Having been to NY previously, Williamsburg made a great alternative base to explore from. Brooklyn Brewery and a multitude of coffee places, bars and restaurants on doorstep. Subway line L right outside front door - took 25mins to get back from the Knicks game at Madison Square Gardens. Apartment was cosy and comfortable, lived in feel, a little beat up round the edges, up four flights of stairs, quiet other than a few random plumbing noises and in the heart of a really interesting neighbourhood.