My mother and I spent a marvelous week at Barry and Julie's East Village apartment. I echo the other reviews in saying the photos don't do the space justice. The apartment is spacious, clean, comfortable, and full of wonderful art and books. The small but fully functional kitchen had everything one might need to prepare a simple meal and there were plenty of great food markets within a couple blocks' walk. The beds were exceptionally comfortable and the bathroom was spotless with a fabulous shower. The location and neighborhood could not be beat... so many wonderful restaurants, cafes, shops, and museums were close by, and easy public transit was just steps away. The building has great old NYC character, was excellently maintained and felt very safe and secure. Even though I did not get a chance to meet Barry and Julie in person (they were away for the duration of my stay), the feeling of staying in their home was as if I were staying with family or old friends. They were super flexible and helpful regarding my late check-in and check out logistics as well, and I never had to wait long for a response to any questions that came up.

My only bit of advice for future potential guests is to bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper. This is lively NYC and there is street noise at night. The apartment is also close to a hospital, so from time to time you might hear an ambulance's siren whizzing by. As someone familiar with big city life, these sounds did not phase me at all, but my mother found that wearing earplugs helped her sleep through the night.

Overall, this is a great place in a great city with excellent hosts. I'd definitely stay here again and recommend Barry and Julie's charming East Village apartment wholeheartedly to other prospective Airbnb guests.