If you want to experience New York outside of the "Disneyland" that is Times Square then Red Hook is fantastic. Tom's apartment is centrally located, just 5 minutes walk from the NYC ferry which costs just $2.75 and you can be in Manhattan in 20 minutes. The Bus (B61) to Downtown Brooklyn is just 2 minute walk away and included in your Metro Card. If you want to explore and find unique bars and restaurants then the location could not be better, no fake Irish Pubs in Red Hook. Local stores within minutes of the apartment and a large Fairway Supermarket at the end of the road. Fantastic base for exploring New York.