We had a super experience overall.

Joanna and MP were out of town when we arrived, but made arrangements for a very kind neighbor to let us in.

The flat was terrific: very nicely furnished with a well-equipped kitchen. The neighborhood was excellent, with bike rental just a few doors down, and markets, shops, and restaurants nearby (recommendations for these and more provided by our hosts). The stairs are steep, as described, but were no problem for us, including my fit 78-yr-old father.

Meeting Joanna and MP upon their return, my sister mentioned that she is a primary school teacher. Our hosts offered to let us to join them in accompanying their young ones to school the next day, and ended up providing a tour of the school and the neighborhood. It was a very kind gesture and a nice chance to discuss similarities and differences between our cultures. They also arranged for early morning taxi pickups, which helped reduce any stress we might have had in doing so ourselves.

My family and I are looking forward to our next visit to Amsterdam and stay at the flat!