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Rejuvenate with a restful weekend in the middle of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. It may sound like a paradox—until you see the Akwaaba Mansion Inn on a historic block of Stuyvesant Heights. Originally owned by wealthy beer barons, the 1860 three-floor brownstone was transformed into a bed-and-breakfast 15 years ago by owners Monique Greenwood and Glenn Pogue. The name, Akwaaba, translates as "welcome" in a language spoken in Ghana and proves to be perfectly apropos for this urban oasis. Giant chestnut and American beech trees grow in the yard and the buildingÂÂ’s charming furnishings are the result of years of antique sale rummaging. Each of the four bedrooms comes with a private bath (three with Jacuzzi tubs) and its own motif—from the African-themed Ashante suite to the romantic Jumping the Broom suite, named after a wedding ritual among American slaves. A traditional Southern breakfast is served every morning, allowing guests to get to know the innkeepers—and each other. — Chris Strauss

Amiable, attentive staff; twice-daily room turndowns; offers a range of massage treatments.

Cons
Guest rooms don't include televisions; communal atmosphere is great, unless you happen to be a keep-to-yourself type.