It was really lovely meeting Maïa & Manon, they were very welcoming & show a genuine pleasure in meeting new people & sharing their home. My few days there felt like a little glimpse into their lives, even meeting Manon’s sister & friend when they visited. The apartment is compact but not crowded and the living spaces flow into each other nicely so are very comfortable; kitchen is fully equipped & easy to use; the bathroom is small, clean & functional though the toilet could be difficult for some people as it is placed at the end of the bath with a cupboard in front so it is a bit of a twist to sit down. The bedroom is a great size & is the spare room so no one is displaced or put out by you staying there. It looks out over the street but I was never bothered by noise.
The area is further out from the touristy areas with a lively mix of cultures & definitely worth wandering around. The twice weekly food market is an amazing experience, a chaotic mix of produce, people & the singing & calling of the vendors. There is also an organic supermarket close to the apartment & great coffee at Cream Café. Staying with Maïa & Manon was a great way to explore (north) eastern Paris.