Lisa is a superb host. The apartment is her HOME, hence during our 10 days trip we felt like a true new yorker arriving to our cozy fully equipped place. The entire apt. was totally clean & the private garden just made it more special (we also had 2 lovely squirrels visiting sometimes).
The UES neighborhood is absolutely SAFE, imho better than UWS actually! Tons of regular & fast food restaurants (Bareburger, Shake Shack, Eats On Lex etc.), pastries (e. g. Two Little Red Hens offering one of the top 10 NY Cheescake, according to NY Daily News) bars, shops, markets (Fairway, Gristedes etc.) are within 0,5 - 1 mile distance!
Subway (line 4-5-6) is 8-10 min. walk on 86th - Lexington Av. offering the shopping & eating service opportunities written above.
Cab fare to downtown was between $ 13-17.
All in all, both Lisa and her place is totally recommended!!!!! You won't be disappointed renting Lisa's place for your trip!