The neighborhood is hard to characterize. It is quiet enough, although the street can be noisy on some mornings due to garbage collection or street sweepers. Windows can be opened for fresh air, but there are no screens(typical in Europe). I felt safe in the area, even after dark. The building has an elevator but I climbed the single flight of stairs. Both Pod and room doors have locks. Bathrooms were clean, but the bath and shower had no mats on the floor. Room service was daily. The kitchen appeared to be well-equipped, although I never used it.