Karim’s apartment was perfect for me and a couple. The main bedroom was on a mezzanine level with a shower and toilet in separate rooms. The second bedroom was downstairs with an ensuite bathroom that also had a washer and dryer with laundry detergent and drying rack. Because the bedrooms were at opposite ends of the apartment, we each had plenty of privacy.
Downstairs, there was a spacious living room with two long couches and a few chairs. The kitchen was well-equipped and had two tables where we could spread out. We never felt crowded or on top of each other. This is the ninth apartment I’ve rented in Paris, and both showers were the most spacious ones I’ve used. Great water pressure and the hot water came quickly.
We were a two-minute walk to the Republique metro station. With 5 metro lines running through it, Republique provided great access to almost any part of Paris and minimized the need to transfer trains. My friends and I were in Paris for the Gay Games with many venues all over the city, so it was nice that we could get around quickly and easily.
Karim was very responsive and even though he was out of the country, he answered all questions promptly. Our visit was during a heat wave, so opening the windows on the top floor really helped with cross-ventilation. We were supposed to have a fan in each bedroom, but there was only one upstairs. When I emailed Karim about this, he authorized me to purchase a fan. After emailing him a copy of the receipt, he immediately reimbursed me through Airbnb.
Although the apartment was in a bustling area with many places to eat and shop, the bedrooms were quiet at night. The lower bedroom never had any noise issues. From the upper bedroom, my friends could hear a noisy group a couple of evenings. But when the upstairs windows were closed, the noise was effectively blocked.
This apartment was on the 5th floor (6th floor in the U.S.), so the elevator was very helpful. Like most elevators in Europe, it could accommodate a couple of people with no luggage. When we first arrived, we went up one at a time with our large check-on bags. From the 4th floor, we walked up a short staircase to reach the top floor. There was no need to meet someone by a particular time, since Karim arranged for the apartment to be ready early and a key was left under the doormat.
I would highly recommend staying in Karim’s apartment if you need a clean, spacious place in a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of transportation options.