I stayed in the private room for a month. Although small, the room offers adequate storage space for clothes and is also well-served by an air-conditioner and ceiling-fan. The room can only be locked from the inside. The bathroom is very clean and well-stocked with towels and other toiletries such as toothpaste, hand-wash and shower-gel. The kitchen is also well-stocked with certain food items by the host, and there is a large refrigerator available. Laundry detergent and softener are also provided for guests. Gloria is very generous in providing these utilities.
Despite its reputation, I found the area to be safe; though the usual precautions when in large cities should be taken. Bed-Stuy is experiencing the effects of so-called gentrification as other Brooklyn neighbourhoods, but thankfully its character still remains, with block parties and cook-outs being held frequently.
The apartment is about 10-15 minutes away from both Utica and Myrtle subway stations, but that seems acceptable by New York standards. There are many bus stops nearby which allow for quick and convenient exploration of Brooklyn.
There are also some excellent restaurants/takeaways nearby: I would recommend Tepachè in particular.
Gloria made for a great host, providing a clean and relaxed environment for her guests. I also have to commend Amaira, who looks after the house when Gloria is away, for ensuring the house remained clean and for providing useful tips on where to eat and what to check-out.
I enjoyed my time in Monroe Street and would stay again.