It's hard to describe the feeling of belonging that comes from having your very own haute-style Parisian address, even for just a few days. Living Parisien's apartments provide the lucky visitor with an authentic fin de siècle experience, from the incredible view (no, your eyes are not deceiving you, that IS the Eiffel Tower looming so close it seems to occupy your livingroom!) to the heavily-formed crown mouldings and French doors, mirrored mantels, parquet floors and cast iron balustrades everywhere. I literally didn't know where to look next. It was breathtaking.

Though the building itself is old, all the amenities are new. The plain white Euro kitchen, fully marbled baths (we had three in our flat!) and well-stocked china pantry are everything you could need. I immediately wanted to go grocery shopping and throw a magnificent champagne-laced dinner party for twelve people, and the place could easily have accommodated them! Alas, this visit was too short on time to indulge my domestic whims... but next time, for sure! I'm going to bring my recipes.

Exploring the neighbourhood was a treat. One street away there are as many shops and cafes as one could want... the Seine is a five minute walk away, with its wonderful bateaux-mouches and cruises. Having stayed here (we were given apartment 13 on the second-to-top floor, which is not identical to the one pictured, but every bit as charming) I cannot even imagine ever staying anywhere else in Paris.

Alexis and the gentleman at the front desk were wonderfully helpful, allowing us to leave our luggage in the lobby when we arrived a bit early, and also to come back for it after we had checked out. The building is very safe and secure, locked after nightfall, though I never once felt anything but totally safe, wherever we walked at night. I always appreciate a good night's sleep, and the bedrooms are quiet, looking onto the courtyard as they do, and the beds comfy, so that I slept as well as, or better than, I do at home.

I have fallen in love with Paris, and with the Living Parisien apartments, and my companion and I will absolutely be back to live Parisian again, as soon as possible!