Stayed over New Years a two years back but it deserves a kudos. Lapa is actually a beautiful district and the bars were great fun. We were on a budget and this place was affordable because New Years prices get jacked up as well as most places implementing a 4-5 day mandatory stay. We had only booked part of our trip and when we decided to go to Buzios for a few days, they stored our luggage and added another night on for when we returned at a great rate. We walked home from Copa on New Years which is not likely recommended. Be aware that gangs control the cabs so trying to get a cab on New Years that could cross various districts was tricky. Generally we took the bus to Copa or Ipanema which was cheap, gave a great lay of the land and was fun. The buses do alter their paths at night and when it came to a stop at the base of the sketchiest favella, the driver looked at our lost faces and returned us to lapa and drew on our map so we knew for next time. Everyone was equally friendly. The hotel : clean, great air conditioning which is a must, lovely big bathroom and shower, internet that worked, great coffee and kind staff. Amazing street food (best soup ever) and beer for sale out of buckets on every corner. If you enjoy wandering around and seeing a less touristy side, this was a great, affordable clean place.