I came to Amsterdam to research the city's history, and chose to stay at the Gold Alley apartment because the description of its history intrigued me. As it turned out, however, the apartment's historic authenticity was only one of its many, many charms -- its location on a sweet side street off the Singel; its tiny winding staircase; its placement over a lovely (and very quiet) jewelry shop (I bought some lovely earrings!) and Mimi's (the co-owner's atelier); its living room/kitchen with lovely furnishings, all necessary appliances, and a view overlooking the street that makes dining at home like eating at one's private cafe; and, at the top of the house, the light-filled bedroom, with very comfortable bed, and clean bathroom (shower only). I loved my 5-day stay here. I only wish I could stay forever!