This was my first Airbnb experience, and I have to say that Vanessa's place served Airbnb well. The room was exactly how it looked online. I didn't feel cramped, which, if you have stayed anywhere in NYC before, is a nice departure from the norm. The brownstone is split into different areas, so after checking in I never saw another soul my entire stay. Vanessa was very accommodating in granting me a late check in late and a late check out too. Also, I noticed on Airbnb that some people in NYC want you to spend your entire day out and about--you're not allowed to be inside during the day; I have never found that to be an issue, BUT, it's nice to have the option of a place to return to whenever you would like to relax and unwind. Vanessa has made no such demands and her place is accommodating to those who want, whenever, that sanctuary from the city. Only 25 minutes to downtown on the D or 4 train (if you aren't from the city that sounds like a long travel time, but I promise it's short---it takes 25 minutes to get to downtown if you live downtown!)