Hello all,
I'm planning a trip with a friend to RdJ, but I want to avoid Carnivale -- too crowded and crazy. Would people recommend before Carnival or after; we are planning on spending about 10 days and possibly seeing iguaza falls. WE can go between March and the end of April.

We are probably going to see only a couple of girls/day; probably terma or beach mornings and club nights.

Should we consider a guide (1st time in Rio), how about housing? Apt or hotel? How much money should I budget?

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated,

Well, Carnival is over, so no worries about that. You should read Bwana Dik's guide, and you can contact Don and Ken at Amerioca to discuss apartments and guide services. Read the threads and trip reports from here as well.