New York Habitat Blog

New York City can be a tough place. All the things we love about New York–the crowds, sounds and smells–can sometimes be the same things that wear down the residents and travelers filling the streets. Visiting New York is a joy, adventure and a challenge, and every once in a while the challenge of it all requires that we take some intimate time for ourselves. Seasoned New Yorkers know this all too well, that’s why the city is dotted with world-class spas of all shapes, sizes and specialties.

New York accommodation: 1-bedroom loft in Midtown West (NY-8169) photo

While a thorough massage or skin treatment can cost quite a bit in Manhattan, hundreds of locations throughout the city offer special rates and treatments for one week this spring. The birth of a new season is the perfect time to wake up in a New York Habitat vacation rental apartment, rub out winter kinks with a lengthy massage and step out into the city that never sleeps with a rejuvenated body and spirit.

The national Spa Week event is in its tenth year and will be taking place from April 13-19 here in the Big Apple. Participating spas throughout the city will be offering $50 full service spa treatments. Spas are offering more than just 15 minute back rubs, participating sites will present some of their most luxurious treatments to eager guests. In some cases customers could end up saving hundreds of dollars on treatments they would never dream of having done otherwise. For a full list of participating spas visit the Spa Week website.

Many New York Habitat accommodations feel like spas themselves, with dozens of apartments featuring the comforts and decor most often found at resorts. Below are a few New York Habitat apartments available during Spa Week:

-This 1-bedroom rental apartment in Midtown West-Chelsea (NY-12800) is the quintessential New York loft. Exposed brick, hardwood floors and tasteful furnishings define the sun-bathed interior. The apartment’s private rooftop deck has guests gazing at unobstructed views of the Empire State Building.

-This 1-bedroom loft vacation rental in Midtown West-Chelsea (NY-8169) is an absolute must-see. At a robust 3,000 square feet, the open space can sleep 4 guests quite comfortably.

Let us know about your favorite Spas in New York below.

By the time May rolls around on the French Riviera, it’s already beach weather - but the real action is at the Cannes Film Festival, held every year in this normally sleepy beach town in the South of France.  The 62nd edition is from May 13 to 24, 2009 - so, why not rent a New York Habitat vacation apartment and place yourself smack dab in the middle of it all?

Cannes, France vacation rental: 1-bedroom apartment (PR-916) pic

We usually only hear about the 20 films competing in the Official Selection, but the Cannes Film Festival is actually comprised of several different sections run by four separate film-based organizations who together screen hundreds of films for the thousands of attendees each year.

So, how do you get in to see a film in the running?  Sadly, you can’t! The theater passes for each film are severely regulated and securely held.  In fact, the only non-film industry viewers allowed in are card-carrying residents of Cannes proper and formally organized and accredited film education groups.  But, that doesn’t mean you can’t take your chances hobnobbing with the stars, or angling for a paparazzi shot on the gorgeous beaches!

This 2-bedroom rental in Cannes (PR-916) puts you at the heart of the action - just steps away from the stunning port, the high-fashion boutiques on La Croisette, and the world-famous red carpet at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where the awards ceremony is held each year.  And when you’re not out stalking your favorite celebrities, you can whip up a light summer lunch in the rental’s new, sleek kitchen and enjoy it al fresco on the balcony.

If you prefer to be a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood on the French Riviera, opt instead for a 2-bedroom rental in Juan Les Pins, France (PR-598), just outside of Cannes. Light and airy and surrounded by greenery, this gorgeous little place lets you hit the beach in the morning, head into Cannes to check out the scene, and be home in time for dinner!

But if you really want to make the most out of a French Riviera vacation that coincides with the Cannes Film Festival, then this gorgeous 2-bedroom rental in Nice, France (PR-928) can be your hub for day trips to the Italian Riviera, a glamorous evening trying your luck at the tables in Monte Carlo, and zipping over to Cannes to see and be seen.  There’s lots to do in Nice, as well - and its international airport makes the city all the more convenient for the savvy traveler.

We hope you’re on your way to see what all the fuss is about! But, you might be an old hand at the whole celebrity scene - if you’ve had a fun celebrity sighting, at the Cannes Film Festival or elsewhere, brag about it in the comments!

The enduring legacy of French colonialism is omnipresent around the world, heard in the dialects spoken in New Orleans and witnessed in the colonial architecture of Casablanca. North Africa in particular traces much of its modern culture and society on a melange of traditional roots along with an infusion of all things French. Often overlooked however is the reciprocity of the French-African relationship.

Paris Accommodation: 2-bedroom rental in Champs Elysees: (PA-3586)

Modern France is full of North African influence, from the Moroccan and Algerian restaurants that dot the city to the popular French-language manipulations originated north of the Sahara. Visitors to the French capital surely won’t have a hard time recognizing the remnants of a disputed colonial past. Those wishing to dig beyond the surface of the evolving history will find many questions answered at the Arab Institute’s Bonaparte and Egypt exhibition, running until the end of March. While sifting through the complexities of history can be hard work, finding a New York Habitat accommodation couldn’t be any easier.

The Arab Institute is one of Paris’ finest modern exhibition spaces and frequently focuses themes on the interactions between East and West. This winter’s Bonaparte and Egypt exhibit  features some 400 documents and artifacts illuminating the ways in which France and Egypt have, and continue to, influence each other. Highlights of the exhibit include artifacts revolving around the deciphering of the Rosetta stone and the conception of the Suez Canal. Other topics covered include Bonaparte’s Egypt expedition, the origins of Egyptology, the French public’s fascination with Egypt, the history as seen through the eyes of its contemporary artists and the movement for Egyptian identity following France’s departure.

Unfortunately New York Habitat can’t offer accommodations with views of the Egyptian Pyramids, they do however rent apartments with impressive views of Eiffel’s architectural masterpiece. Below are a few highlighted accommodations fit for a pharaoh:

-This 1-bedroom duplex rental apartment in Saint Germain des Pres (PA-3049) sits on the 4th floor of a 17th century building. The flat’s open concept is framed by exposed wood beams in both the bedroom and living area.

-This 2-bedroom rental apartment in Champs Elysees (PA-3586) juxtaposes funky modernity and style with the grand Haussmannian architecture of the neighborhood.

In your opinion, which architectural wonder would you prefer to gaze out on from your bedroom window, France’s Tour Eiffel or Egypt’s Pyramids?

Late March sees the celebration of the London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival at the British Film Institute on the South Bank—a perfect time for chilly nights still best spent indoors. To see a great selection of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered themed films from around the world, book your tickets in advance, stash all of your Cadbury candy treats in the cabinets of your nearby New York Habitat vacation accommodation…and don’t forget to turn off your cell phones.

London Accommodation: 2-bedroom rental in Westminster (LN-455)

The 23rd London Lesbian and Gay Film Festival features films by and about the LGBT community, with screenings that include everything from small-budget independent fare to showcases for big-name talent, the likes of Sean Penn, John Hurt and Catherine Deneuve. This well-attended repertoire is a mash-up of contemporary movies with gay and lesbian themes, alongside classics and more experimental work. (For a full listing of films, go to the British Film Institute Website.)

The opening night gala takes place on March 25, and the festival runs until April 8, with spectacular closing night festivities. This event is one of the largest of its kind, featuring dozens of domestic and international features, shorts and documentaries, as well as special events and guests, workshops and discussions, and a family day for children of LGBT parents.

Fortunately for those attending the festival, the BFI is an amazing space in which to experience cinema. Located on the South Bank of the Thames, this modern facility with unparalleled views of London boasts a lobby café, a sleek interior bar, and outdoor seating that you’ll want to snatch up on sunny days.

In addition to the BFI, the South Bank is loaded with things to see and do (the Tate Modern, London Eye, Hayward Gallery, Royal Festival Hall, Globe Theatre and Vinopolis, among them) and is a short distance from a fabulous selection of New York Habitat rental accommodations, including:

•    A charming, sweetly furnished 2-bedroom vacation rental in Westminster-Covent Garden (LN-401) near the Strand, within walking distance of the famous Piazza. The master bedroom of this third-floor apartment has a king-sized bed (rare for London), the second bedroom comes with a walk-in shower room, and the living room has a fireplace. What could be more romantic?

•    A very contemporary, uncluttered and crisply decorated 1-bedroom vacation accommodation in Westminster (LN-429), off the Strand. This apartment, in a period mansion building with elevator, has a double bed and plenty of sunlight, plus smoking is permitted.

•    This traditional and tastefully decorated 2-bedroom rental accommodation in Westminster (LN-455), just north of Oxford Street near Soho (London’s largest LGBT district), is in a fully renovated 1916 building that has retained its original detailing: wooden floors, brass fittings, chandelier, large windows, and a staircase lit by coach lamps. For those who prize their privacy, the apartment occupies its own floor, and includes a large lounge, designer kitchen with granite worktops, and bathroom with marble tile, full-size bathtub and walk-in shower. Past guests have said: “Our stay in London has been very positive. The apartment was very clean and everything very correct.”

Show some cinematic love by attending London’s LGBT film festivals—then bring the magic back home to your New York Habitat vacation accommodation.

If you have any favorite LGBT venues in London, let us know with a comment below.

Unless you’ve been stuck on a deserted island for the last year or two, it’s no secret that a new chapter in African-American history was written this January. Now, more than ever, is a time to embrace the contributions African-Americans have made to the fabric of the United States and to celebrate the integral role of the black community in America today. New York City celebrates black history month in February, a period which marks the reflection on the city’s proud past of integration and unfortunate periods of racial unrest. The folks at Central Park are marking the occasion with events and celebrations for adults, kids and the entire community.

New York: Apartment 2-bedroom rental in Harlem (NY-6213)

February 10th starts the celebration off with an adult’s only event welcoming performers from Harlem’s world-famous Apollo Theater. The evening will be marked by the sense of community that has made the Apollo a New York institution; a resident historian will illuminate the theater’s story and a winner of the famous Amateur Night will perform for the eager audience. Saturday, February 21st will be marked by a daytime celebration of the African Diaspora through a diverse array of stories, songs and rhythms. And on February 27th the Museum for African Art will hold a special family craft event in the park where kids can mix art, history and social action by taking their best shot at creating a Civil rights poster. All these Central Park events are completely free and open to the public.

Black history month is the ideal time to explore one of New York’s many neighborhoods with a rich African-American past by living and breathing the locale in a New York Habitat apartment. Below are a few rental accommodations available this month that give guests a real feel for New York’s most famous black community, Harlem:

New York apartment: 1-bedroom rental (NY-12659)

- This 2-bedroom rental apartment in Harlem, Uptown (NY-6213) is located on a classic brownstone building in the heart of the neighborhood.

-This 1-bedroom rental accommodation in Harlem, Uptown (NY-12659) features a cozy contemporary decor is bathed in afternoon sunlight.

- And this studio apartment in Harlem, Uptown (NY-12948) is seething with the funky and outrageous Uptown style.

2008 was one of the most volatile years in the New York furnished apartment market making the 2008 Furnished Apartment Market Report all the more valuable. This report, the 4th in our series, details the market conditions in the 2nd half of 2008 as well as details for the full year.

New York Furnished Apartment Market Report 2nd half and full year 2008

The report looks at key points in the market in 2008 versus results from 2006 and 2007. Furthermore, the report makes predictions about 2009. The following are some key trends seen throughout the report:

•    A strong 1st half but a much weaker 2nd half for all of the segments of the New York market
•    Prices stabilizing with lower rates of increase in average rental rates and signs that prices may decline in 2009
•    A weak outlook for 2009 with the entire world in a deep recession

To see all apartment listings throughout New York City visit : The New York Vacation Rental search, The New York Furnished Rentals search and The New York Apartment Share search.

This report as well as all of the previous market reports for New York can be found at the New York Furnished Apartment Market Report webpage. Look back to this site in July for the 1st half 2009 market report to see if markets have begun to rebound or if conditions still are weakening.

The report is produced to help you know more about the New York furnished apartment market. If you have any questions, suggestions or recommendations please comment below or e-mail us at marketreport@nyhabtiat.com.
If you are looking for a furnished apartment in New York feel free to contact our team. They can help you to find the perfect accommodation to meet the needs of any trip to New York.

Previous market report blog articles:
•    New York Furnished Apartment Market Report: 2007 1st half
•    New York Furnished Apartment Market Report: 2007 2nd half and full year
•    New York Furnished Apartment Market Report 2008 1st half

London is one of the most vibrant cosmopolitan centers—with something always on and visitors always on the go! But sometimes travelers need a break from the nonstop city scene to recharge or reflect. New York Habitat offers the best of both worlds with vacation rentals in Barnes, a neighborhood both near the sights of the city and next to a nature reserve.

London Accommodation: Studio rental in Barnes (LN-601)

Barnes is nestled within a loop in the Thames, giving residents amazing river views and easy access to the Barnes Commons, 120 acres of grassland, woodland, wetland and scrub (designated Metropolitan Open Space and Land). It is also home to the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust - London Wetlands Centre, an award-winning site and sanctuary for wildlife and ecological conservation within an urban setting.

There are guided tours, free daily events, plenty of activities for children, and scenes of landscape and wildfowl that can be exceptionally beautiful in a snow-filled winter or during the baby boom of the early spring.

Within the London Wetlands Centre, there are various ecosystems to observe, such as reed beds, marshes, ponds, a central lake and sheltered lagoon, all of which are home to a variety of bird species that most of us have never even heard of before, let alone had the chance to see! Visitors can even “adopt” a bird, baby chick or gosling to help with the centre’s conservation costs and receive a certificate of adoption as a souvenir. 

But this bird paradise is not the only attraction Barnes has to offer—the neighborhood also boasts eighteenth and nineteenth century villas. Some of London’s oldest houses can be found on the Terrace—a road lined with Georgian mansions dating back to 1720. 

However, Barnes is also on the Hammersmith and City subway line, so in twenty minutes you can be in the heart of modern London, enjoying “wild” life of an entirely different nature.   

London accommodation: studio vacation rental in Barnes (LN-618)

To enjoy your stay in a totally unique and eco-centered section of London, we suggest a comfortable and convenient New York Habitat vacation accommodation, such as:

• A sparking clean second-floor studio apartment in Barnes – Castlenau (LN-679) near Hammersmith station. The studio has a spacious feel, and a distinct design sense with sloped ceilings, modern tiled bath and open plan kitchen.

• A sweet, sunlit studio vacation rental in Barnes - Castelnau (LN-618) over Hammersmith Bridge. This second-floor studio with double bed has been recently redecorated and refurnished with laminate wood floors, central heating and a Jacuzzi bath. What’s not to love? 

• A charming, medium-sized studio accommodaiton in Barnes – Castlenau (LN-601). This ground floor studio has large windows, wooden floors and a lovely yard with lots of greenery. It’s like an English country cottage in the city!  

Visit the London Wetlands Centre and nature sanctuary—and stay in a sanctuary of your own: a New York Habitat vacation accommodation in Barnes, London. Frankly, anything else is for the birds.  

 Let us know what species you see, or of other eco-friendly spots in London, with a comment below.