When my husband and I travel abroad there are two big boxes we want to check in understanding the culture of a place. The first involves history which you can of course experience through museums, monuments and architecture. The second is much, much harder and it’s about coming away with an appreciation of the people there, the way they live, the way they think, the way they work. For us, Catherine provided that unique window into Parisian life.
Here’s why the apartment was great:
-Amazing location: a short walk to the Arc de Triumph and super convenient for public transportation (the Metro, etc.)
-Beautiful home with all of the accents you’d expect to find in a Paris apartment.
-Large bedroom, private shower
-Breakfast everyday including pastries, charcuterie with cheese, fruit and yogurt which Catherine made sure was on the table at a time convenient for us; oh - and fresh squeezed orange juice
But here’s why we’ll be back:
-Great Conversation: we’re typically the type to head out early in the morning and not sit around for small talk. But when you make the decision – in Paris – to reallocate 2 hours of your morning – every morning – to talk to one person, that speaks volumes. Catherine gave us that window on Parisian life we couldn’t have had anywhere else, and the fact we also got to know her likewise intelligent daughter enhanced the experience even more.
-A fascinating history of that very apartment (I’ll let Catherine tell you the story)
-And the only cat I’ve ever liked (actually he’s a dog trapped in a cat’s body)

Catherine – thanks so much for an unforgettable stay. We can’t wait to see you again!
Neil and Audrey