This is a very practical place to stay in Paris. It's near Metro lines, has plenty of necessities within walking distance (groceries, pharmacy, etc) and out the front door and to the left is the beginnings of Montmartre. You can be at the Sacre Couer or within in the windy streets of Montmartre within minutes. Metros are easy in Paris but it's also a great walking city so it's easy to get to Pigalle, Republique or the Canals on a nice jaunt. The location is on the far side of a courtyard so you get no traffic noise and the neighbors were all very quiet. It's a solid, practical Paris stay - wifi, hot shower, good kitchen, fridge, plenty of TV (if you're the type that doesn't want to, I don't know, go out in Paris). It's quite safe. That being said, if you're going for some kind of romantic Parisian experience or living situation (say, if you're on a honeymoon) then I could see where some of the bad reviews came from. It's not chic or flamboyant, but very serviceable for the price.