I really liked the location of Julia's place, it was very convenient to the subway to JFK and everywhere I wanted to go in the city. Even without ear plugs I didn't mind the noise at all, it was like the sound of thunder not like the screeching noise subway cars sometimes make, so basically white noise. It was pretty minimalist in terms of amenities and the beds were very firm but if those are things you like then this might be the place for you.