I was nervous to rent Karen's studio because nobody else had stayed there before. I should not have been nervous! Its a great place-wonderfully laid out and decorated, and very comfortable. It is centrally located (10-15 minute drive from both downtown Minneapolis and downtown St Paul, and to the airport). Karen is friendly and responsive, and the neighborhood felt safe and inviting.
Important to note: the stairs to the place are somewhat steep. There is a hand railing so its doable for most people.
I highly recommend checking out Can Can Wonderland for some nearby fun, and we got some good Vietnamese food (simple but tasty) at Pho Pasteur and Ethiopian at Fasika.