Laef was very flexible with our arrival time, and was responsive as I texted him ETA updates through Montreal's notorious traffic. The apartment is quirky and cool, lots of great details. We really appreciated the snacks Laef left out for us, and his recommendations for area restaurants was very useful. The ONLY downside was the location next to a busy bar patio; we were woken up a couple times on Saturday night by over-exuberant patrons. Bring earplugs, or go join them :)

The neighborhood itself (upper Little Italy) is a bit more remote from the usual tourist areas of the city. One of the waiters at a local breakfast place commented that he rarely gets english-speaking customers, let alone from the US. But everyone was gracious and we had a great time. The apt is just a couple of blocks from the Jean-Talon Market.