In my 23 times of staying in Paris for the past 30 years, I would normally stay in Le Marais because the neighborhood is more intimate and friendly. But this summer’s revenge travel had everyone booking units left and right in Paris. This duplex apartment that could accommodate our group of three people for one week was the only available unit within our budget and taste; however, it was in St. Germain des Pres, which is full of excessive commerce and Americans both expats and tourists (thanks to the Lost Generation’s almost-mythological influence that radiated from the epicenter of Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore). I had never booked with VRBO and was pleasantly surprised with the ease in terms of process and payment scheme. The duplex was well-represented both in text and images; thus, there were no surprises and disappointments. While Pietro owns the place and will send the first communication, it is Giorgio who is listed as a host and the usual contact thereafter. When we arrived with a two-hour delay due to the French airport personnel strike from June 30 to July 3, Giorgio patiently waited for us and even helped my sister carry her luggage to the second floor. Inside, the very pleasant Giorgio showed us the beautiful and spacious duplex, going through each detail—from the extra sheets, duvets, and pillows to the operation of the laundry machine. The place was spotless, all the amenities we could ever need were on hand, and the water pressure was good for the bathroom upstairs and the powder room downstairs. Other tenants also left bits and pieces such as Nespresso, olive oil, and tea which we appreciated. What we marveled at the most was the two-story window’s view that overlooked the neighbor’s veranda and what would appear to be a private forest-like garden. This generous source of light (until 10:00 p.m. in the summer) and fresh air, as well as the quietude of the inner building/courtyard, were the bonus. We are very grateful to Pietro and Giorgio for being able to stay at this artsy duplex!
The only suggestion I would like to make is that the check-out list be made available to the guests at least a day before checkout. I did not know there was one to begin with, and I was already at the airport flying back home when I received it via text. But because I am a considerate guest, I had done most, if not all of the things on the list, out of habit.