My daughter and I have just returned from a wonderful trip to Paris. Staying in Hèléne’s flat was the best decision we could have made! She provided a Nespresso machine with some shots—which we had to try immediately, and it became a daily indulgence (coffee fanatics). There were some basic food supplies to start us off, and all the amenities of home.
As a host, she was exemplary, always responding quickly to messages and questions. Her friend, Thomas, who was there to greet us, was kind and helpful, and made us feel very welcome. The information she put in the booklet, with shops, cafes, restaurants, maps, and more, was a lifesaver. Especially the first couple days when we were so jetlagged and couldn’t think. We found the bed and furniture very comfortable, which was a relief. On trips to other places, this is often the point where a good place falls short.
It’s centrally located, near three metro stations, in a nice neighborhood with a multitude of shops and restaurants frequented by locals. This is where you should stay if you want to experience ordinary life in Paris and get away from the tourist areas. We often bought bread, pastries, desserts, cheese, wine, organic groceries, fresh fruit and veggies, yogurt, coffee… bringing them back to the flat to eat—enjoying the quality of simple, excellent, Parisian food. We tried a number of delightful restaurants in the area, as well.
From there we ventured out all over Paris, doing all the awesome touristy things, coming back footsore and wasted. This flat was the haven that restored us. It stayed warm in spite of the unusual, late snows.
Our last, late night meal there, we had a fresh ‘tradition’ baguette from a local bakery, dipping the pieces in melted cheese from the local cheese shop. It was a memory to treasure.
We would love to stay there again someday!