Reviews for Upper West Side Vacation Rental - VRBO 238809ha - 1 BR Manhattan Apartment in NY, Brownstone Beauty

Amazing location

Guest Candace O.
Date of stay 11/06/12
Review Submitted 12/02/12

If you are want a non-touristy stay in New York, look no further! I loved the location. Mere steps to Centreal Park and only a block (or less) to the local dry clearner, grocery, pharmacy, Starbucks, restaurants, etc. As I sat outside on Columbus Ave drinking coffee it was clear that the pedestrians were New Yorkers. That was a very different experience than my previous trips to Manhattan. This apartment is even better than I expected. I walked in the front door and literally said "WOW!". I'd been warned that the photos of a property can look better than it actually is. But this apt was as good, if not better, than the pictures on the HomeAway site. The kitchen was great -- all full-size, high end appliances. Plus all the tools you need to cook. That is, if you can resist the restaurants. There was loads of closet space AND lots of hangers. The bed was wonderful -- so comfortable. And the living/dining room was comfortable and very charming. PLUS a small balcony you can sit on overlooking the courtyards of other brownstones. Most surprising of all was the quiet. Even when on the balcony all I could hear were birds - no traffic, no sirens, just quiet. Finally, Michel (i.e. Michael), the landlord was very friendly and helpful. Rent this property. You won't regret it.

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Met all our expectations and more

Guest Candace H.
Date of stay 10/02/12
Review Submitted 10/07/12

We stayed for a week and were delighted by the apartment and it's location. The apartment was clean, airy, and well stocked with essentials. The owner was helpful and friendly and was waiting for us on arrival. If we return to NY we would always choose to stay here and have already recommended it to our traveling friends. Many thanks from 2 very happy guests!

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Beautiful, comfortable and convenient!

Guest Rose V.
Date of stay 07/25/11
Review Submitted 08/30/11

We thoroughly enjoyed our month stay at this apartment! It is very "New York" with the brick walls and so convenient to Central Park, subway, buses, restaurants and museums. Pictures were accurate and working with the owner was easy. The apartment was well equipped with everything you needed. Loved having breakfast out on the balcony! We would stay there again....or if not available, at another of their properties. I made the "families with young children" recommendation only if children can walk up stairs unassisted. This apt. is in a Brownstone with outside stairs and is on the 2nd floor. Location couldn't be better!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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NYC on NYE

Guest NYECrew
Date of stay 12/29/10
Review Submitted 01/11/11

This property was everything that was described and more. Khris was more than accomidating. The space was surprisingly more than enough for five adults over the span of four nights. We were even able to utilize the kitchen to make a little family dinner. The apartment is a block away from the subway, and conveniently located very close to whole foods, a cute neighberhood bar, pizza, and a pharmacy. We would defientely rent from Khris again should we return to New York City.

Recommended for: Girls getaway, tourists without a car.

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Amazing NYC

Guest Kim and Val
Date of stay 12/28/10
Review Submitted 03/17/11

My two teenage children, husband and I had the most fantastic three weeks in NYC from late Dec 2010 to mid jan 2011. The apartment was wonderful - fantastic location, safe, warm and even better that the description and reviews. We really felt like locals after just a few days. Great restaurants, attractions, delis and bars all within a few blocks and Central Park on the corner - beautiful!! Our flight into NY was delayed and we arrived on the doorstep at 4am -Michel was bleary eyed but amazingly helpful and forgiving!!! We have already recommended the apartment to all of our friends and hope to return one day - May it be soon!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Great Apartment, Very Poor Customer Service

Guest Linz
Date of stay 12/18/10
Review Submitted 12/28/10

This is the second time my husband and I have rented an apartment from this renter at this location. The location is great - very close to a major subway line, close to areas with bars, restaurants and shopping (Amsterdam/Columbus/Broadway). The apartments we've stayed in both times were different but both very nice and clean. The first time we stayed in December 2009, my two major complaints were that even after we called the owner (as directed) when we got to the airport we still waited 30-45 minutes to obtain a key from him. We stood out in the cold until his wife arrived to let us in. Also, the boilers were turned off at night and the first night we froze in the apartment. When I called the owner to ask about it, he informed me that the boilers are turned off each night at 10 PM and come back on at 6 AM. I must add that this was never mentioned by the owner, nor was it mentioned in the contract. The next night, the owner provided space heaters and he rest of the nights we were not cold. Other than those two issues, the stay was wonderful. The second stay which was recent, just a few weeks ago - December of 2010. Again, I emailed the owner the day before alerting him of us coming and I also called him when we arrived at the airport. I called and called and he did not answer. I left many voice messages for him. When we arrived at the apartment (he lives there), I knocked on his door and his nanny answered. She said she knew I had been calling because the owner's phone was in the kitchen but the owners were not home. She informed us that she was not aware that we were renting and the owners did not leave her any instructions. She said that the owners would be back in an hour or so. She tried contacting the wife, but she did not answer her cell phone. I was furious. The nanny kindly kept our luggage and we headed to the nearest restaurant. After an hour and a half, the owner called and we were finally let into our apartment. Communication overall with this owner is a huge problem. When sending payment, I never received a confirmation that he even received it until I emailed him asking for confirmation. Again, the apartments are beautiful, clean and a great location but because we were "burned" two times by this owner we will not rent again. A hotel is expected to uphold customer service standards. I guess an individual renting his apartment is not. Be aware of this when renting from this owner.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Owner Respound to Review # 1260500 We regret that some miscommunication has occurred relating to the check-in procedures. Typically we email the key access code to our guests prior to their arrival to avoid ANY delays. We sincerely regret that this caused an inconvenience and have already addressed it with Lindsay. Though we try to be flexible we do have a specific check-in & check-out time and since we're NOT a hotel can not be around 24/7. Even in the hotel, you sometimes have to wait for your room to be ready. Unlike a hotel, we were able to accommodate her VERY late check-out at no additional charge. Clearly there are a lot of advantages of renting a apartment as opposed to a hotel room, but a disadvantage is that we don't have a front desk service 24/7. However someone is always available to answer calls within 1 hour window but we have 4 different phone numbers but Lindsay kept calling the same numbers. Since we live in the building, we're able to quickly resolve any issues and accommodate all our guests. As far as the heat - in 2009 we had a different boiler system. Since then, we have upgrade the system and the heat works from 5: PM to 4:30 AM and it turns back on at 7 AM to 3 PM. In fact we often hear the opposite complaint - that it is too hot! You can see many other reviews that rave about the customer service AND the apartments. In fact this is the first time this type of situation occurred. In the light of this occurrence, we will add a reminder on the agreement to request the access code before the arrival. Sincerely Michel

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Happy Families!

Guest Fleish
Date of stay 11/04/10
Review Submitted 11/18/10

We recently stayed in this fabulous apartment for a week and couldnt have wished for a better place! It suited us perfectly having two young children. Being so close to the Subway and to Central Park is a definate plus and the next block up provides many choices for dining and groceries. The apartment was beautifully clean, plenty of linen and towels provided and very warm!! Our only complaint would be the noise from the central heating which woke us during the night but the kids managed to sleep through. I would definately choose to stay here again if I ever get the chance to head back to New York.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

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Second home

Guest NY fan
Date of stay 09/04/10
Review Submitted 12/28/10

This place really felt like home! I rented the apartment for a whole month and found it very accomodating. Everything I needed was there. Lots of extra bed linnen and towels for visiting guests, a washer and dryer in the basement, iron board, plenty of closets, etc. The apartment looked exactly like the photos. The location is without doubt excellent. A few steps away from the park and subway, nice grocery shops and places to eat. After a hectic day in the city it always felt nice to go home, to the apartment and relax. I loved having breakfast on the little balcony. All in all, it was my home for the month!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful location, relaxing oasis!

Guest Austex Family
Date of stay 08/01/10
Review Submitted 10/04/10

This brownstone was perfect for our family of 4. Our favorite part was being just 2 blocks from Central Park. We went to the park to relax several times, renting a boat, walking trails, seeing Shakespeare, and eating at the boat house. You can walk to 2 different subway stations so getting almost anywhere in Manhattan was relatively easy. We didn't need a car or cab. Our 10 and 13 year olds loved seeing how real New Yorkers live--or at least the lucky ones. They also liked having their own beds--which is one of the reasons we love using home away. The decor was beautiful. We cooked several meals in and loved having coffee on the balcony. The air conditioning was a little different from what we are used to in Texas, but once we realized that we needed to empty the water from the one in the master bedroom, it worked well to cool us in the August heat. Having a coin-operated washer/dryer in the basement was very handy. The neighborhood was very nice and safe. We walked out to dinner and to the small grocery stores. I have recommended it to several friends and would definitely stay here again if I get the chance to come back to New York.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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What a treasure!!

Guest 2 plus twins
Date of stay 06/12/10
Review Submitted 06/21/10

We absolutely loved staying in this apartment with our 2 young children. Very beautifully decorated, extremely convenient location and the owners are very hospitable. Any time we needed something, they responded quickly. New York is truly amazing and staying in such a wonderful rental for a week, made it all that much more special! Thank you Michael!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, sightseeing.

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Our stay in Appt 1B

Guest BMN&R
Date of stay 05/15/10
Review Submitted 06/16/10

We were a party of four adults; parents and two daughters. So much nicer than hotel accommodation, spacious, comfort of your own home appeal - able to please yourself when you like. We stayed in apartment #1B so only one flight of stairs from the street to the front door. The apartment was clean and well maintained. Liked the decor, well furnished, all mod cons. Location in pleasant area and ideal for exploring Manhattan (and beyond). Subway literally around the corner. Proximity to Central Park, gives a little bit of countryside in the city. Would recommend this property to a friend. Would book and stay again. Hosts, very helpful and accommodating.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful Upper Westside Find!

Guest ajdjokev
Date of stay 04/03/10
Review Submitted 04/12/10

My husband, 10 year old son and I recently rented this apartment for five nights. It was such a great find. We loved the neighborhood, it was close to the Park and subway....and looked just like the photos. We lucked out with great weather so enjoyed the balcony as well. It was great space for the 3 of us and would work well for more than 3 with the two sleep sofas. This was our first time using Homeaway -- and we definitely found the real thing! Because it was off the main street, we found it very quiet and the two out of three beds we used were very comfortable. Lots of linens provided. We would recommend this apartment without a doubt to friends and family and hope it is available the next time we head to New York City.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Absolutely the Perfect Location for a NYC Vacation

Guest LaArchitect
Date of stay 03/25/10
Review Submitted 04/12/10

You could not find a better location for your visit to NYC! This charming brownstone is virtually next door to the Natural History Museum, one half block to the C Metro line that delivers you directly to the Theatre District and Times Square, mere steps to the middle of Central Park, and a short stroll to the Metropolitian Museum of Art and Guggenheim Museum. Michael was very accomodating throughout the entire process and even went out of his way to accomodate our unusual arrival time. The apartment was neat, clean, and spacious with 12' ceilings. The large jaccuzi tub was great after walking all day, and the kitchen was well equipped. Apartment was nicely decorated, spacious and homey. Our party of three were in apartment 1-B, so there was only 1/2 flight of steps to it, and being located on the back of the building, no street noise. The only negative of the entire stay was the noise made by the pipes of the heating system whenever it kicked on, but if you are there during summer, this should not be an issue. It was very obvious within the bedroom, but not so much in the living room. We could not have been happier with this rental, and will defintely return on our next visit, since we still had a lot to see after 10 days. Don't miss the vertical tour of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine if you have any interest in medevil architecture. Jackson Hole diner for great hamburgers, or Zabars for exotic foods are only a couple of blocks away.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2

Great stay in NYC

Guest AB
Date of stay 12/22/09
Review Submitted 01/28/10

This was our first experience with Home away & we were very satisfied with our experience.The appartment was as described on the website. We had a wonderful stay in this appartment over the Christmas holidays. The appartment is beautifully appointed, nicely decorated, has a warm and inviting feel about it. The kitchen had everything we needed and more, and the beds were very comfortable. Location is excellent, close to Central Park, shops, restaurants, grocery store and subway stations. Michel, the owner, was extremely helpful and very welcoming. The only negative was the noisy pipes which made a clanking noise in the early morning and in the evening. Despite this, I would recommend this appartment and will definitely return.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/6

Home Away, Indeed!

Guest Heather F.
Date of stay 09/02/09
Review Submitted 09/17/09

Perfect location, lovely hosts (they live in the building). It's beautifully furnished and larger than many NYC apts. The amenities are stellar, you're steps from CPW (and the Diana Ross playground for kids), a few blocks from the Children's Museum, and the subway, restaurants on Columbus & Amsterdam, etc. There is no elevator, so I would not recommend this property for folks with mobility limitations. Other than that, I cannot say enough positive things! I have already recommended this property to others and hope to stay with my family again.

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 6/6

A wonderful apartment for a family or a couple.

Guest Marvin Field
Date of stay 05/30/09
Review Submitted 06/10/09

We spent nine wonderful nights here with our 3 1/2 year old. The apartment is very nicely decorated, with all the amenities of home. The brick makes it extremely homey, and the balcony was a wonderful place to take breakfast or to have a drink and read at night. The location is a plus, as well, with a subway stop one block away, the American Museum of Natural History another block away, Central Park less than a block away (and several playgrounds within Central Park are within walking distance). In addition, the variety of food nearby is fantastic. You can find just about anything you're looking for within any price range. Grocery stores are also plentiful, with some fantastic stores within walking distance. We definitely hope to stay here again!

Recommended for: Families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 13/14

Vacation Rentals by Owner

Brownstone Beauty - Steps from Central Park & Museum [#238809ha] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (16)

Amazing location

Amazing location

Met all our expectations and more

Met all our expectations and more

Beautiful, comfortable and convenient!

Beautiful, comfortable and convenient!

NYC on NYE

NYC on NYE

Amazing NYC

Amazing NYC

Great Apartment, Very Poor Customer Service

Great Apartment, Very Poor Customer Service

Happy Families!

Happy Families!

Second home

Second home

Wonderful location, relaxing oasis!

Wonderful location, relaxing oasis!

What a treasure!!

What a treasure!!

Our stay in Appt 1B

Our stay in Appt 1B

Wonderful Upper Westside Find!

Wonderful Upper Westside Find!

Absolutely the Perfect Location for a NYC Vacation

Absolutely the Perfect Location for a NYC Vacation

Great stay in NYC

Great stay in NYC

Home Away, Indeed!

Home Away, Indeed!

A wonderful apartment for a family or a couple.

A wonderful apartment for a family or a couple.