Michelle's house is a great staging base to explore the city. The house has all the amenities you could desire for an extended stay or even a long weekend. You are close to the metro and there are generally other like minded travelers there as well who could potentially join you in an excursion or two. The house does have cats who are friendly and make you feel more at home. Michelle herself is one of the nicest people I think I have ever met. She is always willing to help and is very accommodating.