Vacation Rentals by Owner

Perfect location for Paris stay

Guest: Maxx (New Hampshire)
Date of Stay: 04/18/12 Review Submitted: 04/30/12

This apartment's location on Rue Bude on Isle St. Louis was absolutely perfect for us. It is convenient to metro stops at St-Paul and St-Michel (took RER out to Versailles from there) as well as Bus #69 that runs from Rue de Rivoli over to the Eiffel Tower. We walked everywhere else. Rue Bude is quiet, but just around the corner are numerous shops, bakeries, wine stores and restaurants. A small convenience store with anything you need is there. Larger grocery shops are over near St. Paul metro stop. Some lovely restaurants are East of Rue Deux Ponts on Rue St. Louis en l'Isle. The newly renovated apartment has everything you need: great kitchen, comfortable bed and linens, large shower/bath tub, full-sized washer and dryer, TV and internet. After a long day of walking and sightseeing, the apartment was a wonderful and homey place to return to. The listing's description and photos accurately reflect the apartment. It was very clean with quality appointments. Walked to Latin Quarter, Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and even the Louvre. Highly recommend and would stay there again in a heartbeat.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful accomodation on Ile St Louis

Guest: MontanaVoyager (Bozeman, Montana)
Date of Stay: 02/19/12 Review Submitted: 02/26/12

My wife and I stayed at this charming apartment on Ils St. Louis for five nights. The ambience of the apartment is quite special and provides all of the modern conveniences and comforts while retaining a wonderful, old world charm. As a person who enjoys cooking, I especially appreciated the high quality appliances and accessories in the kitchen. I think that we had as much fun cooking nd eating "in" as we did going out. And it was also helpful that there is a Nicolas wine shop just a few doors down the street. The location of the apartment is ideal in many ways. The first thing we noticed was how quiet the neighborhood was. There is virtually no traffic and only a few pedestrians on rue Bude. At the same time, the entry to the apartment is only a few steps away from rue St Louis which has many restaurants and shops along it. The nearest metro stop is only a five minute walk away and just beyond to the north is the charming Marais district which is dense with old world avenues, shops, bistros, wine bars, and the Musee Carnavalet. This apartment has been one of our top rental experiences and it will be our first choice as a place to stay on our next trip to Paris.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful 3 months in Paris

Guest: Jim (Aiken, South Carolina)
Date of Stay: 09/23/11 Review Submitted: 12/19/11

We highly recommend this outstanding apartment after just completing a 3-month stay in Paris. This apartment has all the amenities needed for a comfortable visit. The apartment is ideally located for sightseeing, shopping and transportation around Paris. We enjoy cooking after shopping in the markets and the wonderful kitchen is fully equipped to enjoy French cuisine. An equally important facility for those of us who stay for longer visits are the exceptional washer and dryer. After the first few weeks the apartment truly became ‘home’. Many thanks to the owner and all of the people in Paris who support this apartment. They were very professional and extremely helpful. If you want an apartment in central Paris, this is the one. Jim and Deb, Aiken, SC

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Guest: sb and mc (mendham, nj usa)
Date of Stay: 08/24/11 Review Submitted: 09/06/11

The apartment was terrific. It provided the charm of old Paris with modern amenities. It was in a fabulous location, close to everything. We were able to walk to many of the sites of Paris. There was a wonderful variety of restaruants within blocks of the apartment. This made it great for having dinner and then being able to walk back to the apartment. When we first walked in we were very nicely surprised at how well organized the apartemtn was for space and comfort. My wife and traveled we our two children of 13 and 9. All of us were able to fit within the apartment. It is more nicely fitted for two people but our family of four worked out fine. The apartment was clean and well maintained with an easy user's manual for any appliances. I will definitely recommend this apartment to any friends who will be travelling to Paris. Just a great location!!

Recommended for:Families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Would stay here again

Guest: Dave S (Camarillo CA)
Date of Stay: 08/15/11 Review Submitted: 09/12/11

Ivor, Thanks again, we had a great stay at your apartment. We would stay here again on our next visit to Paris. The location cannot be beat and the apartment was very nicely done. We had plenty of room and really enjoyed ourselves. Kim, Dave and Kristina

Recommended for:Families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fabulous accomodations

Guest: Bety & Dave (Detroit, Michigan)
Date of Stay: 08/05/11 Review Submitted: 08/15/11

My husband and I recently stayed at this property for a week, and our experience could not have been more perfect! Everything was exactly how it was represented in the pictures and written description. The apartment is beautiful, clean, comfortable, extremely well located, and has all the conveniences of home, including air conditioning, free wi-fi service, dishwasher and washer and dryer. There was even a hair dryer in the bathroom! Ivor was a pleasure to work with; he was responsive to all inquiries prior to the trip, and provided detailed information about how to best get to the apartment, as well as loads of great recommendations for places to go and things to see in and around Paris. Isle St. Louis is charming, with lots of wonderful shops and restaurants. I've never seen so much ice cream in my life! Although there were no metro stops on the island, there were two which we frequently used, neither more than a 5 minute walk. Notre Dame is minutes away, and the Seine is at the end of the street - it became a daily ritual to get an ice cream and eat while overlooking the Seine, watching the boats go by; could anything be more decadent?! I would absolutely stay here again, and would very highly recommend it. The only caution I have is for people who have difficulty with steps - the apartment is on the second floor (3d floor by American standards), and there are a lot of stairs; otherwise, I can't imagine anyone being disappointed!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

mother/daughter trip

Guest: sandy (near st. louis missouri)
Date of Stay: 05/31/11 Review Submitted: 02/13/12

my daughter and I loved this apartment. the location was excellent!!! Ivor, and Yolanda the greeter were extremely helpful. staying on the Isle is like a little paradise in the midst of this great city. the apartment is very comfortable and quiet. The experience is so much better that a stay at a hotel. We highly recommend staying here.

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Wonderful Week in the Heart of Paris

Guest: Richard (Minneapolis, MN, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/09/11 Review Submitted: 05/31/11

If real estate is judged by location then this is one of the finest pieces of real estate in Paris. Imagine getting up in the morning, walking an entire block to the Boulangerie, picking up some fresh croissant, then strolling 1 (yes, one) minute to sit and eat them on the quai of the Seine while looking at Notre Dame. This is island living of a different sort; no beaches, just world famous sorbet, quiet, and an apartment that has every amenity you need. Everything in the apartment is state-of-the art; dishwasher, stove, oven, refrigerator/freezer. Entertainment; flat screen TV, blue ray, iPod players. Bathroom separate from toilet; washer and dryer -- truly a place where a couple could live long term. We were met on time and introduced to the workings of the apartment by a wonderful lady expat from the US. This apartment has charm, from its exposed beam ceiling to the new black granite countertops. But it is the location that trumps everything. Close to metro stops, close to tour bus stops, close to the core of the history of Paris. The only things one has to get used to are the high cost of living and the impersonality of living in a big, foreign city. Yet those things are hardly the apartment's fault!

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Everything We Wanted!

Guest: Christine B. (Steamboat Springs, CO USA)
Date of Stay: 04/22/11 Review Submitted: 10/06/11

This apartment is in such a fun location. We stayed there last spring and everything: the location, the apartment, the service, was great. Our family of 4 stayed here and it is SO much better value than a hotel!! I hope to return soon!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

charming historic apartment

Guest: Becky (Richmond, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 01/20/11 Review Submitted: 01/31/11

We had a very memorable stay in this compact apartment located quite close to many major museums and areas of the city which one would wish to visit while in Paris. The apartment is quite charming retaining many features from a 17th century building yet being up to date in the kitchen and bath. Four adults enjoyed this apartment and found the space to be adequate for our needs. There were wonderful restaurants and bakeries close by and the metro quite convenient. It was a pleasure working with the owner who supplied much useful information to us ahead of time. We would definitely stay here again. The apartment was exactly as portrayed in the online posting.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Romantic Getaway in the most beautiful city in the world

Guest: Bill (Lenexa, Kansas)
Date of Stay: 11/20/10 Review Submitted: 12/01/10

This is a fantastic location if you want to be in the heart of Paris, but still be in a quiet, relaxed area. It was very easy to get to the Metro, museums, restaurants, etc. The information provided by the owner made things even easier and the apartment was beautiful. Having heated floors was nice in November as was use of the phone, internet connections, etc. It may have been our best vacation trip outside of the United States.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Charming Ile St. Louis

Guest: Michelle & Bill (Parker, CO, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/10/10 Review Submitted: 10/26/10

The apartment on Ile St. Louis was everything we expected and more. We arrived on a Sunday to a festive atmosphere of street performers, ice cream and charming boutiques. Judy greeted us with warm hospitality and was able to show us around the apartment. Ivor, the owner, was most gracious in answering questions I had while planning our trip! We loved the convenience and charm of Ile St. Louis. It is a quiet island at night, but close to the Latin quarter if nightlife is what you want. The metros and boat stops were convenient. We enjoyed our stay immensely!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Paris at its best

Guest: Jim (Melbourne Australia)
Date of Stay: 08/19/10 Review Submitted: 09/25/10

We have been lucky enough to have visited Paris many times on business and vacation. We have always loved and frequently visited the Seine islands located in the centre of Paris, particularly Ile St. Louis. This is the first time we have actually stayed there. It was as great, even better, than we expected. Ivor's Rue Bude apartment is beautiful, very roomy, quiet and with great character with period features like the exposed walls, roof beams, etc. You really get the Paris atmosphere immediately when you walk in the door. The photos don't exaggerate the charm!! We loved the location. It had simply excellent restaurants and bistros at various prices within 200 - 300 metres. It's very central for a walk over to the Marais which we have always loved. The Latin Quarter and the 5th are also just a short walk. The apartment itself is really well set up and appointed so we could settle in immediately. There are convenience stores and bars nearby for everyday stuff and a quick coffee, breakfast, etc. Ivor and his reception manager were excellent and a delight to deal with. They made our arrival into the apartment hassle free which is a change from one or two others we have stayed in!! Would we stay there again?? Absolutely. And we would be delighted for Ivor to refer our email address to you for further information.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent location

Guest: Sara (San Diego CA)
Date of Stay: 08/01/10 Review Submitted: 09/09/10

Hello Ivor, I just wanted to let you know that my son and I had a lovely time in your apartment in Paris and it lived up to all of our expectations! You are very lucky to own it! The centralized location is amazing and because of this we were able to visit places on both sides of the river very easily. It is also true that while it is close to a very busy- primarily pedestrian shopping street, the Rue Bude is very quiet and serene. We especially enjoyed sitting along the river in the evening, and we were often amused and entertained by the performers along the bridge as we came back to the apartment. Metro stops were not very far away and it was close to small grocery store as well as a bakery and the famous Berthillon ice cream shop. Please also note that your property manager’s handled our reception and a minor problem we had with the bathtub quickly and efficiently. It was a wonderful stay and I am already trying to figure out how soon I can return! Sincerely, Sara

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Paris at its best

Guest: Father and son (Calgary, Alberta Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/18/10 Review Submitted: 08/04/10

This apartment is delightful in its charm and outstanding location. We spent 3 amazing days in Ivor's place and loved every minute. Its thick stone walls and exposed wood add to magic of seeing one of europe's most beautiful cities. We have recommended this place to our friends and would love to stay here again in the future.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

I would return in a heartbeat!

Guest: Deanna L. (Chico, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/12/10 Review Submitted: 09/10/10

My daughter and I visited recently and enjoyed our time immensely. The owner and property manager were both very kind and helpful. The apartment was absolutely charming as was the island. It was comfortable and equipt with everything we could possibly need including wireless internet, guide books, personal recommendations on restaurants and shopping as well as free telephone! The location was wonderful with easy access to the metro. My daughter said she felt like she was living in a castle. We hope to return again soon!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Hmmm, is PERFECT too modest?????

Guest: mark (rio de janeiro)
Date of Stay: 06/28/10 Review Submitted: 07/15/10

my partner and i stayed in the apartment in late june for a couple of days and all i can say is that i wish i could buy it!!!!!!!!!! let me see, perfect location, perfect atmosphere, all was superb!!!!! the apartment itself is just charming and u feel like u have become part of history of the area. the decorations r great, the kitchen fantastic and did i mention, the location?????? so many great restaurants just down the block or around the block. we walked everywhere and that includes to the eiffel tower from there. no problem with public transportation, it is close and convenient. just one "watch out". don't bring too much luggage, it is a walk up on some tiny stairs, but that too is part of the charm.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Ile St. Louis - A Romantic Getaway

Guest: Sue G. (San Francisco Bay Area)
Date of Stay: 06/11/10 Review Submitted: 07/18/10

Recently we visited Paris for the first time and stayed on Ile St. Louis. The apartment is well situated and convenient to Notre Dame, the Left Bank, the Metro and within walking distance to many other Paris sites. I must point out the apartment is beautifully appointed and very comfortable. (The photos are great but wait until you see it - it's better!!) Prior to arriving I contacted the owner regarding places to see and things to do. He's a wealth of information and by the time we arrived, we knew where the best gelato shops and restaurants were located - all within a very short walk from the apartment. Every morning we would go to a local bakery for croissants. Everything is nearby! We hope to return to Paris again and will definitely return to the sweet apartment on Ile St. Louis. We fell in love with the island, it's shops, the wonderful restaurants, and the apartment.

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful place & the best location ever!!!

Guest: Birthday Girl (Houston, Texas, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/07/10 Review Submitted: 07/15/10

My husband and I spent a wonderful week at this amazing apartment :) We went there this past spring to celebrate my birthday :) it was our first time renting through VRBO and we had a great experience :) the owner is very nice, attentive and friendly :) The apartment is even more beautiful than the pictures, neat, clean, great decor and very comfortable... and the location is great :) Next to the Seine River, only a few steps from Notre Dame and short walk to Latin Quarter, Luxembourg Garden, easy walk to all major attractions and very close to the metro :) We highly recommend everyone to stay here :) We know we'll be back for sure! Also, if you would like to explore outside of the city or need a ride from/to the airport, we would like to suggest the private car services of William Benoit (Alma Limousine) He was one of the many great referrals we got from the owner... Ivor has this wonderful information book for his guests with so much helpful information about Paris, things to do, great restaurants, places to visit and getting around like a local. Thank you again Ivor!!! I had the best birthday week that anyone could have... and staying at your place was definitely a highlight. Blessings, Lila & Jorge

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

English visitors

Guest: Frances (Leeds, England)
Date of Stay: 01/21/10 Review Submitted: 07/15/10

We found the apartment very comfortable, clean, well equipped and ideally situated.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Ma maison a Paris

Guest: SK (Olathe, Kansas)
Date of Stay: 11/20/09 Review Submitted: 08/04/10

I can't think about Paris without reminiscing about the wonderful apartment on Ile St. Louis. If you'd like waking up to the sound of bells from Notre Dame then I recommend spending your Paris vacation here. Beautifully appointed, extremely efficient and updated without ruining any of the old world charm, this apartment will be my Paris home whenever I feel the urge to go and visit my son who'll be living there soon. Sitting in the heart of Paris this is the perfect experience for a first time stay in the most gorgeous city in the world. Looking forward to my next visit soon.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Justin Murie (SLC, UT)
Date of Stay: 10/02/09 Review Submitted: 10/01/09

Ivor, Thank you!!!! Your place is exactly what we were hoping to find, very clean, modern (great job on the remodel) and the best location possible for anyone trying to figure out Paris for the fist time... I really don't think it would be possible to find a more centrally located to everything we wanted to do. When I think back on vacations that we didn't enjoy that much it usually came down to choosing a bad place to stay, You really will have a OLD TOWN Paris experience in this 16th century amazing apartment. Truly one of the highlights of our trip.... Thanks again Justin and Mindy

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