After a long flight from Oakland California we arrived in Amsterdam around noon - dog tired and a bit disoriented. Marij's instructions to her place were easy to follow (yeah)! We found the neighborhood charming and quiet but lively - Marij was there to greet us and get us oriented.
Her place was clean bright & cozy - great bathroom! Sounds funny, however traveling for 20 hours made us really appreciate a well appointed clean shower with good water pressure and lovely big towels. Her interior decor made us feel at home as its kind of ala Santa Cuz ( a northern California surf town) - very fun! After that we hit the town on the bikes Marij left for us- old school bikes, fun getting used to them - but an absolute blast - best way to see Amsterdam! So a full day of peddling around ( btw- only 10 minutes to Prinsengracht) - home again sitting on one of the balconys to enjoy the neighborhood & a nosh. Out again just to enjoy the long summer evening & nearly white nights. Finally to bed - slept very well - bed quite comfortable.
We spent 8 days just hanging out with friends who live near by; exploring; finding out where the best apple could be had; taking in art & architecture (Marij's neighborhood is filled with the Amsterdam School); great shopping close by at Kitsch Kitchen, Friday Next, Raw Materials & Locals and all traversed on the bikes. Fabulous! I am 52 and a bit round so if I can you can!
Marij checked in twice and was friendly smart & helpful and made sure we were comfortable- I felt I could really relay on her for help. And in fact it turned out we realized we kind of screwed and need an extra night - lucky for us the extra night was not yet booked, but she helped us a lot by being so accommodating. It was such a relaxing and carefree trip -thanks in part to lovely Marij and this sweet cozy flat! I would stay here again - unless I win the lottery a get to buy my own place in Amsterdam!