We stayed in this neighborhood as it was close to family. If you are looking for "la vie Parisienne", this vibrant lively neighborhood between Bastille and le Marais will give you a taste of the real Paris. If you are looking for fancy expensive touristy places this would not be it. We did not meet Virginie in person, but she arranged for us to be met and settled in to the apartment, pas de problème. The apartment was large and updated in comparison to much of the housing in this neighborhood. We stayed there with our 14 month old grandson very comfortably, and Virginie even let us use a baby bed. The kitchen was very convenient and well equipped for cooking many meals. Groceries are around the corner, and if you wish to eat out, there are innumerable boulangeries, cafés, bistros, restaurants and bars everywhere. We will certainly see if this charming apartment is available on our next visit!