Beitrag in Cordeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Caros brasileiros! I'm a crazy Mexican who will land in Rio next weekend and having no clue how things work there I'm wondering:

1. I land at the Airport RJ Santos Dumont. Any recommendations of safe areas nearby where I can stay? Any recommendations about studios or flats for rent will be more than welcome! (=

2. Which areas of the city should I avoid even during daylight? How can I keep myself under the radar?? ':)

3. My trip is for relaxing purposes... which are your recommendations on not-crowded beaches where one can swimm safely?

4. Eager to learn how to dance Samba at Sambodromo level! ;) Anyone accepting the Mission Impossible to teach me?

5. I've heard about Praia do Abricó and dying to visit it! What is the safest way to get there? What times are the best to be there? What time I should definitely be back at my accommodation?

6. Last but not least (if this is not the right place to ask, please ignore this question!)... if I can't find where to stay, anyone would be willing to host me for a couple of days? I make a crowd-pleasing Guacamole that's been praised by mexicans and several brasileiros!

Thanks a lot and sorry for the survey-like post! It's been a long time I don't travel abroad on my own.

A big hug! Irina xxxx