Gilberto was a wonderful host, and I would definitely recommend him. My husband and I stayed at his apartment for a few days while I had a conference at Barnard. The room was fairly spacious and clean, and there are side tables and a full cupboard and a mirror, everything we needed. There is thankfully an elevator, so no problem with the suitcases. We cooked in the kitchen every night, and breakfast as well, which was really convenient. I felt comfortable with the area even at night because it was west of Broadway, and I was with my husband anyways. But most of all, Gilberto is friendly, welcoming, and open, and we had a wonderful time staying at his apartment and chatting with him. I would heartily recommend staying with Gilberto, and it is a great deal staying for this price, so close to the upper West side, and near multiple metro lines.