I had a wonderful stay at Mahmood's lovely house.
The house itself is just a quick bus journey and free ferry ride (on which you get an incredible view of the Statue of Liberty) away from Manhattan, and yet is situated in a really nice and quiet residential neighbourhood.
Mahmood was an excellent host. We had many great conversations and I really felt that he couldn't do more to help me. Lupus the cat was adorable too!
If you're ever in New York I would, without a shadow of a doubt, highly recommend staying with Mahmood.