This was the first time we used airbnb and it was a very positive experience. Our host Fred was very accommodating when we arrived and made sure we were comfortable. The apartment was clean and larger than any comparably priced hotel in Brooklyn. It was located in a quiet residential neighborhood within a few blocks of some nice boutique restaurants (Breakfast at Dogwood! Sandwiches at Lark!) and a 10 minute walk to the F or Q trains. (It was also only 5 blocks from our daughter's apartment, which was great for us.) We spent pretty much all 6 days in the city, getting back late each night, but always feeling safe. Unfortunately, we did not get to meet Joan and did not see Fred after our introduction but we would definitely come back again.