Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great apartment in perfect location

Guest: Greg and Jill (Adelaide, Australia)
Date of Stay: 04/27/12 Review Submitted: 05/14/12

My wife and I stayed here for 4 nights during the weekend of the Queen's birthday festival in Amsterdam. The apartment has everything you need and an excellent sized bathroom for Europe. Yes the stairs are steep, but our host Peter helped us with our luggage and showed us how to negotiate the stairs with heavy bags. The location is perfect, being walking distance from the majoraty of attractions you'd like to see. During the Queen's Day festivities, we were able to retreat to the apartment for some rest, before going out and enjoying the street parties again. The street market was literally a 2 minute walk for those who want to stock the kitchen and the Jordaan area is charming and beautiful. Peter was very friendly and welcoming and we'd highly recommend this apartment to anyone who wants a memorable and authentic experience staying in Amsterdam.

Owner response:Thanks for your nice review Greg, I'm glad you survived the Queens Birthday.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Stairs

Guest: Gary J. (Beaverton, OR)
Date of Stay: 04/14/12 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

The apartment is as advertised except don't stay here is you have any issues with stairs. Buildings are constructed to save space and one way is for stairs to be so steep they are like going up a ladder. Amsterdam is very compact and easy to walk almost everywhere from this location. Just remember that bicycles have the right-of-way over pedestrians.

Owner response:You're right Carol, stairs are usually rather steep in our old historical centre. You can find them in the Ann Frank house as well. People had other considerations more than 3 centuries ago. So do come back if you like that Golden Age experience. Thanks for staying.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

HOME SWEET HOME

Guest: HARRY (NEAR PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA)
Date of Stay: 02/05/12 Review Submitted: 03/07/12

The apartment is located in my favorite neighborhood which greatly influenced my decision to stay there. And that neighborhood, The Jordaan, is located on the west side of town, which I also much prefer. The Jordaan offers many shops, cafes, and restaurants to satisfy travelers with both large or small budgets. On market days, you can grab a bite from vendors selling everything from ready-to-eat and freshly made fruit cups, juices, and smoothies to sandwiches of grilled meats. And if you've got a sweet tooth like me, there are plenty of treats like cookies and cakes and other Dutch specialties to indulge in. Haarlemer Straat is nearby for the serious shopper and is a good choice for those heading up to Central Station. Head in the other direction and you'll easily reach many of Amsterdam's attractions. Anne Frank House, the Rijks and Van Gogh...........also my two favorite squares, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, but make sure you've got your walking shoes. They're a bit of a hike, but I'm a walker. I NEVER use public transportation, not even the Hop On/Hop Off busses or canal boats. Just not my thing, I guess....plus the money I save by walking goes toward my food and drink budgets. If you want to really appreciate the city, do it on foot. I think you can reach the major museums in no more than 25 to 30 minutes and can see so much on the way. I spent the months of December '11 and February '12 in the apartment, so was able to really explore the city, especially The Jordaan. I tried to alter my route each day so I'd see all it had to offer. It's a dynamic neighborhood well worth visiting. Peter, who owns the apartment, is a wonderful host, who is happy to answer any questions and you can't begin to imagine how much I appreciated his carrying my 45-pound suitcase up those steep and narrow stairs for me, while I struggled with only my carry-on bag! He's a few months older than me, but is in far better shape. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP, PETER!!! Another interesting part of town is The Nine Streets..........for you shoppers. I've already alerted Peter of my return for the month of December '12. It's a lively month with a carnival atmosphere. The squares feature ice skating and kiosks offering gluhwein, coffees, sausages, and other treats to satisfy any taste.........and there are games, too, so you may go home with a stuffed animal or other prize. The apartment is simple, but you'll do little more than sleep there. You'll be out from dawn to dusk and beyond.

Owner response:Thanks for your extensive review Harry! You soon felt like being a close friend! One of the nice things of renting out an apartment is to meet people with all sorts of tastes and personalities. I have regular guests (see other reviews) who love to stay inside the apartment most of the day and enjoy the quietness (which -to be honest- wouldn't be my choice too, I'm more an explorer like you). Some people see the famous Amsterdam stairs as a challenge, others admire the monumental charm of the building of which they are an inseparable part.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Wonderful Apartment in a Prime Location - Close to Centraal Station, Shops, Restaurants

Guest: Rebecca (Columbus, OH)
Date of Stay: 09/19/11 Review Submitted: 12/14/11

The apartment was clean and well equipped. The building was quiet at night. The bed was comfortable and the bathroom large by European standards. We only stayed four nights, but it was lovely to be able to make coffee and tea, bring home snacks, meals and desserts, and live a bit more like locals. If we had needed help, I know we could have quickly received help (I've been to A'dam multiple times, so once someone highlights the shops and restaurants, I am generally good to go without bothering the landlord). The owner/landlord gave us a great rundown as to the apartment and places to shop and eat. The location was great - close enough to walk with 25 lb backpacks from Centraal Station (yes, I overpacked). There were multiple restaurants nearby should you choose to eat out. We really enjoyed the Indonesian takeout just 2 blocks away, as well as the best apple pie in A'dam at Winkel. The organic market was great - my friend was able to buy figs, which we don't often see at home. We could walk to the Anne Frank House in 10-15 minutes. We walked most everywhere, except for one day where we used the the tram to get to the Resistance Museum, the brewery (in a windmill just outside the main part of town) and more distant sights. I'd definitely recommend this apartment, and the owners/landlords to anyone staying in Amsterdam three or more days. It's just a far more relaxing experience than hotels. My only advice - the stairs are very steep. More like a modified ladder. Consider this when choosing your bag and what you pack. We had a backpack for each of us, and I still overpacked, but it was no problem to get myself and my backpack up the stairs. Those who pack a 50 lb huge wheeled bag are going to have fun trying to get that up the stairs. I definitely recommend going a bit more Rick Steves/minimalist in your packing if you choose this apartment. It will make things easier for everyone involved!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Everything we could have asked for.

Guest: Happy Travelers (Ottawa, Canada)
Date of Stay: 08/08/11 Review Submitted: 10/20/11

This apartment was exceedingly clean and well equipped. There was someone in weekly to clean the apartment as well as change the bedding. Someone was always on hand if we needed help with anything. The apartments location is in a beautiful quiet neighbourhood with a weekly organic market and flea market. Many restaurants, shops, cafe's and two grocery stores close by. The stairs are steep but that is understandable for a building of this style. We would definately stay here again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Exactly what we were looking for

Guest: Kirsten and Craig (New York, NY)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 06/08/11

We stayed here in May of 2011 for 4 days and it was perfect. Peter was an outstanding host, friendly, helpful and informative. The accommodations were comfortable and relaxing and the neighborhood was filled with charming bars and restaurants. We would stay here again in a second.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect Accommodations!

Guest: Jeanie (Kurtistown, Hawaii, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/12/11 Review Submitted: 04/24/11

My friend & I just spent 10 days at Aadrians apartment which is a fantastic value in the perfect location to see all of Amsterdam. Neighborhood grocery, restaurants, deli, post office branch, etc. 2-3 blocks walk. Laundromat less than a block away. It's a ten minute walk to the Central Train Station but tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in the Jordaan district. Extremely comfortable beds, well equipped kitchen, quite large, modern bathroom & impeccably clean throughout. Our host, Peter, was always smiling & helpful. Even arranged for an early morning taxi to the airport & left a sign for the taxi driver as to which doorbell to ring in case we weren't outside waiting. This apartment is a fantastic find in a fantastic city & country. Aloha Peter & Lucas...Jeanie (of Deenie & Jeanie!)

Owner response:Thank you too Deenie and Jeanie, for your warm-hearted review. And stay, and Hawaiian cookies, nuts and coffee!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Lovely apartment in lovely neighbourhood, excellent host. In short, an EXCELLENT stay!

Guest: Lee & Carolina (Cape Town, South Africa)
Date of Stay: 04/08/11 Review Submitted: 05/03/11

We had a wonderful stay in the "Jordaan" in Peter's apartment. Extraordinary things: Peter is an excellent host. Calm, professional, very helpful. Lovely King size bed. Sweet neighbourhood with Café Lowietje opposite the apartment (a real "Jordanees" café) and Butchery Louman and the bakery on no. 76. (only 50 m from the apartment). I can really recommend the butchery with the famous "ossenworst", a real Amsterdam treat. The apartment is very close to the Noordermarket, Westermarket and Anne Frankhouse. The Indonesian takeaway with an award was lovely described in the guide situated in the room and the food was delicious. We were surprised how dead quiet the neighbourhood is in the middle of the Jordaan (centre of Amsterdam). The apartment is on walking distance from Amsterdam Central Station (10 min.). Peter made our stay to a memorable one and we can recommend anyone to stay here.

Owner response:I enjoyed seeing you getting more local every day of your stay. Thanks for the nice comment, I hope to meet again, you were great neighbour-guests.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Superb Apartment for a Superb Weekend Stay

Guest: Sarah (St. Andrews, Scotland)
Date of Stay: 03/17/11 Review Submitted: 03/22/11

My friend and I came for an extended weekend, and this apartment was just what we wanted. The kitchen is very well equipped and the bed was very comfortable. The location is to die for. The area is quiet but loaded with everything you could need: supermarkets, beauty shops, boutiques, and tons of great bars and restaurants. Aadrian's apartment was perfect. If we come back, we will definitely stay here again, without a doubt! Thanks again!

Owner response:Thanks for your nice reaction! I enjoyed your continuous big smile!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

I Loved It!

Guest: Elizabeth (Seattle)
Date of Stay: 10/05/10 Review Submitted: 10/16/10

I could not have been more happy with my "home" away from home in the beautiful, quiet Jordaan neighborhood in Amsterdam. It was well appointed and squeaky clean. The owner was kind and helpful and I felt safe and secure there as a single woman traveling alone.

Recommended for:

I Loved It!

Guest: Elizabeth (Seattle)
Date of Stay: 10/05/10 Review Submitted: 10/14/10

I could not have been more pleased with this apartment, its Jordaan location and its owner. It was extremely comfortable, squeaky clean and oh, so quiet. I felt safe and secure, in my "home away from home" during my week in the beautiful, vibrant city of Amsterdam. Thank you Peter!

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

This is a winner

Guest: Bob (Atlanta)
Date of Stay: 09/22/10 Review Submitted: 09/29/10

My wife and I stayed here for 6 nights. The apartment is clean, located in a quiet neighborhood and within a 5 minute walk of restaurants, grocery stores and other commercial establishments. My wife and I are both are in our 60's and found that all of the attractions were within an easy walk of the apartment, including the Amsterdam Central Station, which is a 15-20 minute walk. The tram & bus stops are 5 minutes away. Have fun----we did.

Owner response:Thanks for your nice comment. I still remember you being in a good mood all the time, whistling and humming Irish songs, trying even to extend your stay with us. Sad we were booked already. All the best to you and your wife, we I hope to hear you back.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Wonderful apartment, great neighborhood, lovely owner

Guest: Deborah (Bay Area, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 09/01/10 Review Submitted: 09/25/10

I stayed here for almost 3 weeks while on a business trip to A'dam. The apartment is a great value: well-appointed, very comfortable bed, and fantastic neighborhood. The Dutch professionals I was working with were all jealous of me. Shops and cafes galore near-by -- as far as I can tell the only think the Dutch do is eat and drink! -- and about 15 minute walk from Central Station and the Metro. But the apartment itself is very quiet and looks out on a garden courtyard. The only draw-back is the steep narrow stairs which were a bit daunting -- but that's a feature I understand of all the historic buildings.

Owner response:Thanks for appreciating the small-scale charm of our neighbourhood so much Deborah. I admit that many Dutch like to enjoy life, but usually after having worked hard. That order is probably -like historical stairs- another inheritance of our cultural past. I’m looking forward to your announced stay with us for your next year business-trip.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Pleasant apartment, wonderful neighborhood

Guest: Mabl (Gainesville, Florida)
Date of Stay: 08/06/10 Review Submitted: 09/01/10

The apartment, although small by American standards, is very pleasant and comfortable. It faces onto a small courtyard so there is no street noise. The two flights of stairs are steep, but I found I could negotiate them easily, and I'm over 60 yrs old. The neighborhood, Jordaan, is wonderful, full of cafes and bars and street markets. I felt I got a taste of the real Amsterdam, not just the tourist areas. It's an easy walk to many of the major tourist sights, and public transportation is easily available.

Owner response:Thanks very much Mabl for your your review. That’s exactly what many foreign guests call the historical attraction of the apartment: it is “typically” European. In our Golden 17th century (when our house was built) living conditions were completely different from (e.g.) 21th century USA. A good reason why Amsterdam-centre is on the Unesco World Heritage List right now. Not surprising as a consequence to find stairs like ours in the Ann Frank house too. We certainly hope to welcome you again.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car.

Comfortable, Central and Courteous!

Guest: mediaChick (Portland, Oregon USA)
Date of Stay: 06/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/01/10

I stayed for three nights in Peter's upstairs apartment with my best friend and research companion a couple of weeks ago. Our time was so stretched that the apartment's location (in the Jordaan neighborhood, close to the main canals and the train station) was a huge selling point for us. But upon arrival, we quickly discovered our incredible luck in securing our stay when our gracious host carried my obnoxiously huge bag up the typically-Dutch steep, shallow steps to our room...without breaking a sweat or dampening his gregarious personality. Swoon! Once there, Peter proudly showed us around the space (it's so comfy and modern!) and then he went through a binder he's complied for his guests to help make their stay effortless. Inside were such things as the locations (marked on a map!) of the nearest bakery, supermarkets, cafe, and laundry service, recommendations for places to have a nice dinner, and how to order a cab. My friend and I consulted this binder a lot! Even after Peter turned over the keys he was still the consummate host. When I said wanted to visit Egmond aan den Hoef in North Holland to visit castle ruins that used to belong to my relatives, Peter poked around the Internet and later told me how to get there by bus and then train. With his clear instructions I felt confident venturing out on this last-minute trip, and ended up meeting someone there who was eager to bend my ear on tales about my family. I probably would not have taken the effort to figure out how to get to Egmond aan den Hoef by myself -- and would have missed an incredible opportunity to learn about my heritage -- if Peter had not done travel research for me. Swoon again! I will definitely stay in Peter's apartment again. (Oh yes! I'll be back!) Why would I go anywhere else? It's comfortable, centrally located, and the host is courteous and so very helpful. Thank you so much for everything Peter! You rock :)

Owner response:The two of you really had a tight schedule. We didn't even find time to share thoughts about writing and media affairs. One reason more to see you back! Thanks, Peter

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Experience Amsterdam like a Native

Guest: Harry & Susan (Portland, Maine)
Date of Stay: 06/01/10 Review Submitted: 07/01/10

Located in an authentic Dutch home, Aadrian's Apartment provides the opportunity to live in the lovely Jordaan section of Amsterdam like a native. We have stayed with Peter four times over the past few years and have recommended it to a number of other friends who have been most pleased. The apartment is bright (even on cloudy Amsterdam days) with double hung windows to the central courtyard where a couple of cats keep watch in the gardens. The bed is generous, the kitchen competent and storage shelves are convenient. Art posters adorn the walls. The dining area provided a cozy spot for daily breakfasts and occasional dinners prepared at home. Peter is an accommodating host - easily available for questions but never imposing. We left our bike helmets with him so feel free to use them if you go biking. (Biking through Waterland is magnificent.) However, please leave them so we will have them when we return!

Owner response:It's already getting familiar Susan and Harry, everytime we meet again! Thanks for sending so many of your friends and relatives to me. I'm curious for what great concert in the Concertgebouw I'll have to make bookings next time. The helmets are stored away safely! Thanks for all the coming back to me. Peter

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car.

Amsterdam

Guest: crikey (Cincinnati, Ohio USA)
Date of Stay: 05/21/10 Review Submitted: 06/02/10

I just wanted to thank you again for allowing us to stay in your apartment. It was really perfect. What a great location! The apartment was cozy and quiet and I felt very safe there. So thank you again. If any one I know heads to Amsterdam in the future, I'll be sure to recommend your apartment.

Owner response:Thanks for having stayed with us, it was great to hear your joyful laughs every now and then! Peter

Recommended for:

Great apartment with a thoughtful organized landlord.

Guest: Rob & Marisa (Toronto, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/27/10 Review Submitted: 06/03/10

Hi Peter, We wanted to thank you for providing an extremely comfortable apartment for the past 3 weeks, it was a perfect home base for us. It is refreshing in this day and age to come across a place that is exactly as advertised. Of special note are often overlooked amenities such as a very comfortable bed, a great bathroom and your guide. I hope we were as easy a tenant as you were a landlord. I thought we would see more of each other but perhaps we will have to leave that until our next stay. We will have no hesitation contacting you for availability and will also refer your apartment to friends and family. Thank you again, Rob & Marisa

Owner response:Thanks for your kind reaction Rob and Marissa. Don't worry: you're on my list of perfect guests! Peter

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Clean, quiet place in the heart of Jordaan. Friendly helpful landlord.

Guest: Happy traveller (Brisbane, Australia)
Date of Stay: 04/25/10 Review Submitted: 07/04/10

I can only agree with Rob and Marisa. Peter and I know each other since many years now (as I am a regular) and I know that I have a great place waiting for me when I book with him. Peters friendly, helpful service makes the visits all the more pleasant. The apartment is always clean and neat on arrival and in case of longer stays cleaned regularly. I enjoy the view onto the green courtyard in the middle and the close proximity to restaurants and organic markets on Saturdays. The location of the apartment is ideal since it is in the middle of Jordaan but at the same time quiet. I look forward to my next vacation in Amsterdam at Aadrians apartment.

Owner response:Thanks for your generous comment and being my neighbour friend almost every year. Peter

Recommended for:Age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Haven fro the Volcanic Ash

Guest: Knute (Belmar, NJ )
Date of Stay: 04/16/10 Review Submitted: 06/06/10

My wife & I were stranded in Amsterdam when the airlines shut down because of the volcanic ash problem. We were lucky enough to find Peter & the Aadrianas apartment. As an owner of rental apartments I was impressed with the way Peter made us feel right at home. From helping with the luggage to recommending restaurants to suggesting places & things to see & do,Peter made what could have been a lost week into the highlite of our vacation. We just loved the neighborhood & the apartment. Make sure you visit the Hermitage & the flea markets. Peter we loved the Hermitage booklet.Thanks for a great time. Knute & Pat Belmar, NJ

Owner response:I'm glad I saw your mood changing rather quickly from being stressed into relaxation and having a good time Pat and Knute! Peter.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.