Staying at Oliver’s light-filled, comfortable, perfectly quiet studio in the middle of the Seine River on Ile-St-Louis (steps from Norte Dame Cathedral) is the quintessential Parisian experience I’ve always dreamed of. You’re in the heart of the city, but in a neighborhood that makes you feel at home the moment you arrive. There’s no more delightful city for walking than Paris, and at Oliver’s place you’re within strolling distance of lots of very different picturesque parts of town and plenty of prime cultural attractions. Easy public transportation to anything that’s further afield. The ascent to the fifth floor (it’s a walk-up) are a workout—108 steps by my count. Great for burning up any calories you pile on from croissants and the unbelievable ice cream that’s on offer just about everywhere on the island.