Location - perfect. Hosts - perfect. Amenities - perfect. How does one write a review for a place that was really quite amazing? There is nothing I can write that will capture our fantastic stay so I'll just state a few things that travelers will find helpful (By the way, we travelled with a 95 year old - who was born in Amsterdam - and he gave this place 5 stars too!). Also, this is my 6th trip to Amsterdam and this is - by far - the best AirBnB we have ever had.
First, the big picture:
1. Canal views are real. Sometimes your read about a location and it is not really what the owners describe. This home has several places to enjoy the canal activity. We spent several evenings watching canal boats (tour and private) pass in front of our entry door and 2nd and 3rd floor windows.
2. The location could not be better. Everything was either 10 -20 minute walk or a streetcar/tram ride away. Really. Anne Frank, Museums, Central station.
3. Pieter and Hanny went above and beyond to make sure we were settled and had everything we needed. They helped with our airport transfer for arriving and then we were set for getting around. And, they are just really nice people.
Now a few details that are not as interesting, but important:
1. Lots of spices, oil, kitchenware, pans, coffee maker available.
2. Other basics also available: blow dryer, toilet paper, paper goods, shopping bags, shampoo, guidebooks, etc.
3. Grocery store is about a 5 minute walk away. Restaurants are similar distance and there is one almost next door. Great bars and speciality shops (liquor, ice cream, wine) very close as well.
4. Pack light. There is a washer and dryer in the basement (or lower floor) so no need to bring a lot. Laundry soap was there but if not there is a market close by.
5. Don't drive if you don't need a car. Tram, bus, subway, Uber all easy to access.
6. Wifi is okay. Better in different parts of the house, but for the most part just fine.
7. The house is very narrow (typical Dutch house) and the stairs are steep. However, my father in law (95) stayed on the ground floor where there was a bed, toilet and small kitchen. He didn't need to use the stairs really at all. He has a rolling walker but didn't need it in the house because the narrowness allowed him to hold on to counters, etc.
8. The patio on the 2nd floor is lovely for an evening glass of wine or morning coffee. Really quiet in the back of the house.
9. This house is on a very busy canal. There are lots of people passing all day and late into the night. If you are a light sleeper, then bring earplugs. Just remember, you are in the center of the city. Great people watching here!
10. Beds were comfortable and linens were good. 2nd floor has a couch where one of us slept for 10 days and it was reportedly a great place to sleep.
11. If you are lucky enough to be able to book this place, you will no doubt agree that it is fantastic!