Ariane was very welcoming and hospitable and went out of her way to ensure our stay in her apartment was as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. She arranged for a very kind, helpful English speaking gentleman named Bruno to check us into the apartment. He was waiting for us when we arrived and took the time to show us around, explain the different facilities and appliances, direct us to an organic grocer and a small supermarket just around the corner and arrange for a driver to collect us and our luggage when we checked out. Ariane kept in touch with us throughout our stay, checking that we had everything we needed and that everything went smoothly. The apartment was delightful and exactly as pictured and described, and spotlessly clean throughout. We loved the French doors, little balconies with romantic rooftop views and the skylights which could be opened or screened off for light and/or privacy. The shower was modern and worked well, with two alternative shower heads and plenty of hot water. The washing machine was very easy to use and we appreciated the large eating area on the kitchen table/bench. We felt very safe, secure and private and were able to sleep well in the comfortable bed in the quiet Marais district, away from the thousands of tourists in other parts of Paris. Ariane left quite a few travel books and travel guides containing countless Paris attractions, their history and how and when to best access them, such as the divine Sainte Chapelle, Saint Germain, Pere Lachaise Cemetery, etc. Also, she left out little brochures and business cards of local businesses such as the beauty salons, food outlets, bars, restaurants, etc. nearby. There were innumerable, excellent, affordable cafes and bars within a stone's throw and we were easily able to walk or use local buses to get around most of Paris. We were amazed by the history and culture of the Marais and loved exploring the fantastic local museums, exhibitions, galleries and boutiques. Our stay for two weeks in Ariane's cute, beautifully renovated apartment in the heart of such a vibrant, interesting district, enabled us to finally experience the authentic Parisian existence of the locals. Even our French started to improve! We would thoroughly recommend Ariane as a host and a stay in her apartment as one of the best possible ways to experience the many beauties of Paris.