For our family of three, our host had the perfect amount of presence, welcoming and helpful but never intrusive. On arrival, she oriented us to the apartment and neighborhood, and offered the kind of insight you will only get from a local. We followed her advice and had a great visit.

The apartment itself was bright, airy, funky, and highly functional in a compact space. After long days of walking, it served as a quiet, comfortable retreat before heading out for dinner. Note: The apartment is three flights up. This was not a problem for us, but would be difficult to manage with a physical impairment.

Location was perfect. The neighborhood felt lively and yet relaxed, and it was nice to step out to a view across the Amstel. If you cross the bridge, it's a short walk to De Pijp and Albert Cuypmarkt, and not much farther to the major museums. The metro (which itself was eye-opening, coming from Boston's dysfunctional transit system) is nearby, and will get you to Central Station in five minutes.

Overall, a great home base for our daughter's first visit to Amsterdam. Our only regret was that our stay was just three days.