We probably saw Brooklyn and the Loralei at their worst. The January weather was mild but grey and wet. This was compounded by our general aversion to B&Bs and their bonhomie.
So, before Robert says it, we must confess that we would have been happier in a rented apartment or an anonymous hotel. The problem is that having always stayed in Manhattan on previous visits to NYC we wanted to visit Brooklyn where good hotels are hard to find. We weren’t staying long enough to rent an apartment.
We chose the Loralei on the strength of other reviews and its location. The positive points made by other reviewers are justified. This is an attractive house, in a pleasant street very close to the Subway. It has an interesting history. In Spring, Summer or Fall, Argyle Road would be very pretty.
The Gramercy Suite is well-appointed, clean and comfortable. Internet access and speed is excellent. Breakfast at the Loralei is attractive to Americans although more challenging for Europeans. Many of us struggle with chocolate cake and cheese. But there was plenty of choice: lots of wholemeal bread for toast and excellent marmalade, juices, fresh fruit and American strength coffee.
We were informed beforehand that Robert was away for most of our stay but Louise was very hospitable, with thoughtful touches: providing us with umbrellas, guide books and maps for example. We were able to park our rental car on the drive. Given parking conditions in Brooklyn, this was a huge benefit.
All things considered, there was only one cause for complaint: the heating system and its antique radiators are very effective but very noisy, in a Wagnerian way. Clearly, this is not a problem in other seasons.
We did not fall in love with the Loralei because the chemistry wasn’t quite right but it would be unfair to detract from its deserved ranking amongst Brooklyn B&Bs. This would be a very dependable choice for B&B enthusiasts.
