As hosts, Carmen and Jose were ideal - a warm, welcoming couple who happily shared their home with us for two nights in February.

Their advice on the hidden sights of Paris was something we would never have got from a hotel and the room was clean, comfortable, private and with a view worth twice the price we paid. We would definitely recommend them.

It was the little extra touches that we will remember most - the champagne they opened for us on arrival, the free velib cycle passes, the local phone they allowed us to borrow and the tips for where to eat and drink.

Lovely to meet them and well worth a visit.