This was my first time staying at an Airbnb and I must say it was a great experience. I was taking my son to orientation at Manhattan College, and this place is super close. Besides being perfect for my needs, Fahmida's place was nicely kept and decorated, organized, and clean. The bed was very comfortable, the bathroom was very clean and modern, the room was spacious and private, and right next to the bathroom. I truly felt comfortable like being at my own place. The location is super close to the subway station (just 3-4 blocks), which I used all the time; I did not use Uber or taxi. The subway ride all the way to lower Manhattan (Wall Street, South St. Seaport) is fairly long (about 50 min) if you take the local train (#1), but you don't have to switch trains. However, you can switch to an express train at 168th St. and cut about 15 minutes from the ride. I arrived late most nights, around 10-11PM at night, and felt comfortable walking back. I also had the courtsey of letting Fahmida know about my arrival time, so that she wouldn't be startled upon hearing the door opening. At the college orientation we were told that the Riverdale are is very safe, and the safest in the Bronx borough. I had a rental car for the first two days of my stay and was able to find parking right across from the apt, although the second day I returned late at night and had to park on the same street, but 2 blocks further. The apt is about 2 blocks off of Broadway, where you can find everything-- good places to eat and all kinds of stores and services.
Although I had the option of staying at a place all to myself for about the same price and apparently in about the same location, I specifically chose Fahmida's place because I was traveling by myself and wanted to be with someone who was local and could help me out getting around... NYC can be overwhelming if you don't know your way, and I didn't have much time to figure things out myself. Fahmida was great and so helpful. Most importantly, Fahmida is super easy going, friendly, respectful of your privacy but interested in getting to know her guest. At the end of my stay, I felt like I had known her for quite a while and we even invited each other for visits. This was the first Airbnb experience was each of us, and I must say it was very positive on both sides... I hope to have as good experience in all my future ones.