For an authentic New York experience, this is the place to be. Pattys space is amazing! I stayed here for a month over the Christmas and New Year holiday period. I had touched base with Patty the day before my arrival to coordinate my check in time and was promptly welcomed by Patty and her friend, Renee as soon as I got out of the taxi after a 7 hour flight. This immediately put any nerves to rest as I was travelling alone and had never stayed in Lower Manhattan before, and was naturally a little unsettled as I was arriving in a strange new area late in the evening. The building doorway is slotted in between stores on the bustling retail strip of Canal St, so it is a little hard to see at first glance but is very secure with 2 locked doorways, a buzzer entry and intercom. Patty showed me around the studio and how everything worked before leaving me to my own devices - Everything is provided for a comfortable stay... basics such as toilet paper and wine, just to hold you over until you get the chance to grab some groceries, kitchen utilities, fresh towels, linen, extra bedding if needed.. there really wasnt anything that was missing. The space itself is absolutely beautiful with high ceilings, artistic decor and is very clean. There is a huge west facing window which has a perfect view of the Freedom Tower - (admittedly I chose to shift the sofa bed so that I could see the view as soon as I woke up in the morning.. it really is that great). As a host, Patty was always willing to help out and was literally a few steps away, down the hall. She is warm, inviting and has so much knowledge of the area that is really an advantage for anyone wanting to explore the city like a local. Patty emailed me with some interesting places to visit during my stay and made sure that I was always comfortable in my surroundings. I had even knocked on her door to say hello a couple of times and she welcomed me in for a chat as if I were a real neighbor. The building is on a true Chinatown street which borders Little Italy and LES. There is a 24 hour deli right downstairs that make fresh sandwiches and an asian bakery that sells great coffee & breakfast (thank you for the tip Patty). There is a karaoke bar across the street and a fire station next door, aswell as dollar stores, bars, restaurants, hair and nail salons and fresh fruit/vege markets scattered around the neighbourhood. The area is very safe - It is within a 5 minute walk to the subway station which will take you direct to Times Square, 10 minute walk to Little Italy and SoHo (a shoppers dream). For those who enjoy the local nightlife it is about a 10 minute walk to all the bars...