Valerie welcomed us with genuine warmth and hew place was immaculate. She had prepared an information sheet about the apartment and where the food shops were in the area, as well as the Metro stations which are all close by.
The apartment was just as cute and 'chic' as it looks in the photos. And her bed was fantastic - really comfortable and roomy. Great to have a separate bedroom, and not have to fold up a sofa bed.
The bathroom, kitchen and lounge were a good size - especially for a Paris apartment. The lift is new, though there is a half flight of stairs to walk up/down as the lift stops at the landings.
Although busy, the street is quiet, though we did have a bit of noise until midnight from crowds having a good time in the Brasserie below. But after being exhausted after a full's day's activities, it was hardly noticeable.
On practical matters, the hot water supply is great, the heating works well, the washing machine is new, the stove top is gas and cooks just fine. The oven was so clean we didn't dare use it! But there is not a whole lot of bench space if you plan to do lots of complicated cooking.
If you're looking for a 'Haussmann' style typical Parisian building experience, this for you. If you want all that, but in a flashy area with the ambience of lots of smart shops nearby, this is not. The local shopping is basic with a good charcuterie, several boulangeries, bars and a few tiny food shops, but the rest of the shopping is fairly ordinary.