I can't recommend staying with MaElena enough, it was like a home from home in NYC.
The room is quiet, cool and spotlessly clean. Ma Elena's lovely flat is in the upper west side - a 5 min walk to 2 different metro stations so really east to get about, and very close to central park too.
MaElena made me feel so welcome, chilling in the library and chatting about the world. She was there to answer any questions about travel and give lots of tips about the area. Every morning there was breakfast of fresh fruit, cereal and pastries too.
And the review wouldnt be complete without the mention of MaElena's adorable cat Lulu who was a firm friend by the end of the trip.