My husband and I are coming to Sao Paulo in late January for at least 6 months and hopefully longer as I get my work visa settled. (I have found someone to sponsor, but it is still a seemingly-endless process, and a whole other post).

I have gathered from reading the various - very helpful - posts renting an apartment in Sao Paulo can be challenging. I'd also rather not ship my furniture until I have the visa in hand. Therefore we will probably be looking for a furnished flat, at least to begin. I have seen some on www.zap.com.br and on google (although most don't list monthly prices online). Does any have any experience with specific flats/hotels in Itaim and could recommend one over another? I'd like to spend less than R$2.000/month if possible.

Those I have seen (online) include:
- Capital Flat
- Staybridge Suites
- Blue Tree Towers Faria Lima
- Estanconfor Itaim Residence Plaza
- Newciti
- Transamerica - Faria Lima and Victoria Place

Also, are there furnished sublets available (like those advertised on craigslist in the US)? And if so, how would one go about finding them? Is it only word of mouth or are there online forums or agencies where they are available? I would prefer a "real apartment" with a stove/kitchen over a hotel with a mini fridge and microwave. 

OBRIGADA!

Hi lemonyellow! I did stay at the Mercure Flat/Hotel in Itaim Bibi (Vila Olimpia) for a few months this year. It is close to Faria Lima and Juscelino K. I paid R$1,800 per month. It has a gym and a great pool. I did have to pay an extra R$400 to the agency for the first month (commision for the agent). But, it was just me. It's basically a nice hotel room. There is no kitchen, just a mini frigde. I ususally eat out anyway, so it didn't bother me much. But, since there are two of you it could get small if you're there for more than a couple of months. Hope this helps.