Manuel was very responsive to all my inquiries. His mom is the one onsite, and she was very sweet and helpful (even tho her English is very limited).

The apartment is huge, maybe 800 sq feet. I think I was their first guest, so they were still working out the kinks, but I sensed they are really interested in providing for our comfort so anything missing (good stove, no pots or pans; lots of closets, no hangers at first) I gave them points for trying. The place is really under-furnished, at this point. A comfortable queen-sided bed, a kitchen table and chairs and a pullout couch was pretty much it. It was what I'd call "city clean." Everything which could be cleaned was, but there's layers old paint, and the tub's rust has been painted over - stuff like that which gives it a slightly decrepit feel. I felt comfortable there, but if you're a stickler for new and hospital/hotel sanitary, you won't enjoy this place.

The street is quiet and pleasant. The surrounding neighborhood is a little dicey (bars on store windows, vacant lots) but not scary. Mostly Hispanic. Location was really good for me: eight minutes to downtown Jersey City and we'd consider staying here anytime we want to do an overnight to NYC.

Building was once very grand. Manuel has restored the woodwork in the apartment beautifully, and added cable TV and a newish bathroom and kitchen. Not up to hotel or commercial B&B standards but we really enjoyed it. They supplied towels, sheets, even water, fruit and granola bars, soap etc.

There's one air conditioner, which was taxed to keep up with the very hot weather during my stay for the whole big apartment, but we were comfortable enough.

Parking is an issue. Before 9pm there was always a spot close by. After that, both nights, I ended up parking about 2 or 3 blocks away. There are a few restaurants and other amenities within walking distance, but I would recommend driving to JC for most things.