My guests enthusiastic reviews and recommendation are great reward for me and Zen Om! I also appreciate greatly Zen Om and its authentic and strategic location where I stay at times, and wish the same experience for my guests, and their visit again.
Therefore I do my best, from clear descriptions on the sites, photos, letters answering requests, and also welcoming my guests and giving information. In this optic, I’ve designed a manual on main tourist interests and tips, and Zen Om apartment manual, available for consultation in the apartment.
And recently a “gift to go”: 30 minutes free French language practice, optional of course, as an experienced French language teacher. And special rates for guests wishing to combine holidays and French language and culture.
Zen Om won TripAdvisor Cup of Excellence 2014
What’s new at Zen Om since the earliest reviews:
- Just crossing the street, the new Park/Garden: Promenade du Paillon, called also Coulée Verte, one kilometer of beautiful green flow leading to the sea and featuring a wide variety of threes and plants, water sprays, fountains
- AC mono-bloc in the apartment
- New shower plumbing
- Since 2013, I do my best to be present to welcome my guests myself, as the owner, to introduce Zen Om apartment, and it is my pleasure to give suggestions and tips on Nice and area when needed. I’ve designed 2 manuals in the apartment, one focusing on tourism tips and info, the other one, on practical information about the apartment.
- Also recently, as an experienced French language teacher, I offer “a gift to go”: 30 minutes French language practice free of charge for my guests, optional of course, in Nice or through Skype. And special rates, for guests willing to improve their language skills or start learning French during their holidays.
Please visit my teaching site for further information: http://francoiseduffau.com
GUESTS REVIEWS
Gem in the heart of Old Nice! Rhonda, August 4, 2015, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
My friend and I stayed in Nice for 6 nights in early July and decided to try an apartment rental vs a hotel as we both travel and work for hotel chains. We were looking for a different experience and really wanted to be immersed in the city. This apartment was exactly what we were looking for. We felt like locals well before our trip ended...we were 2-5 minutes walk to everything...food/drink/museums/bus stops/groceries/promenade/beach/entertainment... you name it! The apartment was exactly as it was represented online... no more and no less so no surprises. We both slept comfortably in this quaint apartment, the A/C was a really nice addition and both of us slept late into the morning without ever being awoken by outside noise. We were there during the World Cup too and there were parties going on at different times but again, never anything we noticed or that disrupted us at any time. A lot more quiet than your typical hotel room. We were looking for a different and unique experience and this location was perfect for us. I would certainly recommend to anyone looking for a similar and authentic experience! A lovely home as your home away from home!
Great Location and Amenities! Shannah, June 30, 2014. Canada. Rated 5 stars on 5
In one word: Perfect!
My best friend and I planned a last minute get-away, and although we are both in the Hotel industry, we really wanted to experience Nice like a local for our second trip to this fantastic city. Finding this apartment, repleat with all the comforts of home, in such an ideal Old Nice location was exactly what we wanted. Mere steps, literally, from our front door was grocery and retail shopping, entertainment, dining and night life, and easy access to transportation. Even with our close proximity to it all, we still enjoyed a quiet and safe neighborhood. The unit is extremely clean and well-maintained making great use of the space. We actually enjoyed walking the 4 flights of stairs: it added to our feeling of safety (as two women) and gave us extra "exercise" helping to work off all the great food and drinks.
And one of the best aspects...Francois - what a gem! She made special arrangements to meet us for our late arrival, took the time to give a thorough tour of the apartment, and even acted as a "concierge" giving tips for ensuring our week in Nice would be excellent. (We loved and used often the "binder" she left filled with all sorts of valuable tidbits on local restaurants, menus, bus/train schedules, attractions not to miss, and more.)
This is the perfect "home away from home" for anyone looking to be in and experience the heart of Nice.
Good location, clean, reliable responsive owner! Drake, July 6, 2014, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
Great location in the historic old city, fast wifi, lots of useful tourist maps & info in the apt. Close to traditional food shops, restaurants, shopping, and even a local fish market. The owner (completely bilingual English/French) responds quickly to emails, accepts payment in Euros or USD and is helpful overall. The apartment is clean and well stocked with a complete set of user manuals for the washer, TV, microwave and other appliances.
Great Apartment in an Excellent location! Sylvia & Jack, June 17, 2014, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
We had such a fun time staying in Old Nice and getting to know this charming neighborhood. Everything was just steps away and Francoise could not have been nicer. We had a ball walking out the door and being able to go to the Farmer's Market and the Promenade de Anglais in just 5 minutes. The tram stop was just minutes away and nearby restaurants and shops provided with everything we needed. Great location! Charming apartment! I would most definitely return.
A Very Cosy Apartment in a Great Location ! Marc & Ann, January 16, 2014, Monaco. Rated 5 stars on 5
We stayed at Zen Om during the New Year period for one week and had a really wonderful time! The apartment is very cosy, furnished with good test, quiet, we felt at home immediately. The electric fire place makes it even more charming, and the heating system is very efficient. Although all needed is available in the small kitchen, we were out a lot, as they are numbers of great restaurants, bakeries, cafes, just getting out of the building. We were at the center of the action. Also by the best street for gourmet food and wine, supermarkets and all kind of shopping.The location of the apartment is wonderful, typical and full of history, at walking distance from everywhere, also so close to transportation, and the various touristic interests. We took several times the city bikes at the stand near by. The beautiful blue sea is at few minutes walk through the charming small pedestrian streets of Old Nice and beaches that we‘ve enjoyed a lot as the sun was shinning for most of our stay, some people were even swimming. By the apartment just crossing the street is located an amazing new garden the Promenade du Paillon, one kilometer of pedestrian green flow. In essence we were in The place to be, surrounded by sea, park, landmarks, and great cultural animations with only the advantages of it as the flat is quiet. Francoise, the owner, who friendly welcome us, gave us very useful tips on the area and suggestions. She has organized all possible to make her guests comfortable. A book for information on Nice and suggestions, the apartment book, guides, brochures of events. Although we had a car that we parked at the parking des Arts, just crossing the street, we didn’t use it much, as we walk, and took the very affordable and organized public transport to go to Cannes or towards Italy through Monaco. We used it only to go skying, at 1 hour drive, even if there are also buses leading to ski resorts. We indeed started very well the year, and Nice was beautiful during the holidays season. The booking process was simple and we found the property matching perfectly the descriptions. We highly recommend Zen Om, and its management, perfect for 2 people, and we’ll be back with great pleasure.
Fabulous! Perfect Holiday Apartment!!! Yann & Anna, September 5, 2013, Denmark. Rated 5 stars on 5
This apartment really proved to be exactly what my friend and myself had hoped we would find. First, the size and the amenities in the apartment suits two people perfectly whilst on holidays..... It has a lovely sitting area with two couches by two windows so you have a nice breeze, which is a great spot to unwind. It has a very calm ambience, so we spent a bit of time at the apartment enjoying our time away in peace. The apartment itself as it states in the description is METICULOUSLY clean. Me and my friend are VERY particular about this especially when renting an apartment. We were not disappointed. The kitchen and bathroom were both VERY clean with modern amenities, so we were very happy.
The location I don't believe could be improved upon; you are so close to everything and we did not have any need for transportation aside from walking! There is A LOT to do within walking distance which Francoise was more than happy to recommend!
The apartment is a steal at this price, and next time we return we definitely wouldn't bother looking for another place to stay!
Thanks again for a wonderful place to stay, we loved meeting you, and we look forward to visiting again soon!
Anna + Yanne
Authentic experience in Old Nice! Kimberly & Michael, August 29, 2013, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
This apartment is just as pictured in the listing, and was described accurately by Francoise. If you want an authentic and charming experience in Old Nice (walk-up apt.; no air conditioning; non-modern building), this is the place for you, as you will see, hear, and smell all that is happening in this bustling area. You step outside and are in the midst of cafes, shops, restaurants, the tram, and a short walk to the beach. This apartment is perfect for two people and has wifi, TV, and a small kitchen with all the basic things you might need for an extended stay. Thank you, Francoise!!
Lovely, comfortable apartment! Great location! Ffion & Matt, August 22, 2013, UK. Rated 5 stars on 5
The apartment was comfortable and cosy, clean and well maintained. The service we received from the owner, Francoise, was excellent and considerate. She met us at the apartment and gave us a really good overview of the city, including maps and how best to get about. She also came back with an electrician to fix a light and arranged a convenient time with us which we really appreciated.
The pictures display the apartment accurately, and the location is as described; right in the heart of the old city. It is five-ten minutes walk to a whole host of great bars and restaurants, the main sites, beach and some lovely shops. Great place for a romantic break.
The only reason this review is four and not five stars, and this may be a difference between French and British rental accommodation, is that there was nothing like toilet roll, washing powder or hand soap - things that, when you are flying, you don't really want to have to fill your case with on either leg of the journey. There are good shops near by so it wasn't a huge problem, but it would have been nice to have some as supermarket shopping isn't the first thing you want to do on arrival. The 250 Euro deposit was frustrating and seemed a bit steep, one would struggle to cause that much damage to the place. If we were from the Euro zone it would not have been a problem, but we had to pay to change pounds into Euros just to hand it over for a week and now have to pay again to change it back. There must be a better way of managing the risk of renting.
Fantastic apartment with lovely owner! Tas & Lewis, August 12, 2013, UK
We recently arrived home from our holiday in Nice in which we stayed in the Zen Om apartment in the heart of the old town. There are lovely shops right below selling fresh coffee and croissant which was a highlight for us aswell as a lovely little fish market right on the door step. Also there is a great supermarket within walking distance. The apartment itself was very homely and extremely clean. Francoise has done a great job making the place look nice.
The beach is walking distance and it is lovely walking through the old town to get there, there are so many lovely places to eat along the way.
It was lovely to meet Francoise she made us feel right at home. When we arrived she was waiting for us and was very helpful giving us information about the excellent public transport links to nearby towns and answering any other questions that we had. She speaks great English too which was good for us non French speakers. We definitely recommend this apartment and will certainly be returning ourselves.
Charming and cozy apartment in the heart of Nice! Marlgorzata & Christopher, July 19, 2013, Swistzerland. Rated 5 stars on 5
Apartment: conveniently located in the very heart of old Nice, very clean, lots of charm, friendly and dedicated landlady with detailed knowledge of both the city and the region, good value for the price. Conclusion: Perfect place to stay to discover beautiful Nice and its wonderful surroundings. Would absolutely recommend this apartment to a friend.
Inviting, bright and convenient! Lydia & Mark, June 22, 2013, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
My husband and I just returned from a two-week long honeymoon in France. While staying in Nice we stayed in the Zen-Om apartment for 6 days. The descriptions are very accurate. It was the perfect, relaxing, home away from home. The location of the apartment is exactly where we wanted to be, in the pedestrian old town but also close to place Garibaldi where we could easily access public transportation and the sizeable grocery store Monoprix (that has everything you could need.) We walked down to the beach daily, as it was only a 5-minute walk through the old town to the most spectacular turqoise water. We would pick up bread, cheese and produce at the outdoor market along the way. The apartment is full of natural light and well equipped for all our needs and comforts. At night we were amazed by how quiet the street was; we even slept with the windows open. We were lucky enough to meet Francoise, the owner. She was incredibly welcoming and warm. She recommended some great restaurants and sights to see. She was also quick to respond to our email inquiries.
I would highly recommend this apartment to an individual or couple looking for a comfortable, clean, relaxing spot in the best part of Nice. If we are lucky enough to come back this is where I would want to stay.
Amazing 10/10! Charity & Joe, June 2, 2013, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
Just come back from our holiday at Zen Om. The apartment is beautiful and so clean and Francoise (the owner) is extremely welcoming and pleasant to deal with, nothing is too much trouble for her. The apartment is right in the center of old town Nice which is most definitely THE place to be. Its surrounded by loads of shops and gorgeous restaurants and is a five min walk from the beach. The transport links are great to Zen Om no matter how you are travelling. Nice is very beautiful and we will most definitely be re-booking at Zen Om next time we are in Nice. 10/10 Perfect holiday! Really didnt want to come home!
Bright holiday! Geerte & Joep, May 5, 2013, Netherlands. Rated 5 stars on 5
The apartment was the perfect residence for our 5-day stay in Nice. Its bright, modern interior and central location offered us a good base from which to explore the city. After exploration, comfortable beds and showers made for a relaxing evening.
The apartment is close to several bus stops and a supermarket. The owner takes great care of the visitors and makes sure everything runs smoothly.
Would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a comfortable place in a great location.
Best place to stay in Nice! Jorn,, April 30, 2013, Denmark. Rated 5 stars on 5
We enjoyed very much our stay and can definitely recommend the apartment, and we will be happy to come back again.The flat and its location are great, we were impressed by the beauty of this part of France, where the climate is very good and there are so much to do.
It is indeed a very nice apartment, also bright and equipped with everything you need by all entertainments you want. Located in the best place in Nice, the Vielle Ville (old town), a very charming part of Nice, where you can walk around for hours checking out all the cosy shops, and when you decide it's time to relax, you have every type of bars, cafés and restaurants you might wish. At 5 minutes from the apartment you find the beautiful sea and Cours Saleya, a scenic daily market place with great local products, flowers, fruits, vegetables and many other things, and on mondays wonderful antiques; as in lots of places around the apartment in the small streets of Old Town, which has the greatest variety of bakeries, gourmet food shops of all kind, wine, supermarkets, and also cafés, restaurants and all kind of shopping. We had no car during our stay in Nice, the owner mentioned in her very informative e-mails that it was actually optional, and it is right although there are also parkings by the flat. The tram stop is few minutes walk and buses that take you from any corner of Nice everywhere, a very cheap and efficient transportation, the train system (Sncf) goes to all destinations also. At 5 to 10 minutes walk from the apartment you are at the castle park overlooking the bay, the famous Promenade des anglais, and again, lots of restaurants by the beach, another lovely area to sit down and relax for a drink or lunch.
In the apartment there is a welcome book with very helpful informations in both english and french, and brochures and guides on what to do and see in Nice. The booking process was simple and clear, and we will be back for certain.
A precious find in Nice !! Rodger, April 24, 2013, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
I had the opportunity to rent this apartment recently, from april 24 to 29, 2013, and am still feeling the charm of my wonderful stay. Whenever I travel and intend to stay for several days at my destination, I rent an apartment and I must say that this rental was one of my nicest experiences ever.
Impeccably clean, tastefully decorated and extremely convenient from every standpoint. It couldn't be better situated. While it is located in the Old Town, it is on a quiet side street yet set in the heart of all of the lively atmosphere that people expect to find during a vacation in Nice. Furthermore, I returned "home" late practically every night from nearby entertainment and always felt safe. It's location in the Old Town makes it easily accessible via two different tram stops, and there is practically nothing that can't be reached a short stroll away: Place Garibaldi, the sea and beaches, the newest parts of the town, the port, wonderful food markets and antique shops, bakeries, grocery stores, great gourmet food shops, restaurants, cafes, public transportation to museums, Monaco, Menton, Cannes, Italy and more. Although the transportation system is great in Nice to visit around by train and buses, on my next visit I may rent a car for a few days seeing that there is a paid parking garage right across the street. The accommodation perfectly matched the description and pictures posted on the site, and it was even more attractive "in person". The owner has clearly designed everything to ensure comfort and convenience for her guests, including detailed instructions concerning the apartment and handy tips for visitors.The booking process was very straightforward, and the informative e-mails from the owner made my arrival and welcome at the apartment very easy. The airport bus stop is just across street. I would highly recommend this apartment for anyone wishing to make the most of a stay in Nice, and I will surely return here on my next visit to the Côte d'Azur.
Bijou apartment in Nice Old Town! Daphne & Anna, March 9, 2013, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
A lovely, quiet apartment, ideally placed in the busy narrow streets of Nice Old Town, yet having a relaxing atmosphere of peace and calm. It was simply but adequately equipped with all the essentials, and was clean and comfortable. Being on the 4th floor, we had to be fairly fit, but once in the apartment were very happy.The owner's description of the apartment and the area was accurate and helpful, and we had no difficulaty finding our way with excellent directions she supplied. The keyholder was also extremely willing and helpful. We really enjoyed exploring Nice, visiting the art galleries and museums, wandering the pretty ruelles and the seafront with the many bars and restaurants. We would have no hesitation in recommending this apartment, and would definitely consider doing the whole holiday again!
Marvelous Apartment in Nice! Virginia & John, September 5, 2012, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
We had a fantastic stay in your lovely apartment in Nice! It was all we hoped it would be: comfortable, well equipped and in a perfect location. We are sure to return! This was our first visit to Nice and we fell in love with it. Thank you for your help in making our stay so wonderful. Merci J. and V.
The Heart of the Old Town! MaryKay & Francis, August 27, 2012, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
Francis and I had a wonderful few weeks at the apartment, so well located for a stay in Nice. By the end of our stay, we had felt part of this little community, buying a newspaper at the kiosk nearby, having coffee with the locals and greeting the fishermen in the morning. It's easy to walk all all the areas of Nice form here. The port, the beach, the markets, Place Massena, the train and bus station. Really, it couldn't be a better situated. The apartment itself was lovely for two people, a comfortable bed, nice modern bath with hot shower, everything very clean. We enjoyed waking up to the church bells each morning. Hope to return next year!
"Hyggeligt" in Danish : Welcoming, very nice! Helen & Flemming, February 25, 2012, Denmark. Rated 5 stars on 5
We came with my husband from Denmark to Nice Carnival,
for a week, February 25th, and enjoyed very much our vacation under the sun, and this cute apartment. Nice Carnival was amazing and the flowers’parades, night shows, and final firework. We visited also Menton city, for the lemons Carnival and decorated citrus fruits’ garden, at only 30 minutes train. The tram is next door of the apartment, and goes to the train station in 4 stops. We appreciated to have two ways to reach the flat, by the promenade where are buses, tram, and parking or through the unique small streets, landmarks, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Because of the apartment's strategic location in the old city, it was a full immersion in the French life and culture. We went regularly to the next-door fabulous food markets, and tasted exceptional local products, and gourmet shops, antique and handicraft markets, visited beautiful landmarks, and art galleries. The MOMA and the fabulous public library are also so near by. We visited Cannes and Monaco, at about 30 minutes bus, departing near the flat, and did beautiful walks by the sea, at only 5 minutes walk, and country. We appreciated to stay in this typical village like location, as the modern Nice was too busy for us. The flat is really cute, quiet, and welcoming. We felt at home immediately.
We really appreciated the cleanness of the apartment and bedding. Welcomed by a friendly lady, trilingual, in charge of the flat, like in our home in Denmark, we found very healthy to remove our outside-shoes. The apartment is well decorated and equipped, and also has a useful flat manual in English. The living room is nicely furnished and bright with open view on sky and small pedestrian street. The small open kitchen had everything, the shower-room very pleasant and bright, and the bedroom area relaxing. The electrical heating system is very efficient. The booking with the owner was very straightforward, and her descriptive mails, contract, and useful info to access Nice. As requested initially by the owner, we had informed Eva about a dish we had broken, wrote it in the flat notebook, and left 8 E. Our security deposit was wired back within the week. We are definitely very enthusiastic about this rental and its reasonable price, considering the apartment and excellent location. We already recommended the apartment to our friends in Denmark, and to the visitors of the site.
A Charming apartment in the lively historic Nice! Roberta, January 2, 2012, Italy. Rated 5 stars on 5
Hello, we were two adults’ women, from Italy, renting this great apartment for the Holidays’ Season, from December 31 to January 7, 2012. We celebrated the New Year at our friends’, already arrived in the city. We had a wonderful time in the apartment, and this great area! The city was beautifully lightened and decorated and the atmosphere very festive. Faithful to the descriptions and photos, the apartment is decorated and equipped with care and very good test and had everything we needed; absolutely relaxing, bright and sunny, with an open view towards the sky and the small quiet street, the birds completing the romantic scene. The small open kitchen is well equipped. The bedroom is quiet, very relaxing, it was easy to oversleep, but we were on vacation, so had good excuses… The electrical heating system is very efficient and the apart well insulated. As two women traveling alone, we found the location an asset, as it is very safe at any time of the day and night, and convenient with two possible accesses to the apartment. The tram stop is about 2 minutes walk, on the promenade, with several paying parking for our car. We could walk also through the old city and enjoy the cafes, restaurants and boutiques, and unique landmarks. Also, around the apartment we found the greatest bakeries, gourmet food boutiques, antique, handicraft and food markets, including a tiny typical seafood market on the nearby square with very fresh products. In essence a very nice and relaxing apartment in the middle of what we found, the greatest area in the city, full of life. The sea and its scenic promenade is at about 10 minutes walk. We also enjoyed the City bikes available. The booking was simple, safely confirmed by a clear letter recalling terms and conditions, done with the owner, who had been very informative in her various mails about all details. Our security deposit was returned promptly as promised. Also, we were welcomed and introduced to the flat, by a friendly lady, representing the owner and responsible of the apart, speaking several languages, well informed about our booking and identities. She had prepare carefully the flat for us and deducted some money from her managing fee, as we had our sheets and towels with us, leaving the rest of the linen, as planned. We had just a great time! We really hope to be back and will certainly recommend the apartment around us.
Perfect apartment for our stay in Nice! Emily & Tim, September 17, 2011, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
Hello, we had a very nice week in september in this charming apartment in Nice! The apartment is well situated in the old town of Nice next to a myriad of restaurants and shops. Supermarkets, bakeries etc. are also very close and you can easily get fresh croissants every morning within minutes. Nice was also perfect for us to get around the Côte d’Azur as Cannes, Antibes and other nice cities are very close. The loft is quiet, bright, clean and decorated with attention to detail which gives the apartment a personal touch and made us feel very comfortable right from the beginning of our stay. We were greeted very nicely by Eva who is also german speaking and who gave us an excellent introduction to the apartment and had answers to all our questions. Also it was good to know to have contact person available during our stay. Additionally there is a book in the apartment with all the information you need during your stay which was really helpful. The landlord was also very kind and helpful before, during and after our stay! We recommend this cosy apartment without compromise and hope to come back soon. Best regards.
Great apartment in the middle of Nice! Susana & Gottfried, August 20, 2011, USA. Rated 5 stars on 5
The apartment is small yet very quaint, directly located in the middle of the old town of Nice. It is amazing to see how you can easily fit everything that's necessary in limited space - and still feel that you have space in abundance. The apartment has been furnished by the owner with excellent taste and is equipped with everything you might possibly need. Moreover, one can find intructions, hints and tips for everything in the apartment as well as the neighborhood.
Leaving the apartment one literally enters a lovely, small fish market with excellent seafood. The old town is teeming with life and all kinds of restaurants, cafés and shops. Public transport is only a few steps away and the beach is either 2 tram stops or within 10 min. walking distance.
The reservation and local handling worked swiftly and flawlessly and the contact with the owner has been friendly and informative. We found the apartment in perfect clean condition and found nothing to wish for. Also, in summer you need to use the proper technique to use open windows at night together with the fan provided, as there is no air conditioning, yet we could work it out. And despite the fact that the apartment is located right in the city centre it was no problem to sleep at night with open windows, there was no notable noise.To sum it up, I would definitely stay again and - in good faith - also recommend this holiday apartment to friends and family. Recommended for: Adventure Seekers, Girls Getaway, Tourists without a Car, Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway.
Very cosy and peaceful apartment in Old Nice! Alessandro, August 6, 2011, Italy. Rated 5 stars on 5
Very cosy, renovated, bright apartment, carefully furnished and well equipped, conveniently located in the great area of Old Nice.
We spend a wonderful holiday, from August 6 to 13, in this peaceful apartment overlooking the roofs, where it was possible to go around without car, although parkings were very closed by.The 4th floor walk-up was really easy as advertised. We felt very relax in Old Nice that is like a charming village and our favourite area, although part of the modern Nice city. Everything was available around the apartment, museums, theatres, libraries, restaurants, gourmet food, nice antique and food markets, bakeries, etc...We found the apartment very clean, and the bilingual welcome book concerning the apartment very helpful, as well as those about Nice. The booking was easy and well organised and very secured, the refund of the security deposit fast and as planned.A 5 to 10 minutes walk through the village leads to the beach and the open sea line overlooking the gulf, the castle and promontory, to enjoy views of the city, the heals, and the special light and blues of sky and sea, that many great painters came to capture. It is also a good base to visit the back country. All transportation available around the area. We will definitely come back with great pleasure for another vacation and recommend highly the apartment.