We normally stay in the Marais but decided to try Julien’s place which is just north of the Marais, right near the Porte St Denis. At the time we booked it has no reviews so we were a bit nervous, but we had no need to worry. The apartment is beautifully decorated, in typical Parisian style. It is four floors up, without a lift so consider that when bringing luggage - though it didn’t bother us. It has a small (but average for Paris) kitchen with a dishwasher and washing machine, a large fridge and microwave. Julien provides some coffee pods and a bottle of French rose. The sitting room is pretty, with a decent dining table for four people and the double windows look onto the Porte St Martin. The second bedroom is very small and our adult children squeezed in but was perfectly adequate. There are two bathrooms - again small but normal for Paris - though one has a spa bath. It is a good size for four people and for the price, it is a lot better value than apartments closer to the river. The metro is right on the doorstep and takes you anywhere you want to go. The area is diverse and interesting, with theatre district, food streets of Rue Montorguiel and a lot of good restaurants. Julien’s communication was excellent and he even advised us on the next leg of our journey to the Loire. A great experience in a typical Parisian apartment helped by a lovely host - the best we have had on Airbnb. Recommend highly.