New York Habitat Blog

Downtown Manhattan gets a bad rap. Uptown New Yorkers rarely venture past the village and if they do it’s only to conduct business. Tourists often hunker down among the bright lights of Midtown, and the bohemian types from the Village and Lower East Side are, well, too hip to leave the neighborhood (unless, of course, they’re headed to Brooklyn).

Lower Manhattan is, in fact, one of New York’s most interesting places to visit and for that matter find an apartment rental. The neighborhood, consisting of the Financial District, TriBeCa and Battery Park, is filled with history, diverse architecture and New York Habitat accommodations.

East River View, Manhattan New York

Downtown Manhattan has played a huge role in the history of North America. It’s the site of the first Dutch Settlement of New York in the early 17th century, the inauguration of the first American president, George Washington and the birthplace of the American skyscraper. In the 19th century millions of immigrants first touched American soil in lower Manhattan.

Downtown was also home to the attacks that destroyed the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. For better or worse, the site is now a major tourist attraction and the center of a massive redevelopment project. Following the attacks the neighborhood quickly rebounded and is now more thriving then before the attacks.Among the major attractions Downtown are Battery Park and the ferries connecting it to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, The New York Stock Exchange, City Hall Park and the South Street Seaport. Once a bastion of fishermen and organized crime, the cobblestoned Seaport is now home to over 100 shops and some of the oldest remaining low-rise architectural gems in New York.

New York Accommodation: 2 bedroom loft in TriBeCa (NY-347)

The residential population is around 30,000 but during an average workday the population balloons to more then 300,000 suit-wearing or camera-wielding people. The streets are particularly crowded at lunchtime when even hotdog stands require reservations (not really, but expect long lines!). Come nightfall, though, the quarter is downright tranquil compared to the rest of Manhattan.

Though the neighborhood is not as busy as midtown you can find restaurants owned by top chef including: Nobu, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Bouley. For many residents the neighborhood provides a respite from the active nightlife farther north. That said, this is Manhattan. Cars honk their horns, people speak loudly and a raucous party is never far away.

Around the corner from City Hall and a short walk from the Brooklyn Bridge is this cozy alcove studio apartment in TriBeCa (NY-10927). Also available is this loft-style 2-bedroom apartment in the heart of TriBeCa (NY-347). Finally, down at the southern tip of Manhattan Island is this studio accommodation in Battery Park (NY-11925) featuring some of the best views New York has to offer (think Statue of Liberty).

Much more than business suits and opening bells, Lower Manhattan, including the Financial District, Battery Park and TriBeCa, is home to a surprising nightlife, centuries of American history and an increasing number of residents.

Photograph provided by francois-roux-photography.com

Long before New York Habitat offered Americans an option to pricey Paris hotels and accommodations, much earlier than when Hemingway, Stein, and Fitzgerald frequented the old Shakespeare & Co. Bookshop in Paris, and well ahead of the hordes of U.S. tourists that now pack the Latin Quarter there was one man that started the American in Paris phenomenon: Benjamin Franklin.

Paris Accommodation: Studio in Marais - Les Halles (PA-3120)

Franklin was a Founding Father, inventor, charismatic diplomat and one of the most pivotal figures in the birth of America and conception of Franco-American relations. Franklin was an American in Paris before there was an independent American nation to speak of. A standout among the bevy of Paris entertainment choices this winter is Benjamin Franklin: An American in Paris:1776-1785 at the Carnavalet Museum. Of course, New York Habitat has dozens of Paris accommodations available for the duration of the historical exhibit.

Coinciding with what would be Franklin’s 300th birthday, the Carnavalet exhibit traces his diplomatic mission to Paris from 1776 to 1785 during the American Revolution. The exposition, running until March 9, brings together 340 paintings, sculptures, objects and documents highlighting the role this historical monolith had in both the American and French revolutions. Central to the museum’s portrayal is the immense celebrity and personality that befell France with Franklin’s arrival and near decade long sejour. History buffs interested further in the Franklin’s French connection should pick up a copy of A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France and the Birth of America at one of Paris’ many English-language bookshops(bookstore blog link). The Carnavalet Museum is fittingly located in the Bastille quarter on rue de Sévigné, steps from Metro stations Saint Paul and Chemin Vert.

Paris Accommodation: 3 Bedroom Rental in Montorgueil, Marais - Les Halles (PA-3633)

History lovers planning to view the exhibition while in Paris have plenty of New York Habitat accommodations to choose from. First off, the wood-beamed ceiling and elegant furnishings in this Studio in Marais-Les Halles (PA-3120) give it an old-world feel. For more contrast, try this modern 3-bedroom apartment rental in Marais-Les Halles (PA-3633).

Thanks to Benjamin Franklin’s unprecedented diplomatic mission and subsequent French aid to the bourgeoning states we can now affectionately refer to ourselves as Americans in Paris.

What other Paris exhibits are you looking forward to this winter and spring? Please Comment Below

Paris has long been known for its world-class shopping. The world’s best designers come to unveil new creations here at Fashion Week, they open their boutiques here and fashionistas flock from all over to revel in Paris chic consumerism. As New York Habitat has discovered, finding the newest shopping trends in Paris is easy, but uncovering an original antique is a bit harder and a whole lot more rewarding.

Paris Accommodation: 3 Bedroom Rental in Montparnasse - Porte de Versailles (PA-1600)

In the City of Light, the best places to treasure hunt are the centuries old flea markets de Vanves and Saint Ouen. New York Habitat’s accommodation options are close enough to the markets to make lugging purchases back home a breeze. To enter these Parisian markets is to enter a world where haggling is the preferred language and kitsch and high brow comfortably rub shoulders.

 The Saint Ouen flea market is immense; in fact, it’s the world’s largest antique market. Connoisseurs of everything from silverware to textiles revel in the market’s seven hectares of space, 2,500 dealers and more than 120,000 weekend visitors. Be prepared to spend your entire day at the Saint Ouen in order to find what you’re looking for; though well organized, the speed of the market can be a bit intimidating.

At the other end of town is the less overwhelming, but nonetheless excellent, Vanves flea market. This market features 380 professional merchants displaying vintage clothing, Art Deco lighting fixtures, jewelry, books, bric-a-brac and just about everything else. At both markets be sure to bring cash, as credit cards are generally not accepted here.

Paris Accommodation: 2 Bedroom Rental in Montmartre - Sacre Coeur (PA-2365)

These two famous markets are at opposite ends of the city: Saint Ouen in the north and Vanves in the south. New York Habitat has several attractive apartment choices in the 14th arrondissement close to the Vanves market. For families visiting Paris, there is a large 3-bedroom rental apartment in Montparnasse-Porte de Versailles (PA-1600). Also in the neighborhood is this bright and leafy 1-bedroom duplex apartment in Alesia, Montparnasse-Porte de Versailles (PA-2149). Up north, in Saint Ouen’s 18th arrondissement quarter are many New York Habitat apartments. For example, this rustic and completely original 2-bedroom apartment rental in Montmartre-Sacre Coeur (PA-2365) is big enough to store plenty of flea-market buys.

The East Village has always been the place to scope out New York City’s ever-changing hip scene as the destination for all creatively tormented souls. Home to the city’s most unique hotspots, there are numerous of cafes, nightclubs and bars within the neighborhood. Not just a nocturnal hangout for the young and energetic, the East Village has plenty to offer during the daylight hours with its art galleries, thrift stores and specialty shops.

New York Accommodation: Studio apartment in the East Village (NY-4062)

The East Village starts at 14th street and stretches down to Houston Street while encompasses everything in between Bowery and Third Avenue to Avenue D. As the home to many artists, painters, poets, writers and musicians, the East Village has a distinctly unique and eclectic atmosphere. With New York University and the New School campuses located nearby, many college students and young adults inhabit the area.

With its convenient location at 6th Street in between First and Second Avenues, this studio apartment in the East Village (NY-4062) is a spacious and comfortable retreat. It has enough room to house four guests comfortably. The studio apartment has a queen-sized bed and an additional double fold-out futon. The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances and completely stocked with all necessary cookware. A big and bright bathroom features a bathtub-shower combo stall with textured glass panes.

New York Accommodation: Studio apartment in the East Village (NY-4062)

The apartment is on the second floor of the three story walk-up townhouse that dates back to the mid-1800s. In addition, it is near by several subway train stations that run all over Manhattan and the adjacent boroughs. At Second and Houston Streets, the F and V trains stop and the 6 train offers service at Astor Place and Fourth Avenue.

What makes this apartment a Hidden Gem?

Having been recently renovated, the entire studio apartment is decorated with stylish and modern accents. Maple hardwood floors run throughout the apartment and are accentuated by the cedar mantle piece and exposed wooden cabinets in the kitchen. Adding an eastern flare, ceramic cobalt blue tiles adorn the kitchen sink and the fireplace. In addition, the kitchen table top is a colorful and unique tile mosaic. The artistic touch is also extended to the bathroom with a large marble countertop for the sink. A comfortable and cozy retreat, this apartment is a hidden gem within the bustling, busy city.

Ever stayed in the East Village? Know great restaurants and chic boutiques? We want to hear about it so please leave suggestions in the comment section below!

This unique island village, L’Isle sur la Sorgue, in the South of France rests at the foot of the Vaucluse plateau and is built on five branches of the Sorgue river. Canals dotted with water wheels wind through the city between the narrow ancient streets, giving the town the nickname, “Venice of the Comtat.” 

L'Isle sur la Sorgue

Despite being ravaged by the French Revolution and later WW II, L’Isle sur la Sorgue has conserved parts of its history in its buildings and ancient structures.  In the “vieille ville,” the heart of the old city, stands Notre-Dame-des-Anges, a church built in 1222 and rebuilt in the 17th century.  There is also a museum in honor of Petrarch, the famous 14th Century Italian poet, who settled in the village. The main attraction of the town, however is its walkable streets that spread out from the vieille ville.  The streets amble around the picturesque waterways, and are lined with cafés, bakeries and shops.

L’Isle sur la Sorgue will also delight antique lovers with its 300 permanent antique dealers.  Second-hand shops here also make it a destination for bargain hunters.  In addition, every Easter and over the August holiday, the town hosts antique fairs that bring hordes of dealers and customers from all over the world. 

If the charm of this antique-filled town on the water appeals to you, New York Habitat offers a variety of accommodations to choose from based on your length of stay and the number of people.  For example, this two-bedroom house in L’Isle sur la Sorgue, Avignon Region (PR-528) is in the heart of town.  This house accommodates four people and is available for stays ranging from three days to one month.  The colorful living room is accented with an open beam ceiling, fireplace and a piano.  Windows in the room open onto a calm, quiet street.  A small kitchen and dining room complete the first floor. The second floor has two bedrooms which share a bathroom.

South of France Accommodation: Studio in L'Isle sur la Sorgue, Avignon Region (PR-727)

You might also consider New York Habitat’s studio in L’Isle sur la Sorgue, Avignon Region (PR-727), available for rental from three days to one month. A couple who recently stayed here commented, “We enjoyed very much our stay in L’ Isle sur la Sorgue. The apartment was very nice and clean.”   This elegant garden studio is inside a private gated residential area, and is a few minutes’ walk from the center of town.  A living room with a convertible bed, dining area and open kitchen make this studio comfortable for two people.  A bay window faces a landscaped garden and terrace, which guests are welcome to enjoy. 

Outside of town, a larger family-sized accommodation is this five-bedroom villa in Les Valayans, Avignon Region (PR-631).  This tastefully renovated farmhouse is located in a small village between Avignon & Carpentras, about 12 kilometers from L’Isle sur la Sorgue. This house is available for weekly or monthly rentals throughout the year and can accommodate 8 or 9 people.  As an older property, the rooms in this house are graciously proportioned.  In the living room, exposed beams, stone walls and a fireplace give this home a typical country French feel.  The huge eat-in kitchen and dining room both have windows looking out onto the leafy tree-filled garden, at the end of which is a private pool.  This house is located near a small hamlet that has a bakery, a grocery, a bar, a little restaurant and a hairdresser. Staying here, you’ll need a car to enjoy the many attractions in the region: the Alpilles and the Luberon mountains are about 30 minutes drive away; the Ventoux Mountain is close by; and other small villages of the Avignon region are within driving distance.

South of France accommodation: 5 Bedroom Rental in Les Valayans, Avignon Region (PR-631)

With its unique layout of waterways and ancient architecture, “Venice” of the South of France is really unlike any other village in the region.  Whether you want to amble through the streets of L’Isle sur la Sorgue alone, listening to the babble of water-filled canals, or whether you’d like to hunt for antique bargains with a few friends, or take drives through the mountains, New York Habitat’s accommodations here make it easy to suit your vacation wishes. 

The neighborhood of Chelsea has long been famed for its hip atmosphere and eclectic scene. Located just to the west of Midtown, Chelsea is centered between Hell’s Kitchen, the Garment District, Greenwich Village and the Meatpacking District. While Chelsea is primarily a residential neighborhood, making it perfect for vacation accommodations, some of the most popular restaurants, delis, shopping boutiques and nightclubs are found within the area.

About Chelsea:

Named for Sir Thomas More’s family manor of the same name, Chelsea is well known for its diversity. The neighborhood, which spans from 15th to 34th Streets and between the Hudson River and Sixth Avenue, is where some of the most distinctive and unique cultures and lifestyles intersect. With so many influences in one place, the area has plenty to do and see.

Chelsea Piers is one of Chelsea’s and New York City’s most famed landmarks as it serves as a complex for various entertainment and sports arenas. The Piers offer an activity for everyone with a golf course, a bowling alley, a skating rink, batting cages and a rock climbing wall. Located between 17th and 23rd Streets along the Hudson River, the Hudson River Greenway is a walking and biking path stretching in front of the Piers and is perfect for enjoying picturesque river views.

Chelsea also stands as the location of New York City’s cutting edge and exciting art scene. There are over 200 art galleries , predominantly found from 16th to 27th Streets between Tenth and Eleventh Avenues. The neighborhood has also become another prime area for quality, high-end clothing with numerous boutiques in western Chelsea from world-famous designers. In addition, the area is home to New York City’s most famous nightclubs, which are found on “Club Row” on 27th Street. Marquee and Bungalow 8 are known for their famous, celebrity patrons most nights of the week. 

Accommodations in Chelsea:

New York Accommodation: 1 bedroom rental in Midtwon West - Chelsea (NY_8169)

Depending on the length of stay, New York Habitat has plenty of options for comfortable and affordable accommodations in Chelsea. Whether looking for a short-term rental or a fully-furnished apartment for a longer stay, there is something to please everyone:

Chelsea, New York Vaction Rentals:

• This one-bedroom rental in Midtown-Chelsea (NY-8169), located on 27th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, is a spacious loft with room for up to four guests and an extraordinary view of the Empire State Building. 
•  This two-bedroom rental in Midtown-Chelsea (NY-4564), on 26th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, is also a loft apartment but boasts of a bar and tiled interior garden. 

Chelsea, New York: Furnished Rentals:

•  This one-bedroom furnished apartment in Midtown-Chelsea (NY-11293), on 19th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues, is a charming space within a 1900s historic building with comfortable furnishings and beautiful decorations.
• This one-bedroom furnished apartment in Midtown-Chelsea (NY-10812), on 19th Street between Eighth and Ninth Avenues, is in a prewar Brownstone on a quiet tree-lined street with a private key-only entrance.

Have recommendations for the best restaurants and clubs in Chelsea? Know of spectacular galleries or shops? Share the best hangouts and hotspots in Chelsea in the comments section below!