Leigh's place indeed was a very happy choice for our New York vacancy.
We spent there eight days at the end of February. There were three of us (couple and nearly teenage daughter), and the apartment definitely had plenty of space.
We found everything as described. Although the apartment was newly refurbished, it had plenty of lovely antique details, very nice style, very comfortable and like home. In the kitchen, we found everything we needed, and more. The beds were convenient, the place was very clean.
Leigh was very responsive to our needs and questions, he is a very friendly person, and it was a joy to talk with him. After our long journey from Germany, the check in was very easy going. At our departure day, it was no problem at all to stay longer.
The neighborhood is a middle class living area. There is little street noise at night, it is a calm place, and we always felt save.
We solely used public transport. The subway (125th street) is within a two minutes walk, and from there are express subway trains every three or four minutes, which took us to Columbus Circle in around 15 minutes. Times Square is just a few minutes longer, and from there one can reach every place in Manhattan very quickly. We had the 7 days New York Metro cards for $ 33 each, which completely cover the New York area, also by busses. Seems to be the best way to get around. One can buy them at every subway station.
We arrived at Newark Airport, and the transfer from the terminal to the apartment took around 90 minutes. We used the airport managed free Airtrain service from the airport terminal to the New Jersey train station. There we bought tickets for the NJ train ($ 13 each), and went to Penn Station in Manhattan, from where we took the express subway to 125th street. After all, there is no need to sort out transfer in advance.
Around the corner is the famous Apollo Theater, and we went to the Amateur’s Night on Wednesday. It was a great and funny show, also for younger persons. Best way to get tickets is the on site box office. The offers there are different from the ones on the internet.
Finally: Yes, it was the right choice. Thank you, Leigh.