My host let us know she wouldn't be there, but was extremely communicative about everything we needed to find it, get in, etc., and all went very smoothly. also her mother was next door (feeding her dog while she was away) and was very helpful. The apartment was totally charming and artistic, and well equipped with maps, including bike maps, lots of restaurant menus, and super comfy bed and bedding and nice bathroom amenities (shampoo and soaps) the neighborhood was just as described - with a few good neighborhood eatery's a few short blocks away. There was a good bike to use, and bike paths nearby. we did meet the host on our last day and she was great! all in all a great experience. i think if i was new to NOLA i might stay in the garden district, but since i have been to New Orleans a number of times, the location was refreshing. easy to get to everything by car or bike.