Catherine's apartment is centrally located in the Latin Quarter with easy access to train and metro, the Seine, and literally steps to the Pantheon.
Our two-day visit for a graduation coincided with two notable events - France's victory over Argentina in the world cup and more profoundly, the interment in the Pantheon of Simone Veil, a woman's rights champion and holocaust survivor who became only the fifth woman buried with the country's most notable. The loud, lively sounds we heard from revelers spilling from local cafes on late Friday night and Saturday afternoon gave way to quiet preparations by the police preparing the area around the Pantheon on Saturday night for Sunday's big event. I felt privileged to be there.
Also notable, but less pleasurable, was the oppressive heat wave that marked our visit. Catherine's apartment is not air conditioned but we found that the cross ventilation from the beautiful full-sized windows provided enough relief for a comfortable sleep.
The apartment is clean, classic, tastefully decorated with a touch of whimsy and had all the amenities we needed.
Catherine communicated quickly and easily to arrange our visit, she was flexible with a last minute request, and she and Patrick warmly greeted us at the apartment to explain the set-up and answer questions. She is an excellent host.