I had a beautiful, sunny weekend in Amsterdam and Mark's apartment was the perfect place to stay. Even though I had a lot of work to do, I set up a little home office on the dining room table, threw open the huge doors which provide a direct view out on to the street and the canal - and watched the word go by as I answered my email. Admittedly, this was made even more pleasurable with a cold beer in hand, kindly provided by Mark. Just be aware that passers-by will often stop to stare as the interior is straight out of a magazine.

It wasn't all work and I found plenty of time to rest and play. The cosy bed on the mezzanine level provided some very good nights' sleep and the apartment is in a prime location, close to cafes and bars. I can recommend the Saturday Noordmarket - just on the other side of the canal - to get your weekend supplies as it has all manner of delicacies.

Mark was always easy to get hold of and checked in numerous times to make sure I had everything I needed. I want to go back!