Sylvain is a very friendly and thoughtful host. When we arrived, (a day late due to flight delays) we were greeted by a beautiful arrangement of fresh Peonies sitting on the table. Sylvain's kitchen is remarkable, it has everything! ( microwave, oven, and stove). The refrigerator is large and there is even a freezer!! yes a freezer with ice-cubes and even a refillable ice tray. The bathroom has a clothes washer, and a shower and bath-tub which are separate. We never ran out of hot water and there was an ample supply of toilet paper. His King-size bed is very comfortable. Sylvain's apartment is in an alley which is a plus, because you do not hear the outside noise of buses, cars, and motorcycles. Around the corner from his place are several outside cafes, even one that serves "cheeseburgers", a pastry shop, and a delicious French ice cream shop. A block away is a beautiful canal with grass and shade trees that one can enjoy a picnic or just rest and enjoy the scenery. There are 2 Metro stations just blocks from Sylvain's place. The Gare du Nord ( the main station) is about a 5-7 min walk and the Republique in the opposite direction 5-7 min walk. It helps immensely to use your Maps "App" to get around in Paris. Monica & Shawna