Laurie is a generous host who imparts info about Park Slope restaurants, provides terrific bagels and orange juice, cereal, etc. and shares her wonderful, spacious home with interesting travelers who get to know one another. Her quiet neighborhood in Brooklyn is ideal for exploring Prospect Park, 7th Avenue hotspots, and close to subways for getting to Manhattan in a short time. Check out the TKTS site at the Jay Street/Metrotech stop to get 50% off Broadway tickets. Much less crowded than the Times Square location. I also recommend trying the Moutarde Bistro at 239 5th Ave about a mile north of Laurie's for a great French meal at reasonable prices. All in all, a great place to stay.