Christophe couldn't have been more welcoming or helpful on our arrival showing us the apartment, etc. Apartment is very charming (and serviceable). We spent Christmas w/ 2 kids at the apartment and it was delightful. Halle Shopping area (LEGO, Zara, etc) and the top of Galleries Lafayette for the toys/kids stuff, little souvenir shops for stocking stuffers. Epicure for amazing food to bring home - we got a feast! Many things are open on xmas!!! Big Bus Tour w/Seine river cruise was an unexpected treat on xmas day/night though I'd highly recommend this as a first thing to do - so nice and orienting and it picks up 5-10 min walk away by Eiffel Tower. Bring earplugs in Winter - it's stormy and the wind rattles the place at night - with jet lag this bothered us. Otherwise a very quiet and peaceful place yet steps away from the Eiffel Tower and lots of shops/restaurants. Metro is a 10-min walk away. French were kind and delightful and happy to speak English, don't hesitate!!