We had a wonderful time in New York staying at Cristina's apartment. It is in a vibrant area of the East Village and close to everything that you need to have a happy time - the subway, food markets, restaurants, laundry facilities etc. There is no lift in the building so big suitcases are an effort and there is always plenty of noise in and around the area - but this is all part of the New York experience. The apartment itself is very clean and very tastefully decorated and cristina was very helpful when we arrived.