Rafael

I'm surprised there are people who dislike this name so strongly! Personally it's my favourite spelling of the name; I'm a big fan of Raphael in general and this spelling feels the most down-to-earth to me. And it works in a lot of cultural contexts and languages. Even though it's not the standard spelling in English or French, for example, it doesn't stick out like a sore thumb and it's intuitive to pronounce. I like Rafa as a short form.

This name's somewhat pretentious and stuck-up.

Gorgeous name.

My name is Rafael. I never knew my name was very rare a long time ago. I find it cool and I like my name.

I really like this variation!

This name has an interesting twist on the English version of “Raphael”. My thoughts are genuinely positive as I have known some very good people with such a name. This name, as someone stated in an earlier comment, is quite prevalent in Spanish speaking countries. However, despite its notable popularity, I still say it is a name that
is worthy of consideration.

I knew a little boy with this name who went by Rafi (RAH-fee). Cute :)

Quite a mouthful.

Well, I'm a Rafael. It's kind of common here in Latin America. I wish I had a slightly more original name. But it is manly, there are no similar words in Spanish like to make fun of it, perfect length, and I don't know ... it has like an Arabian spark to it. :) I say I'm ok with it.