Paris Apartment

October 30: Our apartment sits in a building that's I'm guessing is from the early 1800s, reachable on the second American floor from a private courtyard up circular wooden stairs.  It measures about 13 by 15 feet, though the 15-foot ceilings and efficient use of space make it feel much larger. The space contains such amenities as a kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, grill and washer/dryer; phone with answering machine and free calls to the U.S. and Europe; computer with Internet access and printer; sleeping loft; small closet; and one bathroom with a shower, wc, sink and heated towel rack. Two electronic security doors keep the residence safe.

Helen, a charming madamoiselle and an agent of the owner, welcomed us and gave us all the details. We even received a plate of fruit with pineapples, kiwi fruits, apples and grapes, and a bottle of 2008 Chateau Cazeau bordeaux.

Aside from the excellent location in the heart of the Marais, a major Jewish, gay, shopping and entertainment district, the apartment excels with a rate of only $100/day for the low season. This is already cheap by American standards, but by Parisian standards, it's a steal.

Check out more pictures and a Google Street View stroll down our street at this link.