There are no surprises with this apartment .. in the most perfect way! Sure, there are 5 flights of stairs and no lift, but it's worth every step for that view. It's small, but cosy and ample for two. Importantly, all of the bits and pieces Simon has provided for use, are of good quality: comfortable bed, great shower, excellent kitchen appliances, washing machine, iron, hair dryer .. no dinky equipment here. Simon himself is friendly and helpful, providing useful info about local places.

The only surprises are ones you will appreciate; Simon has a well-stocked library of books and music. I was delighted to find some of my favourite symphonies, which provided a beautiful soundtrack to our time there.

But, step outside to Montmartre, and there is a surprise around every corner! It's a bustling, energetic, colourful area, and the apartment is right in the heart of the action. Although, thankfully, also well-positioned on a street closed to traffic, which provides a buffer from noise. We always found the apartment tranquil, and such a peaceful place to rest after long days sight-seeing.

To get around, we mostly used the public bike hire system (Velib), and it was an easy ride down the hill to the centre of Paris, although the Metro is only a short walk away and on a great line for reaching most of the places you'd want to visit … although you could spend all of your time in the local area and not be disappointed!