Joe's place was ideally placed for sightseeing and we especially loved how close it was to Central Park. Checking in was extremely easy, and Joe kindly stored our suitcases for us for a few hours after we checked out. The free mobile phone, with data, was immensely helpful for us as we came from overseas. The flat was cozy but very clean and well-appointed. The neighborhood is not the most vibrant or diverse in New York, but is well connected and full of lovely places to eat and drink and all the amenities you might think of.