Staying with Cristina was a perfect experience for seeing the real Barcelona. Although she speaks very little English, she is very sweet and helpful. Her daughter came to stay with us for most of the week which was really helpful because she speaks very good English. The place is very well located - Poblenou is a cute little neighbourhood with its own Rambla filled with bars, restaurants and little shops. I have to admit I liked that Rambla better than the huge one in central Barcelona (less people by far and it was such a comfortable atmosphere). Getting to the metro is very easy and very close. The apartment is very clean and her pets Maca (her dog) and Marietta (her cat) are very friendly and keep to themselves. Oh and the beach is very close! We spent many nights just sitting on the beach as it isn't so crowded at night - during the day beware: there are umbrellas on the beach seemingly free to use but somebody will come up to you and ask you to pay 8€ for it. I've been told it's legitimate, and it was well worth it for us to be in the shade - that Barcelona sun is hot! I would definitely recommend staying with Cristina, it was an easy and pleasant experience and I would love to come back!!!