Emmanuelle's place is a simple, well-appointed, clean, and comfy spot to explore from. The house has a comfy bed, a sweet landlady/housekeeper (we didn't actually meet Emmanuelle but all went well nonethelss!). It's got all the kitcheny things you'll need and grocery stores nearby.
It's right near the metro (a couple of metro's, in fact), which means you can get pretty much anywhere on the city's amazing metro service. We were about half an hour to Gare du Nord, hour and a half to CDG, half an hour to Pere Lachaise (often the time it would take to walk or to take the metro were about the same, and we chose based on the weather, our schedule, etc). At Emmanuelle's you're within comfortable walking distance of a number of great spots and endless food and drink opportunities. We would recommend Le Triangle (a brew pub only steps away), and a walk over to the canal area for any number of delicious options (Cambodian, Moroccan, traditional French, etc). And of course sitting by the canal in the evenings with the locals, having a drink and a picnic.
I was a bit concerned, being a non-smoker and having a ridiculously sensitive sense of smell (I had neglected to notice that it was a smoking-friendly property when we booked) but I can honestly say I did not notice it at all. Not a bit. Emmanuelle is clearly very conscientious about keeping the space aired out, etc.
All in all, a great time in a great wee place in a lovely city. Would recommend, for sure.