Claire and her team did an amazing job responding to my last minute request right away -- I went from searching listings to checked in within 2 hours. It was also great timing that YouYou happened to open the main door at the exact moment of my arrival, and so graciously unlocked everything and carried my suitcase up the stairs for me!
The apartment is nicely updated and styled, and there is a great health food market just a few doors down.
However, I was aghast at the condition of the neighborhood, which the listing and reviews did not properly prepare me for. I understand the host is hoping it will change. However, if I had known there was going to be graffiti everywhere, overflowing trash on the streets, and countless aimless immigrants, I would have kept looking. I guess if you are aware of the area and okay with it, then stay.
But I don't know how anyone could be okay with it. I cried. Paris was a romantic dream shot down. Parisians, take back your city!