Flutist (jazz and classical)
Musician
Yoga, Foodie, Musicians on Tour, Apartment Therapy, I Speak Fluent Sarcasm
English
We booked this holiday home based on Karen's photos and on the excellent reviews from former guests. THEY DID NOT LIE!! Now I'm faced with the challenge of trying to express my enthusiasm for this wonderful unit and generous host in a way that hasn't been written many times already. Can't be done: this is just one more rave review. The accommodation is spacious, stylishly comfortable, very well equipped, and on a charming, quiet street. Extremely comfortable beds and pillows, beautifully... More »
January 2012Karen. Thank you for letting your apartment to us, it was home from home. It was warm and cosy with lots of little extra touches that made it homely. It was very convenient for getting about it New York, with the Metro only a few minutes walk away. We all cant wait to come back again. Would defiantly recommend this to all of our friends. The Thompson and Thomas family.xx
Apartment was amazing - everything was provided and more... Breakfast food in the fridge, tea and coffee, comfy beds - the place is essentially like a boutique hotel! Very handy location too with the "1" subway line about 3 min walk away and a 15min subway ride from downtown.
Beautiful experience!! We spend my mother's & sister birthday in a unique and detailed oriented space. Very clean, accommodating, great location and secure. From the towels, to the soap to the artwork everything was perfect! If I go to the city again, will go straight to Karen's apt. My family loved it. My husband really enjoyed it and my kids had fun! Thanks and blessings!! Nayda & Jose
Nous avons passé un excellent séjour chez Karen ! L'appartement est très agréable dans un quartier cosmopolite. Le logement comporte toutes les commodités nécessaires et est idéale pour une famille avec des enfants.
couldn't be better. wonderful in every way.
Superbe appartement, bien agencé et confortable! Accessible par metro et bus très facilement, quartier sûr et agréable!
We were in NYC for the marathon and wanted to find a place that was somewhat quiet. This apartment was the perfect place. We were very impressed with everything about this place. It was VERY convenient to the subway. It was EXTREMELY clean. Everything we needed was available in the apartment, including kitchen staple items. We were 2 couples traveling together and the layout of the apartment provided great privacy. If this place is available the next time we visit the city, we will book again.
Karen was great, the house was as great as the description and really close to the subway, so you can go anywhere from there. Everything was is pristine shape, and its been great. I'd definitely go back again.
Outstanding stay ! If there were 6 stars, Karen's space would deserve it - her very large, tastefully decorated and immaculately clean space. Close to all transportation and basic food shopping.
A great stay at Karen's place, everything was as described and very comfortable. Karen is a great host and very nice person. Definitely I recommend her.
We cannot rave enough about this hidden treasure! We absolutely loved everything about our stay here. Karen paid attention to every detail and we loved every minute. This hidden gem is an oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Now that we know about it, we won't stay anywhere else! The apartment is immaculately clean, beautifully decorated, and chic but cozy. From the yummy robes in the closet to the goodies in the fridge, we wanted for nothing during our stay here. Karen and Norbert THANK... More »
Absolutely fantastic place to stay, a true home away from home. Super convenient to hop on the subway and head downtown. You will sleep like a baby, beds are luxe and no sirens or traffic, at all ! The apartment is two floors, with one room and bathroom downstairs...was like having my own apartment, so quiet. Lovely set up of teas, orange juice, eggs, butter, etc. Karen and Norbert really took great care of us with Irene looming, we could not have been better looked after. I strongly... More »
The apartment is beautiful!
We had a really good time staying at Karen's apartment. Everything was as described, very clean and welcoming. The subway is very close, and you can be in downtown in 20 minutes. As our flight was very delayed on the day of arrival, Karen waited for us until almost midnight! (thanks again!) On the last day she let us put our luggage in her apartment so we could enjoy our last hours before our flight in the evening. Karen and her husband are very nice people and we highly recommand them.
We had a wonderful five day stay at Karen and Norbert;s beautiful apartment. The hosts were very kind and helpful and never intrusive. The apartment itself was impeccable; very very clean and spacious bedrooms and bathrooms, a very well equipped kitchen, and a comfortable living area. And yes, as others have mentioned, the fridge comes well stocked with breakfast supplies that lasted us most of the week. We drove to the city, and had no difficulty finding parking on 147th St. You do have to... More »
Very nice experience: The house is confortable and charming. Karen is a lovely person Supporting you in everything you need. We spent a fantastic week and we Strongly raccomand you this accomodation.
had a excellent time, worked out better than a hotel for my family of five.
Family from Sweden visiting New York as a start for a 3 weeks' US trip. This was perfect for us - very nice and clean, all conveniences we needed, friendly recieval, smooth communication with the host. We would certainly consider coming back.
Great house and great hosts. Very close to subway line 1. Neighborhood could be little better but that was not a big issue. Very convenient, will stay again if I happen to go to NYC.
Amazing place, superbly clean. Karen thought of everything. We will be back without a doubt!! We travel to NYC quite a bit and I will ALWAYS seek this place out first. It will be hard to find anything comparable to this haven though!! Absolute only negative was that there was no tv, just videos. I usually don't care but there was a tennis match on that I wanted to watch. This would not make me hesitate even for a moment though to stay here again and again and again....
The apartment is just as pictured - lovely, spacious, and comfortable. Very convenient to the subway. Karen was completely understanding when some of our travel plans were delayed. I wouldn't hesitate to book again!
Fantastic apartment! Very clean, roomy and comfortable beds. The main bathroom even has a jacuzzi tub! Fridge had bagels, eggs, jams and other food stuff along with tea and coffee. Easy to call a cab for travel to NYC sites and only 2 blocks away from a subway station. Would recommend this great apartment to a friend.
My family and I went to Central Park for a wedding and Karen's place was very comforting after the hustle and bustle of NY. The place was huge and Karen's hospitality of purchasing a few food essentials were awesome and very much appreciated. I can't say enough of this place. My family and I would stay with here again without hesitation. Pauline from Californina.
We had a lovely week in New York! This apartment is great if you like to see something else but "the village". The neighborhood was quite and you couldn't hear the traffic. Something that we really liked was that the subway was nearby, so we could quickly get to the places we wanted. The apartment was awesome! Karen and Norbert- we could really see that you had really taken time to make it feel like "home". Camilla from Sweden
The apartment was exactly as described and as long as you use the tube you can be in Midtown in 20 mins. We took the bus one day all the way to the south tip of Manhattern which was nice to do once but took over an hour. The apartment is very nice and our initial concerns on the safety of the area were soon forgotton. There are local food stores very close by on Broadway wheer you can get provisions.The tube and bus stops are literally a short walk to the main Broadway and it takes but 3... More »
Totally wonderful stay!!!! We felt at home from the first step inside until the end of our trip. We also enjoyed the learning the history of the home and also the surrounding areas. We recommend this lovely home to anyone who appreciates comfort and value.
Karen's place exceeded our expectations. What a comfortable and tastefully appointed living space she has created. Every detail was thought of - even food in the fridge when we arrived. We definitely want to stay at her place during future stays in NYC. Thank you, Karen!
This place was awesome and hugeeee very cozy the only thing there is no cable had to buy some dvds =( but if your going to be outside 24/7 that should not matter. In all great place. THanks
This apartment is guaranteed to make for an absolutely wonderful time in New York - high standards in every aspect: impeccably clean, cosy beds, homey atmosphere, perfectly located near the river, and, most of all, wonderful hosts! I almost want to keep it my secret! G.
Karen and Norbert live right upstairs, so we got a chance to meet and visit with them. Very accomodating, nice people. Appreciated the help with locating a good place to order food for eating in. Updated interior, great condition, affordable place to stay. After a few days, we started to feel comfortable using the nearby subway system and used it every day. Karen is a talented photographer. Enjoyed your framed photos.
My family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Karen and Norbert's cozy and comfortable apartment for 10 days during the Christmas holidays. The apartment was clean, spacious for 3 adults and 2 teenagers, and there were many nice touches: thick, fluffy towels, slippers, robes, and even a decorated Christmas tree to welcome us! There was so much space that we never felt crowded (like in a hotel room), and having 2 bathrooms with very hot showers was a luxury. It was also nice to have the full... More »
Karen and Norbet's apartment is spacious, warm and secure. Our family enjoyed our stay. The only thing missing was a TV to watch the football but that might just be me. Grant, Australia
December 2010 - Excellent apartment would definately recommend it. The beds were so comfortable. Very close to subway to easily get into central Manhattan. Karen & Norbert certainly made us feel welcome with a fridge full of fruit and food and drink for breakfast, as well as all other staple supplies you may need. Would recommend V&T Restaurant on Amsterdam between 110th & 111th Street (only 3 stops on subway).
We had a great time at Karen's apartment. It's really cosy and comfortable...the beds in particular are fantastically comfortable...and it's very safe and secure. I am sure that the garden would be a real bonus in spring and summer, but it was a little chilly for us to take advantage! We enjoyed visiting a new (for us)neighbourhood of New York and travelling downtown on the 1 is quick and easy. Karen and Norbert are charming and friendly and we hope to visit again someday.
Apartment was excellent, great location near Metro, supermarket and Riverside Park. Had a great time in the "Big Apple" We would thouroughly recommend the apartment to any friends visiting N.Y. Thanks again, Janette & Tom.
Hi Karen Its been an absolute pleasure staying at your apartment. Everything we needed was supplied; the beds were comfortable; we always felt safe travelling the subway which in itself was an easy and convenient way to get everywhere. In fact, our party felt quite at home. Thank you from all of us. I would certainly stay here again. Regards Nick and Friends (Old Bar NSW AUS)
My family and I had a wonderful stay in Karen's apt. It has character and is very roomy. The finishes are top end and the beds are comfortable. It's located on a very quiet street and the subway is two blocks away. Will definately stay here again if it's available. Thanks Karen and Norbert!
Très agréable logement, quartier vivant et sympathique, à louer absolument !
We have been staying in karen's apartment for one entire week and we loved being here, it was nice and comfortable and everything was great : Karen and Norbert are charming people and they welcome you in their lovely place, nice street, furniture and equipment are top, we felt (email hidden) les français, satisfaction garantie avec ce logement chaleureux, bien équipé, joliment décoré : le grand confort ! A louer absolument ! frédéric Jean-Marie Danielle
Karen's home was very spacious and homey. Location was very convenient. 1-2 blocks away from subway station and grocery store. We all had a great time and enjoyable stay. Thanks for having us!
Six of us drove up to NYC for a 2 day stay and we had a wonderful time. The apartment was just enough space for us to stay comfortably. Some of the ladies decided that they would come back with their families and stay in the same apartment. The train was a short walk away. Karen blessed all of us with copies of her jazz music. The fridge was filled with food when we arrived! Make sure you ride the bus (100 or 101) down to 123rd st. where all the shopping is and Appollo Theater. We would... More »
had a great time staying in this luxury apartment two big bedrooms and bathrooms as a family of five it was absolutely great thanks for having us karen...newe family ireland...
Just returned from our stay here. The apartment is lovely and spacious. It is very clean. The train ride into the main tourist attractions doesn't take too long and the beds are really comfortable. Thanks for a lovely stay.
Thank you Karen. The place was lovely and we enjoyed our stay very much. I would stay here again in a heartbeat. Take care Ryan Noll Los Angeles, CA
I stayed at Karen's back in September. Her place was so nice! She and her husband put a lot into the home and they were very accommodating. The subway was less than a block away, there was one of the best organic food stores 2 blocks away. It is right near Riverside drive which is so convenient for travel and running.If you're thinking Harlem..., think again, the whole neighborhood is very clean nice and very well kept and The people were friendly, kind, and helpful. I have been to many... More »
We were two couples in their early thirties and early forties. The appartment was perfect and spotless. It's over two floors so it was a lot larger than we expected. The beds and pillows were very comfortable and the rooms quiet at night. The garden/patio in the back was great. The kitchen had everything we needed to prepare our meals. The fridge was well stocked prior to our arrival. Parking on the street was a breeze. It's a bit far north but well worth it for the added comfort. Subway Ride... More »
Staying at Karen's was like coming home after a long day of walking,touring,subway'ing around town, just coming home, kick off the shoes, slip on the slippers and just relax. It had all the comforts of home and all the convenience of location as the subway was right around the corner to everywhere we needed to go. Even walked to yankee stadium for a day game in less then 20 mins. Our NYC experience was absolutely amazing and karen's place was the main reason why. The artwork was great as... More »
My daughter, my wife and myself have just returned from our first visit ever to NYC where we stayed in Karen and Norbert's well-equipped apartment. The apartment was perfect and clean (and bigger than we expected) and we felt immediately at home and enjoyed our stay there. The best part was actually that the location gives you the opportunity to experience a part of NYC less visited than Times Square and the like. We would definitely stay here again. All the best, Dalia, Maria... More »
overall it was a really good experience. went with my family (5 people in total) and there was a lot of space for all of us. the atmosphere was welcoming and cozy, and it as a short walk to the subway station. unfortunately, there is no AC in the main sitting room, and it can get pretty warm, and it would have been nice to have a TV with cable in main room as well. however, the fridge was well stocked it was nice to have a large space rather than a hotel room.
My friend Debbie and I and our three boys had a great time at Karen's place. It was beyond our expectation and we felt right at home as soon as we stepped into the house. The rooms were beautiful and comfortable, and the bathrooms were so bright and clean. Every morning we had to beg the boys to get out of the house so that we could sight see the city a little. (They could've stayed in her place the whole time we were in New York if we didn't ask them to leave.) We were not too sure... More »
What an amazing place ! We couldn't have dreamt of a better place to stay in NYC. The apartment is incredible with its 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms ; there's plenty of room and it's well decorated. Karen welcomed us with exquisite cinnamon and raisins muffins for breakfast, we really appreciated. The area is really nice and very close to shops and subway. I definitely recommend this place.
The place was beautiful, clean, and very well stocked with breakfast items, towels, blankets, extra beds - anything you may need for your stay. It was also spacious (on three levels) when compared to NYC hotels. The owners are very accomodating. Good location but perhaps too far away from the tourist attractions of Manhattan. That may be an advantage, or not, depending on what you are looking for.
My family and I had a wonderful stay in NY, Karen and Norbert were gracious, friendly and helpful. The location was great and the apartment was so nice. My only complaint is that we couldn't stay longer! I give this apartment and this host 5 stars and highly recommend to anyone visiting NY.
Almost like living in New York. Karen's place is so organized and ready, the kitchen is so well equipped and provisioned. Next time I'll have to host a dinner party. I've already referred the apartment to 3 friends who visit New York frequently -- only problem is that its booking up too quickly -- my friend Trudy told me this morning that its already booked in Sept. when she wanted to visit. So, shhhhhh, don't tell anyone else.
It was a great experience stayin here for the weekend and plus day! the deli up the street is great for late night snacks and the metro station is literally a block away which was very convenient. Definitely coming back here when i have the chance , i already miss NY. THANKS KAREN!
We never regretted the decision of choosing Karen's apartment for our stay in New York during our graduation trip in May. The apartment was awesome and furnished with everything we needed during our stay. The place was homely, comfortable and Karen was an excellent host. The apartment was better than the hotels we stayed in during out trip and we will not hesitate to choose Karen's apartment again if we visit NY again. Once again, thank you Karen for the wonderful and lovely experience.
Karen's apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan was adorable! The location could not be beat -- accessible to NYC public transportation and to museums and wonderful restaurants. Every aspect of comfortable living was attended to: fresh fruit in the fridge; beautiful linens, dinnerware, cookware. Karen and her husband, Norbert, were delightful -- helpful and available for assistance at a moment's notice. We could not have found a lovelier place to stay with a beautiful waterfront park... More »
My family had a wonderful stay in NYC. Karen and Norbert´s apartment is perfect! It is cozy, beautiful, clean, comfortable, has great location and everything we need. Karen welcomed us with a beautiful smile, fresh fruit and a great breakfast. We intend to return more often and recommend to all this amazing apartment. And if you get a chance listen to their music on the CD player. It is fantastic! Maria, Waldomiro, João and Marilena (Salvador, Bahia, Brazil)
Karen and Norbert's apartment is terrific! It's our first family travel in the US. The home-like stay in NYC make this trip perfect. It's only 2 blocks away from the the subway, safe, quiet, and cozy. We do wish to stay her longer if time allows. Definitely, we will be back. Thank you, Karen and Norbert. Yuanyuan Liu from China
We had a wonderful stay in NYC made even better by staying in this beautiful apartment. Karen and Norbert have a lovely and cosy place that was great to come "home" to after a long day/night of exploring the city. They were wonderful and friendly hosts and if you get a chance listen to their music on the CD player! The subway is only a few minutes away and apt is located in a great area where you can get a really good cup of cafe con leche from nearby Dominican cafe. I wouldn't hesitate... More »
That's serious competition there:)! Karen helped me host stranded French tourists and they landed in ...heaven! She welcomed them with warm cookies and goodies, a lovely smile and a superb place. I have to keep up with my place to be on Karen's level:), Definitely a place I would send my guests without any hesitation. Don't get turned off by the location, it's a wonderful part of Manhattan ..yes it's part of Manhattan. You will get a wake-up call from the birds instead of the car horns of... More »
My family and I spent the week this spring at Karen's place. There were five of us- two adults and three teenage kids. There was plenty of space for the five of us. The apartment was a renovated two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment. The apartment had breakfast items and fruit upon our arrival. The apartment had wi-fi connection and a printer so we were able to print out our confirmation tickets. Our host and hostess were very friendly in helping us with directions and suggestions for... More »
I have stayed in a lot of Hotels in New York, but this bed and breakfast was one of the best. It is conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood in Harlem. It is very clean and comfortable and at a very reasonable rate. Karen and Norbert were very accommodating. I would highly recommend this haven to anyone. I will most definitely be staying here again. Zigaboo and Kathy Modeliste
July 2011