Noemie's apartment is very much as described. I would say it is even a little better than it looks in the photographs. The atmosphere is quiet and pleasant, opening onto an inner courtyard that is a real surprise, considering the bustling street outside. The location is very central, convenient for the metro and all of eastern Paris (République, Canal Saint Martin, Bastille, Buttes Chaumont, Père Lachaise); but it is a far cry from the tourist cliché of picturesque prettiness. If you are a first-time visitor to Paris, this might not be the place for you. I quite enjoyed staying in the area, with its lively mix of Arab/North African shops and Asian restaurants and supermarkets, either side of the Belleville metro station. Someone more squeamish might be put off by the urban ambience, though. Communication with Noemie was easy. I would recommend this place to anyone who knows Paris and is open to experiencing one of the city's less well-known quartiers.