Ellen has been such an amazing host. She made sure that I was well accommodated and looked after. Her cat Tigre is so cute, welcoming and provides a homely feeling. I have two cats back at home in London so it was nice to have one here.

The whole apartment is clean including the communal areas such as the living room, kitchen and bathroom. Of course I made sure to respect Ellen's home by not leaving my belongins everywhere and assisting in the cleaning and watering of the plants once a week.

The room is clean and tidy. It is a decent size. I would also work there sometimes on Skype conference calls. The wardrobe and bed are a good size too. There is lots of light that streams through form the window each morning which overlooks the backyard. It is quiet, peaceful and private.

The apartment is situated in a safe neighbourhood. I would come back home at night on the subway at 11 pm and it is only a 5-7 minute walk back home. If it was later I would take a cab. Getting to and from downtown was easy with the 6 train which would take me from 116 th street to Union square in less than half and hour direct,for example.

There are grocers and shops around the corner, a subway, bus stops ( for a more scenic route downtown) and local cafe's and restaurants. This is a residential neighbourhood.

Ellen has really made me feel at home and treated me as a flat mate. She is an incredible person, a very smart intellectual, with a kind and welcoming heart. I would love to keep in contact with her as a friend and for a stay in her apartment in the future.

A very worthwhile flat to stay in on a short or long stay.