We're staying at The William in Williamsburg, which is eight minutes by car from Gael's house. He'd arranged a car that picks us up at the airport and for us to use while we're here. I chose this hotel because of the convenient location and so that she wouldn't be too far from her family in Brooklyn.
The William allowed us to check in early at the two-bedroom penthouse suite I booked. We've already washed up in the airplane before landing, so we are only dropping off our stuff in our rooms before heading out to meet Riri's mother.
The penthouse has floor-to-ceiling windows in the living and dining room. It's furnished with art and sculpture from a collection of local Brooklyn artists—it's one of the reasons why I chose to stay here. Our bedrooms are across from each other with views of Brooklyn from the 22nd floor.
