What a fantastic experience I had, so great I kept extending my stay. I am very grateful Julio let me stay. It was indeed a lifetime experience with the warmest and loving family on earth. I literally fell in love with each of all of them.
I do have a busy schedule and could not arrive early the first day. Maria - Julio’s wife- was patient, stayed up and kept the love, kept her charming smile, and gave me the warmest welcome. Right away, I felt peace and warmth.I felt safe.
The apartment could not be in a better location. Just across the street is the entrance to the A train 181 St station, which gives you access to the 1 and C trains at 168st (2 stops south). The 1 train is about 2 blocks away on St Nicholas Ave/181 St. On the other side of the building, you can catch several buses. I did not familiarize myself with the bus as I always took the train; it was very convenient.
There are all kinds of restaurants around the building, European ( Russian, Mediterranean, etc), Asian (Thai, Chinese and more) American, Spanish . You will definitely NOT be hungry when you are at Julio’s. I was blessed enough to be invited to share a meal with them whenever they were home and had a dinner together. Several times, Maria or Carlos will check on me and leave something for me to eat as they noticed that my hours did not align with the norm. I don’t think that I will ever forget such an experience. They are so lovely, so handsome and so pure.
Many things are less than 5 mn away: several pharmacies, all kinds of store, the George Washington Bridge ( you can walk to the Bridge and cross the Bridge to Ft Lee NJ by foot), Bakery, supermarket etc.
The apartment itself is very beautiful, with Julio’s paint all over. It is very clean, with easy access. The building has an elevator. I love the brightness inside the apartment. A beautiful and peaceful place. I had a bathroom all to myself and plenty of privacy and time to myself. I had access to the kitchen ( my weakness ). The kitchen is modern, fully equipped, and was very clean. It would be nice to clean after yourself. The bathroom is clean and well equipped. The bedroom is bright, very comfortable and clean.
They always checked on me to make sure I had everything I needed; my needs were met and gave me many recommendations for places to visits. Carlos (Maria’s son - very handsome and attractive) and Maria showed me the surroundings and different parks around. I was by myself most of the time, but for some reason, they were always there when I needed them. It has been a few days since I left the peace, and I do miss them already.
If I had to redo it, I would not hesitate... only the idea of not seeing those beautiful smiles anytime soon is a little saddening. I do miss them already…