I would highly recommend Jackie's apartment for your stay in New York City. Outside, the building looks like a typical Lower East Side apartment, but the inside is newly renovated, bright and spacious. Thankfully, the room had its own air conditioning unit (a luxury in the July heat) and enough space to spread out (a luxury anywhere in Manhattan). Jackie was a kind and accommodating host, providing several neighborhood restaurant recommendations. He was also very easy to reach via e-mail and phone, when I had questions about the stay.