while it may seem as if Vanessa's is to far uptown for some, i found the ease of getting there was as quick as many places i've stayed in NYC. I flew into JFK took the LIRR into Penn and caught the ! train to 137th. Vanessa's place was 2 blocks from the subway exit- very easy. The apartment was very nice and well taken care of. Vanessa is a wonderful host and super friendly. Riverside Park is right outside the exit from the building and a GREAT place for a morning walk. Plenty of restaurants and aa great little sports bar (Grill on the Hill ) nearby . All in all a great visit.