My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay! The groundfloor apartment is on a quiet, safe, clean, one-way street. The neighbors were outgoing and friendly, helping us contact Elena when we arrived.

Everything looked just as it does in the pictures of the property, only better! We were greeted with beautiful flowers and delicious macaroons. Elena's review (in English) of all the amenities was helpful and her written instructions on the WiFi, shopping recommendations and emergency contact info were clear.

I would recommend visitors take the RER train from the airport to the more direct St. Michael station and walk from there to the apartment rather than the Chatelet & Pont Marie route. Not only was it easier and more scenic, but it acquaints you immediately with a route you'll find yourself taking time and again to get around Paris. You'll also get to scope out all the quaint shops, patisseries, and cafes that the Ile Saint Louis has to offer.

The building itself is from the late 1600's and has a massive door secured by the key you'll eventually receive. We pushed the white button on the security panel and were buzzed in so we could wait for Elena to met us in the interior foyer. The foyer is also separated from the rest of the building by a heavy iron gate, also key-secured. Only once you are passed these do you reach your apartment door. Even the most security conscious will feel very safe.

Once in the apartment, you'll need to decide whether to sleep on the pull-out sofa bed or the loft bed. We opted for the more comfortable loft and kept the couch for relaxing on with a glass of wine in the evenings. Something not pictured but worth mentioning... there is also a chair/seat that converts into a single bed.

With the exception of one little table lamp, everything else in the apartment seems very new and well-maintained. Two unobtrusive portable heaters easily kept the space warm and cozy. The internet connection was quite adequate. We didn't check out the TV/cable (shame on you if you do - you're in Paris!)

There are grocery stores just across the river on the Rue de Rivoli, just a 5-minute walk away down the Rue de Fourcy and turn right. Go a little further down the Rivoli to change your money - don't do it in the airport or by Notre Dame!

Turn left on Rivoli and look for the side street Rue Francois Miron. Our best meal in Paris, in quality, value/price and atmosphere was just a block down at the "Au Bourguignon du Marais".

If you want to feel a part of Paris, not a visitor, this is the property you want. Elena and Marie were great hostesses and the apartment provides a comfortable, convenient place in the historic heart of the city. When you stroll home in the evening to the sound of the bells of Notre Dame, you'll know you made the right choice!