Alexandre’s place is cozy and he’s a very welcoming host. Super responsive.
Location: there is a train station within a couple-minute walk and another one that we seemed to use more within a 10-minute walk. And then you’re a 15-20 minute train ride to the Louvre. There is a small grocery store straight across the street and a bigger super market within a 5-minute walk. There’s also a supermarket near the longer-walk train station. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, though we didn’t have time to get to any of them.
With kids: Alexandre’s home is a gem if you’re traveling with younger children. Our 2-year old enjoyed her own bunk bed and all the toys, especially the toy kitchen and stroller. She also had fun at the playground located on the premises.
The apartment itself is very clearly lived in, so it’s well equipped for a family stay (washer, dryer rack, coffee maker, pots, pans, big refrigerator, etc). It’s not a renovated apartment, so manage your expectations, but Alexandre keeps it sufficiently clean, so it’s not something that should affect your stay.
Bear in mind that smoking is allowed in the living room and balcony, so if you’re highly sensitive to smoke, you may be uncomfortable. I typically can’t stay in smoking hotel rooms. You can def tell that smoking is permitted, but it’s not too offensive - it didn’t bother me too much throughout the stay.
There are two elevators in the building. Alexandre has a very detailed manual re the use of lights, appliances, garbage disposal, etc. He provides plenty of towels for the stay.
We had a great time in Paris and very glad that we chose Alexandre’s place.