the apartment is gorgeous. if you are into design, this will not disappoint. it is a one bedroom flat, but with the two convertible beds, you end up having 3 double beds at your disposal, each complete with comfortable bedding. my mom, husband, 2 year old and 8 month old were all very comfortable. you get all the amenities--lift, full kitchen w/ washer dryer (and soap, too), cable tv, dvd (perfect for kids), wifi, and books galore. the bath situation is weird (we crouched), but its definitely an experience you laugh about. rue des martyrs is lined with lots of thoughtful specialty independent shops (chocolatiers, patisseries, fromageries) as well as restaurants. larger all inclusive food shops are steps away as well. the flat is walking distance to sacre couer, and buses to the louvre area are just up the street. metro stations are close by, too. we took a bus to gare du nord. it took maybe 15 minutes. if you have kids, there is a playground and a couple of cute toy shops on ave trudaine.

charles was a great host. he quickly answers all emails, and is easy to keep in contact with when in paris. he also answered all our silly tourist questions. we would definitely stay here again:)