I stayed in Marcel’s place for a week. Marcel was friendly and responsive!
The place met my needs, which were not extensive, as my time was spent in the city. The accommodations were simple- a kitchen/sitting area with a small table and two chairs, and a bedroom (the shower is in the bedroom, with a small WC next door). The reason to stay here is really the outdoor space, which was lovely. My ability to really make use of it in November was aided by the outdoor propane heater. The tank was empty when I arrived, but Marcel was quick at getting the tank replaced. That said, this place in the summer would have been much better!
The place is located in a residential neighborhood about a 15 minute walk from the Jordan and the 9 streets area- just far enough for me, and quite peaceful, with shops and a grocery store nearby.
The inclusion of bikes was a big plus. The bikes were old heavy and rusty, but ridable. I brought my own lights, and if you want to ride at night, that would be necessary.
My biggest issue with this place, and something prospective guests need to be aware of, is the strong smell of stale tobacco smoke that permeates the entire building, presumably thanks to a downstairs neighbor. The “no indoor smoking” rule notwithstanding, the smell was strong in the apartment, and never really diminished.
The other thing I would want to make sure prospective guests know is that, after opening the main front door to Marcel’s place, he has a locking door to his apartment on the floor below the place, but the place does not have its own door. As a single female traveler, I had to trust in Marcel’s good will, as there was nothing preventing him from walking into my place. I DID trust him, and this trust was well-founded, but a guest with a strong need for security/privacy may find that troubling.
For me, however, and perhaps for many guests, this was a fine “base of operations”, and in the summer, would be a fine place to hang out (outside, in the fresh air). Marcel was genial and helpful. And the price was excellent!