Ralph's place was just as it is pictured in the photos, and he was an amazing host even as he was away on vacation. His apartment is in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Manhattan an one of the absolute best for food, bars, culture, shopping, people watching, and access to the subway.

It's near 3-4 grocery stores across the street from a liquor store and dollar store, a block away from some excellent corner store/sandwich shops, but tucked away on a quieter street. His neighborhood, East Village, is enough to visit and explore in itself.

His apartment was perfect for our stay. For his one bedroom, he has two bathrooms - very convenient for the both of us as we each took one. Ralph completely stocked his bathrooms with all the toiletries and amenities you would need for your stay. His open floor plan and eat in kitchen was also very nice, as was it for us to be able to wash our clothes with his his washer/dryer.

One of the nicest things is that the elevator opens up directly into his apartment. Ralph had his friend meet us when we got there with the keys and explain everything to us. While we were there, and while Ralph was away in Europe on vacation, he kept in contact with us the entire time checking on our stay and giving us advice and recommendations on where to go and what to see.

Before we even got there, Ralph sent us a detailed document on Sightseeing and eating recommendations and any information we'd need on his apartment and neighborhood.

We enjoyed a lot of great food near his apartment and we enjoyed the walk to the subway because its filled with so much to see and do. His apartment is a few blocks from the Union Square Subway stop, which has multiple trains to take you anywhere you need to go. On the way to Union Square there is a bunch of shopping, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Food Emporium, and many restaurants.

Ralph welcomed us to anything in the apartment, and though we weren't there much during our stay, it was very comfortable and convenient when we were. He is a long time New Yorker with a love for his city and will share with you anything you need to know about your visit.

We'd enjoyed our stay, and we'd return on vacation. I'd definitely recommend Ralph's apartment and Ralph as a host for your stay.