Mary Ann's home was by far the best airbnb I've rented to date. I can't put in words how special her home is - it was a deliberate effort for me to not sit outside on her porch all day and watch the boats pass by on the canal, I had to force myself to leave and tour the city.
About the house: Very comfortable living room with excellent style and furnishings, excellent bed, small but equipped bathroom, pleasant little kitchen nook that Mary Ann lovingly stocked with beers for me to enjoy. But the real gem is what's outside the windows, the boat is in a very unique corner of the canal with no neighbors and adjacent to a draw bridge which allows large boats to clear all throughout the day. It was extraordinary and felt like I was living like a local.
Location: I booked a hop-on, hop-off which has a pick up directly across the street (in fact you can see it pass by from the boat). It's a 10 minute walk to famous cafe's like Winkle 43's famous Dutch Apple Pie and only a 10 minute car ride to city central. Jordaan is about a 10 minute walk, I believe the boat may be on the border. Quiet, out of the main way, but totally accessible and a part of the lovely, lively city. It also came with two bike's which I opted against using, but that would have made transportation even easier.
Communication: Mary Ann was great at communicating, she checked me in and showed me around the boat. Was very quick to answer questions.
Cleanliness: I am a stickler when it comes to cleanliness and Maryann's home was very clean and well taken care of.
Disclosures:
~I stayed on a busy holiday weekend and there were times when lots of boat traffic on the canal went by (so much fun to watch), but I could feel the boat rock gently. I found it very, very gentle. In fact, it was soothing and I loved it, but worth noting for others that this is likely the house boat experience.
~You may want to bring or buy bug spray if you plan to sit outside in the evening, you're on the water as you may imagine it can get buggy.
~ There is tram noise that occurs, it almost sounds like a rumble of thunder. I noticed it at first, but it didn't bother me at all, nor did it wake me or disrupt me. I think I stopped noticing it all together at some point.
Final words: Book it! My favorite rental thus far. Gorgeous and would highly recommend.