My stay at the Gowanis Urban Oasis hosted by Raymond and Heather was a super experience. The entire time I was there I felt I was a welcomed part of their lives. They are dynamic and unique people as they are both professional singers and performers and it was exciting to be a part of their lives during my visit. I was in town performing in a play and I couldn’t have found a better two people to be paired with. Also they know New York City and can help with information about things to do and getting around. Raymond, who by the way is exceptionally funny, clued me in about the most amazing restaurants. One restaurant nearby that Raymond had told me about, Varrio 408, was probably the best, most authentic Mexican food I’ve ever had and I went back many times during my stay. Perhaps the most endearing experience was that I was made to feel a part of their lives by Raymond’s family. Raymond’s brother, his sister and his new niece live nearby in the neighborhood. Along with his other sister, who was visiting from Florida to help with the new baby, they couldn’t have been more friendly, delightful and giving. We also endured an all day severe blizzard together that hit New York, and what could have been drudgery turned into a fun time. I highly recommend GUO. It’s an Urban Oasis not because of the building, nor the location, but because of the wonderful people who inhibit it.