Having stayed the first 2 nights of my trip on the 27th floor 2 blocks from Times Square, I was expecting this to be a downgrade - however I absolutely fell in Love with Williamsburg, super laid back, so much cool stuff going on and far less touristy- and the apartment was very warm, cosy and comfortable. Nice big double bed, clean and modern kitchen (although I ate out every meal) and a very warm powerful shower, 2 strides from the bedroom.
The location is immense: 1 1/2 blocks from the main action on Bedford avenue, and 2 blocks from the river. So many good diners, LOADS of independent bars and shops within a 1min walk radius so you really don't have to go too far, but if you still want to get to Manhattan, door to door it's about 20 mins, including walking to the station, getting the metro and walking the other end.
Dina was a pleasure to deal with although sadly we never met (hence why the room was available) however, Alex her flat mate was super nice and friendly, despite me changing my arrival time several times! It really feels like a real home in New York (Brooklyn) but you can have as much peace and quiet as you choose - perhaps the lack of curtains on the bedroom window might upset really light sleepers, but that's not me so I was fine.
Thanks for a great stay, will definitely be back if they have me:-)
Simon