The studio is just steps from the Strasbourg - St. Denis metro stop which is so convenient for traveling around the city. This was probably my favorite part about the studio because I knew I wouldn’t have to walk very far once I came home from a long day of exploring Paris. I was met by Daniele and shown around the studio which was very helpful! There are many things to remember to do and it would have been difficult reading it all from a manual. I am very happy that she took the time to show me around as a lot of things were different from what I am use to back home. Daniele made sure that I could contact her with any questions I had and I was so thankful for that! Daniele also met me at the studio before I left so check-out was very easy.
The studio is 3 flights of stairs up, not really difficult, but prepare yourself when you are carrying luggage and groceries! The building itself is fairly quiet and I rarely heard neighbors, except as they came and went. I was able to nap and sleep throughout the night without being disturbed by noisy people. I was so thankful for this as I was extremely jet-lagged for 2 days.
The kitchen features a cooktop and small refrigerator which was amazing. Just next to the building is a grocery store and I was able to stock up on groceries for the whole week and save quite a bit of money by not eating out everyday. Pots and dishes are included, as well as some cooking necessities like salt, pepper, and olive oil.
There were a couple of things I didn't enjoy but for the price of the room, it is easy to overlook. However, I’ll make note of it here, just so it does not come as a surprise.
The bathroom is very tiny. I had a difficult time showering as the water fills the whole bathroom floor and rises very quickly. I found myself having to turn off the water and allow it to drain multiple times before finishing my shower so I wouldn’t flood the studio. Later, I realized not turning the water on fully allowed more time for the water to drain so I was able to shower for longer periods of time. The shower section is very small as well and I wasn’t able to wash without touching the shower curtain which I found a little discomforting. All in all, it did the job but I would not recommend this for someone who is large - they would not be comfortable in this space. For a petite person, it is fine and the water is very hot, so I was happy to have that.
The passage where the door to the stairway is located is very busy during the day, so you will find many people there socializing and people watching. The passage itself is gated and locked every night from 8-8, and all day Sunday. To enter from the outside you have to have the key, so I was thankful for the added measure of safety. However, early in the morning, I found it very difficult to open, as the gate was stuck. Fortunately, within 5 minutes of me trying to leave, someone else leaving managed to jar it open. So, don’t be afraid to really use some force to get it open!
All in all, it was a very convenient and quiet studio. The wifi is strong, the neighbors are quiet, and Daniele is a wonderful host who has thought of everything! I even found a cafe nearby that I really enjoyed walking to - BO&MIE. It’s a great little spot that was perfect for sitting at the window and enjoying an americano and croissant on a rainy morning.