Laurence's place is just as pictured and well-located if you are looking to use the National Library (I was doing research there). It is not a touristy area - you can live like "real" Parisians - lots of nice shops (bakeries, cheese shop, supermarkets) nearby, and you are also close to Chinatown, with a great Vietnamese noodle shop right down the street. The space itself is very light, due to high ceilings and large windows, the bed is very comfortable and the kitchen is small but well equipped. What I appreciated most of all was Laurence's wonderful welcome - she had all sorts of great ideas for things to do in Paris - I loved the plays and the exhibits she recommended and felt like a real "insider" because of her advice. Laurence also kept in touch throughout my stay, and when I was distracted and forgot to check my email for several days, she even called me to make sure everything was ok! Truly a caring and outstanding host. Overall a fantastic apartment and a great host.