This was my first trip to New York and my first booking through airbnb, so I was a little apprehensive before I got there. But Shawn's place was exactly as seen in the photos and exactly as described. She met me on arrival at the apartment with keys and the offer of help should I need it.

The apartment for me was perfect. Clean, tidy and with all the pots, pans, plates, glasses and cutlery you need for a self-contained stay. The computer (Mac) & internet are fast with Netflix thrown in as well.

Getting from JFK took about an hour or so and was not too difficult with helpful directions from Shawn on which subway connections to catch. Getting from the apartment to midtown Manhattan took about 40 minutes or so by subway. Tip – if you’re staying for 5 or 6 days, buy a 7 day Metro pass for $30 with unlimited subway & bus rides.

The apartment location is great with the G train subway only a couple of minutes walk away as are shops, supermarkets, chemists, liquor store, a few bars (try the Black Rabbit just down the road!) and some nice cafes and places to eat. And a 15 minute walk will get you to the East River Ferry for a boat ride across the water to Manhattan for $4 ($6 weekend).

The apartment is on a reasonably busy road and its fair to say that by day, the neighbourhood is vibrant, multicultural and busy, but the traffic dies down in the evening and during the night the whole area is virtually silent. The area seems safe and walking back from the Black Rabbit or subway at 1.00am was not a problem.

Although I met Shawn only briefly on my arrival, she’s a really nice, warm and welcoming person and I would recommend a stay at her apartment without any hesitation whatsoever. One very happy guest from the UK :-)