Truly, I have no idea where to start with describing my experience. Selim is the most accommodating and amazing host on the planet. Due to some drama in the world right now, flights were being cancelled regularly. Although this is one of the most popular AirBnB locations in the city, Selim offered to refund my money if my flight was cancelled or if I was unable to fly for some reason. Basically that means he would have been at a financial loss. That says a lot about who he is as a person.
Getting to the apartment from the airport via public transportation was easy. Take the airport train to the main Paris station (it’s the first stop), then take the 5 train to REPUBLIC and the 11 train to JOURDAIN. The cost is 10 euros. The apartment is just steps from the station. It’s on the ground floor, so no stairs to climb - unlike many other Parisian apartments.
Next, Selim made my check-in a positive experience. He gave me a code to access the building and left the key in a certain place for me. The unit was lovely. Very clean. Very comfortable bed. It had everything one might need to enjoy a Paris trip. He even let me use his iPhone charger because I had left my converter home (I had brought the wrong converters).
The neighborhood was spectacular. Bakeries and eateries EVERYWHERE. All types of foods. It was such a safe neighborhood; I walked around at all hours of the night and had no issues. Many single ladies could be seen walking alone and they were not bothered or harassed by anyone.
If you’re traveling back to the USA or other place that requires a COVID (antigen) test, you can find a location for this just 1 block from the front door. Walk out the main door and turn RIGHT on Belleville. Pass the big (huge) church which will be to your right side. At the next corner, you will see a pharmacy. They do the test there for 20 euros and they give you the results on paper or email within 15 minutes.
After leaving, I was unsure I could fly back home because my flight was cancelled and I wasn’t sure I could rebook for the same day. Selim told me multiple times not to worry because he would make sure I wouldn’t be homeless in Paris! I think he blocked off the additional night, just in case.
This place was amazing and I hope you’ll give it a try (except on the days I plan to be back in Paris!!!!). Selim is the real deal. And, he really offers that old world charm of a Frenchman (the really friendly French people that you might see on TV, for example).
I can’t say enough about this experience. Much highly recommended.