Barbara's Paris apartment is a really wonderful example of what airBNB is all about, and Barbara is a truly wonderful host.
The space is in as good a location as it gets—Sentier is incredibly central to Paris—and it is at once personal and creative yet welcoming and comforting. Barbara met me there to show me her place and to make sure I landed safely.
Located in an older apartment building with a double security door and small elevator, Barbara (an architect) has personalized the space to an amazing degree: custom plywood cabinets, a comfy sleeping platform, velvet sofa, modern compact appliances, marble bathroom, and very very fast internet.
The light through the custom curtains is beautiful and easily blocked if you want darkness. And you don't hear the street at all, as the apartment faces a central courtyard. The bed was comfy and sheets and towels were immaculate and white.
I found many places I wanted to go (like Echo, the LA-style coffee and brunch spot) within mere moments of walking distance from the apartment. As were Metro stops and hundreds of cool cafés and bars. I was able to get work done, but I also found that if I wanted to wake up shower, and hit the city, it was easy to get in and out. It was easy to cook a simple breakfast and coffee if I wanted a slow morning as well.
Barbara was always easily available for communication and showed genuine concern for my comfort while staying at her home. It proved to be a fantastic base for my Paris trip, and I even wound up extending a few days.
Thank you Barbara, my first time back in Paris in 10 years was fantastic for many reasons, and my experience as a guest at your place was one of the best. All in all, Barbara receives my highest recommendation.