L'appartement dans la rue Crillon

Paris apartment rentals abound on the internet and I spent months surveying the options for this extended stay.  In January, I started to become nervous that all of the choice apartments would be snapped up by summer tourists if I didn't commit soon.  After weighing the pros and cons of various neighborhoods, types of buildings, size of flats, amenities, and of course cost, I settled on a flat in the rue Crillon in the historic Marais neighborhood.  Although rentals in Paris are not cheap by anyone's standards (think Manhattan or London for comparison purposes), this one represented a lot of space for the money.  Since I have a lot of visitors coming in and out over the summer months, I opted for size, location, and modern conveniences over historic charm, and took this flat in a 1970's building just two blocks from the Seine and the beautiful Ile St. Louis ....and just a short walk to Place des Vosges.  (Note:  Don't skip over the links!  These videos are part of the tour and really give more of a "feel" for Paris than I ever could convey using words alone.)

As we all know, charm is another real estate term for "outdated", "quirky", "small" etc.  Such places rarely have elevators, often have non-functioning fireplaces, imperceptible heating, and microscopic kitchens.  The charm sometimes wears off as the day-to-day realities of life settle in.  Nonetheless, this modern building is situated in one of the most charming and historic neighborhoods of Paris, and I'll be posting separate missives about the surrounding area in the months ahead.  In the meantime, here are some pictures of my 2 BR, 2 Bath, 1,000 sf digs that even boasts a separate utility room (unheard of in Paris!) and a view of a lovely urban garden.  The decor is an homage to Provence (the South of France)...very sunny and cheerful!  (I need to go buy some sunflowers or lavender to complete the tableau.)  In my mind, this is a bit like a Manhattan apartment evoking a Miami or SoCal vibe....but why not?  Paris can often be overcast and a bit gloomy at times, especially in winter.

Upon my arrival, the owner's representative Jeanne Chabanne pointed out all the idiosyncrasies of how things work in French apartments, especially the TV, phone, and the various appliances in the kitchen.  In my jet lag haze, I spotted nothing of concern and confidently sent her on her way so that I could take a much needed nap.  Later in the afternoon, upon my return from the market and laden with two bags of groceries, I found the refrigerator was not turned on.  After fiddling with the controls, studying the manual, and ultimately calling Jeanne, I am still without refrigeration.  So....so much for modern conveniences!  She is working hard to resolve the issue quickly but we are coming up on one of several  "bank holidays" in May that will close things down for a couple of days.

Stay tuned for my impending encounter with the notorious service professionals of France.  This could get interesting!