The Eelhouse B&B

Daphne sent us entry instructions and suggestions for the area, checked in on our first day, and helped us get the TV working. The room was warm, cozy, and quiet, with windows looking out over a park and streets. We slept very comfortably. There’s a small fridge and kitchen nook with a microwave, which suited us since we mostly ate out. The traditional Dutch building has the steep stairs you’d expect, but we got used to them after a day, and carrying our suitcases down was easier than I’d thought. The old floor creaked and was quite noisy, though it barely bothered us. We stayed four nights at the start of our trip, enjoyed it, and would come back.

Vera and Jasper were wonderful hosts, sharing directions and tips for shopping and sightseeing. The breakfast they brought to our room was far more than we could finish. Jasper showed us how to use the coffeepot, and coffee, tea, wine, sodas, juice, and water were all included and replenished daily. I’d love to return to The Eelhouse. We stayed three nights in September 2012. Our little room was at the top of some very steep stairs, but I loved the charming attic and its view of the neighborhood. It’s very close to the Ann Frank House and the Westerkerk, with the Noordermarkt and plenty of nice restaurants and shops nearby. I hope to add photos to this review.

Breakfast came right to the room, with meats, cheeses, yogurt, pastries, and bread. The TV had lots of channels and good reception, and the free Wi-Fi worked without a hitch. Our room also had a kitchenette with a sink, microwave, fridge, coffee maker, and electric kettle. The mini-bar-style fridge had plenty to drink, included in the price. The room was large, and the bed very comfortable. Vera handed us the keys and spent time helping us get oriented, with ideas for nearby things to do and places to eat. The bathroom was clean and well equipped, with a strong shower and piping hot water. Guests could adjust the steam radiator in their own rooms. The only possible annoyance was the narrow, steep stairs, plus some noise from the people walking around upstairs. Neither bothered us.

There’s a great local pub at the end of the road by the canal, De Blaffende Vis, where you can have a meal. The music shop halfway along is also an amazing place to lose yourself. The service is very personal, and being away from the main tourist area means no hysterical tourists going wild outside. It’s still close enough to feel like home. This was our second stay, and the quality is just as good.