Pension Groeneweg

Three weeks later, I still haven't received my money back, despite showing proof to Booking, the platform I used. The hotel won't speak to Booking in English and claims I slept there, even though I provided a receipt showing I stayed somewhere else. They have kept my money and refuse to return it. Here's what happened. I booked this hostel because of the very positive reviews and flexible cancellation. First, I got an email saying I had to transfer money to secure the reservation, which didn't feel very flexible. On the day of the stay, I was told payment hadn't arrived and the booking was cancelled. I sent proof of the bank transfer, and he said I could pay cash if the transfer didn't come in time. Why would I pay twice? The transfer arrived later that day, and the hotel confirmed the money had come through and everything was fine. Then, while driving from Brussels, where we live, towards Amsterdam airport to pick up my wife, she called to say her flight was delayed. Since we wouldn't make the promised 7pm arrival, I messaged the hotel to explain we'd be late. They texted back that this wasn't possible and cancelled the booking. I tried calling, but they wouldn't answer. I even stopped and changed course to see if I could get the keys at 7 and then go to the airport, but they ignored my calls and voice messages. I decided it wasn't worth driving to Gouda for nothing and headed back to the airport. In short, there was no flexibility about payment, terrible communication when problems came up, and disrespectful treatment. Luckily, you can book somewhere at short notice these days, or I would've been stranded in a foreign country. Take the risk if you want, but make sure your flight isn't delayed.

The room and bathroom were both clean, and the place was quiet and pleasant, close to Gouda centre. The owner was very kind and gave us a little gift as we left.

Be careful. The owner has no integrity and lies.

Cute and nice.