I stayed at Simon's for a week and couldn't be happier.
- Apartment was clean and had the minimalistic feel-good of an Ikea showroom. I came home early a few nights just to open the windows and sit on the couch and read.
- Transportation was simple. The Stalingrad metro line will take you almost anywhere in 30 mins or less without having to hop on other lines. I honestly never needed a bus at the 7 or 2 line took me almost everywhere directly.
- Lots of restaurants - the boulangerie directly across from the Stalingrad metro station was my favorite. I'd stop in the morning for a cafe and pastry, and then grab a sandwich and baguette for the night. The two guys working there were very welcoming and so nice. The pizza shop next door is open late and (like other reviewers) saved me one late night.
- Some reviews mentioned the area - while it may not be the most posh, I never felt unsafe. Though I didn't stay out too late very often, I only had one person bother me on the brief walk from the metro to the apartment - a guy fell into step next to me asking to bum one of the drinks I'd bought for that night. It wasn't aggressive - and could have happened at any stop. Full disclosure - as a shorter white male, I didn't feel unsafe in this area.
- The shower was amazing - having had bad experiences with european "showers" in the past, I was so glad it was what I was used to.
Overall, great value for a great spot. Could not have asked for anything more - and would definitely stay there again.