Vacation Rentals by Owner

Location, Location, Location!

Guest: Dick & Truus (Winter Haven, Florida)
Date of Stay: 04/05/12 Review Submitted: 04/23/12

All the other positive reviews about this place are absolutely correct. It is laid out in such a way as to make your stay delightful. I continue to be amazed at how clever the Dutch are at making everything so convenient in small spaces. The apartment feels much larger than it is. The best thing however, is to have the feeling you can walk out the front door and have the world at your feet. There are a multiple excellent bakeries, one of the best rated cheese stores, a grocery store, and a top billed charcuterie all within two blocks. An incredible fish stand is just a block down the canal. A true jewel of a restaurant (Bouchon du Centre) is just around the corner on Falckstraat. The major attractions (Ann Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, etc.) were very crowded so we spent a lot of time visiting “secondary” attractions which were also close by. The Bazel (city archives) was very close and incredibly interesting. The Hermitage was spectacular. The Dutch resistance museum and the Dutch Theater (Schouwburg - where Jews were staged before being transported) were equally convenient and equally interesting. We were also lucky in that my wife is Dutch and used to live in Amsterdam. The location of the apartment was about halfway between her sister’s house and where our son and daughter-in-law were staying who were also in town. Overall, a truly outstanding experience.

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

Lovely New Year Celebration in this well-located flat

Guest: Joy (USA)
Date of Stay: 12/31/11 Review Submitted: 01/14/12

We were fortunate to find this lovely flat available for us to stay at New Year's. It was clean with an efficient layout and a charming garden that we were unable to enjoy with the blustery rainy days. I imagine it would be quite nice in warmer weather. The beds were comfortable and our son slept on the futon in the living area. The kitchen had sufficient pans, utensils and dishware. We made good use of the washing machine and drying rack provided. There was a grocery store very close by and a cosy place to stop for coffee and a bagel on the corner. A tram stopped nearby although we used it only once; this flat is very central and we preferred to walk. New Year's was like no other I have experienced. Young people had been setting off fireworks throughout the day - you could hear them everywhere. On a walk around the neighborhood we were advised "watch out, watch out!" as they set off what sounded like an M80. Around 11 pm we took a right out the front door and a left at the first bridge towards the city center although we perched ourselves on a bridge well outside the direct activity. There were fireworks in every direction and in the street. Everyone was having a great time but there was no ruckus as one may expect. After midnight as we were walking back to the flat we were offered olliebollen by a lady in the street. How nice! I had no idea what it was but it tasted good. Liesbeth was easy to work with. We corresponded by e-mail and even though we arrived early she let us stash our bags in the apartment while she finished getting it ready. Payment was in cash on arrival. We paid 640 euros for four nights which included the cleaning fee. A bargain for being this central in such a nice place during a major holiday. We hope to return one summer and enjoy the lovely garden!

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

At home in Amsterdam

Guest: SaraE (OAKLAND)
Date of Stay: 10/17/11 Review Submitted: 11/05/11

Greeted by our hostess' daughter, who showed us into the ground floor apartment facing the Prinsengracht canal - it looked just as wonderful as on this website - with a sitting area/eating area/table to work at/ well-equipped kitchen, followed by a bathroom with shower, and a bedroom with plenty of storage for our clothing and travel gear. A beautiful garden was just beyond, but thanks to dry, crisp fall weather, we were drawn to get out and walk the canals and discover Amsterdam. Mara recommended a great Café nearby for our supper (Café Kali, Dutch) and over the course of the week we discovered Axum (Ethiopian), Il Boccalino (Italian), Tagore (Indian) and lots of others. We made regular trips to the nearby supermarket (Albert Hejn - they're everywhere) for breakfast or lunch supplies, also stopping in at the neighboring Flemish bakery, and organic food store. While trams were nearby and ran frequently, we ended up walking to everything (good if you want to try all the chocolate, beer and local food!). On our last night we had a delightful recap of our week with Liesbeth, our hostess, letting her know how user-friendly and comfortable we found the apartment, how great it was to have a washing machine and all the amenities. Highly recommended and would definitely stay here again!

Owner response:Dear Sara, Thank you so much to take the time to write a review. I am glad you liked staying with us and hope you will return one day. all the best, Liesbeth ,Mara and daniel

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

Lena and Petr, San Francisco, CA

Guest: Lena (San Francisco, California)
Date of Stay: 09/05/11 Review Submitted: 11/13/11

As many times as we stayed in Amsterdam (from the beginning of 90s), this place is the best! Very conveniently located, closed to everything! Very clean apartment, with a nice view to the canal (about 10 meters from the front door). Also, this apartment is very quite, with the bedroom on the back. The big plus for us was to have our "own" garden with a lot of flowers, pond, BBQ table with an interesting design (unusual for us), with walking by chickens and cat from the neighbors (which are not allowed to stay closed to our apartment - Liesbeth warned us about these visitors). You may have a quite moment in the backyard after a busy day in town. We will stay at this wonderful place again! We were very independent, but if you need assistance Liesbeth was always available to answer any questions! We hope this review will help future quests to make their choice of staying here! Thank you very much to make our stay very pleasant, welcoming, and memorable!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Returning to Amsterdam

Guest: Cathy (mystic, CT USA)
Date of Stay: 05/10/11 Review Submitted: 06/02/11

We arrived in Amsterdam and were met by Lisbeth. The apartment was well maintained and looked like the pictures. Lisbeth was very helpful and even provided us with a museum pass saving us lots of euros. The location was great and we were able to get around easily. We enjoyed our stay and would recommend this rental.. You have to take the canal bus. Also plan to take a tour the North the country side is charming. Looking forward to our next visit

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

A Gem in the City

Guest: Pat (Fredericksburg, VA USA)
Date of Stay: 04/19/11 Review Submitted: 04/28/11

My husband and I stayed at the apartment over Easter week and we found it to be extremely clean, well appointed and very well located.  After a day of sight seeing in the crowded sections of the city, it was a treat to come back to this residential area to relax and have dinner with the locals at one of the many nearby restaurants.  People were very friendly and we enjoyed the many conversations we had with them.If you like to save money and do some cooking at home, there is a good grocery store close by the apartment and there are ample pots and pans and other items needed to make a meal.Since my husband and I are seniors, we took advantage of the tram and train systems.  The tram stops are close by the apartment and it took less than ten minutes to reach the train station.  From there we could easily get to other areas of the Netherlands.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Charming apartment with everything you need, plus so much more!

Guest: Karen (USA)
Date of Stay: 04/12/11 Review Submitted: 04/02/12

It was my husband and I's first time visiting Amsterdam, and we couldn't have been more lucky. Liesbeth and family were incredibly accommodating (we arrived at 8am their time!) and responsive to all our quetions. This apartment couldn't have been in a better location for all the sight-seeing and walking you'd like to do in Amsterdam. It was also incredibly cozy after walking ALL DAY. Plenty of room & comfortable beds/chairs. It was equipped with everything we needed (linens, bathroom supplies, dinnerware, extra pillows and blankets). The experience of "living like a local" right on one of the most famous canals in Amsterdam is a trip of a lifetime!

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A gem in Amsterdam

Guest: SueinTN (Memphis TN USA)
Date of Stay: 10/08/10 Review Submitted: 10/18/10

We stayed here for 4 nights. This apartment couldn't have been any better. Very clean, EXTREMELY comfortable bed, well equiped kitchen. This apartment is located on the longest canal in Amsterdam and it is close to many wonderful places. It was so quiet. We had great meals within a block of the apartment, and the tram is only 1 block away. We only wish we could have stayed longer. Liesbeth is very helpful and she is a gracious host. Don't miss this gem in Amsterdam. The rates are SO reasonable. I think it would be crowded with 4 people, but it was PERFECT for 2.

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

Fantastic place to stay with a kid!

Guest: chica-linda (San Diego)
Date of Stay: 06/28/10 Review Submitted: 08/27/10

Great location. Easy to get on the tram, close to cafes and parks. The apartment had just right for two adults and a kid. The back patio was a nice mellow hangout space after our son had gone to bed! We were in AMS during the heat wave this summer, and the canal house was cool all day! Highly recommend it!

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car.

Best Location in Amsterdam

Guest: Peter and Dale (Manchester, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/27/10 Review Submitted: 06/04/10

We loved the apartment. It was quiet, comfortable, well equipped, good wireless internet and a private entrance. Liesbeth was very accommodating and the location couldn't be better. We would definitely stay there again.

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

Jordan Canal House

Guest: Stevina (Toronto, Canada)
Date of Stay: 05/13/10 Review Submitted: 07/06/10

My 80 year old mother, twin sister and myself stayed at Liesbeth's canal house in the Jordan. What a perfect location. Had access to a hop on and off small bus that we only had to wave down and took us all over the Jordan and into Central Station for only one euro. Saved a lot of money in transportation and it was easy th get to the tourist attractions The canal house was spotless and very well equipped. The backyard was marvellous and we sighted a rooster and a hen who resided next door.Liesbeth was full of information and very accommdating .A must is to shop at the Saturday market just behind Anne Frank's house.There is two of them. The organic market I found was pricey. There is a mush cheaper and larger market close by.I would advise to shop at that one. Best place for fresh products to take back to cook and enjoy at the canal house Thanks ever so much Liesbeth, Stevina and family,Toronto,Canada

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great location, nice garden, cozy and well-equipped

Guest: Snickelfritz (Sacramento, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 04/04/10 Review Submitted: 04/13/10

Our family of two adults and two teens stayed here in early April 2010 and really enjoyed it. The apartment was very clean and attractively furnished. The view out the front windows is to the Prinsengracht, which is a lovely canal. The bedroom is very light, with huge windows out to the very quiet garden area. The kitchen has a small fridge and nice stove and microwave. Our kids slept in the living room, one on the futon couch and one on a mattress on the floor. For four, it was a bit of a squeeze, but the great location made it worthwhile. Liesbeth, the owner was very gracious and helpful. The WiFi was a nice amenity as well. It is an easy walk to the Van Gogh and Rikjsmuseums, Vondelpark, the Liedseplein area, and the Nine Streets shopping area. We would gladly stay there again.

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

Great Time In Amsterdam

Guest: Karen (Los Angeles, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/01/10 Review Submitted: 05/12/11

We had a nice stay here. Everything was as expected. Thanks for a great experience.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

A delightful place - definitely worth a repeat visit!

Guest: EKB_ACH (New York, NY USA)
Date of Stay: 03/31/10 Review Submitted: 04/05/10

My husband, young daughter and I shared this apartment in late March/early April. It is private yet, also perfectly situated in a great neighborhood in the centrum of Amsterdam, which allows for easy access to all of the trams, major tourist destinations, restaurants and scenic spots. We could walk out the door and find groceries, great espresso, sandwiches and a delicious dinner at the cafe on the corner. The kitchen is fully equipped and the living room is spacious, cozy, comfortable and welcoming, which was exactly what we were looking for. The apartment is quiet as well with a great view of the canal in front. The garden in the back is very pretty too - a second nice view! I will absolutely recommend this apartment to any friends/co-workers interested in visiting Amsterdam. We were very happy and satisfied. I hope we'll have a change to visit again very soon!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: David and A.J. Palmer (Sun City West, AZ U.S.A.)
Date of Stay: 12/27/09 Review Submitted: 12/27/09

We have stayed in this flat every summer for six years, and are now coming back for our 7th summer. I think that probably says it all! We love the flat, the location, the amenities, the owners. There is nothing NOT to like! This is the best location in Amsterdam, and is close to everything except the noise. We would recommend this to anyone.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 02/19/09 Review Submitted: 02/19/09

My husband and I had a most enjoyable stay in this lovely Amsterdam apartment. It is close to everything you need to have a marvelous time in this great city. The kitchen is perfect for preparing meals from the nearby fantastic butcher shops and cheese shops. A huge outdoor market is only a few blocks away where you can purchase absolutely anything you want! If you don't want to prepare a meal from the fine array of offerings,excellent restaurants are within walking distance. Transportation is almost at your doorstep so in minutes your can be at a museum, a park or in the Dam area. The owner is wonderfully friendly and helpful.

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Guest: John & Neota Bradley (San Diego, CA, USA)
Date of Stay: 12/13/08 Review Submitted: 12/13/08

This is an ideal apartment in a prestigious area of Amsterdam, yet is private and very comfortable....very near trams 4, 16, 24. Gracious owners with wonderful perspective on Amsterdam. Fully equipped with an Albert Heijn grocery store just a block away. All major sights within walking or tramming distance. Highly recommend this peaceful oasis in high-energy Amsterdam.

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Guest: Roger Alstad (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 08/09/08 Review Submitted: 08/09/08

My wife Debbie and I stayed here and fell in love with it. After biking all over Amsterdam for days and days I couldn't find a neighborhood we would rather have stayed in. The location is superb...on a canal, quiet, beautiful, close to the action, near grocery, restaurants, museums, street market. The owners were friendly and helpful. The sun floods in the huge back garden doors in the afternoon. At night the garden fountain gurgled like a brooke. We didn't want to leave. But we'll be back.

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Guest: Brittney4 (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 06/23/08 Review Submitted: 06/22/08

This is a perfect little apartment. We stayed here with 4 people (2 couples) so be aware that there is no privacy, but it is a perfectly put together apartment especially for people wanting to do things on their own while in Amsterdam. The location is second to none as you can walk to Rembrantplein in about 10 mibutes and to Leidseplein in about 20. The tram that is less than 5 minutes walk away will take you into central city (red light, dam square) in less than ten minutes as well. There are many restaurants, cafes, bars and coffeeshops within easy walking distance as well. The garden is perfect for enjoying coffee and breakfast on a warm morning and the family that own the apartment are so helpful and make you feel so welcome, it is lovely. I would reccommend this to anyone looking for their own place to stay while visiting Amsterdam.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/27/08 Review Submitted: 05/27/08

I wasn't sure what to expect because, we had been travelling through Europe, and most of the places we stayed in were very small compared to Canada. What a great surprise when we arrived! It was everything we could ask for and more. There was lots of space, a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, t.v, 3 piece bath and a very quaint sitting area outside. 100% privacy, and when we needed the phone, it was right upstairs. We cooked all of our food there which gave us more time and money to spend up town, which was very close. This property is more than suitable and clean for anyone. If the tour cruises drive by it, it is obviously a great location. What a grem of a place! Thank you Liesbeth for a great end to our vacation. We will be back, and I would recommend it to anyone.

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Guest: Tamara and David (Washington, USA)
Date of Stay: 04/05/08 Review Submitted: 04/05/08

We just spent two weeks (March 2008) in this wonderful apartment and we cannot imagine staying anywhere else in Amsterdam. The location is absolutely the best--in a quiet neighborhood with convenient shops nearby. You are away from the tourist crowds, but close enough to walk to most museums and other attractions. With the nearby tram stops, you can be out your door to the Central Station and on a train to other towns within less than 30 minutes! The very modern kitchen appliances made cooking a joy, and we especially loved the convenience of having a washing machine to do our own laundry. Liesbeth is a gracious and helpful host; she thoughtfully keeps a selection of guide books and pamphlets in the apartment for guests to use during their stay. Thank you Liesbeth for making our visit so wonderful.

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Guest: Dan77 (El Cerrito, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/24/07 Review Submitted: 12/23/07

This place is just perfect. We would not hesitate to recommend it, and we hope to go back soon. Great Location. Need slippers or wool socks, for cold tile floors. Clear understandable washing machine. A wonderful find, very reasonably priced for Amsterdam.

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Guest: Kaycee (USA)
Date of Stay: 05/16/07 Review Submitted: 05/16/07

My husband and I spent one week at this spacious and comfortable apartment. All amenities are present, and one feels welcome. The garden is great. There is a very valuable washing machine and a drying rack. The location is perfect, and trams are quite nearby. In fact, de Opstapper bus (a small bus that travel the Prinsengracht and stops only when you signal for it to do so) stops right in front of the house and lets you off right in front also. A private entry makes for a totally relaxed feeling. We would certainly return.

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Guest: Mike Kennedy (Melbourne, Australia)
Date of Stay: 09/06/06 Review Submitted: 09/05/06

We stayed here in June 2005 at the start of a 6 week trip. It was easy to find and very convenient to the centre of Amsterdam and all it's attractions. We were able to walk almost everywhere from the apartment and used the trams a little as well. Wish we could have stayed a little longer. Good value for us with 2 kids, but perfect for 2 or 3 people. Thanks Lisbeth,

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Guest: Rachel 8 (-)
Date of Stay: 06/13/06 Review Submitted: 06/13/06

This is a lovely studio right in the middle of 'real' Amsterdam but close to the 'tourist' Amsterdam if that is what you are after. Comfortable and clean with a lovely garden, loads of lovely restaurants and cafes nearby. We loved it!

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