Although I never met Frédérique, she was a friendly host who has a lot of experience renting her apartment. She left clear instructions and information about how things work and she introduced me to the neighbourhood. All of this was greatly appreciated.

She also responded to issues when they arose, such as the toilet, which broke down. I was unable to flush, but within a couple of days, her plumber installed a new tank.

I wasn't aware until I arrived that the red sofa bed pictured in the Airbnb ad had been replaced by a sofa that sleeps only one person. There is a double-sized foam mattress in the bedroom which has a fold in it. My adult son found it to be uncomfortable because he could feel the crack in the middle, however he was fine when he switched to the sofa.

One thing I wish I'd known before renting this apartment: it is situated in lower Montmartre, in a rough neighbourhood. Over the course of the month that I stayed there, I witnessed fist fights on the street on three occasions; it was common to see people jump the turnstiles and push open the gates in order to gain free entry to the Métro; one morning, my son and I witnessed a group of stoned, staggering people on the Métro platform smoking what appeared to be crack; and the sidewalks outside Chateau Rouge station were crowded with people selling goods, many of whom were hawking stolen mobile phones. I will hasten to add that I never felt personally threatened and my pocket was not picked, but I was constantly vigilant and decided not to carry a purse.

One advantage to the neighbourhood is that the prices in the food shops are significantly lower than in other parts of Paris. There is a good selection of bakeries, butchers and fruit and vegetable stands, in addition to a nearby grocery store.

Frédérique's apartment building is secure and clean and it is a short walk to Sacré Couer, which offers a spectacular view of Paris.