Vacation Rentals by Owner

Lovely apartment; excellent location

Guest: Jack and Gina (Maine, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/01/12 Review Submitted: 05/03/12

Many of the comments here extoll the virtues of the apartment at Impasse du Rouet, and we couldn’t agree more. We loved coming through the courtyard doors at the end of the Impasse into the quaint courtyard with its cats, flowers, bicycles and strollers. Up we rode to the second floor to our home away from home. Filled with light from the windows to the North or from the perfectly placed recessed lighting, the apartment welcomed us from the first time we opened the door. But we travelled to Paris to experience the city, and Alesia was the perfect starting point for our explorations. We boarded buses--just across the street or around the corner--that took us to Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysees, and Luxembourg Garden in minutes. The Alesia Metro stop was just as close for when we wanted to connect to the amazing Paris underground system. Metro and bus lines made it easy to reach any destination in the city, from Jardin Albert Kahn to the Bois de Vincennes to Ile St. Germain. On days when we stayed nearer to home, walking a few blocks would bring us to Parc Montsouris, several local street markets, outdoor cafes, supermarkets, restaurants, shops, and of course, heavenly bakeries. When we lined up to buy our daily baguette, we felt like we belonged, and for just a little while, we too were Parisians.

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

A just-received letter from Maine

Guest: Gina & Jack
Date of Stay: 04/01/12 Review Submitted: 05/03/12

Your atelier was superb for our desires and needs. It gave us a quiet home in the midst of a bustling non-touristy part of Paris. And it gave us the modernity we so missed in our other Paris long-term adventure. [We] figured that we actually "cooked in" (either a made from scratch meal or one purchased and cooked at home) nearly half the time. And we wouldn't have been able to do that as easily in a kitchen that was dissimilar to the one we have here. Everyone we met was quite friendly. We loved being the only English speaking people in a restaurant or a patisserie. Whenever we went "downtown" to Ile de la Cite or thereabouts, we were always struck with the amount of English being spoken. And we got out of there as soon as possible. We used all your olive oil and brought the bottle home to use as a bud vase and provide us with many memories. And the memories are abundant. So, we had a marvelous April in Paris despite the weather.We did a variety of activities that were similar to the past, but mostly did things and covered areas of Paris that we hadn't done before. Having a month in Paris meant that we didn't have to run around seeing the typical tourist things. We could briefly become Parisians. Thank you.

Recommended for:

My third stay...

Guest: Paul
Date of Stay: 03/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/29/12

This is my third stay at l'Impasse du Rouet, and it will most probably not be my last. The two apartments for rent -- I have stayed in both -- are completely equipped, well maintained, and have a wall of windows looking out onto the Paris sky, with no immediate neighbours to block the view. At the end of a long plant-filled walkway, the apartments are away from the noise of traffic; the most noticeable sound to be heard through the open windows is the song of the occasional thrush. The area -- Alesia -- has everything you could hope for: restaurants, cafés, nearby grocery shopping, cinemas, great bread and pastries, ... . Metro and bus routes make it child's play to reach the rest of Paris. And the owners go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your/their pied-à-terre.

Recommended for:

My third stay...

Guest: Paul (North Hatley, QC Canada)
Date of Stay: 03/01/12 Review Submitted: 03/29/12

This is my third stay at l'Impasse du Rouet, and it will most probably not be my last. The two apartments for rent -- I have stayed in both -- are completely equipped, well maintained, and have a wall of windows looking out onto the Paris sky, with no immediate neighbours to block the view. At the end of a long plant-filled walkway, the apartments are away from the noise of traffic; the most noticeable sound to be heard through the open windows is the song of the occasional thrush. The area -- Alesia -- has everything you could hope for: restaurants, cafés, nearby grocery shopping, cinemas, great bread and pastries, ... . Metro and bus routes make it child's play to reach the rest of Paris. And the owners go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your/their pied-à-terre.

Recommended for:

Great Apartment for Seeing Paris!

Guest: BD (Portland, OR)
Date of Stay: 07/15/11 Review Submitted: 09/22/11

My family and I spent two weeks @ Ann's property during the summer while my wife was working in Paris. The space was ideal; the two floors complete with mini-loft gave the place an even more spacious feel than the 55sq meters indicated. Add this to the abundance of light and great facilities and it made for a fun location for us to be in, rain or shine. Ann's top notch personal service really allowed us to feel comfortable about the space before we arrived and she made sure that whatever we needed was taken care of during our entire stay. Once outside of the atelier, the location was great. I was carting two kids around during the day so we didn't use the metro very much but a) the metro was still very close by on the Rue d'Alesia and b) a few central bus routes were a very short walk from the house, allowing us to get to the heart of Paris in no time at all (in fact, I think it was faster than the metro!). Being by such a busy intersection also allowed us a lot of flexibility in terms of transportation and things to explore both in the arrondissement and in Paris as a whole. Add the Parc Montsouris (recommended to us by Ann) & the local boulangeries close by and the kids and I had a wonderful time!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car.

Guest: Jeff, Connecticut
Date of Stay: 06/13/11 Review Submitted: 07/17/11

The Ottanelli's apartment is exceptionally well-located in a very French part of Paris (very few tourists). There are an excellent cheese shop, a fish shop, a grocer's and a baker's very close by, two supermarkets within a five-minute walk, and a market street within a ten-minute walk. There is a multiplex cinema just across the street and numerous cafés close by. The park Montsouris is a ten-minute walk down the rue d'Alésia. It is very easy and quick to get to central Paris from the apartment by direct metro and bus lines. The apartment itself is a former artist's studio so one side of it is almost entirely north-facing windows. The apartment has recently been renovated and is well-furnished and well-equipped and imaginatively and tastefully decorated. There is a wonderful work/study space on the mezzanine in addition to a bedroom, living area, dining area and a kitchen. It was a marvelous and very comfortable place to spend a few weeks in Paris.

Recommended for:

Sorry to Leave - Expectations Exceeded!

Guest: Pat and Dick (Berkeley, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 06/01/11

After two weeks in one of two Ottanelli apartments, we are very sad to be leaving Paris, but hoping to return and use this wonderful place again soon. We often book vacation rentals based on reviews, which in this case, were uniformly extremely positive. What made our stay especially nice was the care with which Ann treated us with the myriad of questions we had, both before and during our stay. She was incredibly responsive, caring and helpful, totally reflecting the quality and welcoming space she designed. The neighborhood is a very lively and inviting one, bustling at all hours with Parisians, seemingly few tourists, and with very convenient access to just about everything one needs for a two-week stay: an ATM across the street; a good market a few minutes away; an incredible bakery across the intersection (ready-made sandwiches for people-watching and munching in between museums – and awesome almond croissants!); a Metro station across the street; very decent restaurants within minutes; food streets and outdoor markets a short stroll away; a gorgeous park not far...just to name a few. Coming back to the neighborhood after a full day of touring felt almost like coming home! The apartment was just as described in reviews: extremely quiet, in a quaint courtyard with welcoming cats and where an artist had an open house one afternoon; a much-appreciated elevator; a clean, well-designed and beautifully appointed apartment; restful views from both downstairs and upstairs; excellent wi-fi; a kitchen with all the basic equipment (yes, we cooked!); an efficient washer/dryer; comfortable bed, bathroom, eating and sitting areas; and free local calls, as well as to the U.S. - a real bonus! Our arrival and entry into the apartment was very easy, and Ann welcomed us by phone within an hour of our arrival. Nice! With a setup as fabulous as this, we wonder why anyone wouldn’t choose to stay here if they knew about it! Or perhaps we should keep this wonderful find a secret...! All in all, our stay in Ann’s apartment really made this trip especially memorable, and we will gladly return when we can to this elegant city and his beautiful home-away-from-home!

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

Met all our expectations.

Guest: Bev (Coquitlam BC,Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/27/11 Review Submitted: 06/09/11

My husband and I stayed in the newly renovated apt from April 27 to May 11. The listing description was very accurate in all details.I have to agree with all comments made by guests who stayed at this apt prior to us.Our apt was very clean, modern, spacious and very tastefully decorated( admired and enjoyed your art work Ann). Apt well laid out and extremely well planned.It was very bright and cheery, loft area also very comfortable and well lived in during our stay. Kitchen outfitted with everything one would need ( and more) to eat in and prepare meals ( I love to cook so in my glory to have access to all that I needed).HIghlight of the neighborhood for me was being able to walk out our door and shop at the local fishmonger,butcher, specialty cheese shop, fresh fruit and veg market, and the award winning bakery and cafe. I would give all of these shops a 5 star rating...staff at these shops were friendly and very helpful..a great experience. Carrefour supermarket just minutes away. The 14th is a lively bustling Parisien area...Not a lot of tourists and gave one a truly authentic feeling of living in Paris. Place Basch( our main square) has everything...it is especially lively and busy, lots of shops including outlet stores, cafes and restaurants, transportation ( metro and buses) almost outside your door, easy access to all parts of Paris in surprisingly short times...The neighborhood and our apt was great to come home each day, despite the hustle and bustle outside in the square, the apt itself was very quiet and private... We couldn't have asked for anything more. We had an amazing two weeks in Paris and having this apt as our home for that time completed out stay and was perfect in so many ways. We would love to return some day and will gladly recommend this property to anyone looking for the ideal place to stay.

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

excerpt from a letter:

Guest: Carrie
Date of Stay: 04/10/11 Review Submitted: 10/03/11

I think your apartment is the most beautifully appointed apartment I have ever stayed in in Paris. If you ever want to sell it, you know whom to ask! C.N. Vermont&California

Recommended for:

Cleaan and Quiet

Guest: Jim (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 04/03/11 Review Submitted: 04/26/11

This is a quiet well appointed apartment in a nice part of Paris. We have already recommended it to a number of our friends. When we return to Paris it will be our first choice of places to stay.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: Jennifer
Date of Stay: 02/10/11 Review Submitted: 04/15/11

ANN’S PLACE The first but - considering the charm, comfort and prime condition of Ann Ottanelli’s newly renovated duplex - not the foremost attraction of this lovely apartment is the location. It is set in a quiet compound, reached by a cobbled alley—the Impasse de Rouet—in the heart of the Alesia district. Inside the complex all is calm but once outside and only steps away, are busses, a subway stop and a lively shopping district. Groceries, wine, restaurants, flowers, a top-notch patisserie, even two movie houses, are near at hand. The two-story apartment, reached by a singular, glass-enclosed elevator, lies at the end of the third floor hallway. Open its front door and one finds oneself in an off-white space bathed in light and with a seemingly endless view of Parisian rooftops and of the spire of the nearby church of St. Pierre de Montrouge. The most significant feature of this apartment is the huge, two story window at the north end but with shades that can be opened or closed the light can be controlled, intense or muted, at will. Ann has positioned the first floor kitchen (carefully accessorized---as is the whole apartment) and the second floor bedroom and bathroom on the south side of the apartment while the living room and upstairs studio are closer to the north-facing window in front. Off the bedroom and bath on the second level is a separate area for the television (where during the Egyptian crisis, I was lucky enough to find and watch the French TV’s excellent English language news station –Canal 24 – as well as Al Jazeera ) and a narrow extension over the living room below, ideal as a location for a computer! I can’t imagine finding a more satisfying place for a long or even short stay in Paris. Nor can I imagine a more carefully and thoughtfully outfitted premises. Jennifer Cecil, New York

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary and Michael - July 1st-Dec.31st, 2010
Date of Stay: 01/01/11 Review Submitted: 01/13/11

We were delighted with our stay at the new Ottanelli atelier in the Impasse Rouet. The apartment is comfortable, bright (with a window of light), and superbly equipped. The Alesia quarter in the 14th is bustling, but within the Impasse one would never know. Then, when exiting, Paris is suddenly at one’s feet. Terrific shopping for fish, bread, cheese, etc. in the neighborhood, a Carrefour supermarket just down the street, plenty of cafes to choose from, and a turn-of-the century brasserie just across the street. As is the metro, while there are 4 bus lines to bisect the city. The 14th is a Parisian residential neighborhood, perhaps less glamorous than the 5th or 6th, but far less touristy as well. It is a great place to feel that one is living in France. Michael Miller and Mary Lindemann

Recommended for:

Impasse du Rouet

Guest: CMBG (Canberra)
Date of Stay: 09/15/10 Review Submitted: 12/10/10

We enjoyed nine weeks in Impasse du Rouet. The apartment is quiet, well-equipped and comfortable, and the building has a lift. Newspaper-shop and baker's are a step away, and supermarkets too. It is very conveniently placed for metro and bus, and for a whole variety of other shops. Highly recommended.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Wonderful three weeks in August

Guest: Susan B. (Urbana, IL)
Date of Stay: 08/13/10 Review Submitted: 09/01/10

On the eve of leaving the Impasse du Rouet, I can't add much to these many appreciative comments. We had three very pleasant weeks here, thanks to the Ottanellis. In addition to the convenient métro, I would recommend the many good bus connections--I think I tried them all. My daughter, an aspiring historian, spent her days at the Bibliothèque Nationale, so Bus 62 straight across the 14th and 13th was super convenient. Then there's the 28, the 38, and the 68 and all the many lines they intersect. And the tram that goes across the southern boulevards. The neighborhood has so many amenities listed by others. I would add that wandering the nearby small streets is great fun.(Thermopyles and Villa Alésia come to mind. ) As you walk towards Parc Mountsouris, head up the Square de Montsouris, which has to be one of the prettiest streets in this beautiful city. We enjoyed meeting the neighbors in the other flat (also historians) and it seems having two flats side by side is a great advantage. Finally, if you're here any length of time, don't miss the best English bookstore in Paris: the Village Voice, near St Sulpice, which has many author events. We look forward to a return visit.

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

Eden in Paris

Guest: CJ (Berkeley California)
Date of Stay: 07/10/10 Review Submitted: 07/18/10

I have just sadly returned to reality after spending a week in Paris in Ann's lovely flat. One wall is entirely window, which makes the loft very bright and cheery. The flat has plenty of room, utensils, amenities, etc, if one were to spend time and/ or cook here, and it is very clean. The flat is quite convenient to the Metro ligne 4 (and 13), and is in a great shopping area. However, once you enter the courtyard, it is entirely quiet - very important for a light sleeper! Since I lived in this neighboorhood a few years ago, a new boulangerie has opened that is right across the street - it displaced my previous favorite on rue Didot. Also, for those not familiar with Paris or the 14eme, Ann is very helpful in making suggestions. She was also helpful and very responsive to my questions about phone and internet access. Considering that vacation is such a valuabIe commodity for those of us in the US, it was nice to feel completely confident that I would not have problems with accomodations!

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

Guest: M & M
Date of Stay: 07/01/10 Review Submitted: 01/03/11

Dear Ann, I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you that all is fine here, indeed far better than fine! We love the apartment, feel very comfortable here, and are having a great time. And also I wanted to thank you for the many tips on things in the area. I've become a devotee of Carrefour (at least for most things) which is incredibly convenient It is amusing to see your request on whether we need anything. I can't remember staying in a better equipped flat. Truly amazing is how ingenious the use of space is here. Two of us with a year's worth of clothes, plus books and papers and yet absolutely no clutter. We have visited some friends in other Parisian flats where it seems difficult to turn around and, even if a corps of servants dusts everything all day long, the impression is otherwise. We are quite comfortable here, aided by the gorgeous weather (70s) since our initial hot arrival, but also by the city at our feet when we emerge from our enclave. As for the enclave, we are gradually becoming acquainted with its culture, and certainly its cats. This is a very pleasant place to be.

Recommended for:

So glad to be back!

Guest: Marcus (Champaign, IL)
Date of Stay: 05/24/10 Review Submitted: 07/24/10

I gave Ann's Atelier a five star review two years ago because it had fulfilled all my expectations (quite, spacious, well located and connected by public transport) and allowed me to discover one of the hidden treasures of the French capital, the 14th arrondissement. This spring, I had a chance to return and I enjoyed this cozy and most functional apartment even more. Meanwhile, an award-winning bakery had moved to the neighborhood and a station for public bikes (Velib) was added just outside on the street. I discovered a whole array of fantastic restaurants and bistros in walking distance. Hard to believe: the Atelier gets even better when you return. Thanks, Ann, for sharing it with us!

Recommended for:

Artist's Atelier

Guest: Sue Wilson/Bill Drummond (Vancouver, WA)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 07/28/10

Rolling my suitcase over the familiar cobblestones of l’Impasse du Rouet, I felt like I was coming home. This was a second month-long (OK, five-week) stay in the Ottanelli’s apartment, this time in the recently renovated space next door to the original atelier. It was a delight to have Ann and her husband Vittorio there to give us the keys and a tour of their grand projet, of which they are justifiably proud. Having glimpsed the abandoned loft during my stay in 2009, we found the transformation amazing. The Italian architect created a sleek and stylish space, to which Ann added all of her customary thoughtful touches in anticipation of her guest’s every need. Contemporary edges are softened with comfortable furnishings, warm colors and original Ottanelli works of art. Like its counterpart, the newly renovated atelier intrigues with ingenious and functional use of space, including precisely fitted pocket doors for the upstairs bedroom and bath, the unique placement of the washer/dryer on the mezzanine and the signature useful array of cupboards and closets…no shortage of storage space in either apartment. The lighting is superb, and the mezzanine desk with its views over the rooftops to the church steeple quickly became a favorite spot. The Ottanelli’s warm welcome was the perfect beginning to a second rewarding stay in the Alesia quartier. Once again, thank you Ann, for all that you did to insure our comfort and well-being.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Guest: Jan & Gary
Date of Stay: 10/31/09 Review Submitted: 01/20/11

"From the noise of traffic and the whistles of police in Place Basch, from Metro Alesia, you enter the Impasse. The noise volume decreases. Enter the door code, and through the portal to proceed through to the building behind, the noise has almost gone and plants now surround you. Enter our building, up to the apartment and the noise has gone in only a short walk – the only intrusion is the most persistent of sirens. You feel that you are coming home. The apartment is comfortable and convenient to transport, shops, restaurants and all the necessities of life. Everything you need is in the apartment and it all appears exactly where you would expect to find it. The apartment is centrally located to so many places that you want to go, and it is a pleasure to discover so many new places that we hadn’t seen in previous visits to this beautiful city. Our three months at the Impasse de Rouet in the autumn of 2009 went by so quickly that we have dreams of coming back as soon as we can." Gary Morriss

Recommended for:

Guest: various
Date of Stay: 10/11/09 Review Submitted: 10/10/09

Below are a few random comments from returning guests:From G.M., Australia"In thinking about the apartment and the XIV arrondisement I am reminded of the line from a song (by a little known US 70's band) 'call some place paradise, kiss it goodbye'.Sadly Australians by character are not as effusive as your average American, but then we generally stick closer to the truth. The apartment was exactly what we needed and we enjoyed our stay very much. At the moment it is still hard to separate the apartment from the Parisian experience that was quite special, but it was an essential part of the whole. The coming year may be our last year of full-time teaching for both of us, so no big trips to Europe this year (I think), but it is possible that we may like to rent the new apartment in 2011. You never know how the future will unfold. The possibility of 3 months of each year in Paris is quite tempting ...." "From M.K., Illinois…on being informed that only our “new” apartment will be available for him in the summer of 2010.."Since I felt in the first apartment like being in a place of a soulmate--there wasn't a single thing I would have changed which had never happened to me before with a rental--I begin to imagine what a fabulous job you will be doing on the new place. In short, I would be very interested."From S.W., Washington, on being told how much we like having returning guests…"…back to Paris. It did occur to me that this is my first "repeat" apartment, and it does speak volumes about how I feel about the apartment and the neighborhood. Both were a total delight and so very comfortable………. And yes, I noticed, with a big smile that you "padded" the dates a bit...you know me too well. I am notorious for "stretching" a stay in Paris, and the mind is already going in that direction!"

Recommended for:

Guest: Sue Wilson (Vancouver, WA)
Date of Stay: 06/25/09 Review Submitted: 06/25/09

Having just had the good fortune to spend a month in the Artist’s Atelier, I can say without hesitation that it is a happy choice for anyone wishing for an authentic Parisian experience, for all of the reasons given in the comments following this post. While said comments (all accurate and full of helpful observations and suggestions) are a testament to the wonderful attributes of the property and its owners, they do make it is difficult to find anything to add! Suffice it to say that both location and loft offer a unique and rewarding opportunity to experience Paris as a resident rather than a tourist.The intriguing space with its multitude of cupboards is remarkably well-designed and well-equipped, and those who go on a treasure hunt will be amply rewarded (hint: look under the bed!). The loft is both a reflection of the owner’s love of place, and their desire to provide their guests with everything necessary for a comfortable and exceedingly pleasant stay in Paris. To the all-important pâtisserie/boulangerie list, we would add Pâtisserie Le Petit Duc at 7, rue Brézin (open Sunday) and would cast another vote for Parnasse 138 (138 Blvd. du Montparnasese) where we had an excellent and amazingly well-priced Sunday evening dinner.Merci beaucoup, Ann, for all that you did to insure a truly wonderful visit.

Recommended for:

Guest: Colomen (Granville, Ohio, USA)
Date of Stay: 03/13/09 Review Submitted: 03/13/09

I just finished a most pleasant three-week stay at Ann's artist loft in the Fourteenth District. It is a fabulous place to stay for a week or a month in Paris--or longer! It's clean, well-designed, roomy, bright and comfortable. The apartment is extremely well-furnished; there is plenty of room for storage. The price was reasonable, especially in light of the cost of hotel rooms in Paris. For half the cost of a hotel room the approximate size of the bedroom in this apartment, I was able to rent the whole apartment! Very good value for money. The area in which the apartment is located, the Alesia neighborhood of the Fourteenth Arr., is lively. It contains within easy walking distance all the shops and businesses one needs to live like a Parisian for a few weeks. The Alesia Metro stop is close at hand. At Ann's suggestion we used the buses more this trip; they were very convenient to the apartment. In this apartment, you're just minutes away from anywhere in Paris you might want to go. Despite all the foregoing positive points about the apartment, the best part about staying here was getting to meet Ann Ottanelli, the owner. She is one-of-a-kind, in the best sense of the expression. I hope to stay at Impasse du Rouet again sometime because it is a great apartment in Paris, but mainly so I can keep in touch with Ann. A bientot, Ann!

Recommended for:

Guest: Kevin T 1 (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 12/03/08 Review Submitted: 12/03/08

Dear Ann, Thank you very much for all your hospitality before, during and after my week long trip. This was my first time to visit Paris and stay in an apartment rather than a traditional hotel. I felt like a local for a week and that was one of the main reasons for choosing you loft. The easy access to the Metro (Alesia) made it very simple to get anywhere in the city in just minutes. I was very happy to find that the loft is in the city circle where a "foodie" can find a market, fresh bread, grocery stores and several dining and drinking establishments. The loft itself is very clean and spacious. I appreciate the olive oil you left me from your garden. It was incredible with all the wonderful cheese, charcuterie and Champagne I enjoyed. I visit Paris every couple of years and wouldn't even think of staying anywhere else. Thank you for a wonderful experience!

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary Riser
Date of Stay: 10/19/08 Review Submitted: 10/18/08

Dear Ann, It's been harder than ever to adjust to being back in New York after our wonderful stay in your apartment. The only good thing is that I'm using my own computer again, and not that confounding little i- phone we thought would work so well for travel. Though it was quite portable, it was temperamental and much too small to use easily. With the economy in tatters, we haven't yet decided when we're coming back, but we're of course hoping to stay on impasse du Rouet again when we return. The elevator was great! And your olive oil was so very wonderful. I am a great devotee of olive oil and use a lot of it. I really loved this very personal gift. Thank you once again for sharing your apartment with us. I confess to feeling a bit "homesick" for it just now. All best, Mary

Recommended for:

Guest: Susan
Date of Stay: 09/15/08 Review Submitted: 09/14/08

Dear Ann,Our first week here has passed so quickly! We are so pleased with both the apartment and the neighborhood. The food shopping nearby is absolutely wonderful. We have especially enjoyed Parc Montsouris, where the leaves are beginning to show their fall colors and where we were lucky enough to spot seven wild green parrots. We never did find the shopping cart you mentioned (maybe we overlooked it?), but we have been fine without it.On our last day, we will leave the envelope and key with the concierge. Of course, we will make sure the apartment is as clean and tidy as possible. We have bought a few paper products, just to replenish. Is there anything else we can do for you?Very best wishes from Paris,SusanPS The wine you left for us was delicious. It was perfect with a dinner of long-simmered sauté de veau.

Recommended for:

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/09/08 Review Submitted: 08/09/08

I have just spent 2 weeks in Ann's apartment and have been so happy to have chosen it! The area of the 14th is great, the apartment is very well fitted out and comfortable, I really felt like a proper parisien in Paris! I have been studying french for 2 weeks and most of my fellow students complained about the heat in Paris coupled with not being able to open their windows due to the noise of the city. This apartment has no such problem, there are huge windows everywhere and the courtyard is so quiet that it's easy to leave them open for an easy sleep at night even in the heat of summer. The building set up is very secure and all the neighbours are very smiley and friendly. The shops around the apartment are amazing, everything is so handy! And best of all is Ann's personal touch on ensuring that your stay is really enjoyable, she's always been available without delay to answer any questions and even just to say hello to make sure things are going well.In terms of amenities for those who don't know the area:- The Alesia métro is just 30 seconds away, making it handy for the whole of Paris. It took me just 1/2h between getting off the Eurostar at Gare du Nord till I found the apartment.- A huge Champion supermarket is just off Av. Jean Moulin, 30 seconds away with everything you can possibly need from a supermarket.- Lots of boulangeries pretty much everywhere, you'll be wandering which one to go to next.- I recommend the italian restaurant on Av. Jean Moulin which serves pizza and pasta, absolutely delicious and they do take away too.- Plenty of cafés nearby, take your pick!- And also make sure you try the pancakes from the various stands on Av. General Leclerc!- A visit to Parc Montsouris is a must, you wouldnt believe how a small park can be so beautiful and peaceful, it's also frequented by parisiens and not a single tourist in sight :). The parc also has a very nice looking restaurant, looked very exclusive and really french, we didn't get a chance to eat there but we'd really like to next time!All in all, if I come back to Paris in the future, I'd definitely like to stay there again!Enjoy your stay!Masami, from England.

Recommended for:

Guest: Marcus Keller (Champaign, Illinois)
Date of Stay: 07/27/08 Review Submitted: 07/27/08

After having spent five weeks in the apartment in June/July 2008, I can only second everything the previous commentator said about the well-designed, functional, and very comfortable space; the great location, quiet yet close to all the shops, restaurants and public transport you could wish for; and Ann's great care with everything. You will be in very good hands and find a splendid place from which to explore the French capital! If you want to experience some of the real Paris off the beaten track and away from the tourist hords (which you can always join in a ten minute métro or bus ride), then this place is for you.

Recommended for:

Guest: Judy and Kathryn (Vancouver, Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/07/08 Review Submitted: 07/06/08

We recently spent three weeks in Ann’s lovely apartment and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. We chose it because of its close proximity to our daughter’s residence. We found it very comfortable, bright and quiet. It is a remarkably well designed space. We appreciated the efficient, functional kitchen, big tables to spread out all our maps and books and the ample closet and storage space. The location was perfect. We loved the Alesia area, a busy and lively centre in the fourteenth with all the essentials for daily living conveniently just steps away so that you can spend your time enjoying the Paris you came to experience. The metro, bus and tram are minutes away, leading you in any direction. There are many excellent cafes and restaurants and, to add to the list, we had a lovely, reasonably priced meal at Parnasse 138 (138 Bd du Montparnasse). Ann was always attentive to our comfort and needs, prompt in answering any questions and gracious of her time and concern for us. I talked to her about books we found valuable for this trip such as:Napias, Jean-Christophe … Quiet Corners of Paris. c2007Long, Dixon… Markets of Paris. c2006Pudlowski, Gilles. Pudlo Paris 2007-2008: A Restaurant GuideBritish Automobile Association. Frommer’s 24 Great Walks in Paris. c2008It was a delightful surprise to discover this area of Paris and such a wonderful apartment.

Recommended for:

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 03/28/08 Review Submitted: 03/28/08

Dear Ann,My husband and I absolutely loved the apartment, neighborhood and location. After all day of sightseeing and walking I so looked forward to walking into the quiet courtyard and cozy apartment. Paris is our favorite city and it was even better having such a comfortable place to stay that is bright, clean, and happily situated. It couldn’t have been easier to get around with the bus stop and metro within a block away. To be sure we will be returning and would recommend your place to anyone.Thank you so much,Debbie and Jon Massachusetts

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary Bentlage (Johnson City, NY)
Date of Stay: 03/28/08 Review Submitted: 03/28/08

My daughters and I had a wonderful time at your apartment! The location was perfect, and the accommodations were satisfactory in every way. The proximity to the metro, as well as the super market and restaurants optimized our time spent on sightseeing and shopping! I would definitely stay at your place the next time we're in Paris! Thank you.

Recommended for:

Guest: Allen & Laurie Saunders (Bellevue, WA)
Date of Stay: 01/29/08 Review Submitted: 01/29/08

Anne, thank you for a wonderful week in Paris. The time has flown by since we have returned home! We were spending the holidays with our daughter Sara, who is a student in Paris this year. Your apartment was close to hers which worked perfectly! I appreciated your having her over for tea so that she could see the apartment ahead of time. We had other family members in town and we loved having a place to gather and be together for New Year’s Eve. We had plenty of space with the nice sectional couch and sizeable table. The huge windows provided lots of light and increased the feeling of spaciousness and the entire apartment was very well stocked. The location was perfect- not only was it was near Sara, it was close to all kinds of shops, restaurants and markets. We loved the feeling of living life as the “Parisians” do! After hours of sightseeing out in the cold weather, we enjoyed coming home to our cozy “home away from home.” Sometimes we cooked our own dinner with finds from the market, sometimes we stepped out to one of the local restaurants you recommended. The access was great, just steps from the Alesia metro stop on Line 4, which went right into the center of the city. We were easily able to take the RER and metro from CDG airport. Such a holiday; one we won’t easily forget! We look forward to returning and spending time in your apartment in the future. Thank you again for all your help, and making it so easy! You are a splendid hostess indeed.

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary
Date of Stay: 01/08/08 Review Submitted: 01/07/08

Dear Ann, Kate and I had an absolutely wonderful week. Your apartment was perfect for us. What a gift it was to spend this time together. We did have some rain most days, but we were prepared for it and made the most of the sun when it appeared. Paris was amazingly free of tourists. The only lines we stood in were at boulangeries! When we left on December 8th, even CDG was calm and peaceful. Anna did come by with a nice bottle of wine--thank you! On our last day I gave the key to Mme. Khenify in an envelope with instructions. I can't tell you how much fun it was to see Kate enjoying Paris. She loved it. We walked through the Champs de Mars at dusk to see the illuminated Eiffel Tower; we didn't ascend it but stood beneath it and looked upward. We went to the Sainte Chappelle on a sunny morning. We went to Notre Dame, where we heard an organ recital and Kate climbed the towers. We saw the Arc de Triomphe. We saw the Giacometti show and walked by his studio on the same day. We visited some of my favorite rooms at my favorite museums. We shopped. We cooked. We enjoyed leisurely meals out. We went to the movies, browsed in book stores, got fallafel sandwiches at l'As on rue des Rosiers, ate crepes on the street--I could go on and on. Kate was amazed by the beauty and liveability of Paris. She wants to start planning another trip! Speaking of which, Sandy and I will certainly be in touch when we know the possible dates of our next trip, as we would love to stay on impasse du Rouet again. Sadly, it may not be until the fall, as our other daughter, Jane, is getting married in the spring. We love your apartment and neighborhood so much that we would plan a trip around its availability rather than stay anywhere else. Thank you for providing the perfect setting for our mother-daughter week. All best, Mary

Recommended for:

Guest: Barbara Graham1 (Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 12/26/07 Review Submitted: 12/26/07

My husband and I spent two wonderful weeks in this light-filled, immaculate, perfectly appointed hideaway in one of Paris' most charming, authentic neighborhoods--with some of the absolute best food sources in the city. The ideal peaceful retreat after long days of walking, museum-hopping, visiting friends and family. We will surely return!

Recommended for:

Guest: Gerald & Xiniz Pierce
Date of Stay: 11/27/07 Review Submitted: 11/26/07

Comments: Dear Ann. Your apartment was the treat of our month being in France. Our ten day stay was great. You are located in a wonderful neighborhood with easy access to everything. We appreciate all of the help and kindness of making this a wonderful experience for us. Our next trip back to Paris we will be sure to return to your lovely apartment. My wife had the time of her life and is always talking about the well kept apartment and time spent after our long days in the calle. Thank you once again. Anyone looking for a nice safe neighborhood with stores, shops, restaurants, metro stop and bus to the museums outside, this is the place to stay. Sincerely Gerald and Xinia San Jose Costa Rica and Seattle WA

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary Riser (Brooklyn, New York)
Date of Stay: 10/22/07 Review Submitted: 10/22/07

My husband & I recently spent two weeks in Ann's apartment. Our expectations were exceeded in every way, & we look forward to staying there again. The apartment itself is bright, spacious, & comfortable. We felt at home there right away. The kitchen is indeed well stocked, & we cooked many memorable meals there. From the apartment's upper level, we could see a variety of Parisian rooftops, the spire of St. Pierre de Montrouge, & an expanse of sky from the soaring windows. Each time we stepped into the building's courtyard, we felt as though we had entered a hidden, magical world.We wanted to stay in a vibrant & authentic residential neighborhood with easy access to central Paris, so the location was perfect for us. Metro and bus connections are excellent, & (if there is no strike!) the RER "B" to or from CDG is quick & easy. There is abundant shopping of all kinds. We like to cook, & we did not have to go far to find ingredients to make wonderful meals. There is a little shopping area near villa d'Orléans with a boucherie, fromagerie, fish & fruit/vegetable markets. Champion (a large supermarket) & several branches of Monoprix are nearby. There is also the Mouton-Duvernet market on Tuesday & Friday mornings, & the wonderful rue Daguerre. We became quite fond of the wine shop & boulangerie (open weekends) on rue Alphonse Daudet. We enjoyed having an occasional meal or coffee at the Bouquet d'Alésia, where the waiters still wear long white aprons & the people-watching is superb. Another frequent destination was Parc Montsouris, which has many beautiful old trees, lush plantings, resident ducks, geese, & herons--& a flock of wild green parrots (look & listen for them in the trees around the lake).From our initial inquiry onward, it was a pleasure to work with Ann. All questions were answered quickly & all arrangements handled beautifully. We have rented through an agency before, & this was much easier, more personal, & far more pleasant.Thank you, Ann, for a delightful stay!

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary & Sandy
Date of Stay: 10/22/07 Review Submitted: 10/21/07

Dear Ann, As I sat down to write to you, I found your message waiting! Thank you so much for the use of your wonderful apartment. Sandy and I had a great two weeks there, transit strike and all! We gave our key to Mme. Khenify on the last day (we had a nice chat about her cats), and we also met Myrna, who was very friendly and pleasant. The apartment will be perfect for Kate and me during our December mother-daughter week. It will be her first trip to Paris! Sandy and I had such fun just walking and walking. We found the locations of various artists' studios, such as deStael, Laurens,and Giacometti. We very much enjoyed the Courbet and Giacometti shows. We also found the food shopping to be absolutely wonderful. The boulangerie and wine shop on rue Alphonse Daudet became favorites of ours. And thank you for recommending the Bouquet; we spent many happy hours there. We're hoping to return to Paris at least once next year, so I'll be in touch as we begin to make those plans. Sandy joins me in many thanks and best wishes, Mary

Recommended for:

Guest: Linda Urban (Berkeley, CA)
Date of Stay: 09/23/07 Review Submitted: 09/23/07

We just spent 2 delightful weeks in this apartment, and are already planning to stay there again. The apartment itself is spacious, as it is split into two levels, and there are huge tall windows that let in lots of light. You can tell that the owners stay there themselves sometimes, because all the little things you want to have wherever you are living, are present! We cooked a lot--there are both grocery stores and outdoor markets quite nearby, and we found the kitchen well-equipped. Ann was extremeley friendly and a pleasure to work with, in sorting out arrangement details. As for the area...we really like staying in the 14th--it is quite a nice neighborhood, away from the central tourist areas, which is our preference. This apartment is right by the Alesia metro (line 4), so it is very easy to get around to museums and other attractions when you feel so inclined. In addition, the corners of Avenue du General Leclerc and Alesia have bus stops to take you in any direction, if you prefer to be above ground to see Paris as you move across it. There is also a bank ATM machine just across the street, and one of the new Velib bicycle stations, although We didn't try that this time. We loved walking East a few blocks to Parc Moutsouris. On Saturday morning we stumbled on a huge outdoor market just northeast of the Parc. Our favorite food spots nearby: the local Boulangerie, just down Avenue Jean Moulin, for bread and individual desserts. The restaurant Chez Charles-Victor on Rue Brezin, for an excellent and very reasonable dinner splurge, and a little Chinese restaurant--Wing Yun--just down on Avenue Jean Moulin.

Recommended for:

Guest: Filiz Roser (Oak Hill, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 08/09/07 Review Submitted: 08/09/07

My teenage daughter and I spent a week in this lovely, light filled apartment in Paris. It was bright, clean, spacious, and serene. If you want a truly Parisian visit, this is a very nice neighborhood to stay in. The owners have done a nice job of renovating the apartment. We loved all the plants in the courtyard, and staying here was much quieter because it is secluded from the noise of traffic. The lovely windows in the apartment made it bright, and the apartment had everything we needed for a lovely week in Paris. The best shopping was right along the main streets near the apartment for clothes and shoes. This area is where Parisians shop. We enjoyed the good good at the local restaurants and cafes just on the corner, just perfect for people watching with a glass of wine in hand. (The duck with potato au gratin, and the grilled salmon at la Bouquet de Alesia were delicious, also the Calamari appetizer at le Zeyer is very good). Rue Daguerre, within walking distance, had nice shops from which we got fresh produce, meat, bread, cheese to cook our own meals. There is also a good Italian Gelato place there. In this area, we seldom saw other tourists, and this was just what we wanted for our trip. The apartment is steps from the Metro, with very quick access to the major tourist destinations (Notre Dame 15 mins via Metro or bus). Each time we visited a tourist attraction, we were always so glad to return to our corner of Paris. We were very pleased to stay in the apartment, and we will certainly return again!

Recommended for:

Guest: The Weddles (Springfield, Missouri)
Date of Stay: 08/08/07 Review Submitted: 08/08/07

Our family of three spent two months in this wonderfully converted artist's loft. The apartment is beautiful, efficiently designed, and full of light. We have lived now in six different rental apartments in Paris, and this was by far the best. The quartier was also a pleasant surprise, with wonderful shopping, fantastic restaurants, and kind and friendly neighbors. We can't wait to return.

Recommended for:

Guest: Mary Kay and Jim Shaw (Washington, DC)
Date of Stay: 05/21/07 Review Submitted: 05/21/07

The best of both worlds. An authentic neighborhood with easy access by bus, metro, or foot to all the desired sites. Fun to be tucked away in an off-the-street retreat, with great eating and bistro-sitting in the area (we liked Fils de la Ferme). A true Parisian immersion in an up-to-date apartment with marvelously accommodating and helpful owners. That we are repeat visitors is the ultimate recommendation.

Recommended for:

Guest: Eve & Peter (Spain)
Date of Stay: 02/20/07 Review Submitted: 02/20/07

We have rented a number of Paris apartments via the VRBO site over the last few years – this is our favourite. It’s comfortable, well equipped and tastefully decorated, in an unusual setting with a lot of Parisian charm. Its location in the 14th arrondissement, where there are far more Parisians than tourists, is close to shops, restaurants, cinema and well served by bus and metro.Ann could not have been more friendly and attentive, responding to our requests quickly and helpfully every time.We have stayed here twice in the last 3 months and have booked further trips. We would recommend this apartment without hesitation.

Recommended for:

Guest: Sarah114 (Brisbane, Australia)
Date of Stay: 10/08/06 Review Submitted: 10/08/06

I rented this apartment for the month of July and enjoyed my time there very much. The kitchen is incredibly well stocked, the apartment is filled with light and it was truly a home away from home. We spent a lot of time laughing and talking on the very comfortable lounge chairs, gazing up at the sky through the impressive windows! Parc Montsouris is a 10 minute walk from the apartment and it is wonderful to have some greenery within walking distance. We had many a picnic there and I also walked there almost every afternoon for some peaceful exercise. With the metro stop almost at the front door, plenty of food stores, cinemas nearby and a beautiful church on the doorstep, I found the location to be excellent and would recommend it to anybody who is looking for a truly Parisian experience.

Recommended for:

Guest: gabriele3 (Florence, Italy)
Date of Stay: 10/01/06 Review Submitted: 10/01/06

We stayed in Paris for a week during last august and feel completely at home because the apartment is very very nice and comfortable: it is bright and spacious, close to everything one could need (boulangeries, supermarkets, shops, restaurants...) and especially metro n.4 is just a few steps, so you are really near from everything in Paris. If you want to know and love Paris this is the right place. Thank you very much for this unforgettable holiday! Chiara e Gabriele, Florence (Italy)

Recommended for:

Guest: Michael & Ester Vaida (Davis, CA)
Date of Stay: 10/06/05 Review Submitted: 10/05/05

We stayed in Ann's apartment for one month and enjoyed every minute of it. The apartment was quite comfortable, surprisingly quiet and had everything we needed. It is close to everything one could conceivably need and there is a good choice of supermarkets, traiteurs, boulangeries, etc. There are several good restaurants within walking distance. We particularly liked one of Ann's suggestions -Les Vendanges- and would add one of our own: La Maison Courtine on Avenue du Maine, a reasonably priced one Michelin star restaurant. Transportation via Metro or bus is steps away from the building's entrance. The pretty Parc Montsouris is fairly close and excellent for jogging. Finally, Ann could not have been kinder. She patiently answered all our questions before and during our stay. She also gave us a lot of useful information about the neighborhood. On our next Paris visit we would not consider staying any place else.

Recommended for:

Guest: Rob and Boni Parker (Australia)
Date of Stay: 07/27/05 Review Submitted: 07/27/05

Ann, thanks for a very comfortable and well equipped appartment, it was so good to have such a comfortable bed after our 10 weeks travelling about France. We found getting about Paris from here was very easy and the district is pretty well stocked with shops and restaurants. a bientot.

Recommended for:

Guest: Tara39 (Washington DC)
Date of Stay: 05/30/05 Review Submitted: 05/30/05

I was so pleased to find a little haven in Paris for my parents' recent visit to Paris. The atelier (artist's studio) has been beautifully renovated. While being close to the center of Paris and all the major sites, the apartment is tucked away in a quiet courtyard home to artists from the 20s and 30s. I would highly recommend this property to any visitor looking for a real Parisien experience.

Recommended for:

Guest: Neil & Jane C. (-)
Date of Stay: 05/27/05 Review Submitted: 05/27/05

We were going to Paris to attend our daughter's wedding and decided to rent an apartment rather than stay in a hotel. As soon as we entered this lovely apartment we knew we had made an excellent choice. It is bright and spacious, along with being cozy and welcoming. Everything you need is right outside the apartment - restaurants, markets, the metro and bus stops. You are literally 20 minutes from everything in Paris. The apartment itself has everything you need to feel completely at home. Thank you Ann for making our choice of accommadations absolutely perfect. We are looking forward to our next visit to our daughter and new son-in-law. Jane & Neil Rockville Centre,New York

Recommended for:

Guest: Suzan R.
Date of Stay: 03/23/05 Review Submitted: 03/22/05

Ann, Its' lovely. So chic. I am so impressed with what you have done with this space. I noticed the photo by the kitchen of how it looked (I assume) when you got it. Incroyable! Already I love it. Merci pour le bon acceuil. Amities, S. Paris 07/2004

Recommended for:

Guest: Elizabeth & Doug
Date of Stay: 02/03/05 Review Submitted: 02/02/05

The location of the apartment building is convenient to downtown Paris--which was wonderful for vacationers who want to experience both the local culture as well as the beautiful city of Paris! City transportation is just a few steps off the busy street into the obscure entry leading to the apartment building. Once in the building, one winds up the two flights of stairs, definitely a way to keep in condition and possibly a bit of a challenge for elders. However, once inside one will find a secluded, beautiful, welcoming apartment, with all the amenities of 'home-away-from-home'! The design of the apartment is unique and extremely efficient, with interesting objects and decor. A word of caution is to be mindful of the neighbors, as the walls are thin and sounds do carry. Back out on the street there are lots of opportunities for groceries, pharmacy, other shopping, and transportation -- all within a short walk of the apartment building! We enjoyed our two-week stay in this dwelling very much and happily recommend it to others! Elizabeth & Doug Leatham, Massachusetts, USA

Recommended for:

Guest: Janis & Jack
Date of Stay: 01/17/05 Review Submitted: 01/16/05

Dear Ann, I just put our photos of Paris in an album which brought back memories of our splendid time in the city and at your pied-a-terre. Will it be available in the future to rent or exchange if you decide to be in San Francisco? ...warm wishes, Janis & Jack

Recommended for: