My husband, me and our 16y/o and 18y/o boys have visited NYC a few times but always stayed in a hotel. We are from Chicago and wanted out of the touristy areas. This was perfect. Great restaurants within walking distance. It's a very diverse community. Grocery store within 10 second walk. Subway...2 blocks away..N train takes you directly to Times Sqare and Coney Island. W train...directly to Chinatown. Great shopping. Stop at Fools Gold on 145 East Houston Street in the East Village. It's an easy walk from the Chinatown stop on the W train with tons of shops along the way. I am a picky eater. I am pescetarian...which means a vegetarian that eats eggs, dairy and fish,. I had the grilled cheese and tomato bisque. HELLO? Did someone say "yummalicous"? It's not a regular grilled cheese..it is made with grilled onions and truffle oil...I added the grilled onions and a fresh slice of tomato. I cant tell you the secret ingredient..here's a hint... sweet and salty....ya mon! BEST EVER! OK...back to the neighborhood. We used the laundromat on a rainy day..1 minute walk. They have a change machine, but get your detergent etc. From grocery store across the street. Get a discount card from grocery store. It's free and saves a lot of money. Neighborhood is always alive at anytime and has the best restaurants. Definitely go to Ramen. It's on the way to subway...left side of street. Always busy and the most amazing menu. Extremely affordable. That's the great thing about this neighborhood. Shops, friendly locals, and delicious restaurants and a flippin crazy bakery. I can't explain the visual and oral satisfaction it offers...must go...We went 2x in 2 days. OMONIA cafe...on right side of Broadway past the train station...GO GO GO. Now, the apartment. Yes, it's a walk up. 3rd floor. But most apartments in this neighborhood are. The place is very roomy but yet cozy. One TV...in living room..we sat with the boys and talked all the time because of the layout. It says 2 bedrooms...but really 3. There is an extra room that fits a rollaway easily. 2 rollaways in closet with fresh sheets. Anna was extremely kind and easy to contact. Apartment was very clean (I'm in healthcare), and quiet. Previous reviews said loud neighborhood, but the windows are sealed, and keep noise out. We will be back. Thanks so much Anna!!