Just had a week in New York, one of those lifetime holidays for us as a family. We had to be cautious of budget and wanted an Airbnb, almost impossible to find one in Manhattan on our money so we had to look in Brooklyn or New Jersey.

As we flew into JFK we thought Brooklyn would be a better option coupling that closeness to the airport and also more to see and do round there and easy access to Manhattan. The gaffs in Jersey were nicer but worse locations and transport so we opted for Bushwick. The new Williamsburg if you will. By chance we happened to be in one of the liveliest areas in the city but we were just away from the clubs and bars by a few blocks so was really relaxed.

The area runs from Montrose Avenue (East Williamsburg) to the Mount Judah Cemetery in the East. And has Bed Sty below and Ridgewood above. It's a semi industrial, semi residential area that was in the 70's and 80's an absolute hell hole no go area due to crack and social deprivation.

(Lifted from Google) "has a rich and varied history, evolving from a Dutch settlement to a diverse, vibrant neighborhood. Initially part of the larger Dutch town of Boswijck (also spelled Bushwick), which included present-day Williamsburg and Greenpoint, it became a distinct area with its own identity. The area has seen waves of immigration, from Dutch and German settlers to Italian and Hispanic communities, each leaving their mark on the neighborhood's culture and development"

The only other non Hispanic faces other than us were young people who cant afford rent in Williamsburg or Manhattan. A Bo ho post uni/college Im a DJ vibe. Williamsburg feels more like tatts and rock kids certainly East Williamsburg.

We stood out like 4 white tourists who got lost on the Subway. The fuck ups on Wyckoff round the Subway stops and the young clockers round the shops were puzzled by us and mostly left us alone. I get that vibe for all the other new arrivals. The Puerto Ricans, Dominicans and now Ecuadorians seem to live fine side by side with the Bo ho brigade. Which creates a lovely neighborhood for the most part.

The View from Wyckoff towards Manhattan.

Our gaff is the 1st Floor, 2 bed apartment with a balcony area at the back. It was either too wet or too hot. Found a massive cockroach in the bedroom, thankfully only me saw it. Tried standing on it, those fuckers are built.

Roackaway Beach