Our host met us at the apartment and was extremely helpful in familiarizing us with the area relative to the local market, bakery, transit system and various points of interest as well as restaurant recommendations. He thoughtfully left us with items to get started such as bottled water, milk and a loaf of delicious bakery bread. The apartment was well appointed, extremely clean and comfortable. The neighborhood was very safe, we usually came back to the apartment around midnight, and walking from the metro station at Sagrada Familia (5 to 10 minute walk) was completely safe.
Our only problem - nothing to do with the apartment - my husband was pick-pocketed on the metro - so beware of thieves.