FAQ’S

Got a question?

If you can't find your answer here, contact David directly.

Why you should rent from us.

For over 25 years living in Paris, David has seen and done most things that would come to mind. Having lived in the US, Singapore, and Venezuela prior to Paris, gives David an interesting perspective and understanding of the differences between the cultures. Paris is a lovely place and he's happy to share his knowledge of it with you.

Minimum Rental Period?

Most apartments have a minimum rental period of 4 nights.

Payment Methods?

We accept payment by bank transfer, or direct deposit into a Bank of America account in the US.

Hidden Costs?

There are no hidden costs.

Holiday or Late Arrival?

Arrivals before 8h00 or after 20h00 or on a French federal holiday will require an additional payment of 50 Euros.

How does the telephone work?

All telephones have unlimited calling to fixed-lines in over 100 countries.

Linens?

All bed, bath, and kitchen linens are provided.

How well equipped are the apartments?

All our apartments have the same basic equipment. This includes unlimited calling to fixed or land-lines in over 100 countries, cable TV (including at least English language channels) and WIFI. Hair dryers, iron and ironing boards are provided. We try to keep adapters in the apartments but they often disappear. Therefore if you have phones to charge or laptops, etc., probably best to bring one or two adapters. All apartments have a combo washer/dryer or separate washer and dryer. For more specific information on a particular apartment, simply ask.

Is an apartment rental right for me?

Spending a week in a Paris apartment can be magical. But it depends on you and what you are looking for from the experience. If you are reasonably independent and want to experience life in Paris as a Parisian, then it will be great for you. You can shop the neighborhood. Pop out for the morning croissants, prepare dinner at home, etc. If on the other hand you prefer on-call room service, then certainly a hotel would better match your needs.

Are the apartments as good as they look in the photos?

All our photos are fairly recent. Of course it is the goal of a photographer to make the object of the photo as attractive as possible. If you compare the photos to the actual apartment, you’ll certainly find them to be the same.

How does David Sleeps select its apartments?

Our apartments are varied in neighborhood, size, and price. We try to have something for everyone.

Are the David Sleeps apartments centrally located and near public transport, shopping, etc.?

All our apartments are located close to public transport, supermarkets, local open-air markets, bakeries, green-grocers, butchers, etc.

What does the rental price include?

The rental price is what we call ‘all-inclusive’. This means there are no additional garbage fees, taxes, etc.

Are the Paris neighborhoods safe?

Paris neighborhoods are some of the safest in the world. Personally I would not think twice about venturing out for a walk in central Paris, regardless of the hour. Remember Paris is a big cosmopolitan city, you need to be aware of your surroundings regardless of where you might be.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-out time is 10h00 (10am). Check-in time is 15h00 (3pm). We will always take your bags at 10h00, even though the apartment might not be ready for immediate occupancy.

How do I collect the keys?

We personally meet you at your apartment, give you a tour explaining how everything works, answer your questions and give you the keys.

What should I pack so I’m fully prepared for a stay at a David Sleeps apartment?

All our apartments have hair dryers. Usually they work much better than one from somewhere else. Therefore save the space in your bag and just use ours. As all apartments have washer/dryer facilities you can pack light knowing you’ll be able to wash as needed. Lastly, we try to keep electrical adapters (for use with cell phones, cameras, etc.) in the apartments, but they often disappear. Therefore one or two could come in handy. Please feel free to ask any specific questions in this area.

Cancellation?

You can cancel the booking up to 60-days prior to arrival with no questions asked. You will get a full refund, less any transfer charges. A cancellation made less than 60 days will depend on the circumstances (availability to re-book, etc.). We strongly suggest that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Travel Insurance. This should cover you regardless of the situation.

Insurance?

We do recommend travel/trip insurance. (See above)

Is a damage deposit required?

We do require a damage deposit, which varies per apartment.

Are baby beds available?

Yes, baby beds are available on request.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

A stay in a Paris an apartment has a different feel across the months and seasons. In January and February it is fairly cold but normally sunny. Fewer tourists. In March and April it is beginning to warm and flowers are starting to bloom. May through July is full blown vacation season, particularly for the Americans. Normally very good weather. August can be hot but it is also a nice time to be in Paris as many of the Parisians leave town. It can be quite peaceful. September and October are filled with end of summer vacationers and trade shows. Normally good weather with fewer tourists. November and December are moving into winter. The end of the year holiday season is lovely in Paris. It is something that has to be experienced.

What you will get from us.

We will work with you to provide answers to all your questions before you leave home, and will provide detailed instructions for getting to the apartment, regardless of your mode of transportation. We will offer to book a car service for you, which will streamline the arrival/departure process.  We will be there to greet you, help with your luggage, and provide an informative tour of the apartment, explaining how everything works. We will give you a brief introduction to your new neighborhood so you can find all the important things, and can also give recommendations for our favorite bistros, brasseries, cafes, and restaurants, and help make reservations as appropriate. We are only a telephone call away, should you need help, while in our care.

Our mission is to give you the best experience possible, which will make your dream trip even more memorable.

 

Things of Interest (Nuggets of Knowledge)

 

The Paris Métro: The Métro is one of Europe's best subway systems and one of the best ways to navigate Paris. It covers all of metropolitan Paris. There are two ways to buy Paris Métro tickets, either station ticket windows or the vending machines which are located in the Métro stations. If you use the vending machine, which is really the easiest, you can pay with euro coins or with a debit or credit card that has a smart chip.

To find your bearings, there are two different Paris Metro maps on each platform. The most useful maps are the Plan du Métro (Map of Paris Metro) and the Plan du Quartier (Neighborhood Map). You can learn more at the Paris Metro website.

Shipping: Whether you’ve simply purchased so much that you want to ship it home, or just want to reduce your baggage for the return trip home, it is easy to do with FTL Express. They are located at 46 Rue de Turbigo, 75003. They are basically a handling agent from multiple shipping/freight organizations, such as DHL, UPS, French Poste, etc. You can take your package all ready to go or simply take your items and they will custom pack for you (similar to Mail Boxes Etc., in the US). They are mostly Chinese and are very helpful, friendly, and very affordable.

RER from CDG: If you are traveling light, the RER-B train is the fastest way to get to central Paris from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). The RER B train line runs north-south through the center of Paris. The best is to purchase your ticket from one of the many machines. For this you will need a Credit Card with a chip or Euros in cash. Otherwise you will have to queue up for the ticket counter which can at times, take a long time. The price of the trip is currently around 10 Euros, one way. Remember to hold on to your ticket, in case of inspections you’ll also need it to exit the system. The ticket can also be used for your connection to the Metro. You will need to be watchful for pick pockets. They are professionals.

FNAC: This is a chain of stores that carries books, music, cameras, computers, electrical goods, etc. They also have a good ticket counter that will sell tickets to museums, concerts, and events of all kinds. Visit their website here.

BHV: Located next the Hotel de Ville in the 4th arrondissement the Bazar de l‘Hôtel de Ville (BHV) is the place where you can find almost anything. The entire basement is devoted to hardware and similar items. Whether you need a replacement battery or a European electrical adapter…they have it all.

Taxi: For one not wanting to use the Metro, the taxi is a good way to get around Paris. For those whose French skills might lack a bit, the company G-7 has a special English speaking line. Not only will you be speaking with a real person, they’ll be speaking English. You can book in advance or call when you are ready. From a fixed or landline, they will even know where you are. Their number is 01 41 27 66 99.

Uber: Uber is available in Paris and it works with your app from home.

Lost Items: Paris has a very good Lost and Found: Centre des Objets Trouvés de le Préfecture de Police de Paris, 36 rue des Morillons, 75015, Paris. Their telephone number is 0821 002 525. This could be something you left on the street by accident or your wallet that was taken by a pick-pocket. Often the pick-pockets will only want the cash and will then dispose of the wallet and contents. It may take several days for the wallet to make it to the Lost and Found. But if you have gone there and filled a claim, there is a reasonable chance that you will get it back. You should cancel any credit cards as soon as possible. But if you have sentimental photos, or other items of personal interest that you’d like to get back, you should file a claim.

Comments are closed.