Everything positive mentioned in previous comments can be confirmed - a quiet small small (sufficient for a couple) refuge a(lower East side)midst lovable chaotic Manhattan with a very comfortable bed far over average and a community garden across the street. We are especially grateful for the absolutely reliable and relaxed and freedom granting attitude of our hosts. We were permitted to feel as if we "owned" the space. We cooked half of our stay of 9 nights in their kitchen, the only shared part oft the apartment, because dining out has become expensive . If we should ever return to New York, we would definitely like to turn to Renee and Joel again.