We were later than expected arriving, but Philippe was waiting for us and made us feel welcome. The apartment is compact and decorated with objects that Philippe acquired in his travels. We stayed two nights and enjoyed talking with Philippe over wine and cheese in the late afternoon. He is charming and enjoys speaking English, so I didn't get much chance to practice my French.

The location is a bit off the beaten track for tourists, but this allows you to do things that you might not do otherwise. We visited the large Daumesnil market at the nearby traffic circle (Tuesdays and Fridays); Bercy Village, an upscale area of shops and restaurants in old wine warehouses; the lovely Parc de Bercy; and the Promenade Plantée, a former railway line, now an elevated park, that runs from near the apartment to the Bastille. Be sure to make an online appointment to visit the nearby Musée des Arts Fourains, the Museum of Fairground Art. It's a treasure not to be missed.