that posted on the thread and here is what I came up with.

Sperto - never stayed with Gringomanagement
Bubbaboy - never stayed with Gringomanagement
OffRoad - never stayed with Gringomanagement
DonnieD - never stayed with Gringomanagement
ChrisD - I don't think he ever stayed with Gringomanagement
Shemp - Never stayed with Gringomanagement

Rio Bob - Positive post
Jak - Positive post
TomnJerry - Positive post
PanaNYC - Positive post
Negao - Positive post
Ryerrob - Positive post
Dutch44 - Positive post
Keldeson - Positive post

TJfantastic - Positive post mixed with complaint of not enough cable channels
Yodcha - Bad Mattress and noise in Penthouse on Rua Pompei
Big John - Bait and Switch
Yariv - Bed fell apart
Sonic67 - water too hot or too cold, street noise
Gladiator - Roaches
Brazillover - Bait and switch.

Now lets go over the complaint reasons.

CABLE TV ISSUES - When any apt service advertises cable tv they mean BRAZILIAN cable TV. NOT American cable TV. So alot of clients come and expect to watch American channels when in fact all the channels except for CNN and BBC and maybe USA is in English. Another thing that happens every once in a blue moon is the cable company goes to a building and cuts an apt line by accident. Then we have to call and schedule them to come and hook up the line again.

BAD MATTRESSES - Common complaint in Rio. Difficult to please everyone in this area because some people like hard some like soft some like high mattresses others lower to the ground. Mattresses in Rio generally are bad. There are no posturepedic or pillow tops. 90% of all mattresses you will find in apts come on top of a bed with wood slats and no box spring. Very small percentage have box springs at all. About Bed Frames, they are usually wood or aluminum. As you can imagine they take a pounding in Rio and sometimes they break. This does not happen often, but maybe 1 out of a thousand visitors. Not common at all. That is not to say you can't be comfortable or have a good mattress. Just not the same as the USA. This is Rio.

HOT WATER - Another very common complaint in Rio. This is the year 2007 and the Brazilians have still not mastered hot water. In all apts they either have gas showers or electric, each have their own issues that pop up from time to time.

Electric Showers - water is not steaming hot like here in the US. The more water pressure you put the less the hot water. These shower heads have electric wires attached to heat the water and sometimes you can actually get a shock and they blow fuses all the time. So I get calls that all the lights are out in apts and thats because the shower is on with the a/c and everything else in the apt. Best to shut off a/c when you take a shower. This is not just in my apts but all apts in Rio with electric shower heads.

Gas Showers - water is steaming hot once it gets going but sometimes complicated to start up because they run with a pilot light. You have to press a button which ignites the flame. Alot of times water puts out the pilot and then there is no hot water until you relight the flame.

AGAIN ALL SHOWERS IN RIO ARE LIKE THIS... not just in my apts. Problems with water do not happen every day but when they happen people get upset. Again when you come to Rio, this is part of the landscape. I am sure every experience Rio traveler has had an issue like this once.

ROACHES - Not a common complaint but it has happened. I manage about 80 units anyone working with the number of apts that I manage will come up with a roach. Copacabana and Ipanema is old, humid and tight living spaces. They are around and if we see them we immediately call the exterminator to spray. If any apt has a chronic problem I drop the apt immediatley.

STREET NOISE - Another common complaint in Rio. Rio is a city with over 16 million people squished into a relatively small area. There are lots of cars, busses and loud people. There are alot of sport noise, late night bar noise, music, festas, etc. If you are coming to Rio for a QUIET vacation then you better go to another place. Rio is not quiet. There are some apts which are quieter than others. Depends on the street, location in the building, etc. Best to ask me when you are reserving. Back of the building apts would be the quietest. A few guys complained about street noise on Rua Raul Pompeia penthouses. Rua Pompeia is a street with lots of cars and busses and has a night club. Best to ask before you rent.

BAIT AND SWITCH - I would never intentionally give someone an apt they did not book. The apt rental business is not a perfect science. We are dealing with many different owners and lots of problems pop up from time to time. Example being... Apartments are Sold and new owners will not take the old reservations ... we have to switch the apt.... the night before the client comes, the building decides to clean there water tank and no water in the building for 3 days... we have to switch. Sometimes owners doubledeal us where the book to someone else who paid them more. Sometimes a mistake is made on the calendar where we double book by accident. Does not happen too often but when it does people are naturally upset. We do the best we can.

I hope I addressed all the issues on this board and I want to stress that the issues and complaints from my apts you will find all over Rio. Shit happens. Even in my property in the US, light bulbs go out, sprinkler systems break, etc.

I can say that when I do have an issue I do my best to get it resolved asap.

I am not going to get into a pissing contest with Bubbleboy or anyone else who has never done business with me. But I do appreciate the feedback and you can always contact me directly at david@gringomanagement.com

Gringoman

02-11-07, 05:10

I would like to add that I have made alot of reservations from members of this site since this thread was started. A couple of senior members are in my apts right this very minute.

Thanks to all.

David

www.gringomanagement.com

RxHammer

02-11-07, 11:59

Pro's and Con's...

I have rented from David 25+ times in the last 6 years. What's all the crying about ?? "Jeez, I rented an apartment and I saw a bug!" Jesus Christ, let's have some perspective, please. I know David, he's an honest guy and some of you people, many who haven't even RENTED form him, call him out like he's some kind of thief or something. Also, what exactly is the definition of "bait & switch"?? Yes, David has changed apartments on me a couple of times due to reasons he had no control over. Once,the apartment next door was being remodeled and he moved me so as to avoid the hassle. Also, when they were working on the lobby at one of his buildings on D Ulrich he moved me again, FOR MY CONVENIENCE.
Both times I was moved into a BETTER apartment at no additional charge. I just got back from 5 weeks in Rio, had a studio apartment right around the corner from Help, $1,000US plus a small charge for electric. Was it the Ritz ??, no but I didn't EXPECT the Ritz for $1,000 !!!

David doesn't own ALL the apartmets he handles, ever think that maybe some of the OWNERS may have fucked him over and then the problem had to be handle in the best way possible? In business, you can't always control every situation. You just do the best you can and hope people will be REASONABLE and understand.

Lighten the fuck up !!!

Hammer

Gringoman

02-11-07, 16:28

I couldn't have explained things better myself. Rio is a living breathing city. So many factors going on at once. I always do the best I can and if something goes wrong and there is some inequity I always try to make it up.

David :)

Pro's and Con's...

I have rented from David 25+ times in the last 6 years. What's all the crying about ?? "Jeez, I rented an apartment and I saw a bug!" Jesus Christ, let's have some perspective, please. I know David, he's an honest guy and some of you people, many who haven't even RENTED form him, call him out like he's some kind of thief or something. Also, what exactly is the definition of "bait & switch"?? Yes, David has changed apartments on me a couple of times due to reasons he had no control over. Once,the apartment next door was being remodeled and he moved me so as to avoid the hassle. Also, when they were working on the lobby at one of his buildings on D Ulrich he moved me again, FOR MY CONVENIENCE.

Both times I was moved into a BETTER apartment at no additional charge. I just got back from 5 weeks in Rio, had a studio apartment right around the corner from Help, $1,000US plus a small charge for electric. Was it the Ritz ??, no but I didn't EXPECT the Ritz for $1,000 !!!

David doesn't own ALL the apartmets he handles, ever think that maybe some of the OWNERS may have fucked him over and then the problem had to be handle in the best way possible? In business, you can't always control every situation. You just do the best you can and hope people will be REASONABLE and understand.

Lighten the fuck up !!!

Hammer

Gladiator

02-11-07, 20:58

The following 4 rental companies I have never heard 1 compaint about. Thats right, not one bad word and they are used a lot.

If you compare this to the 50 + complaints I have heard about Gringo Management (there are many complaints about them on other boards as well, a shit load in fact!), it is an easy choice which company to avoid and which companies to entrust your cash with.

Companies that treat their customers well, with honesty and integrity are:-

http://www.rioholidays.com/

http://www.rentaflat.com.br/

http://www.apartmentsrio.com/

http://www.ez-riorentals.com/

BB,

There is enough info in this thread, as well as others, for anyone to make their mind about what they can expect from gringomismanagement; if after reading all this hard evidence someone still goes ahead an use him, they will deserve what they are going to get.

Yankee 617

02-13-07, 02:02

I haven't visited the Brazil forum in awhile as I've been off exploring other parts of the world. But I stopped in tonight and noticed this new (to me) thread on Gringo Management. I was pretty surprised to see the vicious attacks. I guess some people were pretty unhappy with their experiences.

Well, I don't know what you other guys have been through. All I can do is tell you that both my own experiences with Gringo Management have been perfectly okay. On two occasions (about a year apart) I rented a nice little apartment from Gringo Management near Copacabana for a few days. The price was right, the location was superb, the quality of the accomodation was perfectly acceptable, the terms we agreed to seemed reasonable to me, we both honored these terms, his gal was waiting for me with the key when I arrived (early in the morning), she showed me around the apartment and gave me her phone number (in case problems arose), and I paid her in cash in full for my brief rental period before she left. In short, everything went smoothly. I have no complaints whatsoever. I would use them again in the future and I would recommend them to my friends.

FWIW... I don't know David at all, other than a couple email exchanges.

Your mileage may vary.

Balzac

02-13-07, 10:51

Hi there guys,

NOT going to try to explain whether those complaints are valid or not. I would just like to say that I went to Rio de Janeiro in October 2002(I think). Anyways, got an apartment with gringo Management on Rua Miguel Lemos, just around the corner from "Help Disco". Remenber fondly that those glorious 10 days I spent there were AWESOME! , place great, garottas super and Dave was an excellent host/help that made my Rio vacation unforgetable in conjunction with Blame it on Rio Travel. He even went the extra mile, when asked, in helping me trying to go to Maracana stadium to see one soccer game with the local team Flamengo.

Please, not trying to denigrate nobody, just stating the facts and if I haven't gone back to Brazil again is 'cause my life/work schedule is just too hectic or can possibly be in all places at one time. Other than this comment, ALL have great mongering times.

Rio Bob

02-13-07, 16:51

I agree with this, many apartments in Rio do need TLC, but I just thought the post was extremely funny how Bob thought he was promoting Gringo M by saying how many things in the apartment broke.I’m sorry but I wasn't promoting Gringo M, I have no reason to promote him. I was just responding to a post of someone who has a lot to say about something he has no first hand knowledge about at all.

I do, I have first hand knowledge of dealing with Gringo M and you do not. Look you do a lot of good on this board telling people what to do in a Termas or how to get a taxi, you seem to have first hand knowledge of that and I’m sure that people who don't know how to do that are very appreciative.

I have been renting from him for several years now because he makes it a simple process and as I said all is not perfect but it all works out good.

I had a conversation with a girl this weekend in Rio about her last apartment in Copa, it had roaches, this apt is not one of Gringo M but the building is a popular building and many of the apartments in that building are on many different websites, that means the building has the problem not the agent. Sure you can get caught in one of these apartments from any agent but does that make the agent bad or the building that are on many different websites.

Again your below post here you have no first hand knowledge just more hearsay, just seems strange that you are strongly bashing this guy and he has done nothing to you. I’m sure many of your Bubba guide readers make you feel impotent but why have you now appointed yourself to be the champion of this?

The following 4 rental companies I have never heard 1 complaint about. That’s right, not one bad word and they are used a lot.

If you compare this to the 50 + complaints I have heard about Gringo Management (there are many complaints about them on other boards as well, a shit load in fact!), it is an easy choice which company to avoid and which companies to entrust your cash with.

Companies that treat their customers well, with honesty and integrity are:-

http://www.rioholidays.com/

http://www.rentaflat.com.br/

http://www.apartmentsrio.com/

http://www.ez-riorentals.com/

Bubba Boy

02-13-07, 17:51

I spend a lot of time in Rio and speak to a lot of gringos that go there. The common theme that comes up is that this guy in unethical. I have heard, *first hand* at least a dozen stories of this guy basically just f**king people over by giving them a shitty apartment that was not the apartment showed on the website. No mention was ever made that the apartment was changed and when the people have complained, they have been told basically that there is no refund - tough luck.

Now, I do not have to deal with a dodgy company to know that they are dodgy. I have heard way to many complaints about this company and hence have zero intention of ever dealing with them on a first hand basis. I would be a complete fool to rent from them after hearing and reading so many complaints. I have zero intention of ever dealing with them or recommending anyone to them.

My agenda is I do not want to see any first time visitors to Rio be at the mercy of a apartment rental company. A bad bait and switch will completely f**k a holiday. Some people work all year for a 1 or 2 week holiday to Rio and do not deserve to be f**ked over by a rental company.

No one in this thread has answered one simple question. Why is there zero complaints about virtually every other rental company, well maybe there are some complaints about bobby from blameitonrio as well, and so many complaints about gringo management over a wide number of websites????

Why are there so many complaints about this company and virtually none about any other company? Anyone can offer a theory on this? Anyone?

Ryjerrob

02-13-07, 20:25

Is it possible that you're secretly in love with Dave from Gringo Management, and he he rejected you. Get over it. All you do is complain, and then try to talk down anyone with a different opinion. I've basically rented from 3 different people in Rio, and never had a problem. Based on those experiences, I'd go back to them. If I ever have a bad experience, I'll be sure to let you know, so you can be validated on the particular thread.

Ryjer

Mangera

02-14-07, 01:07

Ryjerrob - 20 posts

Bubba Boy - 501 posts

I wonder which posts have more validity? Hmmmmmmm...............

Gringoman

02-14-07, 04:27

Again Bubba Boy NEVER STAYED with Gringomanagement so I don't see why he is so motivated to say bad things with no personal experience. I am almost certain now he is being put up by one of my competitors. I was looking at your original post on this thread and you actually complained about a unit with Rioapartments in Rua Pompeia 94. See below. If you never stayed with GM and had a complaint with rioapartments why are you directing all this nasty talk about me? If anything, your complaint is with Rioapartments not me? Right?

I looked up Mangera's original post and he stated that he stayed with me and things were ok. But he was not happy with my pricing. Ok fine. Free market.

I don't think I can win with you guys. Business as usual, 34 guys arriving tomorrow for Carnaval!

I would like to talk to you in person. Call me anytime 480-882-8373. David www.gringomanagement.com

I think we should use this thread alittle more intelligently. We should be reviewing individual apts... talking about the pros and cons of various apts and pricing. Not all apts are equal and everyone wants the best. In future posts I will be presenting more units that guys seem to like. If Bubba or anyone else has some suggestions ... lets see them. I have alot of nice units on my site www.gringomanagement.com We can compare.

If the apartment was on the 11floor of 94 R R P, then I rented the same apartment that you rented for $110 a night, not from Gringo management but from rioapartments. I thought the layout was great but the furnishings and in particular the bed sucked. I was moved over to another apartment accross the hall, owned by the same guy. This apartment had a great view, but again the bed sucked big time. I actually spoke to the guy from the company about the beds and he said the owner put some steel reinforcing rods in the bed - what an idiot!!! The beds just sucked. The pity is the apartment could have been awesome if just a little bit of thought and a tiny bit more money was spent on it.

Ryjerrob

02-14-07, 16:59

Ryjerrob - 20 posts

Bubba Boy - 501 posts

I wonder which posts have more validity? Hmmmmmmm...............Ok, now I have 21. Thanks for being scorekeeper.

Ryjer

Bubba Boy

02-15-07, 02:43

Gringoman, why can you not answer one question I have asked several times on this forum. How can you explain the numerous complaints by numerous different people on numerous different boards against you and zero against other companies??? You are obviously doing something wrong, this is something you cannot see???

Your alegations that i work for a competitor are just ignorant. I have made 500+ contributions to this forum, over that time maybe 5% relate to any comments on apartments and with those posts I have not promoted any particular company. I don't even live in Rio, I just spend maybe 8 months per year their of late. I am actually retired and don't work. There is a search function on this forum that can be used to view every such post that I have made. I would think there is a consistency in my posts over that time. Over that time I have only posted negative things against maybe 5 people. All of those people except you are effectively banned from this forum or don't post anymore because they pissed off to many people. I have been here a long time before you and will be here a long time after you loose interest in posting here.................

So, can you please answer my question??? Why are there so many complaints about you over such a wide section of the net and virtually no complaints against other companies???

Mangera

02-15-07, 02:54

"Scorekeeper says!", Bubba Boy 503 valuable and informative posts.

Gringoman

02-15-07, 04:00

Bubba boy,

This is getting tiring... fighting with some anonymous dude.... who has ZERO experience with my business.

Anyway your stats are way over exagerrated. I have gone over every complaint on this board. Listed below again. Most of the complaints, I might add, are generic Rio complaints. Nothing unique with my apts or my service.

6 folks have never used my service but had something to say. Like yourself.
12 now had positive things to say
7 had complaints - which I addressed in this thread.

To answer your question about why people have not complained about other services. I disagree with you I think they have. You just have not drawn any attention to them. In your very own post on this thread you complained about a terrible bed from Rioapartments. You did not say anything derogatory about Rioapts but if you rented that apt with me you would have torn me to pieces. It seems like a few guys want to take this personal so they have attacked.

Bubba why don't you share with us some specifics about some GOOD places you stayed at. You seem like such a negative person. Always putting people down.

Sperto - never stayed with Gringomanagement
Bubbaboy - never stayed with Gringomanagement
OffRoad - never stayed with Gringomanagement
DonnieD - never stayed with Gringomanagement
ChrisD - I don't think he ever stayed with Gringomanagement
Shemp - Never stayed with Gringomanagement

Rio Bob - Positive post
Jak - Positive post
TomnJerry - Positive post
PanaNYC - Positive post
Negao - Positive post
Ryerrob - Positive post
Dutch44 - Positive post
Keldeson - Positive post

TJfantastic - Positive post mixed with complaint of not enough cable channels
Yodcha - Bad Mattress and noise in Penthouse on Rua Pompei
Big John - Bait and Switch
Yariv - Bed fell apart
Sonic67 - water too hot or too cold, street noise
Gladiator - Roaches
Brazillover - Bait and switch.

Now lets go over the complaint reasons.

CABLE TV ISSUES - When any apt service advertises cable tv they mean BRAZILIAN cable TV. NOT American cable TV. So alot of clients come and expect to watch American channels when in fact all the channels except for CNN and BBC and maybe USA is in English. Another thing that happens every once in a blue moon is the cable company goes to a building and cuts an apt line by accident. Then we have to call and schedule them to come and hook up the line again.

BAD MATTRESSES - Common complaint in Rio. Difficult to please everyone in this area because some people like hard some like soft some like high mattresses others lower to the ground. Mattresses in Rio generally are bad. There are no posturepedic or pillow tops. 90% of all mattresses you will find in apts come on top of a bed with wood slats and no box spring. Very small percentage have box springs at all. About Bed Frames, they are usually wood or aluminum. As you can imagine they take a pounding in Rio and sometimes they break. This does not happen often, but maybe 1 out of a thousand visitors. Not common at all. That is not to say you can't be comfortable or have a good mattress. Just not the same as the USA. This is Rio.

HOT WATER - Another very common complaint in Rio. This is the year 2007 and the Brazilians have still not mastered hot water. In all apts they either have gas showers or electric, each have their own issues that pop up from time to time.

Electric Showers - water is not steaming hot like here in the US. The more water pressure you put the less the hot water. These shower heads have electric wires attached to heat the water and sometimes you can actually get a shock and they blow fuses all the time. So I get calls that all the lights are out in apts and thats because the shower is on with the a/c and everything else in the apt. Best to shut off a/c when you take a shower. This is not just in my apts but all apts in Rio with electric shower heads.

Gas Showers - water is steaming hot once it gets going but sometimes complicated to start up because they run with a pilot light. You have to press a button which ignites the flame. Alot of times water puts out the pilot and then there is no hot water until you relight the flame.

AGAIN ALL SHOWERS IN RIO ARE LIKE THIS... not just in my apts. Problems with water do not happen every day but when they happen people get upset. Again when you come to Rio, this is part of the landscape. I am sure every experience Rio traveler has had an issue like this once.

ROACHES - Not a common complaint but it has happened. I manage about 80 units anyone working with the number of apts that I manage will come up with a roach. Copacabana and Ipanema is old, humid and tight living spaces. They are around and if we see them we immediately call the exterminator to spray. If any apt has a chronic problem I drop the apt immediatley.

STREET NOISE - Another common complaint in Rio. Rio is a city with over 16 million people squished into a relatively small area. There are lots of cars, busses and loud people. There are alot of sport noise, late night bar noise, music, festas, etc. If you are coming to Rio for a QUIET vacation then you better go to another place. Rio is not quiet. There are some apts which are quieter than others. Depends on the street, location in the building, etc. Best to ask me when you are reserving. Back of the building apts would be the quietest. A few guys complained about street noise on Rua Raul Pompeia penthouses. Rua Pompeia is a street with lots of cars and busses and has a night club. Best to ask before you rent.

BAIT AND SWITCH - I would never intentionally give someone an apt they did not book. The apt rental business is not a perfect science. We are dealing with many different owners and lots of problems pop up from time to time. Example being... Apartments are Sold and new owners will not take the old reservations ... we have to switch the apt.... the night before the client comes, the building decides to clean there water tank and no water in the building for 3 days... we have to switch. Sometimes owners doubledeal us where the book to someone else who paid them more. Sometimes a mistake is made on the calendar where we double book by accident. Does not happen too often but when it does people are naturally upset. We do the best we can.

I hope I addressed all the issues on this board and I want to stress that the issues and complaints from my apts you will find all over Rio. Shit happens. Even in my property in the US, light bulbs go out, sprinkler systems break, etc.

I can say that when I do have an issue I do my best to get it resolved asap.

Gringoman, why can you not answer one question I have asked several times on this forum. How can you explain the numerous complaints by numerous different people on numerous different boards against you and zero against other companies??? You are obviously doing something wrong, this is something you cannot see???

Your alegations that i work for a competitor are just ignorant. I have made 500+ contributions to this forum, over that time maybe 5% relate to any comments on apartments and with those posts I have not promoted any particular company. I don't even live in Rio, I just spend maybe 8 months per year their of late. I am actually retired and don't work. There is a search function on this forum that can be used to view every such post that I have made. I would think there is a consistency in my posts over that time. Over that time I have only posted negative things against maybe 5 people. All of those people except you are effectively banned from this forum or don't post anymore because they pissed off to many people. I have been here a long time before you and will be here a long time after you loose interest in posting here.................

So, can you please answer my question??? Why are there so many complaints about you over such a wide section of the net and virtually no complaints against other companies???

Gringoman

02-15-07, 04:16

i just received this email complimentary email from a client who stayed in condo prudente de morais 269 in ipanema

apt #153 on my site www.gringomanagement.com/ipanema.html

date: thu, 15 feb 2007 11:23:24 +1100
from: "malcolm thom"
to: "david" <david@gringomanagement.com>
subject: rio stay

david,

the appartment was fantastic. perfect location in all of rio. close to a great beach and good cafe/restaunrant. all your staff were really helpful and made my stay enjoyable. i am currently in recife staying at boa viagem wishing i was back in ipanema.

i have had a few senior members stay in this apt and they also had good things to stay. great location.

apartment #153 condo prudente m - beautiful studio on rua prudente de morais - ipanema just 1 block from the beach. (between rua teixeira de melo & rua farme de amoedo) quiet building, double bed , airconditioned, cable tv, internet speedy service (bring your laptop) full kitchen, bathroom with glass box shower. 24 hour doorman awesome location. towels and linens included $70.00us per night

Ryjerrob

02-16-07, 23:13

Dave,

Just wondering when I getting my first check?

LOL

Forty four days and a wakeup!

Ryjer

Off Road

02-17-07, 15:22

Gringoman

02-17-07, 18:53

Just received this email from a client in #105. (see below)

#105 is a nice apt with internet on Atlantica and Rua Bolivar.

www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

This is another favorite of some of our senior members. I like it because it has a nice view from the living room and bedroom, nice living space and separation between the bedroom and living room and the building is quiet and doormen are nice.

Rua Bolivar 8 & Avenida Atlantica with INTERNET!!! Fantastic Ocean views from the living room as well as separate bedroom. Directly across the street from famous Copacabana Beach and close to popular nightlife attractions. High floor, quiet building. Queen Sized bed, Airconditioned, Cable TV, Stereo, Full Kitchen with Microwave, Digital safe and 24 hour doorman security. Towels and linens included. $65.00 US per night. $60US a night in low season

"Jodie " Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
To: david@gringomanagement.com
Subject: RE: Reservation Confirmation Letter
Date: Sun, 18 Feb 2007 00:04:02 +0800

Hi David,

Wow - the apartment is GREAT! We are having such a good time we don´t want to leave! And some friends of ours who have used your services also are just as impressed.

Um, but we do have to leave and I just wanted to let you know our departure details so that you can contact Edna to arrange for her to come and check us out. We have a flight to Salvador at 7:30pm but we will have to be at the airport by 5:30pm which means we will have to leave Copacabana at about 4pm (we are taking some of our things to a hostel as we don´t want to carry all of our stuff and will be returning here for our flight out on 12 March).

Thanks,

Bubba Boy

02-18-07, 16:26

Are you also posting all the complaints you are getting as well?

I know of 3 or 4 guys that individually rented from you in the last few years and got the old "bait and switcheroo" from yourself. They have been invited to post her, hence you will see these complaints appearing over the next few weeks. Would not want you to drop your batting ratio of 50/50 complaints/compliments.

Exec Talent

02-18-07, 16:48

I have never rented from Gringo Management because I have heard too many complaints. One thing that is missing from this thread is that a number of what I would call reasonable guys have not complained because they assumed that the apartments they rented were the norm. In other words, they should accept things like A/C not working, no hot water in the shower, noise at all hours of the day, roaches, crappy beds, etc. because Rio is a big city in a "third world" country. After all, you are saving money by renting an apartment and you don't have to pay to bring girls in.

Are there people happy with the apartments Gringo Managements rents. I am sure there are and some people I respect have said as much here. However, I too have not heard the complaints about other agencies in the numbers I have heard about Gringo Management.

My advice is if you decide to rent from Gringo Management do so with your eyes open and know that even the most basic apartments offered by other agencies have working A/C, hot water, etc. If there is a problem with the apartment you rent from Gringo Management do not accept it as the norm. It is not. If your problem is not resolved, post your complaint here.

As for roaches, you do see them (and the tiny ants and mosquitoes) in Rio. The issue is really about numbers. I have seen them in termases, restaurants and even hair salons. I also have seen them in the US. If an occasional roach upsets you, then Rio is not for you.

Gringoman

02-18-07, 17:15

Bubba,

This is where you are missing the boat.

I get many complimentary emails but at the same time of course I receive complaint letters. Its part of the real estate hospitality business. Again this is not unique to my business but every hotel, condo complex, apt in the world.

Yesterday in Rio I had 2 complaint emails. To keep this in perspective, I have about 120 guests in Rio right now for Carnaval.

#1 No hot water in an apt. When Edna went there she noticed that the guys in the apt turned off the main gas knobs so she turned them on and the hot water worked again.

#2 Toilet overflowed in another apt. Porteiro went in with a broom handle and fished out condoms that were stuck in the toilet. You cannot flush condoms down the toilet.

So there are the complaint letters from yesterday. Everyday it's something like that.

I used to manage a condo complex in NJ and everyday I would have little problems cropping up. Today in my own house in the USA, I had my sprinkler system breakdown. Last week I had these tiny crickets in my garage. Constant upkeep.

As I have explained several times already in this thread, certain things in Rio are just part of the landscape. EVERY apt service in Rio encounters the same problems that I do.

The difference between the apt services is how the problems are handled.

Then there are the picky people like yourself. Nothing makes you happy.

About this "bait and switcheroo" thing... I really have to know the specifics... first name and date they arrived. If you provide the info I can give a response.

As I mentioned before in this thread I wound never intentionally switch an apt on a guy without a really good reason. Apt business is not a perfect science, things happen. If an owner sells an apt, rarely happens, but if it does we have to switch, if there is construction in the building which would create alot of noise, we will switch to accomodate the client, I ALWAYS try to find a better unit and NO EXTRA COST. Sometimes an owner will completely screw me and rent to someone else who paid more (brazilian owners will do this time to time) then I have to switch. Over the course of a year this does not happen very often .

I have asked you to call me. NO CALL of course. My phone is always on 480-882-8373

Bubba I have a hard time understanding your motivations here. You have no experience with me, you don't know me, but you seem to be really out to get me??

I am not a hating type guy, I wake up pretty happy every day. You must be miserable.

I actually feel sorry for you.

David

Are you also posting all the complaints you are getting as well?

I know of 3 or 4 guys that individually rented from you in the last few years and got the old "bait and switcheroo" from yourself. They have been invited to post her, hence you will see these complaints appearing over the next few weeks. Would not want you to drop your batting ratio of 50/50 complaints/compliments.

Gringoman

02-18-07, 17:26

Exec,

I take this last post as progress.

You admit you NEVER rented from me and you also admit that you have seen problems all over Rio.

I would like to ask you and Bubba where are you guys staying. Or who are you staying with?? Maybe post some pics.

You can see my apts here www.gringomanagement.com

You have alot of bad things to say about everything but have not offered up any real info on where the good places are.

As I have said before I am always looking for good apts.

Lets be a little more specific here and I would like to see you guys post your experiences in a good apt in Rio.

We can talk all day about negative things...

Lets try to improve the quality of our trips to Rio by finding the best spots. Since you guys seem to have alot of experience I thought you could be of help.

Thanks,

David

I have never rented from Gringo Management because I have heard too many complaints. One thing that is missing from this thread is that a number of what I would call reasonable guys have not complained because they assumed that the apartments they rented were the norm. In other words, they should accept things like A/C not working, no hot water in the shower, noise at all hours of the day, roaches, crappy beds, etc. because Rio is a big city in a "third world" country. After all, you are saving money by renting an apartment and you don't have to pay to bring girls in.

Are there people happy with the apartments Gringo Managements rents. I am sure there are and some people I respect have said as much here. However, I too have not heard the complaints about other agencies in the numbers I have heard about Gringo Management.

My advice is if you decide to rent from Gringo Management do so with your eyes open and know that even the most basic apartments offered by other agencies have working A/C, hot water, etc. If there is a problem with the apartment you rent from Gringo Management do not accept it as the norm. It is not. If your problem is not resolved, post your complaint here.

As for roaches, you do see them (and the tiny ants and mosquitoes) in Rio. The issue is really about numbers. I have seen them in termases, restaurants and even hair salons. I also have seen them in the US. If an occasional roach upsets you, then Rio is not for you.

Bubba Boy

02-18-07, 18:33

I do not consider complaints about hot water breaking done etc, a big deal. These things happen. I saw Gringo Man quote that i complained about a bed in one apartment i stayed in. I don't consider this a "complaint" per se, I consider it feedback to the apartment owner. In fact in that instance i would have given Slatko a excellent rating ( http://www.rioholidays.com ) for his part of the service in renting me the apartment.

What I do consider a complaint and a major deal is when someone books one apartment and gets given another apartment which is nothing like the one they wanted and particularly inferior apartment. I have heard a number of guys say this about GringoM. I have also heard on more than one occasion that a person has sent a few emails to different companies enquiring about the same apartment and had all emails except one saying that that apartment is not available. The one company that says it is available and takes the deposit is GringoM. Then when the person turns up the apartment is switched to another apartment, usually a shit hole. IE the apartment was never available. This is deliberately misleading behaviour and this is what I have an issue with. It is something only a conman would do. Adding to this is a shitload of other complaints about his poor service and dishonesty in general. This is why some people can get lucky when dealing with him, and others have so many issues.

The count still starts at a 50% complaint rate. I do not consider any emails of praise posted by Gringo M as worthy of anything at all, they are obviously filtered and come from a relatively unsubjective means.

Look there is a 50/50 complaint ratio with this guy.
There is a virtually zero complaint rate with all other apartment guys on all boards. Gringo M , your company obviously has an issue, if you cannot see this then there is no helping you. Thanks to boards like this your actions can be exposed.

Bubba Boy

02-18-07, 18:50

As to your comments about me hating everybody, I have 500 posts on this board, virtually all are encouraging and aimed and giving something back to this community. Out of those posts I have had issues with maybe 5 people in all that time and of these people virtually everybody else has had issues with them as well, like most people have an issue with yourself. I am motivated in posting against yourself because I am sick of people in Rio, trying to make a living by ripping people off. As an ex lawyer I have seen so many people like yourself, whom I basically consider a conman, that I am just sick of them. I am now retired, in my mid thirties, I don't need to work anymore, hence spend most of my time on projects that I consider give something back to the community. The guide I write on this board, which takes me about 100 hours to update each year is an example what I do with my time. I also spend a lot of time doing charity work and am always the first person to help my friends or family if needed. Life has been good to me...........

Gringoman

02-18-07, 20:20

An email from one of my owners. An American living abroad.

www.gringomanagement.com
Vacation Apartments in Rio de Janeiro

From: " " <> Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
Subject: Re: $
Date: Sat, 17 Feb 2007 12:39:58 +0700
To: david@gringomanagement.com

Sounds good, David. On Feb 24th, the new owner of Constante Ramos will call Edna to arrange to pick up the keys for the apt. According to the schedule, the last tenant will be out by the 23rd. Please let me know if this is not correct.

If you'd like, I will ask the new owner if he wants to use your services to rent out the apartment when he's not using it. Let me know if you are interested in doing this.

I'm planning to be in Rio on April 12th or 13th and will call Edna when I arrive.

Thanks for all the help you've been to me during our association. It's a real pleasure dealing with such a professional person as yourself. Believe me, it's not the norm for most of the world.

After my friend vacates 403 in July, I'd like you to continue to rent it for me. Also, if Edna could continue to pay the bills for me for 403 for the time being, I would appreciate it. Please let me know if this is not acceptable.

I'll look forward to receiving your wire.

Thanks and take care,

Gringoman

02-18-07, 20:31

This was a letter from a client who stayed in #100

www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html

From: "" <> Add to Address Book Add Mobile Alert
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Subject: Obrigado!!
To: david@gringomanagement.com

Oi David!

I wanted to take a moment to thank you (as well as Edna and Bruno) for the fantastic accommodations and services you provided. The apartment was far better than your website detailed and was a pleasure to come "home" to each morning... I think I speak for my friends from London as well - your apartments are first-rate. Hats off to you all!

Aside from the weather - it rained EVERY day - my vacation was superb. I couldn't have asked for a more centrally located spot - and nothing beats sleeping to the sounds of waves crashing the shore. Rio is fast becoming my second home and when I return, I plan on seeking out your great little penthouse by the beach!

I look forward to renting with you in the near future. All the best to you and your staff for the New Year!

'Brigado!!

Marcus

Trippleecks

02-24-07, 12:53

Hey David, nothing like blowing your own horn. If you gave better service to your clients you would not need your own thread to answer all the people complaining about you.

Delecti

02-24-07, 17:31

I have used David about 10-12 times. Has everything been perfect every time? I have had 2 problems.

1. One time, Bruno, his recommended driver over charged me 10 reais. I told David about it and he offered me a free transfer next time. I can't really blame David, although I agree that if you are quoting a price and acting as an agent for them, you are responsible for the deal. But 10 reais. Back when it was $340R/Dollar, I got over it real fast.

2. The other time, I had rented a very nice one bedroom in Copa. When I arrived, the previous occupant had not vacated it, had gone somewhere inland and left all of his stuff in the apartment. Edna, his agent in Rio, moved me to another almost comporable apartment, upon arrival. I emailed David, and after one night, Edna, with me present, packed up the absent "overstayer's" stuff into large plastic bags and helped me move into the apartment that I had requested. Was it slightly inconvenient? Yeah, but a big deal? Get real. And I have no doubt that the explanation David gave me was correct because I personally saw the guys stuff in the apartment, and my portuguese, although limited, was good enough that when the guy at the front desk explained to me what had happened, without Edna there, the stories were consistent. And Edna and I verified that the guy had left the key at the front desk, so I had no concern of him returning and walking into "my apartment". (As for real problems, going to Rio: I have had American Airlines change my First Class seat to the other side of the plane once, losing my preferred window seat! LOL)

Maybe people should move on. The amount of talk about David reminds me more of some of the teenage talk boards, than of this site.

And no, I don't post a lot, but have been a participant here for a while, and I doubt that David has any idea of my screen name. So take if for what you want.

Sunset Strip

02-24-07, 22:01

Delicti,

Do you really believe somebody left Rio and left their key with the security guard?!

Why would the guy do that?
This is not a complaint about gringo, at all. I just find it hard to believe that Delicti believes that story. Perhaps, you got it wrong because you did write that it was EDNA (not David) who told you that the guy had left the key at the front desk. And Edna does not speak english and you have limites Portuguese. Personally I doubt it. If Edna told you that she was just trying to placate you.

TJ

Delecti

02-24-07, 22:30

TJ,

Yes I believe that the guy did leave his key there. From the junk in his room, which I saw, he was from Europe and had gone backpacking, leaving most stuff there. Edna gave me the key and I later talked to the guy at the front desk who told me that they only had one key, the one the guy had left with them. My portuguese after about 15 weeks in Brazil in the last 4 years is not very grammatically correct, but it allows me to spend a week each time with a very nice Brazilian female, who speaks no English. But she can sing the words to the latest U. S. Songs, with no understanding! I avoid English speakers so I do a week-at-time Portuguese Immersion self-taught course. With Pimslear and the Foreign Instute Course in preparation. (a sidenote: She loved the meaning of the Pussycat Dolls, "Don't you wish your Girlfriend was Hot Like Me" when I translated it for her. But that's a different story). She is fron Belo Horizante. Her English last about 2 minutes if we string every English word end to end, including counting! But when I'm in Brazil I consider myself lucky that she will spend days and night with me, except when she goes to an evening class. (and yes, I do believe that she's really getting the equivalent of her primary education certificate, having seen the schoolbooks and helped her with her math class. However, if readers would rather believe that I am a fool. That's okay with me too. I would advise that you don't say that to my girl in Brazil. She is very protective and quite the lady.)

And, when the guy returned, the guy at the front desk grabbed a plastic bag, asked to go with me up to the apartment in order to open the electronic safe/lockbox in the room. I opened it with the passcode provided by the previous tenant, and we removed his valubles left in the safe. Euros, a watch, some electronics, etc. If he had a second key, I suspect he would have just gone in and gotten his stuff himself. Security isn't really that tight, .

Or I am a sucker.

TJ, I don't take personal offense at your skepticism, but maybe we could be a little more trusting and less critical on this board. Just a thought. I won't put my professional creditials here to prove that I am not naive or gullible, Besides, anybody can claim or make up anything on a bulletin board.

In summary, my story doesn't prove anything. Just one more anecdote.

As for the title of this post. This whole thread reminds me of the old adage, "It is impossible to prove a girl is a virgin, pretty easy to prove that she is not. (and perhaps enjoyable, too!)

Gladiator

02-25-07, 14:41

I have used David about 10-12 times. Has everything been perfect every time? I have had 2 problems.

Just 2 problems in 10-12 bookings with gringoMISmanagement? That’s an unbelievable lucky run! If I were you I’d buy a lottery ticket too asap.

I had about 10-12 problems in my first (and only) booking.

Sunset Strip

02-25-07, 20:58

Delecti,

yeah, I agree that there is too much negativity on this board. The weird thing about is, what do you think it would be like if these were NOT getting laid!

I made the comment about your lack of Portuguese skills because you implied it in your original message.

And I WAS/AM somewhat skeptical about Edna. I think a lot of the complaints about David are result from things she has done.

TJ

Blancoflaco

03-18-07, 20:27

I just got back from Rio, and used gringomanagement despite what I read. I rented Apt #217 2 bdrm in copa. I can't think of anything negative to write. I will be writing about my other expeirences in the forum board and I will go further into my gringomanagement experience when I have a bit more time. But I really don't know what people were upset about. The apt was great, Bruno the driver was great (waited for 1 and a half hours because my transfer from SP was delayed because of Pres Bush), I rented phones for a resonable price. I think you are all being a little hard on David, But in my book David is a stand up guy, and will defintely get return bussiness.

Gladiator

03-23-07, 23:32

I think you are all being a little hard on David, But in my book David is a stand up guy, and will defintely get return bussiness.

David should spend his time attending his clients and , more importantly, his clients’ numerous problems with their apartments, rather than creating new handles here to promote his failing business.

Blancoflaco

03-26-07, 04:52

I am not going to waste time arguing about who I am. I am a true customer who had a positive expeirence. I really dont know what you have against this guy.

Action Javitto

03-29-07, 18:41

I was with BlancoFlaco out in that Apt# 217, and he's on point. The only thing that I would have liked was a heads up that the Favela was right across the street. I spoke to David once and told him about Colombia. If you guys don't like Gringo Management, well then that's on you, but for me the place was great, the only thing is like I said about the heads up. Other then that, the place was great, the apartment was put to good use.

Member #4378

03-29-07, 23:29

Member #4217

05-04-07, 00:15

I plan to visit Rio N-th times and rent an apartment this time (stayed in hotels previously). Reading this thread with mixed reports, I assume I should stay away from Gringo Management Apartments (based on the reports from most senior members).
I am returning to Rio for another 4 months. And, I am again renting from Gingo management. He "always" does me good. And, once again, he beat the competitions prices. and, I have stayed in th esame apartment before, so I know it is of good quality and location.
Some people have bad experiences. Some people have bad experiences at the "Copacabana Palace!" If you are looking for something to complain about ... you can usually find it!
tom

Jan 156

05-04-07, 05:36

Some people have bad experiences at the "Copacabana Palace!"

Has anyone had a bad experience at Copa Palace (other than the price)?

I'd kind of like to stay there even just for one night to experience it. Nice place to wander around though, even just to look at the pictures and soak in the atmosphere.

Rio Bob

05-05-07, 02:19

Has anyone had a bad experience at Copa Palace (other than the price)?

I'd kind of like to stay there even just for one night to experience it. Nice place to wander around though, even just to look at the pictures and soak in the atmosphere.

You can even just go into the bar at night and mingle or eat dinner in their restaurant Cipriani's. And walk around freely in the lobby and pool area no problem, during the day you can even take a dip, this is not the place that you will want to dress down like a local like going to VM. I don't think you'll find many fellow mongers there but I sometimes enjoy going into nice hotel bars and mingle with the regular tourists, mostly couples, business men, airline pilots or Flight Attendents and the occasional single women that I have had luck with. Usually they assume I am staying in the hotel and I don't tell them that I am staying in a gringomanagement.com apartment but most of the time it doesn't matter.

Gladiator

05-17-07, 23:05

Bad Boy Billy

05-19-07, 01:05

Anyone who takes the time to read this (or any other) forum will realise what the proportion of complaints versus ‘happy customers’ is, so if they still rent from gringomismanagement they will deserve what they are going to get.

For what it is worth - Billy shared an apartment in June 06 with the 'original' poster on this thread - 'Yodcha'.

The reason this thread was started was to warn other prospective customers of the lieing and deceitful practice conducted by Gringomanagement.

Subsequent to that 'original post' - literally dozens of other customers have also expressed their disatisfaction of service levels afforded by Gringomanagement.

Are all you guys reading this thread not seeing some sort of pattern here?

For fucks sake use your brains - there are many other providors of services pertaining to apartment rental in Rio - do yourselves a favour and just DO NOT RISK HAVING YOUR VACATION OF A LIFETIME SPOILT BY THESE JERKS - SHOP ELSEWHERE.

Raimund L

05-25-07, 00:57

I came back from Rio yesterday after having stayed in a gringomanagement appartment in Copacabana close to Help Disco. The appartment matched all the criteria of the offer on the website. After all the negative posts I had tried to get another appartment thru one of the agencies recommended in Bubba's Guide, but either they wouldn't rent less than for 1 Week or they were much more expensive. I'll rent again from gringomanagement on my next trip to Rio.

Bubba Boy

05-29-07, 01:53

The majority of people that post good things about gringo management have less than 5 posts. They are very suspicious.
Look at this guy below. One post to his name and it is an endoresment about gringo management. If some one rents from gringo management after reading this forum they deserve what they get.

Member #4217

06-01-07, 16:12

I am renting an apartment on the corner of Barata Ribeira and Siquera Compos for $1,150 per month. Beat the price, if you can! It includes cable TV, a pool and a steam sauna. Has a wonderful view from the 16 th floor, that every girl I have met in Rio adores.

When I moved in, I asked that the internet be cut because I do not want to stay in the apartment all the time. Initiually, they cut the cable TV at the same time. I sent David an email, and the cable TV was restored "before" I even got back to the apartment.

I have been coming to Rio for more than 5 years. I have used "rent a flat" and a host of others. I can only say that if someone has a problem with one of Davidá aprtments, then they would probable have the same problems at the "Copacabana Palace!"

I very highly recommend David, for the pricve and the service.

tom n jerry527

The majority of people that post good things about gringo management have less than 5 posts. They are very suspicious.
Look at this guy below. One post to his name and it is an endoresment about gringo management. If some one rents from gringo management after reading this forum they deserve what they get.

Sperto

06-01-07, 16:53

I am renting an apartment on the corner of Barata Ribeira and Siquera Compos for $1,150 per month.
R$ or US$?

Member #4217

06-02-07, 16:05

R$ or US$?
Dollars. I have found prices close to this, but not for this quality apartment. View from floor 16 is gorgeous of The Sao Cristo, and sauna and pool are great. Not just a small pool, but big, and very nice.

great location, only 1 block from metro.

OK! I have had complaints about apartments before, but if I complained, it would have been something like the hotel in Vila Mimosa.
Oh, and just a side not: "I´m back!"

tom n jerry527

Member #4217

06-02-07, 16:07

Wanderer1000

06-08-07, 20:56

On my first three trips to Rio, I used David's gringomanagement. I rented apartments on each side of Help. They are the apartments that have usually been listed on the first three or so pictures on Copacabana. They are pretty worn, but I've learned that if you want something more modern, you just have to pay more.

I had one problem with my ride being an hour late to pick me up on my third trip, but then the service I've been using the last few years didn't have a pick-up for me on my last trip. I've been using one of the more reputable names on this board for the last few years, and while he's done pretty good by me, I've still had problems with the electricity going off repeatedly and the air conditioner breaking down.

I switched off from using David a few years ago when it took three and five days for him to respond to me. It was near the end of December, so maybe he was on vacation himself or something. Since he had always been very timely in responding to e-mail (most of the time in an hour or two or three), and with my experience with Rio apartments over the last four years giving me some perspective, I decided to give David a try again.

I will be going to Rio next week for about a week and a half, then come back for a week after checking out some cities in the north for a few weeks. So far his service has been excellent - timely and professional e-mail responses, clear receipts of down payments and balances, good prices (payable in US$'s - which was important to me since I was concerned about the direction of the real), and clear and quick confirmation of my reservations and pick-up.

I will post the facts about my experiences in the next month as I travel to Brazil. Since this guy has been getting a lot of bad press lately, I just want to be able to give some objective input.

Wanderer1000

06-18-07, 15:44

I´ve been here for four nights now. My flight was two hours late from the US. Got out of customs and didn´t see my name on anyone´s card. The arrivals area has moved -farther from the ATMs. I went searching for them. HSBC has always been the one that works for me at the airport or in Rio, but this time no such luck.

I came back to the customs area, and I saw Bruno standing on the outskirts. He had my name on a card half rolled up in his hand. I knew him from a few years ago, so no problem. We stopped at an ATM in Copa, and he pointed out a good gym and cell phone store in response to my questions. I always found him to be very helpful with any questions or needs from the airport.

Edna was waiting when we got to the apartment. Everything went well - was very friendly. The one and only time I met her was a few years ago when Bruno ran an hour late or so picking me up, and she didn´t seem pleasant at all - but I could tell she was pissed at Bruno for not being on time, and there was definite tension going on between them.

After she left, I realized I hadn´t checked the safe. It was in the corner of the kitchen under the sink. The screws on the back showed that it had been attached into something before, and it was an electronic safe that was closed and apparently not working. I e-mailed David as soon as I could, and Edna stopped by a day or so later to confirm the situation. David said it was broken and that the owner was cheap and it would probably not get fixed or replaced in the week.

The apartment was what I had expected, and I´ll go into more details of my experience at a later time. One thought, and this may not be important for guys with a handle on the language - but as Bruno and Edna are the main people on the ground for David, I would think that they would make an effort to learn some English over the years. I speak decent Spanish, so it´s not a major issue for me, but I think it would probably help a lot of guys that come down here with limited language skills. I know that I´ve learned a lot and had more clear communicaion with a competitor over the last few years because he speaks English on the ground and so does his driver. Just a thought. More thoughts and experiences later.

Mr Enternational

06-19-07, 01:10

That ATM was out of service as well last week. However there was no sign or anything on it. The people before me had no luck using it. Then when I tried I noticed that the green light that is above the slot where you put your card was not lit.

I´ve been here for four nights now. My flight was two hours late from the US. Got out of customs and didn´t see my name on anyone´s card. The arrivals area has moved -farther from the ATMs. I went searching for them. HSBC has always been the one that works for me at the airport or in Rio, but this time no such luck.

Wanderer1000

06-20-07, 15:13

The apartment is pretty nice. Except for the safe problem, evrything else seems fine. The air conditioner is in the bedroom, but there is not one in the living room. The bathroom has plenty of room to put all your personal items. The sink and shower have hot water from a gas furnace that goes on when you turn on the water. It´s not one of those typical shower heads in Rio - with electrical wiring. If a nice hot shower is important to you, then this is great.

The apartment is about three blocks from Help, or a block down from the Othon Hotel - just far enough to be out of the Help area hustle. I prefer the Leme area personally, but it feels pretty quiet around this area. The bed is okay - typical pad mattress. For those of you familiar with Copa apartments, I´d say this place ranks as pretty nice. Got it for $55 per night since I´m staying a lot of days, is off-season, and not many tourists around due to the dollar/real rate.

Gladiator

06-20-07, 21:58

I think the title says it all.

I write good reports on hotels as often as I find them and I have the time to write about them.

For the right statistics you can go though my 500+ posts and work out the exact frequency, but off the top of my head I remember having written positive reports on different types of accommodation in Rio, Natal, Fortaleza, Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Mombasa, etc.

On the other hand, regardless of how often I write good reports on hotels there is a legion of other guys out there who are also posting and complaining about gringomismanagement, so even if you take my opinion out of the equation GM is still at the bottom of the barrel according to the majority.

Rio Bob

06-21-07, 03:34

Edna was waiting when we got to the apartment. Everything went well - was very friendly.
After she left, I realized I hadn´t checked the safe. It was in the corner of the kitchen under the sink. The screws on the back showed that it had been attached into something before, and it was an electronic safe that was closed and apparently not working. I e-mailed David as soon as I could, and Edna stopped by a day or so later to confirm the situation. David said it was broken and that the owner was cheap and it would probably not get fixed or replaced in the week.

.

When I was in Rio last before Edna left I checked the safe in the Apt. It wasn't working, so Edna started fooling around with it and finally replaced the batteries in it and presto it worked.

I always found Edna to be very friendly and very helpful, a very nice person and always offering a compliment.

Rio Bob

06-21-07, 03:47

I switched off from using David a few years ago when it took three and five days for him to respond to me. It was near the end of December, so maybe he was on vacation himself or something. Since he had always been very timely in responding to e-mail (most of the time in an hour or two or three), and with my experience with Rio apartments over the last four years giving me some perspective, I decided to give David a try again.

I recently booked my next trip to Rio with David, as always he responded to me quickly about my inquires.

When I am planning a trip I usually shop around a little bit first. I found many nice apartments out there and at very high prices. Not just high rental prices but high deposits too that are non refundable. David only requires a 1 day deposit and in the past I have had to change my dates and he did not keep the deposit like some of the other agents say they have the right to do, Dave moved it for me to the new dates.

So after all my shopping recently I just gave up and did the nice and easy thing of renting the apartment from Dave and sent him a 1 day deposit through Paypal, very nice and easy and not a big investment either. I have difficulty sending people I don't know large amounts of money, some of these agents want up to 50% of the total rental cost; I’m not willing to do that. Especially I read on Craig’s list that there are people in Rio running scams like this. Taking your deposit and when you get there no apartment.

I like to play it safe and stick with a trusted agent in the business who I have been renting from since 2003.

Rio Bob

06-21-07, 03:56

The apartment was what I had expected, and I´ll go into more details of my experience at a later time. One thought, and this may not be important for guys with a handle on the language - but as Bruno and Edna are the main people on the ground for David, I would think that they would make an effort to learn some English over the years. I speak decent Spanish, so it´s not a major issue for me, but I think it would probably help a lot of guys that come down here with limited language skills.

Actually I know Bruno and Edna vey well but they are not all his main people in Rio, he has others who speak perfect English, it sort of depends upon what apartment you rent. Luckily I speak enough Portuguese to communicate with both Edna and Bruno and never cared if they spoke English or not as a matter of fact I prefer to speak Portuguese with them and even here in the US.

Wanderer1000

07-16-07, 21:18

I left Rio on Saturday morning. My departure from Rio the first part of my trip was good. My return after a two week trip up north went well. My departure from Rio on Saturday went smoothly.

Both of my check-outs and my check-in involved picking up and dropping off the key with the doorman. Two of the doormen at this building are very nice, and one of them used his cell phone to call my driver when he was late picking me up (this wasn´t David's driver - it was arranged with my agent that set up my trip up north).

The safe had not been replaced on my second trip, and David explained that the owner can be a pain to deal with. I noticed some small ants and a sewage smell from the kitchen sometimes on my first stay here, but the second stay there were no problems.

Overall, I'd say the service was good on my trip, and I thought the apartment offered good value for the money. As mentioned in an earlier post, I'd be hesitant to recommend gringomanagement to a newbie since Edna and Bruno don't speak English, but Rio Bob said he has some people that do.

I'd consider using gringomanagement again based on my experience. I am not saying that others who have posted bad experiences do not have merit with their experiences - I only wanted to give a recent, and hopefully objective report on a recent experience.

Rock Harders

09-01-07, 10:36

Mongers-
I arrived in Rio for the first time today and I took an apartment from Gringo Management on Rua Joaquim Nabuco about a block from beach and I have to say this apartment is nothing short of spectacular. This is a 3 bedroom palace that is tastefully appointed in a very asian motif. It has a video projector that make the living room like a movie theatre and high end stereos in every single room of the house. In all honesty this is the sort of pad John Holmes would have if he was alive today and had the money and good taste to outfit a place. I would recommend this to any group of mongers coming to Rio as this is pimp quality of the highest level at a very reasonable price.
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Sunset Strip

09-01-07, 20:21

Rock,

What number is the apartment on the gringo website?

thanks,
TJ

Rio Bob

09-01-07, 22:11

Rock,

What number is the apartment on the gringo website?

thanks,
TJ

If it's the same one on his site, there is only one on Nabuco;

http://www.gringomanagement.com/3bedrooms.html

Rock Harders

09-01-07, 23:07

Mongers-
The apartment is #304 on the website.
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Sperto

09-02-07, 10:30

Mongers-I arrived in Rio for the first time today and I took an apartment from Gringo Management on Rua Joaquim Nabuco about a block from beach and I have to say this apartment is nothing short of spectacular...

The apartment is #304 on the website.
The apartment looks OK.

I would recommend this to any group of mongers coming to Rio as this is pimp quality of the highest level at a very reasonable price.
On their site it says "$300.00 US per night". I hope you didn't pay that, because there is absolutely nothing reasonable about that price.

Rock Harders

09-02-07, 11:38

Sperto-
If you were to stay in a top notch hotel you would be paying at least $250 USD or more for ONE room. I can guarantee you would be overwhelmed at the quality of this apartment and if you were to personally see it you would agree with me. This apartment is obviously not for cheapskate mongers that pay R$1 per minute for sex in some [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140)-soaked bed in the zona norte or centro. This is a huge apartment that is probably significantly larger than the presidential suite at the finest hotel in Rio de Janeiro for a fraction of the cost and it probably has more features. In fact, if you are currently in Rio I challenge you to come see the apartment and tell me its not worth ever penny!
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Sperto

09-02-07, 14:25

This apartment is obviously not for cheapskate mongers that pay R$1 per minute for sex in some [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140)-soaked bed in the zona norte or centro...
That was the best description of me I ever had in this forum. :)

The standard of your apto is slightly better than what I usually rent. The size of yours (apto) is much bigger. But of course I never pay more than maximum R$ 1500/month (that is what your apto cost you for 2,5 nights).

There are aptos that are definitely worth US$ 300/night or more, but #304 is not. Paying that money you should expect a much better standard, ocean-view, jacuzzi and a butt-naked maid serving caipirinhas.

Anyway as long as you're happy that's great. Lets close the subject.

Trippleecks

09-02-07, 14:27

Saw the same apartment on www.ez-riorentals.com .. asked Ken about the price and he said it was $275.US a night.

http://www.ez-riorentals.com/aptos/luxury/3BED/luxury-3bed.htm

Sunset Strip

09-03-07, 19:19

Nice apartment. I only asked because I know Dave has a website with pictures and prices.

Dave's rates are competitive or better than most as far as I am concerned.

an aside to no one in particular:
Ironically, it seems the guys with bad experinces with gringo never can tell you the actual apartment they had. Meanwhile others, like me or Bob, and Rock Harders seem more objective and also have concrete evidence of where we stayed. Sorry for the aside.

I probably will not be staying at that address. I am more a Leme guy.
thanks,

TJ

Rock Harders

09-05-07, 01:22

Funkignitor-
Your allegations are so ridiculous that I will not even bother to directly address them. I will however, give a review of my apartment rental experience as I just finished my time in Rio and I have returned to Buenos Aires. Overall, the rental from Gringo Management went completely smoothly, everything was as David claimed it to be, and the apartment was truly amazing (whoever actually owns it has great taste). All the garotas (especially the non-pros) who stepped foot inside were blown away. The driver showed up on time the last day and the security deposit was returned without any hassles or nit picking. I would recommend this particular apartment to a group of guys who are considering a hotel but want the cavernous spaces and less hassle with bringing garotas back that an apartment offers... this apartment is not cheap, but I found it worth the cost unquestionably.
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Jose Cuervo

10-02-07, 17:53

I haven't lived in Dave's appartments, but I would like to share here my negative experience of trying to reserve appartments from him.

Here is how it was:

1. I've send him my request by e-mail

2. Got his answer only after a week. To tell the truth evrebody else I've contacted answered me with a 1-3 days of delay, but David has answered with a week delay.

3. He offered me a couple of appartments for selection and a nice price for each one. Here I have to say that I want to go for 5 days only during the Cristmas season, which is rather difficult condition to fulfill. Most of the rental agencies I've contacted sell 10 days min packages for this season, and they offered me 5 days for the price of 10 days package. But David offered me 5 days for fair price of 5 days package.

4. Being a little suspicious about it, I've looked for feedback over the Web and immediately found this topic and read it thoroughly.

5. I've made a conlusion, that although his service isn't of very good quality, but it anyway a service I could try because of, first, I'm rather unpretending guy and, second, I'm an experienced traveler who could resolve "where to stay for a night" kind of problems easily in case of obvious bait-and-switch.

6. I've sent him another e-mail where I've indicate my choice, asked a couple of additional questions, said that I'm ready to transfer deposit immediatly after his answer, and, most important, made it clear that I've read this topic and said that, a quote, "we are not pretentious guys, but in case of obvious bait-and-switch we’ll go immediately to some other place, like a hotel".

7. Almost two weeks have passed since but he hasn't answered.

Somebody said that Dave's service is below average standard. Well, based only on my small expierence I fully agree with that.

Gringoman

10-02-07, 22:27

In response to Jose or Eugene,

I actually did email you back, perhaps my email got stuck in your Spam folder.

Anyway this is a complicated request because you are asking to book from Dec 24 - 29 WITHOUT paying the New Years rate.

I can do this only in apartments where the New Years reservation is already in place and when the New Years clients are arriving on or after the 29th. This is actually pretty rare because most New Years clients start arriving around December 25th. New Years clients all book packages at much higher rates for 10 nights.

I actually found a good apartment for you that is available !

I can book right now #213 for $100US a night. http://www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroomspage2.html
Very nice apartment around the corner from the beach, has internet and washer and dryer. About 7 blocks from Help.

But I will need you to checkout by 9AM on the 29th because I have the New Years client arriving this day. I will probably have another unit where you can hangout until your plane leaves or leave your bags.

If this is agreeable please send over your deposit.

I usually don't handle client requests over the board, but in this case I thought I would?

Thanks,

David W. Schneider

www.gringomanagement.com

Rio Bob

10-02-07, 22:48

3. He offered me a couple of appartments for selection and a nice price for each one. Here I have to say that I want to go for 5 days only during the Cristmas season, which is rather difficult condition to fulfill. Most of the rental agencies I've contacted sell 10 days min packages for this season, and they offered me 5 days for the price of 10 days package. But David offered me 5 days for fair price of 5 days package.

Just curious, could you please post here the agencies who offered you a 5 day stay for the price of 10?

Rio Bob

10-03-07, 18:17

Sorry, man, I didn't keep their responses, so I can not remember now who just said "10 days min" and who has offered me 5 dyas for the price of 10. Not everybody, of course, but definetly I've got several such responses. Do you think it's not normal? Below is a tipical "normal" response I've got recently:

So, I don't see anything strange in offering 5 days for the price of 10 if somebody wants to pay :)

I know the building he is offering you, I know people who live in that building. My friend stayed in that apartment but I have never been in that apartment. I have been in 2 other apartments in that building and that is an extremely nice building with nice people living there and very secure. A great street right around the corner from The Marriott. For that price during that timeframe, that's a good deal and you got your days, you're a lucky guy.

Sperto

10-05-07, 06:20

Definitely. Nobody has offered me such a price for that timeframe and I tried a lots of other options.
US$ 500/5 days, not including New Year.
IMO that's not a good deal.

Sperto

10-05-07, 19:15

But including Christmas. Isn't it the same? AFAIK high season runs from begining of December. At least, that's the price policy of many agencies.
No, Christmas is definitely not the same as New Year. Christmas doesn't attract tourists to Rio. New Year does.

There are 2 major peaks that raises the apto rents, New Year and Carnaval. If you spend the New Year, 2 days or 1 week doesn't matter, it will cost you a lot. Everybody who works with aptos is greedy and has dollarsigns in their eyes.

You'll leave the 29:th. If you wait I think there will be more options to squeeze you in before New Year.

Rio Bob

10-05-07, 20:32

No, Christmas is definitely not the same as New Year. Christmas doesn't attract tourists to Rio. New Year does.

There are 2 major peaks that raises the apto rents, New Year and Carnaval. If you spend the New Year, 2 days or 1 week doesn't matter, it will cost you a lot. Everybody who works with aptos is greedy and has dollarsigns in their eyes.

You'll leave the 29:th. If you wait I think there will be more options to squeeze you in before New Year.

Take into consideration that's a 2 bedroom apt in a really nice building, not a 1 bedroom in a run down building which is definately cheaper. Maybe it's a little high for normal timeframe but not out of sight. How much does your buddy Kenn charge for a nice 2 bedroom for that timeframe? Also keep in mind most agents wanted to charge him 10 days rent for a 5 day stay, what do you think of that?

Sperto

10-06-07, 01:02

Take into consideration that's a 2 bedroom apt in a really nice building, not a 1 bedroom in a run down building which is definately cheaper. Maybe it's a little high for normal timeframe but not out of sight. How much does your buddy Kenn charge for a nice 2 bedroom for that timeframe? Also keep in mind most agents wanted to charge him 10 days rent for a 5 day stay, what do you think of that?
Buddy Kenn? I think old Rio Bob is ficando louco. I don't know any Kenn.

I don't rent apto's from any agency. Why should I when there is so many locals renting out apto's to much lower prices?

US$ 500/5 days, thats more than what a nice 2 bedroom apto cost for 2 weeks.

Well, it's not my money.

Gringoman

10-06-07, 06:00

Off Road

10-06-07, 13:02

My 2 cents, I think he is getting a good deal for that timeframe. It is not easy to find a place right before new years. He could probably hunt around and find a place, find a local at a lower rate, but the peace of mind having a place locked in now is worth it for a lot of people.

Oh, Kenn is ez-riorentals.com, very nice guy, would also help you out if he had a place.

Rio Bob

10-06-07, 14:11

Buddy Kenn? I think old Rio Bob is ficando louco. I don't know any Kenn.

I don't rent apto's from any agency. Why should I when there is so many locals renting out apto's to much lower prices?

US$ 500/5 days, thats more than what a nice 2 bedroom apto cost for 2 weeks.

Well, it's not my money.

So you think that your experiences are appropriate here for Jose Cuervo who from what it looks like does not have much experience in Rio and is only going for a 5 day stay in a high season timeframe? Everybody should be doing the same thing as you or think like you and if they don’t then you always have something negative to say.

Share your connections here to get an equivalent 2 bedroom apt from Xmas to New Years for $35 a day, please for all of us.

It's easy to point your finger and tell us how savvy you are with apartments at local prices, why don't you show us and post here your connections like the cheap bucetta you do in VM?

Trippleecks

10-06-07, 14:51

Rent from who ever you want and stop this dumb ass thread..

Sperto

10-06-07, 15:52

So you think that your experiences are appropriate here for Jose Cuervo who from what it looks like does not have much experience in Rio and is only going for a 5 day stay in a high season timeframe? Everybody should be doing the same thing as you or think like you and if they don’t then you always have something negative to say.
Share your connections here to get an equivalent 2 bedroom apt from Xmas to New Years for $35 a day, please for all of us... blaha blaha...
Even if you don't have any connections it's very easy to find apto's in Copa. If you're in Rio for the first time just stay in a hotel for one night. Ask the receptionist, a waiter, porteiro, banca de revista or somebody else if they know somebody who has apartments for rent. I'm 100% sure it will give results very quickly. People will be very helpful as they propably will get a reward from the apto owner.

Don't speak any Portuguese? So what? "Apartamentos temporada" isn't that difficult to say.

Jose Cuervo might want everything settled before he's going to Rio. All right, there are lots of options on the web renting apto's in Rio. Getting a good deal BEFORE New Year isn't hard. If Jose doesn't feel comfortable paying US$ 500/5 days, try the agencies not run by gringos.

My earlier remark was "US$ 500/5 days, not including New Year. IMO that's not a good deal." That's not pointing fingers, it's just my opinion. No reason for Rio Bob getting all excited and starting to babble about a fantasy friend called Kenn.

Share my connections on apto's, phone numbers to the apto owners? Share them on a public board and ruin them? Excellent idea, doido. I share my mongering advices and that's enough.

Rio Bob

10-06-07, 17:27

Share my connections on apto's, phone numbers to the apto owners? Share them on a public board and ruin them? Excellent idea, doido. I share my mongering advices and that's enough.

Precisely the type of response I was expecting, thank you for showing your hand.

I know you're the KING OF CHEAP but you don't have to get cheap with your words.

Sperto

10-06-07, 18:09

Precisely the type of response I was expecting, thank you for showing your hand.
You're welcome. I would hate to disappoint you.
Lets not fill this thread with this discussion. If you have further comments just PM them to me (not that I'll read them). :)
Cheers

Rio Bob

10-08-07, 21:58

That's true. It will be my first trip there and I found this (extremly useful) forum after I've contacted David.

So my judgements about what is good price and what is not are only based on the others options I've found over Web. If you guys never have tried to rent somethig during my timeframe -- try it, and, perhaps, it would change your mind about what is a good price for that period. From my too modest experiece 500$US for two weeks for 2-bedroom apts on Copa and near the HELP looks unreal.

I will not disprove that Christmas isn't the same as NY. NY is a peak of NY high season. But prices are going up quite before the peak. I've seen on lots of sites that high season starts from begining of December (which is quite before Christmas).

Very insightful for somebody who has never even been to Rio. Yes you're right, it doesn't take much to figure out what is true and what is false.

Sperto

10-09-07, 06:56

If you guys never have tried to rent somethig during my timeframe -- try it, and, perhaps, it would change your mind about what is a good price for that period. From my too modest experiece 500$US for two weeks for 2-bedroom apts on Copa and near the HELP looks unreal.
I will not disprove that Christmas isn't the same as NY. NY is a peak of NY high season. But prices are going up quite before the peak. I've seen on lots of sites that high season starts from begining of December (which is quite before Christmas).
Jose, I've rented apto's in Rio during the same timeframe (the last 16 Years).

Of course the prices go up during high season (December-March). The rent you'll pay depends very much if the time-period includes New Year or Carnaval. A 4-week period from the beginning of December-Christmas might cost you just as much as spending 5 days including New Year.

Everybody wants to charge absurd money for spending New Year in Rio. Leave your apto before New Year or arrive just after New Year and the price will be totally different.

US$ 500/2 weeks looks unreal to you? Well, you might not get that price renting from gringos. Not even the forums all-knowing Rio-expert Rio-Bob gets that price, and that means it's must be just about impossible. Me and my friends never had problems finding nice apto's at that price, but they are just a cheap as me.

Anyway, go ahead rent the apto offered from gringomanagement.

Nimms

11-18-07, 08:55

Tigers787

11-23-07, 06:02

Hi,

I don't know who you are refering to but i have used Dave before and his prices are just right. I have used 2 others and both were higher. One thing please keep in mind you are going in the high season. I just got back and i also paid higher then normal. You will pay about 10 dollars more a day from Nov till end of Feb.

Dave should have a nice 2 bed. starting from 100 US. and up.

I hope this helps,

Have fun in RIO.

Tiger

I've been to Copa several times, but we always go through a guy that charges us too much for an Apt. Any recommendations on a service we could use to book an Apt on short notice Nov 29 - Dec 4. 2 Bedrooms a +

Thanks

Nimms

Jan 156

01-05-08, 23:49

I've been to Copa several times, but we always go through a guy that charges us too much for an Apt. Any recommendations on a service we could use to book an Apt
on short notice Nov 29 - Dec 4. 2 Bedrooms a +

Thanks

Nimms

I'd recommend Rent-A-Flat on Barata Ribeiro 207 near Cardeal Arcoverde Metro station. It's big (lots of flats), has been in business a very long time, and is run in a very business like way. Very little haggling. You will pay less there than many places, especially ones as you get closer to Help. Leave your bags in the office - where you can also browse the apartments online with Felipe who runs the place. Then when you narrow it down to a few you like the look of he will ask one of his staff to take you to each of them to have a look at them and you can come back for your bags and finish the paperwork.

Apart from that, my advice would be the same as Sperto's: stay in a hotel (or even a backpackers) for one night and then ask people. If you rent unseen that's asking for problems (not necessarily of the owner's making either).

(ps I've just edited this - I'd put SC Metro when actually it's Cardeal Arcoverde that it's more or less opposite. Mellow Yellow backpackers is in the adjacent sidestreet and there are several hotels in the area)

Perkele

01-06-08, 13:07

PS. About the price. It was a discussion below about the price I’ve paid (100$ per night, so 50$ per person), isn’t it a bit high, does my timeframe hit high season or not, etc. I’m not going to discuss it again, but Bruno has told me that he never had seen so many tourists in Rio in that time of year. May be that’s why I have difficulties with finding apartments.

You don´t actually specify when you were here, but if you were during the New Year´s eve your Bruno was bullshitting you big time.
This year must have been all time low in Rio what comes to tourists.
In the local news they were saying that in most hotels there were available rooms just before New Year. I´ve lived here since 2003 and I never seen this before.
Reason why you paid so much is the greed... brasilians (and even foreigners who are living here) have strange backwards way of thinking: when there ia less business, let´s increase the price.
I would not trust anything that a brasilian, who works in Copacabana, says. Girls, taxidriver, bellboy etc... they all lie for living.

Exec Talent

01-06-08, 14:12

You don´t actually specify when you were here, but if you were during the New Year´s eve your Bruno was bullshitting you big time.
This year must have been all time low in Rio what comes to tourists.
In the local news they were saying that in most hotels there were available rooms just before New Year. I´ve lived here since 2003 and I never seen this before.
Reason why you paid so much is the greed... brasilians (and even foreigners who are living here) have strange backwards way of thinking: when there ia less business, let´s increase the price.
I would not trust anything that a brasilian, who works in Copacabana, says. Girls, taxidriver, bellboy etc... they all lie for living.

Although it is nice to see a balanced account on this thread, I agree with Perkele about the tourists. Americans, in particular, are staying away in droves. Do not accept the price any hotel or apartment rental company is offering. Supply by far exceeds demand right now. Negotiate.

Jose -- it would help if you would post the dates you were here.

Mr Enternational

01-07-08, 05:20

I'd recommend Rent-A-Flat on Barata Ribeiro 207 near Cardeal Arcoverde Metro station. It's big (lots of flats), has been in business a very long time, and is run in a very business like way. Very little haggling. You will pay less there than many places, especially ones as you get closer to Help. Leave your bags in the office - where you can also browse the apartments online with Felipe who runs the place. Then when you narrow it down to a few you like the look of he will ask one of his staff to take you to each of them to have a look at them and you can come back for your bags and finish the paperwork.

I think I stopped by that place before after seeing it in one of your reports. If I am correct they have a gate and they have to buzz you in. Go up the outside stairs and the office is on the left. When I went there a few months back he told me that he only does monthly rentals and wanted like US$1200- 1500/month. Unless I am mixing it up with another place you mentioned on that lower end of BR.

Loso69

01-07-08, 21:18

Apartment Reservation

A few days before I left on this trip, I tried to make reservations for an apartment with a Jacuzzi. David from Gringo Management confirmed the apartment was available, so I paid a deposit through PayPal. When he received the payment, David said he would send me the confirmation letter later that day. Instead, I got an e-mail saying: “I misread my calendar and the apartment is actually not available”. :mad: Bloody idiot!

When I enquired about another apartment, David said he’d get back to me tomorrow. Six days later, when I was already in Port Alegre, I finally got a reply. I didn’t like any of the alternatives David had to offer me. Not to waste my precious time, I finally agreed to switch to an apartment that looked damn ugly to me. But David assured me that the place looked much better than the pictures...

Apartment

Someone from Gringo Management showed me to my apartment and... left straight away. I didn’t like the Internet pictures and I hated the actual apartment. Apart from a sofa and the bed, the place was totally bare. The walls were totally bare. The bedspread looked as if it was older than I am. This was the kind of place you’d be ashamed to bring a girl to!

There was no safe. When I took a shower... there was no hot water. :mad: But at least the Internet connection worked, so I could complain about this dump.

Hot Water

Apparently, Nubia & Edna came round quite a few times to investigate the hot water situation. They never found me home. I basically live in the termas, and my apartment is only a place to sleep... preferably not alone. :)

Since the person who let me into the apartment left straight away, I’d only paid the deposit so far. David was sending me e-mails requesting to get paid in full. Not gonna happen! I wouldn’t pay up until the hot water problem was resolved. Even with hot water, I didn’t want to stay in this apartment for the full 9 days. I was already looking into other options.

David preferred to be paid by credit card. Not gonna happen! When I last rented an apartment from Gringo Management, the apartment was just fine. But after I got home, David tried to charge me extra for missing towels and cleaning a stain on the floor. I actually bought extra towels and left them in the apartment! And neither I nor any of my girls stained the floor. If David had my CC details, he could have put the extra charges on my card. Since I paid in cash, he didn’t have that option. I definitely didn’t want to give him the opportunity to put bogus charges on my card.

On Corpus Christi, the termas were closed, so I spent most of my time in the apartment. The doorman finally explained about the hot water. If I opened the shower at full blast, the water was cold... because the water heater wasn’t powerful enough. If I opened the water just a little, the water was... lukewarm.

Moving

So I had hot water... if only a little. But I still didn’t want to stay in this apartment any longer. Just when I’d decided to move to a hotel, I received an e-mail from David. The apartment with the Jacuzzi I’d originally made reservations for would be available from tomorrow. Great!

The following morning, I paid the balance for the apartment by PayPal and packed my bags. The girl from Gringo Management came by to pick up the keys. I specifically told her that I didn’t want to wait outside with my luggage. She assured me the taxi would be waiting to bring me to my new apartment. When we got downstairs, she rushed off with the keys and... left me stranded with no taxi in sight. :mad:

I tried to contact Nubia, but couldn’t get through to her. I soon got fed up with waiting and hailed a cab. I never heard from Gringo Management again...

BTW, neither the apartment I originally made reservations for nor the one I actually stayed in are currently featured on the GM web site.

Loso

Sunset Strip

01-08-08, 01:35

I think I stopped by that place before after seeing it in one of your reports. If I am correct they have a gate and they have to buzz you in. Go up the outside stairs and the office is on the left. When I went there a few months back he told me that he only does monthly rentals and wanted like US$1200- 1500/month. Unless I am mixing it up with another place you mentioned on that lower end of BR.

You can also search rent-a-flat online before leaving home at:

www.rentaflat.com.br

The description Mr. E gives fits rent-a-flat to a tee. So maybe they stopped renting shortime. In fact, now that I think about it, they never did answer any of my emails about shortime stuff late last year!
TJ

Jan 156

01-08-08, 01:54

You can also search rent-a-flat online before leaving home at:

www.rentaflat.com.br

The description Mr. E gives fits rent-a-flat to a tee. So maybe they stopped renting shortime. In fact, now that I think about it, they never did answer any of my emails about shortime stuff late last year!
TJ

Last time I looked at his website he did every type of accom from short term to selling property. I used him for several years before using private landlords. I wouldn't judge a business by whether they answer emails (especially when English is not their first language).

I only mention his as lots of people ask and of all the agencies I've dealt with his is probably one of the best. He adjusted the time to whatever length I wanted. I don't think he does less than a week if he doesn't know you already though. He has also done things like waive deposit. Just go into the offices and compare - Felipe doesn't pressure you and he does have a large number of flats. Of course, I can't vouch 100% for anyone, especially for all the punters who insist on renting unseen. But as I said there are a lot of jokers and I thought I'd just put tuppence in, for what it's worth, on someone I've never had any complaints with.

Bad Boy Billy

01-08-08, 08:26

JohnnyBraz

01-08-08, 08:50

Has anybody used rentflatinrio.com they are on the help discoteca website as help apartments. Let me know if you have used them, I've booked a 3 week stay in Rio with them. In Febuary.

Trippleecks

01-11-08, 12:36

JohnnyBraz
rentflatinrio.com is not owned or operated by Help Disco. the guy that owns it is from Amsterdam and pays to advertise on Helps website.

Sunset Strip

01-12-08, 21:23

Last time I looked at his website he did every type of accom from short term to selling property. I used him for several years before using private landlords. I wouldn't judge a business by whether they answer emails (especially when English is not their first language).

I only mention his as lots of people ask and of all the agencies I've dealt with his is probably one of the best. He adjusted the time to whatever length I wanted. I don't think he does less than a week if he doesn't know you already though. He has also done things like waive deposit. Just go into the offices and compare - Felipe doesn't pressure you and he does have a large number of flats. Of course, I can't vouch 100% for anyone, especially for all the punters who insist on renting unseen. But as I said there are a lot of jokers and I thought I'd just put tuppence in, for what it's worth, on someone I've never had any complaints with.

Yeah, I agree. I think rentaflat.com.br is good, honest organization in general. The apartment I had was very good. They actually had a microwave which I have not had any other Rio apartment.

The only issue I had was that the manager was gone when I check out and the flunkie working that day tried to skim my deposit. Basically he lied about the electric meter! When that did not work he tried to claim I made a mark on the wall. Actually, the couch cover had stained the wall, something that would take a long time, not 1 week!

I got real angry and left a furious message with the manager who I think no longer will rent to me, which is a shame given I did nothing wrong. The flunkie just wanted some extra cash.

Here is the one I had. Clean and nice. I stayed during a high season for only $50. Not oceanfront, but ok.
Oh, yeah, you can see the damned blue couch in the picture which has been there for years now. That flunkie is still probably pulling that stained wall scam!

http://rentaflat.com.br/detalhes_imovel.php?codigo=1027&negocio=3
TJ

Jan 156

01-12-08, 23:06

Yeah, I agree. I think rentaflat.com.br is good, honest organization in general. The apartment I had was very good. They actually had a microwave which I have not had any other Rio apartment.

The only issue I had was that the manager was gone when I check out and the flunkie working that day tried to skim my deposit. Basically he lied about the electric meter! When that did not work he tried to claim I made a mark on the wall. Actually, the couch cover had stained the wall, something that would take a long time, not 1 week!

I got real angry and left a furious message with the manager who I think no longer will rent to me, which is a shame given I did nothing wrong. The flunkie just wanted some extra cash.

Yeah, getting angry is rarely good policy in Brasil. Just lots of patient explaining till the other guy gives up is usually better. The manager is pretty cool but his flunkies don´t seem that bright. They might have just been over-zealous? btw don´t quote me, but you can probably avoid paying a deposit if you give him a credit card authority (same as hotels take in case you ring up charges). I hate leaving a deposit cos what good are all those Reals the day you check out? So I worked out how not to.

I´ve never suffered an electric scam but it´s kinda hard to prove. If you get a private landlord, try getting electric included by promising (honestly) to go easy on the air-conditioning.

Rio Bob

01-13-08, 00:11

Yeah, I agree. I think rentaflat.com.br is good, honest organization in general. The apartment I had was very good. They actually had a microwave which I have not had any other Rio apartment.

The only issue I had was that the manager was gone when I check out and the flunkie working that day tried to skim my deposit. Basically he lied about the electric meter! When that did not work he tried to claim I made a mark on the wall. Actually, the couch cover had stained the wall, something that would take a long time, not 1 week!

I got real angry and left a furious message with the manager who I think no longer will rent to me, which is a shame given I did nothing wrong. The flunkie just wanted some extra cash.

Here is the one I had. Clean and nice. I stayed during a high season for only $50. Not oceanfront, but ok.
Oh, yeah, you can see the damned blue couch in the picture which has been there for years now. That flunkie is still probably pulling that stained wall scam!

http://rentaflat.com.br/detalhes_imovel.php?codigo=1027&negocio=3
TJ

This doesn't sound good at all, who needs this crap. And you want to rent from this scam agency again?

Bubba Boy

07-23-08, 14:45

Answer to Piper's comments posted in another thread (lets keep all this crap in the one place please)

That's strange. It didn't take me long to read the whole thread to do a quick count of the many complimenters versus the few complainers. I counted 18 happy customers vs. 3 repetitive complainers.

Amongst all the chit-chat on the thread, I counted 18 members who actually used gringomanagement, and all recommended the service - but only five complainers. Two of the complainers had only one post each - years ago - and were probably cowardly fake-usernames in the heat of the argument. So let's call it only three complainers, in the early days of the service.

I'm happy I went with the many recommendations from members who actually used gringomanagement and posted about it (and those PMd me). I don't know David, and I have no vested interest, but the apartment and service were excellent, and very good value.

I respect your great contributions to the Rio threads, but c'mon man - fair is fair.

With all respect you rented 1 apartment from him. Not really a meaningful sample.

You are also not aware of the major shit that this guy did about 3 years ago. His name was just consistently complained about across many websites, not just this one, in that time period. There were no compliments at all for his service then.

In regards to compliments for his service now, many, many of those compliments came from David himself. Look at the number of compliments with less than 10 posts and the majority of them about Gringo singing there praises.

Piper1

07-23-08, 15:04

With all respect you rented 1 apartment from him. Not really a meaningful sample.Well, that's one more apartment than you rented. ;)

Before deciding on gringomanagement's service from many other choices, I did some research and found there were many satisfied customers. Anyway, I'm not here to drag up an old grudge from years ago, just to report things how I see them based on my own research and first-hand experience. Keep up the great reports on Rio - your guide was very helpful during my stay! Thanks.

Rock Harders

07-23-08, 16:24

Mongers-
I have rented apartments from Gringo Management 3 times in the past 10 months and I can honestly say that the service has been excellent and exactly has it was presented to be on his website each and every time. I also have never met David, but he has always come through when I needed his services, one time even on 1 days notice. I do not understand why some posters here seem dedicated to posting libelous remarks about his services. In September 2007 I rented ¨lounge six¨, located on the corner of Joaquim Nabuco and Avenida Copacabana. In June and July of 2008 I rented the apartment at Souza Lima and Avenida Atlantica. Both places were exactly as represented and I was completely satisfied with both.
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Bubba Boy

07-23-08, 16:58

For the record I have never rented from this guy. I had 2 seperate friends that did and they got the old bait and switch routine. This is the number 1 complaint against Gringo M. Since then I have come across numerous other people that have rented from him, the per centage of complaints would be about 25%. Yes 75% had no compliants. However a 25% complaint rate is just way to high.

Ryjerrob

07-23-08, 20:58

Sometimes we get on topics that seem to go on and on, like this Gringo Management one. I mentioned my experience over a year ago, and it was positive. I have to agree with Bubba Boy that a 25% failure rate is unacceptable from a business standpoint. Based on that, if we accept this as factual, that means one out of every four renters will have a negative experience. This isn't a pattern I'd want to be recognized for as a business owner.

I do think with the exception of return renters, most are non-seasoned renters, who like me, found the website on accident. As a seasoned renter now, I have a few people that I deal with that don't run huge agencies. As a whole, the larger places attempt to take advantage of the lack of knowledge that renters have as newbies to Rio. There are still those that post questions asking about GM without reading the thread. At best, you should realize there MAY be some suspect activities going on.

ryjer

Sunset Strip

07-25-08, 19:27

I am neutral on Gringo. However, I do try to make references to my experiences, generally positive, when a newbie asks. I also issue warnings.

I do not think it is incorrect, as Bubba implies, to discuss Gringo in the hotel/apartment thread.

When people ask questions about Gringo then we should answer if asked in the hotel/apartment thread. This argument (discussion is a better, more accurate term as Piper mentions in subsequent post) between Piper and Bubba began when a person asked about the apartment Piper stayed in. At that point the correct website was mentioned.

How can that be wrong?

Yes, gringo has its own thread. But I remember the thread being started awhile back when some people were making serious negative comments about Gringo. And I think Dave was still responding at the time. This thread has not proven Gringo to be any worse than other large-scale renters. Moreover, it seems most of the complaints never mention the apartment they stayed in, which is odd given the website has addresses and numbers the apartments.

Those with positive or neutral responses seem to mention more information that can be verified!

And as I have said it seems to me that the problems usually arise when a person rents late in high season and/or a person on the ground in Rio (not the owner) makes a bait/switch on the apartment (happened to me once). But then again the complainers usually provide little or no info.
(For example, one guy just wrote in response to something I said that "David S. is a crook." How so, was my thought.)

The subject of Gringo can and will continue to arise in the apartment/hotel section and questions should be answered. If you want to point them to this thread that is fine. But to maintain that you can only mention Gringo in this thread is wrong.

TJ

Piper1

07-25-08, 19:53

This argument between Piper and Bubba began when a person asked about the apartment Piper stayed in. At that point the correct website was mentioned. How can that be wrong?TJ - I agree. I posted my gringomanagement apartment report, photos and recommendations where they belong - in the actual apartments/hotels thread.

But I wouldn't call it an argument. Bubba Boy has his own point of view based on pals' experience years ago. I simply reported my own research and recent first-hand experience, and objectively commented on inaccuracies about the number of complainers on this thread (there only three). Simple as that - no argument and no hard feelings.

The only genuine comments by gringomanagement customers in this thread were from 18 members who were satisfied customers and three who were not (and keep in mind that satisfied customers don't usually make the effort to post, but unsatisfied customers do, so I'm sure there are many more satisfied members).

As for overkill - yes - this thread is riddled with BS, flaming, several false usernames, and irrelevant comments by people who had never even heard of gringomanagement or ever visited Rio. Instead of digging up a very old and unbalanced flame-war here, it would be more useful to ISG members for people to do their own research, stay whereever they decide, then write a report in the correct thread.

Maybe a few mistakes were made, especially in the early days some years ago (happens in any business, and a good manager will act on genuine negative feedback to minimize further mistakes).

I recommend gringomanagement for good apartments at very good prices, and excellent service.

Edward M

07-26-08, 01:03

TJ - I agree. I posted my gringomanagement apartment report, photos and recommendations where they belong - in the actual apartments/hotels thread.

But I wouldn't call it an argument. Bubba Boy has his own point of view based on pals' experience years ago. I simply reported my own research and recent first-hand experience, and objectively commented on inaccuracies about the number of complainers on this thread (there only three). Simple as that - no argument and no hard feelings.

The only genuine comments by gringomanagement customers in this thread were from 18 members who were satisfied customers and three who were not (and keep in mind that satisfied customers don't usually make the effort to post, but unsatisfied customers do, so I'm sure there are many more satisfied members).

As for overkill - yes - this thread is riddled with BS, flaming, several false usernames, and irrelevant comments by people who had never even heard of gringomanagement or ever visited Rio. Instead of digging up a very old and unbalanced flame-war here, it would be more useful to ISG members for people to do their own research, stay whereever they decide, then write a report in the correct thread.

Maybe a few mistakes were made, especially in the early days some years ago (happens in any business, and a good manager will act on genuine negative feedback to minimize further mistakes).

I recommend gringomanagement for good apartments at very good prices, and excellent service.I am going to have to take some issue with this report. I have stayed with Gringo several times. I have had some problems but did not report them here. I will not say when and where because if I did David would know who I am and I may want to stay with him in the future and there may be repercussions. I am not suggesting that he would do something sinister but why take the chance? Conversely I think this is part of the reason that a satisfied customer would provide detail about where and when just in case David is reading and might give them a break or something later.

As for my problems:

About 30% of the time I was not put in the apartment that I reserved. David always pushes to get the deposit early but apparently there is no reciprocal respect there.

About two times I had a very long wait for my driver from the airport (well over an hour). One time I was just about to say screw it and take a cab when Bruno showed up. It was a good thing I did not take a cab because I was put into a totally different apartment. That would have been a little inconvenient.

Piper1

07-26-08, 01:15

Fair enough report (despite a dash of paranoia), and this part says a lot:
I have stayed with Gringo several times. I have had some problems but did not report them here. I will not say when and where because if I did David would know who I am and I may want to stay with him in the future. You used the service several times, and may use it again, so there you go.

Okay, enough of my comments. I've made my own opinion clear based on my research and experience (especially about the nature of this whole thread, and the good service I experienced). Up to members to make their own informed decisions. Ciao for now.

Member #4378

07-26-08, 03:41

I am going to have to take some issue with this report. I have stayed with Gringo several times. I have had some problems but did not report them here. I will not say when and where because if I did David would know who I am and I may want to stay with him in the future and there may be repercussions. I am not suggesting that he would do something sinister but why take the chance?

I agree with Edward. This happened to me to with a different "apartment manager" who is also involved in this forum. I didnt want to complain not knowing what he (apt. manag.) will write in this forum. I dont want to take any chances. Staying in the apartments in Rio (not that often) I learned one thing for sure. If something is not working or missing in the apt., and the apt. manager tells/promises you that he/she will fix or bring something tomorrow (even in an hour), be careful, e.g., dont pay the whole amount until the problem is fixed or simply walk away.

Jan 156

07-26-08, 15:46

I agree with Edward. This happened to me to with a different "apartment manager" who is also involved in this forum. I didnt want to complain not knowing what he (apt. manag.) will write in this forum. I dont want to take any chances. Staying in the apartments in Rio (not that often) I learned one thing for sure. If something is not working or missing in the apt., and the apt. manager tells/promises you that he/she will fix or bring something tomorrow (even in an hour), be careful, e.g., dont pay the whole amount until the problem is fixed or simply walk away.

Gringo Management is out of my price range, but in support of the above post I would say that the better you get at dealing with apartment renters the less problems you encounter.

Some are more experienced and better at getting things done than others but remember this is Rio. a) things go wrong a lot anyway. A lot of the time it's someone's fault and a lot of the time it isn't. b) People approach things differently in Rio IMO as it's a very different society to the one we're used to. This applies to non-natives as well as cariocas.

If you develop a good bond with the person you are dealing with, that is the best assurance in my experience. Misunderstandings are cleared up quicker, there is more incentive to keep the relationship running smoothly, and you cover your backside naturally instead of making a meal of it.

Western culture has a heavy reliance on contracts, law, the whole technical shemaz behind human relationships. In Rio those things are too easy to manipulate so people don't give them the same importance. It is too easy to get upset about it. Finding what works for you is far more reliable.

Ryjerrob

07-26-08, 17:57

As for overkill - yes - this thread is riddled with BS, flaming, several false usernames, and irrelevant comments by people who had never even heard of gringomanagement or ever visited Rio. Instead of digging up a very old and unbalanced flame-war here, it would be more useful to ISG members for people to do their own research, stay whereever they decide, then write a report in the correct thread.

I recommend gringomanagement for good apartments at very good prices, and excellent service.

I try to make a very concerted effort to not offend or flame anyone. But, there has been the general assumption, that unless you have a certain amount of posts, then your opinion is invalid, or you're actually working for Dave S. This happened to me when I was new here, and it bothered me. Are there fakes here trying to push their wares, sure. You can see this from the posts about certain girls, that are simply advertisements.

A bad experience is also a learning experience. Regardless of how my apartment turns out, I'm still FUCKING. And I'm only there for the pussy!!!

ryjer

Edward M

07-26-08, 23:57

Fair enough report (despite a dash of paranoia), and this part says a lot: You used the service several times, and may use it again, so there you go.

Okay, enough of my comments. I've made my own opinion clear based on my research and experience (especially about the nature of this whole thread, and the good service I experienced). Up to members to make their own informed decisions. Ciao for now.It is true that I may stay with him in the future but I am trying not to. I just see no reason to burn any bridges.

It has been over a year and 2 trips since I last stayed in one of his apartments so for all intents and pruposes he has lost what could have been a loyal customer that spends 4-6 weeks a year in country. That is sad for both of us.

Reading what Sangue Bon had said about getting lucky in finding a better apartment I will admit in one case that happened to me but that is not the point. "Better" is in the eye of the beholder. Different people value different things, e.g. closeness to the beach, closeness to Help, price, amenities, etc. Some things that many people value, to me, are worthless, and I am sure visa-versa.

One on trip when I had my apartment changed on me, the middle-man that managed the apartment insisted that the switch was not David's fault but his because David was just reselling someone else's apartment and did not know that my apartment was double-rented. I take issue with that because I made the reservation with David, not the other guy. And the apartment I was put into was by no means an improvement.

Regarding paranoia, etc., it took a bit of a leap of faith to make my first reservation in Rio, over the internet, to someone that I have never met. After hearing some other horror stories about safes being robbed and other issues I stuck with GM because at least I always did get something and the prices are reasonable or at least competitive. I figured that I lucked out once finding someone sight unseen and did not want to push my luck. Also, luckily since then I have made a new arrangement that suits me but this took a while to cultivate in person in Rio.

If something is not working or missing in the apt., and the apt. manager tells/promises you that he/she will fix or bring something tomorrow (even in an hour), be careful, e.g., dont pay the whole amount until the problem is fixed or simply walk away.That is a good idea in principle but tough (for me) to enforce. I am not able to do a complete inspection when I arrive and they have always wanted to be paid in full. Then again, you have a good point, I should test at least the A/C, hot water, and cable before I let David's (or whomever's) agent leave. Of course I am also caught between a rock and a hard place if there is a problem. If they decide that they cannot or will not fix an issue should I just leave? Where will I go? Instead I have opted to vote with my feet and just not return.

Ryjerrob

07-27-08, 00:17

That is a good idea in principle but tough (for me) to enforce. I am not able to do a complete inspection when I arrive and they have always wanted to be paid in full. Then again, you have a good point, I should test at least the A/C, hot water, and cable before I let David's (or whomever's) agent leave. Of course I am also caught between a rock and a hard place if there is a problem. If they decide that they cannot or will not fix an issue should I just leave? Where will I go? Instead I have opted to vote with my feet and just not return.

if you really plan on traveling to Brasil or anywhere on a fairly consistent basis, you need to cultivate relationships with owners of apartments, not their agents. I was given a rate that was totally different from what the owner actually asked. The agents up the rates to get a higher commission. We must also remember that most apartments are on the sites of more than one agent. Once you get away from ground zero you could probably get some pretty good info on where to stay, and not pay and arm and leg. Neither Dave or Kenn, nor Bobby truly want you to gain knowledge of how the system works. They are running business, and without some of us, they'd make less. It's always a good practice to investigate and plan for the next trip while you're actually there.

ryjer

Member #4378

07-27-08, 01:54

Yodcha

08-04-08, 21:59

The only genuine comments by gringomanagement customers in this thread were from 18 members who were satisfied customers and three who were not (and keep in mind that satisfied customers don't usually make the effort to post, but unsatisfied customers do, so I'm sure there are many more satisfied members).

As for overkill. Yes. This thread is riddled with BS, flaming, several false usernames, and irrelevant comments by people who had never even heard of gringomanagement or ever visited Rio. Instead of digging up a very old and unbalanced flame-war here, it would be more useful to ISG members for people to do their own research, stay whereever they decide, then write a report in the correct thread.

Yes this is a very old thread that began with my report on Gringo Management in Dec of 2005-it seems the matter is still causing a lot of debate-as to whether or not one should book with Gringo Management rather than one of the many other sources, if you had good success in the past then do it. After all, if 21 persons go to a car dealership and only three are robbed while there (the track record for Gringo Management quoted), then maybe that is the best one can hope for. If 3 out of 21 patrons at a bar wind up with alcohol poison, then by all means go back if you are one of the 18. , If course it may be that the posters all have character falls (after all look where we post LOL) or have personal axes to grind. But, maybe the negative posts are right-it is your money.

Perkele

08-05-08, 12:07

Ejam06

08-08-08, 04:38

Has anyone heard of or used Brazil4rent.com to rent an apartment in Rio.

Sunset Strip

09-07-08, 20:20

I haven't been using gringomanagement or any other foreigner owned service for renting an apartment in Rio, but comparing to services rendered by brasilians all foreigner owned services are very expensive.

I know a german guy who is renting apartments for approximately 50 euros per day, on the otherhand same apartments can be rented with 50 reals per day, if you know brasilian who works with apartment rental.

Also in local newspapers, mainly in Oglobo, you can find temprary apartments but portuguese skills are essential. First to read and then to talk to the owner.

There is also a website www.aluguetemporada.com.br where you can find apartments that are rather reasonably priced.

thanks for the info. I will keep checking the site.

other points:
It is true that most visitors pay more for an apartment. However, after looking at the prices in the ad you sent us it became clear to me that the prices were in general no better for short-time stays as for what gringos pay. I pay usually $60/night for a beach view apartment. Some of the apartments in the ad are not beachview and run around $50US/night for a week stay. The difference is not really all that much. Yes, when guys start paying $70-$80 for a basic one bedroom in Copa that is a problem, but most guys on here are not really getting gipped. Personally, it seems that based on the ads you sent us, it is the Brazilians who are paying too much! It seems prices have gone up for them even more than for us. In 2001 I was paying US$40/night, now I pay $60/night. That is still much less than a comparable hotel in Rio and very much less than even budget hotels in most major US cities.

TJ

Perkele

09-08-08, 13:07

thanks for the info. I will keep checking the site.

other points:
It is true that most visitors pay more for an apartment. However, after looking at the prices in the ad you sent us it became clear to me that the prices were in general no better for short-time stays as for what gringos pay. I pay usually $60/night for a beach view apartment. Some of the apartments in the ad are not beachview and run around $50US/night for a week stay. The difference is not really all that much. Yes, when guys start paying $70-$80 for a basic one bedroom in Copa that is a problem, but most guys on here are not really getting gipped. Personally, it seems that based on the ads you sent us, it is the Brazilians who are paying too much! It seems prices have gone up for them even more than for us. In 2001 I was paying US$40/night, now I pay $60/night. That is still much less than a comparable hotel in Rio and very much less than even budget hotels in most major US cities.

TJ

Maybe I was a bit unclear. When I rented apartments for myself I usually paid R$ 40 - 50 per night in Copacabana. Nothing fancy, 1 bedroom apartments.

My brother paid R$ 1890,- for a month, but there were 3 bedrooms and they were 3 guys. All inclusive, Gas and electicity. No internet or cable tv (well he didn't come here to watch tv).

All GRINGO owned businesses are changing 2 - 3 times more than brasilian run businesses. Although majority of brasilians don't speak english.

So its possible to find budget accommodation in Copa, but not so easily.

There are some hotels in Flamengo area who charge R$ 50/nigth too.

Exec Talent

12-08-08, 19:02

I have used gringomanagement in the past and there were no issues. As a matter of fact I paid deposit for an apt for an upcoming trip and had to cancel within a few days and Dave refunded my deposit no questions asked. would definitely recommend them. Straightforward, English spoken and have good advice to share with for newbies.

For every good experience with Gringo Mismanagement I can offer you 10 people who have gotten ripped off. Why take a chance? With David it is not a question of if he is going to screw you, but when. It is in his nature.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Scorpion_and_the_Frog

Curious if GM was so great why did you just post on 11/26 that you booked with Myriocondo for December?

David would not only sell his own mother, he would send her COD. I pretty much have had it with scumbag liars and cheats. Money is tight these days for most people. The last thing they need is a vacation ruined by another greedy American. BTW, if you do use GM be sure to use a credit card or when paying in cash ask for a receipt.

Gringoman

12-08-08, 22:25

Exec (Brian)

I usually don't respond to empty posts without details. But in this case I will make an exception since you are going out of your way to discredit my name in a cowardly fashion with absolutely no justification.

What I find funny is that you have stayed in two of my apartments this year and have had positive experiences in both apartments.

Back in July you stayed in #102 on Rua Bolivar www.gringomanagement.com/onebedrooms.html and you asked if you could stay longer but it was not available.

I then moved you to #120 on Rua Figuerdo Magalaes. http://www.gringomanagement.com/onebedroomspage3.html

I assume you liked this apartment because you rebooked it after your initial stay for additional 2 weeks. Doesn't sound like a bad experience to me?

In fact, you liked this apartment so much that you went behind my back and tried to negotiate a better price with the owner directly for an even longer stay in this unit.

The owner is a member of this board and a good friend of mine. He of course told you that you would have to book it through me because of our long term relationship. Apparently you did not like that. I did not hear from you since.

The owner has since told me that you plugged up your own phone in the unit and ran up a phone bill that you have not paid to this date.

So I guess if you have any issues with me or my service its time to lay the facts down and we can sort things out. You know and I know you had no problems with me or my service EVER.

I think you are the one who has proven to be unethical and cowardly.

It is a shame that you would chose to burn a bridge with a valuable resource in Rio.

You can email me anytime if you want to discuss or give me a call.

And as a general answer to this thread.... www.gringomanagement.com has been in business renting apartments in Rio for the last 9 years. Our success is documented with thousands of clients and repeat customers. People book with us because they know they can rely on us to get them quality apartments at the best price.

Thanks,

David www.gringomanagement.com

I

For every good experience with Gringo Mismanagement I can offer you 10 people who have gotten ripped off. Why take a chance? With David it is not a question of if he is going to screw you, but when. It is in his nature.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Scorpion_and_the_Frog

Curious if GM was so great why did you just post on 11/26 that you booked with Myriocondo for December?

David would not only sell his own mother, he would send her COD. I pretty much have had it with scumbag liars and cheats. Money is tight these days for most people. The last thing they need is a vacation ruined by another greedy American. BTW, if you do use GM be sure to use a credit card or when paying in cash ask for a receipt.

Up and Cummer

12-09-08, 07:03

I should have wrote a review on my experience earlier but I rented from David at Gringo Management in September and was very happy with the apartment and his service. I rented a 3 bedroom apt on Constante Ramos in Copa and the apt was nice and the price was right.

The worst part of the trip was Continetal arilines losing me and my brother's luggage the first day. Although we did retrieve our luggage the next day from the next flight in. We (me and my brother) were very happy with the apto. It was very clean and somehwat modern. I never did meet David but I did settle the deal and get the keys from Shelby who was very nice and helpful. Shelby even took us out of the way to get a sim card and rent a phone. I will post pictures I took while there when I get a chance.

I was leary at first from some negative postings but David hands down beat Ken (EZ-Rio) and Adrianns (help apts) prices by a longshot. I took the chance on David because I had to put much less down than the other agencies and paid with paypal which I felt more comfortable doing. I paid the balance after I got to Rio and walked thru the Apt.

I would absolutely rent from David again when I return. Hotels are way overpriced and I couldn't even find a hotel for $110-$120/night that compares to the privacy and comfort of that particular apt. So to those who plan on renting a apto should make their own decisions. Consider price and how much you have to put down to hold it. I put up one night and others were wanting much more which I did not want to risk.

Ceasar from TX

Exec Talent

12-09-08, 09:41

David,

In response to your wild fantasy on the Rio de Janeiro - Hotels and Apartments thread, all I have to say is typical. You simply are a liar.

They way you do business is to get over on anyone you can. It caught up to you when this thread was started. The problem is a lot of people just accept that that is the way it is because it is in Rio. They do not know that not everyone operates the way you do.

I wanted to give you a fair chance to prove everyone else wrong. I gave you more than a fair chance. I thought people like Bubba Boy maybe were too hard on you. They were not. You are everything they say you are and worse.

When I was made aware of the phone bill, I made arrangements to pay it immediately. I had been in two apartments previously that had Net Phone and there were no additional charges. The owner of the apartment in question apparently had a different plan. Again, when I was made aware of the charges, I paid it immediately, in full and without question. Attacking me with lies is not going to work here. You have told an outright lie about something that is so easily proven to be false.

I find your comment about burning bridges interesting. You rely on that. When I ask people who got burned by you why they continue to deal with you, they seem to think they have little choice. They come to Rio once or twice a year and take what they get.

Other than addressing your lies, I have no interest in having contact with you. That was my choice when I found out how you treat both your customers and your owners.

Gringoman

12-09-08, 14:20

Brian,

Please provide some details.

Easy to call people names

Your post says nothing about what happened to you???

As I stated in my other post, if you had such a bad experience why did you continue rebooking the same place???

I think we would all like to know.

???

The owner of the apartment you stayed in is a member of this board.

David,

In response to your wild fantasy on the Rio de Janeiro - Hotels and Apartments thread, all I have to say is typical. You simply are a liar.

They way you do business is to get over on anyone you can. It caught up to you when this thread was started. The problem is a lot of people just accept that that is the way it is because it is in Rio. They do not know that not everyone operates the way you do.

I wanted to give you a fair chance to prove everyone else wrong. I gave you more than a fair chance. I thought people like Bubba Boy maybe were too hard on you. They were not. You are everything they say you are and worse.

When I was made aware of the phone bill, I made arrangements to pay it immediately. I had been in two apartments previously that had Net Phone and there were no additional charges. The owner of the apartment in question apparently had a different plan. Again, when I was made aware of the charges, I paid it immediately, in full and without question. Attacking me with lies is not going to work here. You have told an outright lie about something that is so easily proven to be false.

I find your comment about burning bridges interesting. You rely on that. When I ask people who got burned by you why they continue to deal with you, they seem to think they have little choice. They come to Rio once or twice a year and take what they get.

Other than addressing your lies, I have no interest in having contact with you. That was my choice when I found out how you treat both your customers and your owners.

Exec Talent

12-09-08, 14:34

The owner of the apartment you stayed in is a member of this board.

Wonderful. Then he can confirm that the money for the phone bill was deposited in his girlfriend's account. He was quick to contact me about the phone bill by phone and e-mail (which is proper). I was just as quick to make arrangements to pay and did pay it (through my business manager). He was to provide a receipt and a listing of phone calls. He did not. However, if he did not receive the money, he never contacted me again.

So, if he did not recieve the money, this is the first I am hearing of it.

Gringoman

12-09-08, 16:37

Ryjerrob

12-09-08, 22:01

In fact, you liked this apartment so much that you went behind my back and tried to negotiate a better price with the owner directly for an even longer stay in this unit.

The owner is a member of this board and a good friend of mine. He of course told you that you would have to book it through me because of our long term relationship. Apparently you did not like that. I did not hear from you since.

I really find this whole conversation boring. There are obviously some questionable practices by you. And since you are a member of this board, how about contributing something useful, versus promoting your own self-interests. I think it's funny that you bring up the fact that someone tried to negotiate a better price for themselves. Aren't you the same person that stole business contacts from Bobby at blame it on rio when you worked for him. Please stop acting like your shit doesn't stink. Get over it, and move on.

ryjer

Gringoman

12-09-08, 22:45

Ryjer,

Please provide specifics. Easy to call people names. I can only address specific issues.

I have never worked for Bobby at Blameitonrio and have no access to his contacts. I think you are mistaken there. Not me.

I have no problems with people negotiating better prices. I do it myself all the time. I do think it's not correct to do it with a contact that was introduced by me and done behind someones back.

You might not understand that.

I really find this whole conversation boring. There are obviously some questionable practices by you. And since you are a member of this board, how about contributing something useful, versus promoting your own self-interests. I think it's funny that you bring up the fact that someone tried to negotiate a better price for themselves. Aren't you the same person that stole business contacts from Bobby at blame it on rio when you worked for him. Please stop acting like your shit doesn't stink. Get over it, and move on.

ryjer

Ryjerrob

12-09-08, 23:45

Ryjer,

Please provide specifics. Easy to call people names. I can only address specific issues.

I have never worked for Bobby at Blameitonrio and have no access to his contacts. I think you are mistaken there. Not me.

I have no problems with people negotiating better prices. I do it myself all the time. I do think it's not correct to do it with a contact that was introduced by me and done behind someones back.

You might not understand that.

First off, there was no name calling. I did say that you have some questionable business practices. If you equate that with name calling, that's pretty pathetic. No one that rents from you owes you anything more than the rent money they pay. As a consumer, if I can cut out the middle man and get a better deal for myself, I'd be a fool not to. That's not going behind someone's back. Let's be honest, the services you provide are based on achieving a profit.

Again, you contribute nothing to this forum. You only promote your self-interests. If you truly have a wealth of knowledge, then share it. Stop pretending to be the victim here.

If you truly wish for me to air you dirty laundry here, I will.

ryjer

Exec Talent

12-10-08, 00:04

Brian,

Again, please give us some details on your bad experience.

I think you have boxed yourself in a corner on this one.

The owner of this apartment and myself are waiting for your reply.

You know this was a nice apartment and you got a fair price.

Let's hear something real from you.

The owner will settle your phone bill directly. You can email him direct.

David

You learned your scumbag lessons well from your time on Wall Street.
When your ethics are questioned, question the ethics of the questioner. (Did everyone get that?)

Let's deal with this phone bill issue since your brought it up. Let's have the apartment owner (a good friend of yours) come on here (since he is a member of this forum) and dispute the receipt he just sent marked "PAID IN FULL." Again, this was not paid today, but paid immediately when it was brought to my attention (Bill unseen, I might add).

Although others have complained about conditions of apartements, what I experienced and what I have heard over and over again is complaints about the way you conduct your business. Switching apartments once someone arrives, booking someone for 10 days then when they are leaving in 7, making them vacate the apartment early because you double booked it, charging late checkout fees to renters but not giving the money to owners. It goes on and on.

I did not reach my conclusion about you without doing my homework and would not take such a strong position if I hadn't. The reason we have the economic problems we have today is because no one stood up and said -- "that ain't right." Well, I am standing up. People who want to deal with ethical onsite, English speaking agencies can use the ones I recommended or those recommended by others here.

Nine years of ripping off people is nine years too long. Yep, I am standing as I type this.

Pure Power

12-10-08, 00:21

Pure Power

12-10-08, 01:09

Rock Harders

12-10-08, 01:37

Mongers-
I have now rented from GringoManagement on four separate instances and I have yet to encounter any unethical business practices on the part of David or any of his employees. On at least one instance I called David the day before my trip to Rio and he was able to get me an apartment on literally no notice for only a couple night stay. I have checked around on other websites and GringoManagement's prices were reasonable. GringoManagement is obviously a business, so how people can get upset that a company hopes to make a profit? Jackson, who is a close friend of mine, rents and manages apartments in Buenos Aires as a business venture as well. Many people are involved in this type of business. Renting and managing apartments for profit does not make one unethical.
Suerte,
Rock Harders

Piper1

12-10-08, 01:42

I would also like to add that my dealings with Gringo Management have been very professional so far. The customer service has been great and everything has worked smoothly.

In just a few short weeks I will be in Rio, man I can't WAIT!!You'll have a good time in Rio - I promise!

Several posts have suddenly been deleted about Gringomanagement (including my two honest posts), but the bottom line is that some of the complainers keep coming back to GM. There must be a reason for that.

I found GM's service and apartment very good. Have a great time!

Guys, I think it's time to move on from the nonsense. I may be back in Rio this June - same apartment, I hope, but different wonderful girls. Except I want to repeat with the hot bisexual Angela and a few of her favorite friends. Oh man.

Rio Bob

12-10-08, 03:27

I have decided to stay with Gringo Management for my trip to Rio Jan 22-26th 2009. I have paid the deposit and hope my choice was a wise one. I have heard a few complaints, but when you operate a business it's inevitable and expected.

I chose them because the apartment has everything I'm looking for, including a great location.

I will disclose a full Unbiased report when I return, hopefully without concern.

Pure Power, these flare ups happen every couple of months or so. Just check the various threads you will see the same characters over and over again picking a fight for one reason or another, they must be bored and need a new fight now and then, pay it no mind.

Don't worry, you are in good hands I have rented from gringomanagement.com since 2003 and I can say that I have always had a satisfying experience.

This thread was started by someone who complained that his shower wasn't big enough and most of the posts are empty posts from people who have never done business with him.

You will be ok.

Pure Power

12-10-08, 04:05

Pure Power, these flare ups happen every couple of months or so. Just check the various threads you will see the same characters over and over again picking a fight for one reason or another, they must be bored and need a new fight now and then, pay it no mind.

Don't worry, you are in good hands I have rented from gringomanagement.com since 2003 and I can say that I have always had a satisfying experience.

This thread was started by someone who complained that his shower wasn't big enough and most of the posts are empty posts from people who have never done business with him.

You will be ok.

Thanks for the heads up. I am not expecting Bellagio or Venetian accommodations while in Rio. I am expecting what is offered and I have a good feeling GM will give me what is offered.

I am a member of many message boards of my interests. I have been using forums like this for years to educate myself on different "hobbys" and like the rest of them, you have to weed through the BS/agendas to get to the naked truth. I'm not saying some people didn't have negative experiences, but IMO there are much classier ways to go about revealing that info.

Peace

Jan 156

12-11-08, 01:58

The extreme differences expressed over GringoMngmnt don't seem likely to be resolved here.

My hopefully constructive suggestion for first time bookers to maybe consider applies to pretty well all apartment agencies. Try to see before you buy.

Some people will be visiting for just a very short time - in which case you might be better looking at a gf hotel or (at worst) a high-end uncontroversial apartment renter. (If you go for such a short time you may have to accept it costs more overall pro rata.)

Hotels check rooms daily. Apartment owners don't. If an agency has more than a few apartments, they mostly discover problems when someone tells them. Admittedly some (not all) will try to overcharge you, but this is usually a small inconvenience compared to an apartment you find unlivable and with little time or window of opportunity to change.

There is rarely a shortage apartments in Rio.* The typical apartment visitor wants to go for a minimum two weeks. Your arrival time of day/night does make a difference, but getting a hotel for one night (or hostel for the impecunious) allows you several hours of freedom to view a number of apartments unencumbered. You 'waste' half a day. But it gets you acclimatized and generally results in a happy rental on both sides. (I usually cut this first night out, even if I'm not staying at a regular apartment, simply cos I travel light and can carry a bag to an agency or two without a problem. This won't suit a lot of folk though.) Good luck.

*the exception being the period just before Carnaval - and Pure Power is getting close to it if not actually in that bracket. You need a better roof near Carnaval, as rates will go through it. ;)

Piper1

12-13-08, 01:40

Bad Boy Billy

12-13-08, 02:17

Thanks for the heads up. I am not expecting Bellagio or Venetian accommodations while in Rio. I am expecting what is offered and I have a good feeling GM will give me what is offered.Sorry to disappoint you my friend - but IF you get what you are promised from GM you may well be the first guy ever.

Do I know what I am talking about?

Yes I think so - Yodcha was the guy who started whole this thread - he and I rented an apartment from GM in June 2006.

GM totally misrepresented the apartment we rented - I personally did ALL the rental negotiations.

I asked GM over and over SPECIFIC QUESTIONS about the apartment we rented - I was repeatedly told LIES.

RENT FROM GM AT YOUR OWN PERIL.

Piper1

12-13-08, 02:32

Sorry to disappoint you my friend - but IF you get what you are promised from GM you may well be the first guy ever.That's pure bullshit. I got what I was promised, and so have hundreds of others. Your story is old. Very old.

Bad Boy Billy

12-13-08, 04:55

That's pure bullshit. I got what I was promised, and so have hundreds of others. Your story is old. Very old.Maybe old - but true my friend.

Seems many others experienced similar disappointing results.

If you got what you were promised - maybe you were just lucky.

You wouldn't happen to be a mate of GM going into bat for him would you?

Gringoman

12-13-08, 05:10

In the spirit of entertainment for the board we can reopen this 3 year old complaint from Bad Boy Billy who did indeed start this thread. Thank you Billy.

I think the crux of his complaint was that his friend could not fit 2 girls in the shower with him and I told him he could fit two girls.

One think Bad Boy Billy neglected to tell me was that his friend was like 300 pounds.

He stayed in #200A or #200B... http://www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

Everyone take a look at these pictures and judge for yourself.

Billy stayed in the apartment for something like 10 days. Never got a call or email complaining about anything. He posts beautiful pictures of all the parties he had in the apartment on this website. Then has the nerve to write me 10 days after he gets back and demands a full refund or he will slander me on every website on the net.

When I goto Rio I sometimes stay in these apartments. I think they are great. The girls love them because of the duplex set up and private pool and deck.

Billy is entitled to his opinion.

Sorry to disappoint you my friend - but IF you get what you are promised from GM you may well be the first guy ever.

Do I know what I am talking about?

Yes I think so - Yodcha was the guy who started whole this thread - he and I rented an apartment from GM in June 2006.

GM totally misrepresented the apartment we rented - I personally did ALL the rental negotiations.

I asked GM over and over SPECIFIC QUESTIONS about the apartment we rented - I was repeatedly told LIES.

RENT FROM GM AT YOUR OWN PERIL.

Ryjerrob

12-13-08, 05:17

That’s funny, I guess you don't know too much about how Bobby started his business Blame it on Rio for travel dot com. I don't know everything but he was an enterprising chap. When he first got there they used to call him Bobby Bagels or Pretzel Bobby. He tried to sell bagels or Pretzels in Rio. He's a Jew from queens; I guess the Brazilians didn't see the value in a bagel or a Pretzel. He learned about Rio because he was in the shoe business.

To make a long story short, he ends up working for some Internet company, ASIA something? That takes reservations for hotels in Rio. How do I know this? I had him make a reservation for me. You know how slow his company is now in getting back to you? Well in those days the response from Bobby himself was instant, he was hungry. He made the res for me, no problem.

Months later I get an email from this internet company Asia something? That Bobby stole the contacts and HTML code and please do not do business with him because he is a thief.

After that Bobby sends out global email to all the people he did business with to send donations to him because he made reservations with you before. I didn't but many people invested with him thru the years and many people lost their money.

This is how he got started with Blame it on Rio. I don't blame it on him, I hand it to him because he went a long way from Bobby Bagels or Pretzel Bobby to his own store in Rio with a wife and a family.

But I think Ryjerrob you are confusing that Dave didn't steal from Bobby it was Bobby that stole for Bobby.

Where are you getting your info and did you ever rent from gringomanagement.com?

If I had to guess, Exec Talent is being used as a Patsy by Bobby to suck some money from him and that’s why he went after gringomanagement.com because it was completely an unprovoked attack by Exec Talent with no basis.

Curious why everyone wants to make this a personal matter. As I've said before, Dave offers nothing to this forum, but promote his own self-interests. He is in business to make a profit, and I have no issues with that. The fact that he calls out another member, for what he calls, "going behind his back" to attempt a better offer/deal with the owner is silly. That is specifically what I took issue with.

It is unimportant to me how Bobby started in his business. I only mention it for comparison. Dave alludes to it being dishonest when a member tries to negotiate a better deal behind his back with an owner. Fine!!!! I think it's just as dishonest to borrow/steal info from your past employer to start your own business.

And yes, he has some questionable business practices.

I'm just wondering why so many people are all on Dave's nuts............Quit trickin' and start pimpin'

ryjer

Gringoman

12-13-08, 05:37

Ryjer,

You are wrong about something else.

I am actually a very big contributor to this board.

My contributions are perhaps in line with some of the all-stars of the board.

I take phone calls and emails from guys every single day. I not only help out with finding places to stay for guys on this board but I also help out with alot of advice.

I have helped countless guys on this board by giving advice on getting married, buying apartments, getting visas, going on trips to other parts of Brazil and even starting their own business in Rio.

I might not post much on the board because I am married now and not a participant on the monger front, but my contributions to this board are big. I just don't talk about it like some others do.

You don't know me son.

Curious why everyone wants to make this a personal matter. As I've said before, Dave offers nothing to this forum, but promote his own self-interests. He is in business to make a profit, and I have no issues with that. The fact that he calls out another member, for what he calls, "going behind his back" to attempt a better offer/deal with the owner is silly. That is specifically what I took issue with.

It is unimportant to me how Bobby started in his business. I only mention it for comparison. Dave alludes to it being dishonest when a member tries to negotiate a better deal behind his back with an owner. Fine!!!! I think it's just as dishonest to borrow/steal info from your past employer to start your own business.

And yes, he has some questionable business practices.

I'm just wondering why so many people are all on Dave's nuts............Quit trickin' and start pimpin'

ryjer

Ryjerrob

12-13-08, 05:45

Ryjer,

You are wrong about something else.

I am actually a very big contributor to this board.

Your total of 30 posts show that. Again, all about your business concerns/interests.

Ryjerrob

12-13-08, 05:56

Ryjer,

I have helped countless guys on this board by giving advice on getting married, buying apartments, getting visas, going on trips to other parts of Brazil and even starting their own business in Rio.

I might not post much on the board because I am married now and not a participant on the monger front, but my contributions to this board are big. I just don't talk about it like some others do.

Another contradiction................Why would people from a forum dealing with the mongering lifestyle want info/advice from you. You admit that you are not a participant on the monger front. You contributions to this board only serve one person, YOU! I don't need to know you, to know that simple fact.

Bad Boy Billy

12-13-08, 05:57

One think Bad Boy Billy neglected to tell me was that his friend was like 300 pounds.Yes I still see you love to play the man - what has the size shape colour or religion of the people who rent your apartments got to do with the fact that you tell direct lies to those attempting to rent from you?

When I goto Rio I sometimes stay in these apartments..Yes and tell everybody here that whilst we were staying in this apartment that we rented from you you were indeed in Rio and staying in the same apartment building just across the hall from our front door.

At that time you did not have the decency or business nouse to just pop your head in our door and say "Hi guys - I am GM whom you rented the apartment from - is everything OK?"

No you kept right away from us - maybe you knew then that we would take you to task over your misrepresentations.

By the way - how is your mate CBATT - remember they guy whose arse we saved when he locked himself out of the apartment that the 2 of you were sharing - whilst he was stark naked and saying goodbye to one of his *****s.

Even after we saved his arse you still didn't have the decency to even come and say hello.

CBATT - if you read this - was a pleasure to meet you mate - I cannot tell you how much we have laughed about that incident - you really are a decent guy - how did you ever get tangled up with this rattle snake?

Billy stayed in the apartment for something like 10 days. Never got a call or email complaining about anything.Once again you were staying across the fucking hall in the same fucking building from us - you knew we were there - I never knew you were there until we met CBATT on the final day - but whatever you do just do not let the truth get in the way of a good story will you.

He posts beautiful pictures of all the parties he had in the apartment on this website. Once again - clarification - it was the now defunct UMVClub website - but then again accuracy is not your strong point is it?

Then has the nerve to write me 10 days after he gets back and demands a full refund or he will slander me on every website on the net. I actually contacted you the day I arrived back in Australia. I travelled for 28 hours non-stop to get to Rio for the 'trip of a lifetime' - Australia aint just around the corner like USA.

I had 8 days only in Rio - I was going to make the most of every minute - I was going to make the most of the less than acceptable misrepresented so called 'Luxury Penthouse' that you rented us - I speak not one word of Portugese so I was not going to waste a day or 2 trying to find alternative accomodation.

Had I contacted you what would you have done? Told me more lies about this apartment or an alternative?

For fucks sake - you were staying across the hall - your level of business commmon sense astounds me - why did you not just walk accross the hall to say hello to some of your customers?

Scared? Ashamed of what you had done? Afraid of the consequences of face to face meeting with one of your disgruntled customers?

Bottom line - I have only ever been to Rio twice.

September 2005 - rented from RioApartments - perfect apartment for single traveller - perfect service from RioAprtments - I will definitely use them again on my next visit in April 2009.

June 2006 - rented from Gringo Management - was told a littany of lies and misreprentations on a continual basis - WILL NEVER USE GM AGAIN.

YMMV - but caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.

Gringoman

12-13-08, 06:09

Ryjer,

You stand correct. I do not give mongering advice. I rent apartments and assist in other business matters in Rio.

My services and advice serve both parties involved.

If you do not want to use my services that is your choice.

Not everyone is mongering 24/7. Sometimes they need help in other areas.

Anyone can contact me if they have any questions about Rio or if they want to rent an apartment. I will always get back to you.

Thanks,

David
www.gringomanagement.com

Another contradiction................Why would people from a forum dealing with the mongering lifestyle want info/advice from you. You admit that you are not a participant on the monger front. You contributions to this board only serve one person, YOU! I don't need to know you, to know that simple fact.

Exec Talent

12-13-08, 15:21

Ryjer,

You stand correct. I do not give mongering advice. I rent apartments and assist in other business matters in Rio.

My services and advice serve both parties involved.

If you do not want to use my services that is your choice.

Not everyone is mongering 24/7. Sometimes they need help in other areas.

Anyone can contact me if they have any questions about Rio or if they want to rent an apartment. I will always get back to you.

Thanks,

David
www.gringomanagement.com

You are such a joke. One renter (who was not interested in "mongering") told me that you spent 30 minutes on the phone with him telling about all the places to find girls.

BTW, I am still waiting for your good friend (the apartment owner) to come on here and tell everyone how he had to wait for his money. Just didn't happen that way, did it. And you know it.

JohnnyBraz

12-15-08, 07:55

Ryjer,

You stand correct. I do not give mongering advice. I rent apartments and assist in other business matters in Rio.

My services and advice serve both parties involved.

If you do not want to use my services that is your choice.

Not everyone is mongering 24/7. Sometimes they need help in other areas.

Anyone can contact me if they have any questions about Rio or if they want to rent an apartment. I will always get back to you.

Thanks,

David

www.gringomanagement.comi think that the main question that you still haven't answered, is why are you booking apartments that have already been booked, and then putting people in different apartments, I have heard that on numerous occasions about your company.

Piper1

12-16-08, 02:31

...I actually contacted you the day I arrived back in Australia. I travelled for 28 hours non-stop to get to Rio for the 'trip of a lifetime' - Australia aint just around the corner like USA.
I'm also Australian, so I respect your straight-talking. But really, your complaint is trivial. Be honest - have you never had a complaint about your work or business?

The complainers here are seriously pussies.

Bad Boy Billy

12-16-08, 05:54

I'm also Australian, so I respect your straight-talking..Well you just went up a long way in my estimation.

Be honest - have you never had a complaint about your work or business? YES many - but I deal with them in a professional manner in my estimation.

I sell 'unique' products to the general public - people stop and stare at our products when they see them - when I see one out in the community I immediately recognise the person in possession of that product is indeed one of my customers.

I immediately go up to them and make myself known to them - I readily take on board their comments about the product I have supplied to them - good or bad.

The point remains - whilst I was in Rio in June 2006 staying in an apartment rented to me by GM - GM himself was in Rio in the same apartment building on the same floor with his front door 3 meteres from our front door - yet he did not have the common decency or business sense to come and make himself known to us.

He hid in his apartment like a scared rabbit - even after we saved his mate from total embarassment when he locked himself out of their apartrment whilst totally naked - we saved his arse big time.

Still GM could not bring himself to walk across the hallway and say hello.

You think this complaint is trivial - I say it displays the total lack of professionalism on behalf of GM - rent from them at your peril.

But really, your complaint is trivial.Certainly not trivial in my mind.

US$175.00 / night for what was described as a 'Luxury Apartment'.

Luxury my arse - the many faults and shortcomings of this so called luxurious apartment almost - almost - almost spoilt my entire trip - decent sleep was totally impossible.

The complainers here are seriously pussies.Well I resent that description - I am no pussy.

Had I been a pussy I would have just copped GM's shit and done nothing about it.

I am certainly not a pussy - I was 'wronged' - one way or another GM will pay.

THe simple fact remains - GM misrepresented the apartment we rented from him - is was falsely described on their website - GM continually told lies when asked direct questions about certain features of the apartment - these direct questions were asked over and over - GM responded with the same lies over and over.

His defence in the end - well your mate was 300lbs - what the fuck has anybody's size, shape, colour, religion or whatever got to do with the littany of lies and micrepresentations that GM continually indulge in?

Perkele

12-16-08, 11:44

Without taking sides I'd like to remind all board members about one thing that nobody has brought to anyone's attention.

I've been living here for a few years now and I have noticed that Brasil is a country of ALMOST.

I don't know if anyone else has noticed that anything that can be considered high end or luxury is always always not quite what we have used to. If you rent a luxury apartment, its ALMOST luxury. If you try to get a luxury car, its ALMOST luxury car. Always something is missing.

As I said without taking any sides, I really wonder how anyone is willing to pay $175 for any apartment in Copacabana? All buildings are old and even penthouses there are missing something. What comes to complaint of the shower, I haven't really seen a good size showers in Copacabana except in some hotels. A big guy has problems getting into those showers.

What I used to do, when I was renting short term, was that I got a smaller apt for 50 - 60 R$/day without TV and other crap like that. Off the beach. It was just for resting. When I wanted to do girls in "Luxury" environment I took them to a motel. Most of the time motels cost about 40 R$ for 4 hours.

I have to admit that I did have connections and I used to know lot of brasilians who were renting apartments, unfortunately I haven't been in touch with them for quite a some time.

Just my 2 centavos.

Jan 156

12-16-08, 12:06

Piper1

12-16-08, 15:42

... we saved his mate from total embarassment when he locked himself out of their apartrment whilst totally naked - we saved his arse big time.Do you have the photos? ;)

Bad Boy Billy

12-16-08, 23:23

I've been living here for a few years now and I have noticed that Brasil is a country of ALMOST………………. If you rent a luxury apartment, its ALMOST luxury. If you try to get a luxury car, its ALMOST luxury car. .YES I fully appreciate the sentiment behind your post – and things would be a lot better if GM ALMOST told the truth – instead of the littany of lies and inaccuracies that they indulge in.

As I said without taking any sides, I really wonder how anyone is willing to pay $175 for any apartment in Copacabana? .It is what makes up the ‘rich tapestry of life’ my friend.

Why do some guys pay R400+ for 40 mins in Centauras when you can spend R40 for 40 mins in VM – simple reason – we all have different tastes and preferences – we are all free to spend our hard earned $$$’s in any way shape or form that we see fit.

I haven't really seen a good size showers in Copacabana except in some hotels. A big guy has problems getting into those showers. Once again you may be 100% accurate – HOWEVER – GM was asked over and over again a very specific question – are both showers in this ‘Luxurious Apartment’ DOUBLE showers? I did not ask are they big or small – I asked are they DOUBLE showers.

The direct answer each time was YES YES YES YES YES – LIE.

The shower on the bottom floor was a single shower – TRUTH. GM then responds well your mate is 300lb so how can you expect to get 2 people in the shower. Simple – DOUBLE showers.

I would have thought that coming from first world countries we would all have a reasonable grasp of what a DOUBLE shower is

What I used to do, when I was renting short term, was that I got a smaller apt for 50 - 60 R$/day without TV and other crap like that. Off the beach. It was just for resting. When I wanted to do girls in "Luxury" environment I took them to a motel. Most of the time motels cost about 40 R$ for 4 hours. .Sounds fantastic – you are doing exactly as I posted above – you are spending your hard earned ‘readies’ in the manner you enjoy and as you see fit and your contribution is indeed appreciated.

But that is slightly irrelevant in the context of this thread – Gringo Management Apartments.

Bad Boy Billy

12-16-08, 23:34

Do you have the photos? ;)No mate unfortunately we did not get pictures.

Gotta tell you though - it was fucking hilarious. The guys handle is CBATT - he used to post on other boards such as UMVClub - in actual fact he did some monger trips years ago with some very good friends of mine.

WE sat and laughed for over an hour once we got him into our apartment and to 'safety' - he is actually a great guy - would love to catch up to him again some time.

As for GM - nah - cannot see him And I sharing a laugh over a beer or two anytime soon.

Perkele

12-17-08, 00:42

Hi!

I feel your pain. You got screwed.

Why did I wrote what I wrote is because all is relevant. If you'd been living in Brasil as long as I have, you'd might be surprised that the shower may have been double or even triple size.... in BRASILIAN standards.

I have had to turn down nice apartments because the size of the shower. I've seen showers where 50 kg girl wouldn't fit.

Please do note that I'm not taking any sides since I don't know this GM fellow nor you. I'm just trying to pass information how things are in Brasil. Don't shoot the messenger.

Bad Boy Billy

12-17-08, 01:40

Don't shoot the messenger.Mate my humblest apologies if my response indicated I was doing so - I would never do that to a valued and effective contributor such as yourself - sometimes it's hard to convey exactly what you mean even in written format.

As for the BRASILIAN standards - well I thought an Australian dealing direct with an American might not have been all that confusing.

I would like to know how complicated it would have been for GM to simply say - well NO - the shower downstairs is not that big - maybe not as big as you and I would expect a DOUBLE shower to be in Australia or USA.

See it aint that hard - did GM respond in such a manner - NO - constant answer to the DOUBLE shower question was YES YES YES.

No matter how anybody tries to square it away - or what slant you might want to put on it - simple truth still remains - we were consistently lied to.

Gringoman

12-17-08, 06:16

We are coming to the end of another year and I would hate to drag this into the New Year.

This was 3 years ago. Time flies.

I have nothing against big guys, my father was a very big man (rip). I was just bringing that up because I didn't know that your friend was a 'big guy' and wouldn't fit in the shower with two ladies. You didn't tell me that. That apartment did have 2 showers and one was certainly big enough, I wonder why you just didn't switch rooms. Anyway we don't need to go back there again.

I was in Rio when you were there, that is true. CBATT is actually my best friend. I was not staying there with him but I did visit him. I regret not knocking on your door to say hi. I was busy hanging out with CBATT and some friends and it did not even cross my mind. You know how things are when you are in Rio having a good time.

There was no complaint at that time anyway so I was completely unaware of your grief.

I never lied to you about anything, I think you were mismatched in the apartment and if I would have known you better I would have selected something more upscale. (It would have cost you more than the $175US though).

I think you went about this totally wrong. You can see I am a long term player and we could work things out to your advantage.

If you want to contact me about your April trip maybe we can select another apartment and I can get you a few free nights to show you my good faith.

Peace.

GringoMan

Mate my humblest apologies if my response indicated I was doing so - I would never do that to a valued and effective contributor such as yourself - sometimes it's hard to convey exactly what you mean even in written format.

As for the BRASILIAN standards - well I thought an Australian dealing direct with an American might not have been all that confusing.

I would like to know how complicated it would have been for GM to simply say - well NO - the shower downstairs is not that big - maybe not as big as you and I would expect a DOUBLE shower to be in Australia or USA.

See it aint that hard - did GM respond in such a manner - NO - constant answer to the DOUBLE shower question was YES YES YES.

No matter how anybody tries to square it away - or what slant you might want to put on it - simple truth still remains - we were consistently lied to.

Bad Boy Billy

12-17-08, 23:03

We are coming to the end of another year and I would hate to drag this into the New Year. I couldn’t give a flying fuck how long ago it was – you lied and misrepresented that apartment then and just totally dismissed my request for a full or partial refund – I was wronged – you think time will change that fact?

This was 3 years ago. 2 years 6 months 4 days to be precise – but who is counting.

That apartment did have 2 showers and one was certainly big enough, I wonder why you just didn't switch rooms. . Why didn’t you just tell the truth and forget about trying to arrange our sleeping arrangements?

I was in Rio when you were there, that is true. CBATT is actually my best friend. I was not staying there with him but I did visit him. . Now that is news to me – CBATT was sitting in the apartment with Yodcha and myself and distinctly told us the 2 of you were staying in that apartment across the hall – hmmm – yes I guess you are RIGHT and he was WRONG huh.

I think you were mismatched in the apartment and if I would have known you better I would have selected something more upscale. (It would have cost you more than the $175US though). Funds never were or never will be an issue for me – had you been honest AND had not misrepresented the quality of the apartment in general none of this shit would have happened.

If you want to contact me about your April trip maybe we can select another apartment and I can get you a few free nights to show you my good faith. Ah after 2 and half years and all this negative publicity you now try to extend the olive branch – not in your lifetime fella – you might get bitten by a tiger snake once in life but you never go back to get bitten a second time. – apartment for April already booked through RioApartments.

Caveat Emptor – Let the buyer beware.

Piper1

12-19-08, 00:07

Jan 156

12-19-08, 09:05

Bad Boy Billy,

That's a very disappointing reply. As an independent businessman, you should know better (and I think you do know better).

It's your life man. Fill it up with 3 year-old hate over a shower-cubicle.

If someone would offer me an olive branch after three years, I would I take it, shake hands, and move on happily with my life.

Don't spoil the fun - this thread's better than a telenova.

David68

12-19-08, 11:37

Bad Boy Billy,

That's a very disappointing reply. As an independent businessman, you should know better (and I think you do know better).

It's your life man. Fill it up with 3 year-old hate over a shower-cubicle.

If someone would offer me an olive branch after three years, I would I take it, shake hands, and move on happily with my life.I have done business with Gringoman for the past 4 years and when I had a problem wth an apt. broken bed etc, but he did give me 3 free nights on my next trip. Take the free nights and maybe you will feel a little better.

Piper1

12-19-08, 14:25

Don't spoil the fun - this thread's better than a telenova.True, but they keep playing the same couple of episodes over and over and over. ;)

Exec Talent

12-19-08, 16:20

True, but they keep playing the same couple of episodes over and over and over. ;)

I have heard and seen many different episodes from both renters and owners. However, they do all have the same plot -- GM takes the money and everyone else gets screwed.

Bad Boy Billy

12-20-08, 00:25

That's a very disappointing reply. Piper my friend – sorry if I disappoint you – I welcome all post by all members but to be honest your feelings are not high on my list of priorities.

It's your life man. Fill it up with 3 year-old hate over a shower-cubicle. The shower cubicle was one small part of a litany of lies and misrepresentations by GM with this apartment.

Via telephone conversations between myself from Australia and GM in USA and via numerous emails, GM contended this was a “Luxurious Apartment” with “very expensive fixtures and furnishings”.

Let me tell you about some these “expensive fixtures and furnishings” – which GM knows all about but over which he will remain silent.

1. Bed in upstairs room – Cheapest wooden slatted bed available – no sprung mattress – just a serious of wooden slats about 5 inches wide placed about 5 inches apart. On top of this was a 4 inch foam mattress – that was an example of the “very expensive fixtures and furnishings” I guess he was talking about.

It was so bad – reasonable sleep was virtually impossible. Worse – almost impossible to fuck on – one day whilst I was doggy fucking one w.h.o.r.e both my knees and the mattress disappeared down between the wooden slats almost splitting me in two.

2. Neither bedroom had effective black out curtains/blinds at all. Indeed upstairs was a bamboo roll-up blind that permitted about 80% light penetration – so as soon was sun was up in morning you had a virtually totally lit room – also depriving me of sleep. How fucking difficult is to put proper black out blinds on an apartment if you going to try to ‘sell’ that apartment as “Luxurious”.

3. Upstairs window and door onto pool deck area that rattled non-stop in the wind – I was continually trying to jam pieces of paper / cardboard etc in the door to try to stop it rattling. Then when the traffic started early in the morning the rattling and vibration was doubly bad – simple double glazing or indeed decent door fittings may have alleviated this problem.

If someone would offer me an olive branch after three years, I would I take it, shake hands, and move on happily with my life.Then clearly my friend you and I went to totally different business management schools. In the business environment I was brought up in, all through university, in every business management training I have done since then I was taught one thing – solve EVERY PROBLEM ASAP – then move on.

For the last 2.5 years GM refused to deal with problem and provide any refund. He is only making these token gestures now in an attempt to try to save face in front of the likes of you.

I will not accept it – they are germs and all intending renters of apartments in Rio need to be alerted. Rent from GM at your peril.

Bad Boy Billy

12-20-08, 05:35

Guys the last thing I want is for people reading my posts to think that Billy is simply a 'bitter and twisted individual'.

I do like to contribute valuable content - I am posting what I am posting about GM because I feel I was 'wronged' and I do not want other guys to experience the same inconvience that will detract from their Rio expeditions.

And to help to show that I do provide valuable content - here are few pics of a few girls that were Billiefied in June 2006. None of these girls came to the apartment to 'party' - they were there to be fucked and that is all.

Piper1

12-20-08, 06:10

Nice photos - the apartment looks fantastic!

Have a great break.

Bad Boy Billy

12-20-08, 06:10

And a few more

David68

12-20-08, 06:50

I will be staying in this very same Apt. VERY SOON. I will provide a report for everyone and even though BBB's episode was a while back we can see what, if any improvements have been made. Good enough?

The saga comtinues.

Ryjerrob

12-20-08, 15:47

And to help to show that I do provide valuable content - here are few pics of a few girls that were Billiefied in June 2006. None of these girls came to the apartment to 'party' - they were there to be fucked and that is all.

BBB................this looks like my kinda party.

Thanks,

ryjer

Jan 156

12-20-08, 16:35

Fuck the apartment - just send us your photos! ;) ;) ;)

Jan 156

12-20-08, 16:48

btw I'm not into GM's price-range whether they're any good or not - but for what it's worth here's a 'checklist' I used to use when checking out three or four aptos before choosing (most of this won't show up on a photo). More than 4 and I'd take a phone-camera pic and notes to remind me. Wouldn't look at anything till had satisfied myself (as far as possible) of integrity of contract and ways the renter could do me over should he wish to.

Apto checklist

*Nice distinguishing features?
*Evidence of roaches?
*Security for bags (eg I lock mine to a pipe)
*Spyhole?
*Good front door locks?
*Close to Gym, key shops, beach, buses, metro?
*Plugs by bed?
*Lighting? (I like an option of brights and dimmable)
*Air-con?
*View? (nice for impressing garotas)
*Furniture & furnishings - tacky or nice? fit for purpose?
*Comfy bed - test strength and mattress by bouncing on it
*sheets - cotton or nylon?
*Fridge - does it work/leak/rattle?
*Ambience - does the apto have a reasonable seduction quotient?
*Clothesline - unless there's a laundrette 10 yds away
*Balcony - and does it get the sun in the morning or have a nice view in the evening?
*Noise - is anyone doing building alterations nearby?
*Front door security - do I get a nice vibe from the doorman?
*Lifts - several/broken/tiny/dirty/slow?
*Approach area - how attractive to muggers?
*Shower - working/clean/size/strength
*Hot water in kitchen & bathroom?
*Cooking facilities and accessories?
*If I were a bent garota, how would I screw someone over in this place?

Mostly I've found less problems with shit-cheap places. You see what you get and they mostly rent to Brasilians. As soon as you get into gringo price brackets there's more to be wary of.

Sperto

12-20-08, 17:06

Mostly I've found less problems with shit-cheap places. You see what you get and they mostly rent to Brasilians. As soon as you get into gringo price brackets there's more to be wary of.
Nice list, Chris.
Renting from brazilians who mainly rents to brazilians is definitely the best way to get a good apartment at a low price.

Gringoman

12-20-08, 17:16

this is the apartment where bad boy billy stayed.

great apartment !!!!!!!!!!!!!

#200b on my site http://www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

i recommend it to guys coming to have parties like bad boy billy.

the owner has updated the pool which looks awesome. pic attached.

details of the penthouse below:

details of the penthouse apartment:
• 110 square meters with two small verandas in the main floor.
• 30 square meters of a private terrace in the upper floor with ocean view and a giant view to ipanema and the “twin towers“.
• private pool on upper terrace.
• the pool has also hydro massage with warm water and indirect lights in 2 colors, the pool terrace is made from a 3 colored floor in combination with a nature stone wall.
• different possibilities of lights at the private pool area.
• in the building you find a good equipped gym with a sauna.
• to use the gym you have to pay a daily, weekly or monthly fee
• there is another apart hotel pool, which you can use (free) on weekends.
• during the week the pool is used by the gym and can be used only by the members of the gym.
• room service up to five times a week included.
• living room
o big living room with new and comfortable couch and a marble couch table.
o marble dinner table with 4 chairs.
o marble mirror bookshelf with a 29 inch stereo-cable-tv.
o dvd, safe, sony audio stereo, telephone and indirect light.
o high speed internet access.
o air condition, ventilator, special wall design, paintings.
• 2 bedrooms
o one bedroom with queen size bed and another bedroom with normal double bed.
o sufficient towels and sheets to change,.
o both bedrooms with air conditions and 21 inch and stereo-cable –tv`s
o new wardrobes, bookshelves and bed tables.
o special wall design and paintings.
o 2 marble bathrooms, one of them in the suite.
o big mirrors, new toilets, big showers.
• kitchen
o nice kitchen with big refrigerator, freezer, stove and oven.
o coffee machine, mixer, microwave and toaster.
o sufficient plates, dishes, coups and glasses.

guys the last thing i want is for people reading my posts to think that billy is simply a 'bitter and twisted individual'.

i do like to contribute valuable content - i am posting what i am posting about gm because i feel i was 'wronged' and i do not want other guys to experience the same inconvience that will detract from their rio expeditions.

and to help to show that i do provide valuable content - here are few pics of a few girls that were billiefied in june 2006. none of these girls came to the apartment to 'party' - they were there to be fucked and that is all.

JohnnyBraz

12-20-08, 21:20

Jan 156

12-21-08, 02:46

GM - to be honest mate, the pics of your aparthotel don't look much different from the apartments I've rented there, at much less. The maid service (usual for Aparthotel) adds a bit to the price of a flat, as does the extra space for a mini pool, but you could maybe cut more ice by answering specific objections that people have levelled - like cr*ppy beds - common in rental flats - and rattles and what system you have in place for fixing things. I'm not in the market for your rates (or even the rates I paid when I stayed there before), but lists of features don't mean so much if there's problems. My feeling is that this thread is turning into a free advertising service for you. How about you just use the classified ads thread?

ps the 'fully equipped gym' at that address is tiny.

Ryjerrob

12-21-08, 18:15

My feeling is that this thread is turning into a free advertising service for you. How about you just use the classified ads thread?

My point exactly!!!!!!!!!! But he say that he contributes much to this forum. I think he only serves only his own interests.

ryjer

Bad Boy Billy

12-21-08, 22:53

This is the apartment where Bad Boy Billy stayed.

Great apartment !!!!!!!!!!!!!

#200B on my site http://www.gringomanagement.com/2bedroom.html

I recommend it to guys coming to have parties like Bad Boy Billy.

The owner has updated the pool which looks awesome. Pic attached..For fucks sake GM - do you EVER get anything right?

Take a look at the pic of the pool that GM posted - I have named his pic GM pic.

Then take a look at the 3 pics that Billy took with his camera.

DIFFERENT APARTMENT - this poor clown does not even know which apartment is which on his web site or seemingly which apartment he rents to whoever - WHAT A CLOWN.

GM pic - as you exit door of apartment onto pool deck area - pool is on your right hand sise.

Billy's pics - as you exit door of apartmernt onto pool deck area pool was actually on left hand side.

The positioning of the side walls and balcony rails makes it so clear that even a blind man could see this - but not GM - more inaccuracies - they just keep flowing non-stop.

What a fucking clown - GM - for fucks sake get something right sometime please.

Bad Boy Billy

12-21-08, 23:14

Fuck the apartment - just send us your photos! ;) ;) ;)Photos? You want more pictures? Why the fuck didn't you say so.

For the record - 8 days in GM's totally misrepresented apartment and I fucked 41 girls - that was with about 3 to 4 hours sleep each night due to the problems as previously listed.

Had intended to do many more but a man is not a machine huh - you gotta get some sleep to perform.

Bad Boy Billy

12-21-08, 23:37

Keep the photo's coming bad boy billy.No probs JB -simple moral to the story:

If you want accurate posting and quality content - trust Billy.

If you want a continual diatribe of lies and misrepresentations - go with GM.

These pics are from our 3 guy / 12 girl 'Fiesta' that Billy and Yodcha arranged.

Not bad huh for a pair of clowns who speak not one word of Port between us - 12 girls in 2 shifts of 6 girls for 2 hour each shift - VIP's hotel suite - all drinks and snacks - BEST DAY I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE.

Bad Boy Billy

12-21-08, 23:54

My feeling is that this thread is turning into a free advertising service for you.GM is certainly getting a lot of exposure - but I would not consider it 'advertising'.

There is a plethora of negative reports about GM - he never answers them directly - he simply attempts to deflect the complaint in any direction he can - provided he accepts no responsiblity whatsover.

It would be just nice to see him at some stage either:

1. Tell the truth.

2. Answer a direct question.

As I have consistently said - there are 'reputeable' and 'reliable' operators who can provide apartments to intending visitors - who has EVER heard of a complaint about RioApartments or indeed Ezi-Riorentals?

Why risk it? Rent from Gringomanagement at your peril.

Jan 156

12-22-08, 01:02

What lovely photos! But I have to change my opinion of GM - if I all that fabulous booty is included in the price then 200R a day (what's that? about 470R?) sounds not bad ;)

Example of renting locally from a local:

I've just re-negotiated my place and it's costing me 45R a day, including Carnaval, and I think my landlady is pretty cool but she doesn't include free booty. And it costs me on the bus to Centro or VM so things get expensive ;)

GM: 'Pool'. Mine: no pool (but nicer stroll to beach)
GM: Gym. Mine: ditto, but cheaper
GM: Room service . Mine: do my own, though the landlady cleans sometimes free of charge.
GM: Living room & dining area. Mine: living room and dining area (not marble, but quite homely furniture - I get nice compliments)
GM: New couch. Mine: chairs and loungers, including sun lounge on balcony where I usually have my breakfast
GM: 29 inch stereo-cable-TV. Mine: small TV whose only purpose is to amuse gaotas while I sleep.
GM: DVD. MIne: I have my own MP3s and there's power speakers there.
GM: Safe. Mine: Hiding places and things to lock my valuables to.
GM: Internet access. Mine: 24hr internet cafe yards away
GM: Air con etc. Mine: Air-con - I usually throw in a bit extra if I use it a lot though as I don't get charged for electric.
GM: 'paintings'. Mine: Carnaval memorabilia
GM: 2 Bedrooms. Mine: 1 bedroom. Got me there. I generally like to sleep with my garota and would rather a wingman had his own place to fart in.
GM: Kitchen. Mine: Kitchen (to be honest, an aparthotel kitchen is bigger than mine though)
GM: Nice kitchen (again?) with big refrigerator, freezer, stove and oven. Mine: yadder yadder same
GM: Coffee machine, mixer, microwave and toaster. Mine: same.

My landlady doesn't pick me up from the airport, but she lives across the road and I can complain if I want something. In return, I water the plants. The only photos of the apartment are probably the ones I've posted with garotas.

Bad Boy Billy: nice taste in booty, dude! Shame you didn't like the 'wallpaper'. :( Pleased it didn't stop you.