I didn't really investigate Google Live in any great depth, but I found Hosting Ireland quite good. Again, you may not be hugely impressed with the templates but you can mix'n'match them.
However, the main thing for you in New York will be the different time zone, but it may be of interest to VA's on GMT??
Have a look here
http://www.hostingireland.ie/sitedesigner.php
Go to Try a Demo and see what you think