I stayed with Julia and Shawn for eight weeks while doing a summer internship in Manhattan. It was my first time living in New York, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience!

Julia and Shawn are extremely gracious and responsive hosts who really go the extra mile to accommodate guests. From inviting me to family meals to giving me recommendations for travel, restaurants, and landmarks around the city, they went out of their way to make sure I had a fulfilling experience. The area you'll be staying in is right underneath the house, so Julia and Shawn are easy to contact if you need anything. They were also easily accessible through texting and calling, and they were very quick to address any concerns I had during my stay. (And their family is adorable! Make sure you're alright with having a dog upstairs, though.)

The living area is spacious and fully-stocked with towels, sheets, kitchen appliances, cookware, washing/drying machines, a fan, and a dehumidifier. I stayed on my own and felt at ease in the apartment, though the one drawback is that it gets stuffy and dark sometimes (keep windows and doors open to vent cooking fumes and let some natural light in). Despite being on the street level, the apartment is very private and quiet--you'll have your own separate entrance and the option to close the door leading to the stairs to the main house. The surrounding neighborhood is relatively peaceful, and the apartment is only a 10 minute walk from the express B and Q trains at Newkirk Plaza or the 2, 3, and 5 trains at Newkirk Ave. It never took more than 45 minutes to get to my workplace in Chelsea, which was always an easy and straightforward commute.

Overall, while the experience of staying in such a well-furnished, adorable, and convenient apartment was incredible enough on its own, having Julia and Shawn as hosts made my time in the city extra special. Please take the time to talk to these amazing people and get their take on life in Brooklyn! Their kindness, local knowledge, and hospitality really helped me fall in love with New York.