I’m glad I didn’t pass up this space based on the two negative reviews I read. The space was very comfortable and clean.
When I arrived the host took my temperature to assure Covid safety (thank you). After the temp check he provided keys (multi-day stay) and gave the rundown of the apartment from towels, bathroom and fixtures, and how to exit and secure the property.
Note: Due to Covid he has taken the discretion to not include the kitchen. Honestly, I wouldn’t have people cooking in my kitchen either BUT he does provide an awesome Ovente water heater and cups for tea (he gives you 2 tea bags) or coffee which I provided myself.
The shower has excellent water pressure and the bathroom is clean.
His mother is a very sweet lady and keeps the place clean—she was there but you rarely see either of them. As far as the truth goes—you are renting a room space and the use of the bathroom for literally the cheapest listing in Astoria. Don’t spend too much time worrying about who lives in the hosts home or if his Airbnb is legal or not. Relax and enjoy—You’re in New York City. If the closest you’ve witnessed as far as a crime in NYC is an illegal Airbnb then God has truly blessed you and this is the safest neighborhood you’ll ever be in. It’s like calling the police for stolen laundry—no one cares and neither should you.
On that note the host owes no explanation for his mother being in his house. Based on the previous reviews I knew she would be there and it’s not any of my business as to why she’s and if she’s visiting or not. Just say “the lady you’ll see in the main part of apartment is my mother.”
Oh—THEY HAVE GREAT STREET PARKING!!!!!!!!!!! Parked every night with ease and no tickets.
As far as the rules. Please read them carefully. They’re not oppressive but are meant for comfort and safety. Just remember Airbnb’s are LIKE hotels but are NOT hotels. With stating that you are entering into someone’s home with their family as a GUEST in a ‘prearranged’ situation. Even with traditional Airbnb’s you are not allowed to bring in unannounced strangers. It’s for everyone’s safety. Don’t do it—you will be kicked out. Most hosts in NYC follows this practice.
Back to the fun part the apartment is in a good area of Astoria. Should you need any food recommendations in the Area please visit Titans Foods 25-56 31st St (around the corner) where they serve authentic Greek Food. You are also about 10 minutes from Jackson Heights where you can find many different ethnic Latin shops and Indian Food.
There is a 24-hr laundromat across from Titan Foods with Parking. If you (women) show the clerk a little attention he will give you a free scoop of detergent (as witnessed). For the men—it’s $1.25 from the machine in the back of the location.
To end this Please Rent this Space. The host is a great guy. Don’t expect a teddy bear. He’s very professional but he’s emotionally detached and I honestly believe he wants you to be comfortable...but ‘no conversation’. You don’t want to really be bothered and I don’t think he does either. But I could be wrong—like I said before I only saw him twice for less than 5 minutes combined.