Heroic B&B Friendliness
European bed and breakfast hosts and hostesses are notorious for confounding travelers with inexplicable kindness. Share tales of B&B hosts who went above and beyond the call of touristic duty to give you a great trip.
Note: This board is for tips about great European B&Bs (not hotels). If there are multiple comments on the same place, we will delete repetitious posts. Comments about more traditional hotels should be posted in the appropriate Rick Steves guidebook forum. For specific lodging recommendations, please refer to Rick's guidebooks, and read his tips on planning your trip.
If you have a complaint about a B&B in one of Rick's books that you could not resolve with the management, we would like to hear about it; however, please do not express your misgivings here. Instead, feel free to comment in the appropriate Rick Steves guidebook forum. You can also email any complaints to Rick's editor at books@ricksteves.com.
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Arronbeg B&B in Maynooth Ireland
I would like to give 2 big thumbs up to the Aaronbeg B&B in Maynooth Ireland. Our daughter stayed here for 2 nights before starting her semester at NUI Maynooth. Michael & Maureen Downes went out of their way to help our daughter get setteled. Maureen even went as far as to drive our daughter to get a cell phone and drove her to her residence hall at the university.
Joel Laubscher
Tempe, AZ USA 01/31/2012
L'Antico Borgo- Cinque Terre B&B
We had a great stay at this amazing B&B. It was an excellent value and the staff was very helpful and kind. The room was very comfortable and clean. The breakfast was delicious. It's a bit out of the city center but for us, this was a plus!
Chris
Boston, MA USA 01/24/2012
Wonderful B&B in Normandy
La Ferme du Pressoire was both our nicest and least expensive lodging in France. Idyllic farm setting SW of Caen, 20 minutes from the Normandy beaches. We were thre couples staying in the cottage- spacious and very pleasant, well-appointed bedrooms with separate baths, a sitting/diningroom, washer/dryer, and full galley kitchen. Odile was a wonderfully cheery and gracious hostess, fixed huge and scrumptious breakfasts, including omelettes made with eggs just collected, wonderful selection of pastries, and cider pressed in the neighborhood. She even packed up the leftovers for out lunch picnics. A foal was romping in the pasture just next to our outdoor seating. Some rooms set for a family. This place was great!
Fred Provenzano
Seattle, WA USA 01/18/2012
Great Castelli Romani B&B
We spent a week at B&B Albero Gemelli south of Rome in Albano, last November,2011. Quiet, friendly, great breakfast,reasonable,45 minute train ride from Rome. Great place to relax, the neighboring hill towns in the Castelli Romani are great to visit. We visited friends from 20 years ago when we lived there. On our last evening, Mary, the hostess, prepared a delicious dinner for all of us as a good- bye party. Mario chose the wine. A great final bash for our old and now new friends .
Arno Driedger
Grand Rapids, MI USA 01/03/2012
B and Bs in Venice
My husband and I just got back from a December trip to Italy and stayed at Corte Campana in Venice for the second time. Ric, the host, was as friendly as ever, had great restaurant recommendations and was very helpful. The location is fabulous but do note that the place is up a couple flights of stairs. Ric will help carry luggage if you need it.
Susan
Skokie, IL USA 12/29/2011
sleeping in Kenmare
One of favorite stays was in Kenmare at Davitts. It was one of the nicest B&B's in Ireland. Hands down, Mary, the proprietor was maybe the nicest person I've met!! The room was very large and although over Davitt's restaurant and bar, it was absolutely quiet. Mary's breakfast in the restaurant was very incredible.
ann fessler
gig harbor, wa USA 12/21/2011
Wonderful Stay at My Guest Roma in Rome, Italy
My husband and I stayed at My Guest Roma on November 27th 2011 for two nights and again, on December 7th for another two nights. We usually stay at hotels when vacationing but for this trip decided to go with this B & B because of its high ratings on Trip Advisor. From the moment of contact, Gioia returned my emails expeditiously and care was taken to explain all of my inquiries, no matter how small. I was debating on whether to stay at a location closer to the Colosseum but Gioia convinced me that all of the tourist attractions would be easily accessible by bus or metro. Indeed, the B & B is one minute from the bus stop and around a seven-minute walk from the metro station. The two rooms that we stayed in were spacious (by European standards), very clean and quiet. The owner, Stefano, took time every morning to go over my travel itinerary, made recommendations for places to eat, and ensured that I had all the information I needed before we left. There was only one small problem as the night we returned to Rome there was no hot water in the shower. I spoke to Stefano about this the next morning and he addressed the issue immediately. When we returned that evening, the problem was fixed.
I recommend My Guest Roma for its high standard of service and great value for money.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions at joachin8@gmail.com
TIP: If you want to save a few dollars, you can take the FR1 train to Tiburtina, then take the metro from Tiburtina to Bologna station. Then take the XXI Aprile exit and walk about seven-minutes along Viale XXI Aprile until you reach the B & B. This option costs $9 ($8 train + $1 metro) versus the $15 you have to pay to take the Leonardo Express and the #90 bus.
Joanna Chin
London, ON Canada 12/15/2011
Downtown Accommodation in Rome
We spent two weeks in November at Downtown Accommodation on Via Cavour in Rome, and were repeatedly amazed at the kindness and dedication of the hosts, Lorenzo and Isa. Our airline had lost our luggage, and we had failed to include the phone number for Downtown on the claim we filed; after we tried and tried to reach someone at the airport to see if the bags had turned up, Lorenzo somehow found a number that was actually answered by a human being [INVALID] he was able to locate the bags and have them delivered, and he called us on our cellphone to let us know they were in our room just before we started buying new clothes. He had our breakfast at our door each morning at the requested time, and was always ready to meet our special diet needs. The bed was at least as comfortable as our own at home. Lorenzo kept the room spotless the entire time we were there. When we needed a room for a weekend visit from our granddaughters, he found one right across the street in a competitor's B&B after telling us all his rooms were booked. One very special thing he did was to make up a bag of fruit and other treats for us to take on our last morning, when we left long before breakfast was served [INVALID] we were really grateful for the juicy, sweet little oranges in the bag, which we used to help keep ourselves hydrated in the dry air of the plane on the way home. The location was perfect [INVALID] close to the Colosseum, the Forum and the Campidoglio. And when our clothes got dirty, Lorenzo sent us to a really reasonable coin laundry, which required only the "coins" from us [INVALID] they washed, dried and folded everything, drying them at the temperatures we requested. Downtown Accommodation is excellent.
Charles & Jan
Hillsborough, NJ USA 12/10/2011
Paris,Germany,Eastern Europe in 3 weeks
My wife and I just returned from 3 weeks in Europe. Here are where we stayed;
Paris-Hotel Muguet was very nice. Good location near Rue Cler on a quiet street 10 minutes from the Eiffel Tower. The biggest room we have stayed in(our 4th trip to Paris) Great staff. The breakfast is a bit pricey but convenient if you don't want to go out to a cafe first thing in the morning.
Fuessen- Hotel Ludwigs is not listed in Rick's quidebook but we found it acceptable for the 2 nights we stayed there. In warmer weather it could be problem. The rooms could get very hot and street noise would an issue. But it was cold enough in Nov. to be a non-issue.
Nurenburg-Hotel Keiml run by Frau Keiml was great. My wife felt she was the grandmother she never knew. Good location, clean and quiet. The best breakfast we had during our travels.
Prague-Hotel Hastel was described by Rick as having thin walls and he was right. I quess it depends on who is your neighbor. We had a very spacious room and no problems. The staff is helpful, especially Thomas. Berlin-Pension Peters is top notch and I will stay here again. It's in West Berlin but with the transportation system it hardly matters. Great staff!
Kracow-Globtroter B&b doesn't look like much from the street but once you pass thru the passage way and enter the courtyard you will pleasantly surprised. The most helpful staff we encountered. They will go the extra mile for you. No breakfast but it was a non-issue.
Budapest-Hotel Pest is on a quiet street near the Opera. Grand rooms with a good breakfast it is very impressive once you enter off the street. Good prices in the off season.
Hotel Jezero at Plitvice Lakes in like a Holiday Inn. Good restaurant and you just walk into the park.
Ljublana-Hotel Center is near the train station, has a helpful staff and modern rooms and a good price. But anytime you find earplugs in the room you know what to expect. And I don't see the noise decreasing when the weather gets better. Could not stay here again.
Hotel Berc in Lake Bled was peace and solitude and we loved it! Charming,clean and a great way for us to end our trip.
John
Columbus, NC USA 12/08/2011
Great Place to Stay Outside of Rome!
We stayed at the B&B "Il Colle degli Ulivi" towards the end of our 4 week trip touring Italy. We knew we wanted to stay outside of Rome and we're very happy to stumble upon Ivano and Terri's place. We felt it was a humble jewel nestled in the Lazio countryside. The cabin we stayed in was perfect for the three of us, nicely furnished with a warm cozy feel to it. We enjoyed having evening meals prepared by Ivano. We drank good wine, talked, laughed and feasted. We enjoyed the casual family style feel that came with dinner.
Ivano is a gracious considerate thoughtful host. From our arrival to our departure we were well taken care of.
One of our highlights was a midnight tour of Rome with Ivano. I recommend this highly! Not to be missed.
If you care about good food good company and want to be noticed and guided to have the best experience possible while visiting Rome I suggest this B&B.
Oh yes, one more thing Zagarolo is a lovely town to visit lot's of wonderful history!
sheri
KLAMATH RIVER, CA USA 12/06/2011
Stunning B&B in Rome: great host and location
I enjoyed every minute at My Guest Roma. We were welcomed and taken care as dear friends. Our host Stefano was very knowledgeable both about the history of Rome and local restaurants. He made every possible effort to ensure we would feel comfortable and fully relax.
The neighborhood is filled with bars and young people; yet it is calm. It is close enough to center city though in a non congested part of town. A supermarket and a post office are a block away. Our room was stylish, with character and mostly important clean and quiet. We loved having a fridge where to store our own shopping .
Fabre Fabienne
Paris, France 11/28/2011
Prague Pension
Pension Dientzenhofer, great location, little quarter, short walk to Charles Bridge. next to Kampa Island. very good value on Castle side of river. Near embassy area. Nice breakfast, large room, good bathroom, helpful staff, came in very early on morning of departure (1.5 hrs before normal) to fix us breakfast and make sure we had transportation to train station. Surprised not in RS books.
Jeff Johnson
Westminster, CO USA 11/27/2011
B&B Bellevue, Budapest
B&B Bellevue, great B&B in Buda side of Budapest, very helpful, nice location at a very reason value. Great view from our room of the Parliament Bldg. Fixed us a picnic lunch and arranged transportation when we had to leave very early on the morning of departure.
Jeff Johnson
Westminster, CO USA 11/27/2011
Towerview B&B, Dingle, Ireland
You can't beat "Towerview B&B" in Dingle when touring the gorgeous Dingle peninsula. Handy location, great breakfasts, clean modern rooms, free WiFi and best of all, the friendliest hosts we have met. Mary smiled and helped us to make the most of our time -- we felt like family before we travelled on.
Bev Price
Coquitlam, BC Canada 11/22/2011
Casa Selita B&B in Orvieto, Italy
Rick,
Wanted you and travelers to know that Casa Selita B&B in Orvieto, Italy is a wonderful place to stay. Selita is very hospitable, the room we had was clean and nice and opened up into her garden area. Location is perfect being in a country house just below the old city of Orvieto within walking distance. Great place to stay. We learned about it in your Italy guidebook. Thanks.
Mike and Maryam
Carlsbad, CA USA 11/21/2011
My Guest Roma
The Milano family went out of its way to assist us. They arranged transportation from the airport, to the cruise port, and tickets for the sights we wanted to visit. They helped us navigate public transport in Rome, and made us feel like family.
A 5 Star experience!
Sue
Meridian, ID USA 11/19/2011
La Mejorana in Grazalema, Spain
Hi! I wanted to let Rick Steves & Co. know what a wonderful stay we had at La Mejorana in Grazalema, Spain. The room was lovely, the setting perfect, the breakfast delightful--I could go on and on. Our host Andres was extremely helpful and agreeable.
Jeannette Franks
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WA USA 11/05/2011
Arles, France B&B. Mia Casa
Arles, France B&B: Mia Casa Guesthouse is the place to stay in the central old part of town - close to everything! Delphine, the proprietor is a marvel! Helpful, witty, knowledgeable, interesting...and she speaks excellent English. Rooms are somewhat "rustic" but have all the necessities "en suite." Having breakfast in her livingroom was a wonderful opportunity to visit with her. She even helped me carry my luggage up the 2-3 flights of stairs to my room!
Rita
Austin, Texas USA 10/28/2011
Bloburger Hof - Salzburg
We had a great stay at this hotel--it was an excellent value and the staff was very helpful and kind. It's a bit out of the city center but for us, this was a plus!
Sharon
Atlanta, GA USA 10/25/2011
Lovely Chipping Campden B&B
This was our first visit to the Cotswolds of England (September 2011) and we were most fortunate to have booked the Woodborough B&B in Chipping Campden as our home base for our week there. Woodborough is a newer, beautifully decorated residence constructed of Cotswold Stone and the owners, Mike and Pat Kent, are engaging hosts who have had interesting lives, and warmly welcome their guests into their home. They also offer a wealth of information, maps, dinner suggestions, etc. to assist in making your Cotswolds visit as memorable as can be.
The rooms (1 bedroom and adjoining sitting room that converts to a bedroom) are very comfortable and clean, and were given a daily sprucing which always included impeccable attention to detail. The cooked-to-order English breakfasts are a scrumptious delight. There is a beautifully manicured back yard that adjoins the English Countryside. Woodborough is located a very short drive, or a healthy stroll outside the lovely village of Chipping Campden, right in the heart of plenty of Costswold charm. It is a warm and pleasant home base for any Cotswold visit!
Michael Brown
Sacramento, CA USA 10/25/2011
Rome B&B
Il Colle Degli Ulivi (www.olivetreehill.com) was the best B&B out of all during our 6 week trip. Ivano and Theiry are warm and welcoming and do all they can to make your stay in their lovely B&B wonderful. Ivano does the cooking - be sure to stay for dinner. It is fabulous. We cannot say enough about this great place, just a 30 minute train ride from Rome.
Jan
Howell, MI USA 10/24/2011
Downtown Accomodation in Rome, is a great value comfortable B&B in Rome!
Excellent location just a few steps from the Colosseum. Lorenzo (our host) was so kind, courteous and caring. He gave us all the information we asked for and also a map and useful tips. Comfortable room tastefully decorated with a very clean en suite bathroom. And beds were very comfortable. A great breakfast served in room at the time
we requested. We felt very safe and relaxed staying at this B&B. We would definitely stay here again.
http://www.downtownaccomodation.com/
Natalia Karen
San Francisco, CA USA 10/23/2011
An act of kindness... a real class act in Rome!!!
My wife and I were looking forward to a week in Rome traveling down from Venice & Cinqueterre when my wife was rushed to a hospital after a serious fall in Riomaggiore. We knew Rome would have to be canceled so I called Francesco at B&B Baldassini - Rome, to let him know of the situation. While he had every right to keep our money for the entire week (+$900 Euros), he offered to see if he could rent the room. Francesco was able to rent all but one day, which he did not charge us.
I gave Baldassini 5 stars for this act of kindness. But when you treat your customers with nothing to gain, as in our case. I have to believe the care he gives to those who stay with him must exceed 5 stars.
Judy & Mel
Judy & Mel
Huntington Beach, CA USA 10/23/2011
B&B in Andalucia
If you're traveling in Southern Spain, Casa Olea near Priego de Cordoba is an amazing B&B. Set in the middle of olive orchards, near several white hill towns and convenient to Granada and Cordoba with great food in a relaxing setting.
Judy Musto
Lake Oswego, OR USA 10/23/2011
Oberammergau Gasthaus
We stayed in a wonderful place in Germany. Gasthaus Christine Magold. The place is lovely, conenient to the town and Christine is a delightful host.
Gerald Thomas
Fullerton, Ca USA 10/21/2011
Art Suites: B&B
Art Suites at the Rocche Costamagna winery in La Morra, Italy: fabulous rooms with balconies, good breakfast, incredibly friendly and helpful staff. Best I've stayed at.
Jack
Newtown Square, Pa USA 10/19/2011
B&B in Florence
Panella's B&B in Florence is the best we have ever stayed in. Stayed fall of 2011. The hostess is friendly and cheerful and tried in every way to help us, making reservations for the museums for us, and suggesting great restaurants. She provided a fantastic breakfast, with cheeses, wonderful breads and ham, cereal and yogurt. And best of all, her lovely renovated rooms were HUGE and comfortable, as was the bathroom. Our very best B&B experience after 4 trips.
Brenda Bolton
Mobile, AL USA 10/18/2011
The place to stay in Orvieto
We have stayed at Selita's B&B in Orvieto twice now. Selita and Ennio are wonderful hosts who have had interesting lives, and love to engage their guests in good conversation. The rooms are very comfortable and clean, breakfast is a delight. There are outdoor tables for afternoon sipping looking over the Umbrian hills. Selita's is located just outside the walls of Orvieto, a short walk to the elevator that takes you to the main street. It is also well located for exploring the wineries for Orvieto Classico nearby. Put Selita's and Orvieto.
Karen
Vancouver, BC Canada 10/14/2011
Panella's Residence in Florence
Panella's Residence was a convent which passed into family hands, and has been beautifully restored. Graziella is a superb host, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about her city, so take advantage of her advice. The rooms and bathrooms are decorated to a high standard, the beds are comfortable, the bathrooms very clean. They are also large, which is not the case with many B&Bs in Florence. Breakfast includes meat, cheese, pastries, and fruit. Panella's is extremely well-located on the Via Pergola making it possible to walk almost anywhere on a traveller's list.
Karen
Vancouver, BC USA 10/14/2011
Old Coach House B&B Malvern, UK
We stayed at The Old Coach House B&B in Malvern Wells, UK last spring and absolutely enjoyed our stay. The couple that own and run the Inn are very friendly and go out of their way to be of help with any questions or referrals to places to visit, etc. The location is fairly easy to find, close to natural beauty areas, very comfortable and stocked well, and the full English breakfasts (to order) were as good or better than I remembered. We stayed here while looking for a town to live in when we move back from the US later this year. I would definitely stay there again.
Joanne
Phoenix, AZ USA 10/14/2011
Heroic B&B Friendliness
We recently spent 2 nights at the fabulous Bloombsury B&B in York, England. Their award winning cooked -to- order breakfast and charming spacious rooms are a delight. Due to our itinerary we we forced to arrive quite late, Tricia and Steve were wonderful in making arrangements for us. With the walls of York and the downtown area all within a stroll this is the pefect getaway from the bustle of London. www.bloomsburyhotel.co.uk
Wendy
South Chatham, Ma USA 10/13/2011
Andulsuain area, Spain - Lovey B&B
Casa Olea is a lovely B&B in a rural setting with quick access to Cordoba, Granada, Ronda area. Peaceful & quiet with lovely hosts and Ruby, their precious dog who loves to go for walks. Breakfast, dinner (if you want) and accomadations are great. Six rooms in refurbished house. One of the many highlights of our trip to Spain. Check out their website: www.casaolea.com
diane giannone
houston, tx USA 10/12/2011
Great B&B in Seville
If visiting Seville, Spain, check out a great B&B called Pension Cordoba. http://www.pensioncordoba.com/en/ I recently enjoyed 2 nights here and would definitely recommend this place. The B&B is family run and Anna and her sister both speak good English. The B&B is close to all the main sights, approx. 5 minute walk to the Cathedral and a host of tapas bars, shops etc. The bedroom was clean and comforable with aircon, much appreciated in 30+ heat. Bathroom also a good size and clean with 'power' shower. The rate doesn't include breakfast (and I found this to be the case of most places we stayed at in Spain) but there's a great cafe at the end of the street which was very reasonably priced. If arriving by car, the B&B is a bit hard to find and we made the mistake of not calling ahead for directions. Also, if you have lots of luggage I'd suggest asking for a room on the first floor as there's no lift.
Karen
Cardiff, USA 10/11/2011
Perfect B&B in Rome!
I've been to Rome many times (usually annually), and this is the best place ever found. Even after staying at more luxury places, B&B Le Finestre sul Vaticano was perfect. Reasons: 1) Able to stay in Rome for 45 Euro pp close to everything. 2) few steps from Metro stop (Valle Aurelia or Cipro). 3) About 8 minutes walk to the Vatican. 4) Neighborhood of real Italians, not tourists. This nice B&B has 3 very clean rooms with their own bathroom and our room was far more spacious than expected. Staff very friendly and helpful and breakfast was excellent. We were provided with a map and great suggestions as to what places to visit and how to get there and also places to eat. Great little restaurant right around the corner for dinner and great prices. Quiet, safe neighbourhood to walk around even late at night. Very close to underground but most places of interest are within walking distance. Weather was excellent as well. And yeah, WIFI was free, too. Overall, an excellent find. www.romabandb.it Thanks to Max, Lavinia and Lourdes!
Nancy
Orlando, FL USA 10/10/2011
Les Charmes de Carlucet B&B Sarlat
We recently explored the Dordogne region of France, staying at Les Charmes de Carlucet located about 15 minutes outside Sarlat. A very clean, well run B&B in a quiet pastoral setting. The hosts, Eric and Helen, are very helpful in giving advice on how to explore this area. Their advice on restaurants was excellent, guiding us to genuine places in small villages that we would not likely find on our own.
Doug Balckman
Vaancouver, B.C. Canada 10/10/2011
Beautiful gem in Andalucia.
Casa Olea, nr. Priego del Cordoba, Spain www.casaolea.com
Thanks to an earlier post on this Graffiti Wall, my husband and I recently came back from a 6 night stay at Casa Olea in Andalucia, Spain. What an absolute gem of a B&B.!!
Tim & Claire have done a beautiful job of converting and modernizing an old Andalucian farmhouse, into a very comfortable and serene place with 6 lovely en-suite bedrooms, in the middle of acres of olive groves. The spacious airey rooms have windows overlooking the olive groves and sourrounding mountains, all with very comfortable king sized beds, and clean modern bathrooms. There is a nice terrace where drinks and an evening meal are served for those wishing to eat in, as well as a pool and tanning deck enclosed by a wooden fence.
The hosts are a delightful couple with a wealth of knowledge about the area, and are always on hand to offer great advice or suggestions for a day out. Granada and Cordoba are about 1 hrs drive from Casa Olea, and there are numerous interesting small villages nearby to explore. This is a great hiking and biking area for those more energetic folks.
The icing on this cake are the delicious 3 course evening meals that Claire offers her guests every evening. She is a wonderful chef and each meal we had was different, tasty, fresh and used all locally sourced products. These were some of the best meals we had in our entire 3 week trip to Spain. Our favorite times were meeting up in the bar each evening before dinner, and chatting with the other guests staying at the B&B, before heading out to the terrace for dinner and watching the sun go down behind the beautiful mountains. This lovely B&B was the perfect choice to use as a base for exploring this part of Spain, and Thank You Tim & Claire for helping to make our holiday so enjoyable.
Claudette Wren
Asheville, NC USA 10/09/2011
Best B&B in Florence!
I just wanted to let everyone know about Badia Fiorentina B&B in Florence. I just stayed here my second time, and again everything was wonderful. The owner, Bruno, always goes out of his way to help you in any way possible and always makes you feel at home. I can't say enough good things about him and the B&B! Great location, great rooms, great value.
Cynthia
Chicago, IL USA 10/09/2011
Great B&B's in Italy
Just returned from our 2nd trip to Italy. I did a lot of research and investigating (including the Rick Steve's guidebook) and I just wanted to share the names of a few great B&B's we stayed at (and recommend): VENICE: Alloggi Santa Sofia, FLORENCE: Badia Fiorentina B&B, MONTEROSSO (Cinque Terre): B&B Marisa, ROME: Locanda Navona
Cynthia Pedersen
Chicago, IL USA 10/09/2011
Le Lieu Besnard, La Cambe, France
What a wonderful B&B, tucked away just outside the village of La Cambe! Short drives to D-Day beaches, great accomodations, awesome hosts. Brian and Yula Lawrence were so helpful and have done a fantastic work of restoration. We feel privileged to have found this little gem.
Carol & Al
Virginia Beach, VA USA 10/07/2011
Dingle's "The extra-" Milestone House
My husband and I with our 3 kids and family-of-four friends stayed here last summer. I can't say enough how wonderful Barbara was in helping us orient to the town and find terrific experiences. Within a few minutes of arriving we felt like we knew everything we needed to get around the area and start our adventure. Not only did she lead us to the best eateries but she made the reservations. Not only did she suggest what to see, she gave us "secret" spots and guided maps. We all devoured the soda bread! I think it should be called the "extra mile"stone house. Even when we left she made it her business to help us find an unforgettable hike/farm (Gleninchequin) and made sure our next accommodations were suitable. Upon our arrival at the next B&B we already had a message from her letting us know we'd left something behind and that she'd mail it to the next town which she did. The accommodations are simple yet wonderfully clean - you'll feel like you are staying with family. Enjoy!
Tracy
Seattle, WA USA 10/06/2011
Panella's Residence, Florence
We recently stayed at Panella's Residence, Via della Pergola, Florence which we had picked out from Rick's 2010 Italy Book. The owner of the house, Graziella was wonderful. Very friendly and helpful. Her beautiful 1300s house is gorgeous and our room was both spacious and comforable. I could imagine it being used as a convent years ago and the breakfast room/kitchen/office is in the basement which was formerly the stables. . She and her house made for a most memorable stay in Florence which we would thoroughly recommend.
Fran Biggin
Beaumont, TX USA 10/05/2011
B & B
Jardin de Bacchus in Tavel France - absolutely wonderful stay- cooking class was lots of fun- hosts were superb! Hope to go back one day!
Luralee
Steilacoom, WA USA 10/05/2011
My Guest Roma - Kosher B&B in Rome Italy
The room we had was large, well furnished and pleasantly decorated with A/C and internet. There was a nice big clean bathroom and shower including a bidet. The hallway connecting the guest rooms had a sink and hot water kettle and various teas and coffee for our use. Breakfast included a variety of breads and sweet rolls (all bakery fresh), soft cheeses, fresh fruits and cherry tomatoes, yogurts, various crackers and cookies, cereals, juices, milk and of course various kinds of coffee (latte, espresso etc.), hot chocolate , tea, etc.The owner/manager, Stefano, was on hand to make sure everything was fine and was very helpful in giving us bus or subway information as well as places worth seeing or interesting routes to take to get to the sites we wanted. He also printed out for us a voucher we had neglected to bring with us. In short, When he asked us on the last day what he could do to make things better we couldn't think of a thing to tell him.I would definitely go back again and highly recommend them to any and all.
David
Haifa, Israel 10/03/2011
Jardin de Bacchus B&B Tavel (avignon)
We spent a week here about 15min away from Avignon in Tavel the capitol of "rose' wine" Our hosts, Christine Chapot & Erik Van Greuningen were absolutely wonderful. extremely caring. The room and amenities were great. We even took a few days downtime & sat by the pool a couple of days with an amazing lunch provided by Christine, who happens to be a wonderful cook as well as being extremely funny. Staying her was the hi-lite of our month long vacation.
David & Colleen Giddings
Langley,, BC USA 10/01/2011
Paul Wright Bed & Breakfast,
My wife & I just recently spent 5 nights at Paul Wright's B&B in Argegno on Lake Como,Italy. Our hosts Paul & Nicole were very helpful with excellent suggestions on where to dine & places to see. The view from our balcony of the self contained apartment was fabulous & the ferry service is conveniently close. A great place to stay. Thanks for making our stay memorable.
Mike Green
Port Colborne, Ont. Canada 09/28/2011
B&B in Sorrento
We stayed at Casa Correale B&B, 8 charming rooms nestled in a lemon grove, in a convenient neighborhood in Sorrento. Room was spacious & clean, breakfast was filling, and hosts were charming.
Metta Cahill
Lawrenceville, NJ USA 09/27/2011
Great Salisbury, England B & B
We just returned from a three-week trip to Scotland and England, and spent four nights at the Spire B & B in Salisbury, using it as a base for exploration. Our hosts, Lois and John Faulkner were kind and helpful, and the breakfasts were just fantastic. Our room was airy and pleasant, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend it. Good location near the Cathedral and easy walk to rail station, Market Square, and good pubs.
Marilyn LeFeber
Columbus, NC USA 09/26/2011
Heroic B&B's, France
Beblenheim, France. A very tiny village on the wine route in the Alsace region, we stayed at Le Gambrinus for 58 euros/night with breakfast! The owner speaks fluent English (his wife doesn't) and was extremely helpful and fun. Pub in cellar with MANY beers on tap. Upon our arrival, he served us a pint! The food was great, too. Full of locals. Clean and perfect for our budget!
Peggy Burch
New Orleans, LA USA 09/26/2011
France B&B's
L'Eveche' in Vaison la Romaine was a wonderful experience in Provence. The owners speak English quite well, served a fabulous breakfast on the terrace overlooking the "new" town, the rooms were spacious and clean. Not far from many other historical sights and a GREAT market.
In Sarlat, the Dordogne region, we stayed at La Maison du Notaire. Ask for the room with balcony...it overlooks the main square and we awakened to a lovely market practically at our doorstep! We were told that Rick was coming the following month to stay, again. Can't say the breakfast was anything special but, it hardly mattered since the market and cafes were just a few steps away. Would stay at either place again and again!! Of course, I already mentioned my favorite; Le Gambrinus in Beblenheim (Alsace region) in previous post.
Peggy Burch
New Orleans, LA USA 09/26/2011
Italy B&B, Bagnoreggio
Italy. Specifically, Bagnoreggio near Civita Bagnoreggio and Orvieto. Romantica Pucci's is my all-time BEST B&B. Have not seen it mentioned in any posts but, loved it so much that I want to go live there with Pucci and Lamberto. It only has 5 rooms but, all very clean and nice. Buffet breakfast was fit for royalty...homemade jams, local produce, bread, fantastic coffee and much more. Lamberto cooks dinner. If you go, you MUST eat there for dinner. It had to be 5 courses! Starting with bruschetta and included the most mouthwatering pasta with bolognese sauce I've ever eaten. We were served wine throughout and with dessert came Pucci's homemade limoncello. All of this for the cost of a pizza and a couple of glasses of wine in Orvieto! It is within driving distance to many other villages/cities in Tuscany and Umbria. PERFECTO!!
Peggy Burch
New Orleans, LA USA 09/26/2011
Milestone House B&B in Dingle - it's the best!
My husband and I, with our 3 children, have traveled all over Europe, & I have to say this is one of the very top places we have ever stayed. I have never felt so "at home" at a B&B. Michael & Barbara definitely went the extra mile for us... giving the kids cookies & milk after a late evening arrival, letting us use their boogie boards and towels for a day at the beach, bringing us tea to drink in the garden as we relaxed after a long day, etc. Barbara took time to explain the places to see along Slea Head drive AND Michael's soda bread really is the best in Ireland. When we left after 3 nights, we felt like we were leaving family. You won't regret a stay at their B&B - I promise!
L Miller
Dallas, TX USA 09/24/2011
French Pyrenees - l'Arrajou
If you have a car and plan to visit the Pyrenees, you can do no better than staying at l'Arrajou, joyfully run by Veronique & Herve Cambier in the little village of Bilheres en Ossau, France. Beautiful house, stunning views, kind hosts. We wish we could have stayed much longer.
Susan Nolen
Brier, WA USA 09/24/2011
Les Charmes B&B Carlucet Dordogne
Les Charmes - Carlucet. Such a wonderful spot to be based whilst exploring the heart of the Dordogne and surrounding areas. Beautiful house, grounds and pool. Quiet and tranquil location yet near to all the best parts of the Dordogne. Eric was tirelessly helpful and very patient and friendly, which really made the holiday for us. All the recommendations he gave us were great from restaurants, to beauty spots, to kayaking, to art galleries, to vineyards in Monbazillac, foie gras purchasing and street markets. Would definitely recommend and would love to go back....
Helen Morley
Smarden, UK 09/20/2011
CASA SELITA B&B ORVIETO, ITALY
This is a comfortable, wonderful B&B. Selita is a charming hostess who knows small details make a big difference, like quality bedding. She and her husband share local knowledge and recommendations for the best restaurants, sightseeing, wine and shopping. The breakfast is delicious with local products. You feel very welcome here.
Linda GUGG
Delta, BC CANADA 09/18/2011
B&B in Pisa
The proprietors of our hotel in Pisa also run a B&B service in via P.Mascagni no.18. www.bedandbreakfastantonella.it; bandbantonella@alice.it. They were warm and friendly people, the hotel was 75eur p/n so B&B will be less and judging by our experience at their hotel I would warmly recommend trying the B&B as an option.
margaret
Guildford, UK 09/18/2011
Straven Guest House, Portobello, Scotland
Straven Guest House in Portobello Scotland is a GEM! My husband and I stayed there in August 2011 during the Fringe and the hosts were incredibly friendly, helpful and thoughtful. It was our honeymoon and they surprised us with a bottle of wine and some chocolates. The setting is so peaceful-a few homes away from the beach. It was the perfect way to see the city, and relax in the evening walking along the prom. Loved it!
Shannon MacKinnon
Tacoma, Wa USA 09/17/2011
Superb B&B in Rome.
Arco Dei Tolomei is a lovely, comfortable, reasonable, guesthouse. A very nice b'fast is included as well as free Wi-FI. The location in Trastevere couldn't be better. Marco the resident owner and his team, provided everything needed for an enjoyable stay. Catia will arrange reasonable, dependable, transportation to and from airport/train station as well as tours. The location is close to bus lines and the wonderful Tiber River...not on the wrong side, by any means! The neighborhood gives you the feeling of living as a Roman, not as as a tourist!!! This was our second visit and we look forward to another in May 2012. One cannot go wrong with a stay in this guesthouse.
Va. Byrd
Niceville, Fl. USA 09/14/2011
B&Bs in Slovenia
I visited Slovenia in May 2011. I stayed in 2 of the B&Bs recommended in the Rick Steves guidebooks & was impressed by their quality.
I stayed at the Berc Penzion--clean with a countrystyle interior decor. Very homely feel. I also stayed at the Mayer Penzion. The mayer Penzion owner was kind & agreed to do my laundry at a low cost. The location is great & gazing out of my window, I can see the historic Bled castle directly opposite. The food at the adjoining mayer restaurant was delicious! I savoured dragonfish for the first time in my life!
Tay Siew Hua
singapore, Singapore 09/09/2011
Lida Guest House -Prague
WE stayed at Lida Guest House in Prague, and were particularly impressed by the assistance we received from Jan, our host. He picked us up at the bus station, gave us a city tour as we drove to his B&B, gave us a beverage and explained how to use the transportation service to our advantage. He pointed out places of interest to visit on foot, recommended restaurants, sold us transit tickets, asked us our interests and arranged for event tickets. He accepted dollars, forints, euros, and crowns at the going rate. He recommended shops and gave gift recommendations on request. We also traveled to the airport with him on concluding our visit, where he saved us time and trouble by depositing us most directly. His B&B was clean, roomy, and the breakfast was varied and ample. We definitely would stay there again.
Tom & Jeanette Hemmen
Seattle, WA USA 09/09/2011
Il Bargello
Situated in the center of Florence you could not get a better centralized location. If you have traveled in Europe and are familiar with the B & B's the Il Bargello will suit you very well. With a cozy kitchen for breakfast and sitting room to drink a glass of wine in. Also the roof top terrace is not to be missed. We had two picnic dinners on the roof deck and watched the stars come out.
We also cannot say enough good things about Gabrielle, Anne Marie and Lynn.. all of these ladies were super helpful to us and made our stay on of our best while visiting Italy.
Ann Sharma
Portland, OR USA 09/06/2011
Great B&B in Rome
Friendly B&B in ROME We stayed at the Finestre sul Vaticano B&B (www.romabandb.it) for 3 ngts pre-cruise. Max and Lavinia (the owners) and Lourdes arranged our transfers from the airport to their B&B and then to the cruise port. Our transfer from the airport, which was very smooth, even though our plane had arrived about 1.5 hours late. We were unable to call ahead to inform them that we were going to be late, but the gentleman at the airport was pleasant none the less. Upon arrival, we were graciously shown our room and the facilities, including the free Internet WiFi access, which was very nice. Welcome they offer is superb! This property was exactly as described by the other reviewers. The metro stop was literally 1 block away, which gave us easy access to the attractions across town. We loved being so close to good shopping streets and within 5 minutes walking distance to the Vatican & St. Peters and with excellent restaurants within a short walk. The breakfast was awesome and delivered at the exact time requested. They are so quick to respond to e-mails and in answering any questions you may have. We enjoyed our stay and would stay there again and we highly recommend this establishment to our friends. Grazie Max and Lavinia! PS don't miss a gelato at Millennium ice-cream shop just 2 minutes from Le Finestre sul Vaticano Bed and Breakfast ... it's a must! www.romabandb.it
Kelly S.
Bridgeport, CT USA 08/29/2011
Bellevue B&B, Budapest
Wonderful B&B with professional, helpful owners. Breakfasts were great. Assistance in planning itineraries was much appreciated. Spotless, attractive B&B in a great location.
C Nicoll
Toronto, Canada 08/29/2011
Pension Suzanne, Vienna Austria
Wonderful suite in the center of Vienna. Clean, spacious, well-furnished. Great breakfasts. Professional and courteous staff. We will stay there again.
CNicoll
Toronto, Canada 08/29/2011
Go Apartments Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin
Excellent apartment. Clean, spacious, well-appointed and central to everything in Berlin. We would recommend without reservation.
CNicoll
Toronto, Canada 08/29/2011
Hotel Golden Age, Prague
Clean, very close to Old Town Square. Breakfast was good. Very poorly lit and utterly charmless, but if you want to be where the action is, this is the place.
CNicoll
Toronto, Canada 08/29/2011
B&B "The Chance"
"The Chance" in Chipping Campden was wonderful. Sally was a delightful hostess. The rooms were so clean & comfortable and the breakfast was delicious. It doesn't get any better than this for a B&B.
Cheryl amd Mike Wickline
Redmond, WA USA 08/29/2011
Fantastic B&B in Honfleur, France
If you are making a visit to Honfleur in Normandy, we definitely recommend checking out Le Fond de la Cour. It was recommended by Rick Steves in the 2011 France book and it's wonderful. we regrettably only had one night there but thoroughly enjoyed it. It's tucked away just outside of the bustling center of the town, hidden behind a nondescript old door. Open the door and there's a quaint and comfortable courtyard and you are greeted by Amanda and her big white dog Pataud. While the building is centuries (?) old the rooms have been renovated and are modern, bright and very comfortable. Breakfast was served across the street at the Coffee Shop and we had delicious baguettes, croissants and coffee. The was very accommodating with our children (ages 11 and 8) and even made us dinner reservations at a great restaurant (La Commanderie). Beautiful find, thanks Rick Steves!
Kristin
Boston, MA USA 08/24/2011
Butler Court BB
Rick,
Your fine appraisal of the Butler Court BB in Kilkenny, Ireland was spot on! Can't say too much in praise for these fine folk. They really set the bar for amenities that work and for a real love in hospitality. Thanks for the tip!
Mike Borschel 8/24/11
Mike Borschel
Fishers, Ind USA 08/23/2011
Very helpful and friendly staff. Great value for money and perfect location!
Perfect position for the Vatican and the historical centre, staff very friendly and prepared to find out information on events for us.The room was clean and very spacious and the beds were extremely comfortable.We had a wonderful stay in Rome. I'd recommend B&B Le Finestre sul Vaticano www.romabandb.it to friends and would consider staying here again next time I visit Rome. GRAZIE!
Sophia
Cleveland, OH USA 08/21/2011
"Comfort in Rome in Quiet, Homey Neighborhood"
We recently stayed at Finestre sul Vaticano for the waning days of of a two week tour around Italy. It turned out to be one of the nicest things we arranged for ourselves, to end our trip on a highly positive note. We'd gotten a rave referral from fellow Italian travelers who'd stayed there the year before, so we had some awareness of what to expect. But the courtesy and service we experienced far exceeded our expectations. Max, Lavinia and Lourdes really go all out to assure that your time in Rome is not only made comfortable, but they are amazing reserves of information that provided east to understand answers to our endless questions about getting around Rome. Max shared a list of recommendations for a variety of restaurants within a 5-10 minute walk of the B&B and having tried all of them each was comfortable, featured some of the best food of the trip, and were prices favorably for the budget-conscious. We also got many pieces of valuable and timely advise from Max and Lourdes on where to go, and how to best avoid the typical June crowds that frequent the Roman places of interest. Max in particular steered us away from the places that he knew were largely tourist traps; as a result we visited some less frequented parts of Rome that were much more enchanting and less densely packed with people. Our mornings were always started off with the large and very diverse breakfast Lourdes set up, and she was insistent that if we needed to get an earlier start to a morning, to let her know and she have our AM repast ready when we wanted it. Lourdes is an amazing wealth of cultural information, being of Peruvian heritage, but remarkably well learned in languages and art history. One of our favorite times at Finestre sul Vaticano was just sitting with Lavinia, her daughter, and Lourdes, comparing notes on our various travels and learning more about the Roman heritage and culture. The B&B's proximity to the two nearby metro and bus terminals made getting around the city very easy and comfortable. On top of this ease of travel, Finestre sul Vaticano is located in a quieter Roman neighborhood, a mere 5 minute walk for the towering back wall of the Vatican itself. Suffice to say, we now know that whenever we return to Rome, we have a home-away-from-home to plan into out itinerary, and a once-removed extension of our family to greet us upon our arrival! www.romabandb.it
Dane M.
Dallas, TX USA 08/21/2011
Palazzo Masi
First of all Daniela and her husband were the most gracious and warm hosts one could hope for. All of there recommendations were spot on for tours, restaurants, site seeing, etc.
The rooms are absolutely wonderful and gorgeous and very comfortable. We will be back in the future.
Thank you Daniela!
James Cantrell
Greenville, SC USA 08/20/2011
Siena Must Stay - Frances' Lodge
Wow - where do we start?!? Our initial communications with Franca and Franco was outstanding. We were initially only going to stay in Siena for two nights, but we were encouraged to stay for three nights based on our itinerary of things that we wanted to do which we shared with them via e-mail (ie. tour of Siena, day trip to Florence, Wine tasting, clay hill country, and some time to relax.) They took all of our interests and put together the most incredible adventure!!! Reservations were made for us before we even started our trip so that we had a good idea of what was in store (or so we thought.) ;-)
This kind couple started our unforgettable Siena experience with a warm and gracious welcome upon our arrival into their fabulous Bed & Breakfast / Lodge (they were literally outside waiting to greet us as we drove in!) After we settled into the Moroccan Suite (like something that you would see in a movie with vibrant tapestries and bold colors), they gave us a dinner recommendation in Siena called GuidoRicci, which was absolutely stellar (quaint little restaurant just off the front side of the main palazzo.) The next day they booked a walking tour of Siena for us, which lasted about two hours that was intriguing and informative. After a little lunch we hit the road with a map that Franca and Franco laid out for us through the clay hills where the scenery was breathtaking. We captured a multitude of beautiful pics that look like an artists rendering of what you could only imagine the Tuscany hills to look like. Our drive was timed perfectly to culminate with yet another tour that was arranged for us at a winery called Altesino. A private tasting with some light snacks was followed by our own tour of the winery. We had a short drive back to the lodge where we enjoyed some of the spoils of our winery tour along with some local meats and cheeses as we watched the sun set over this paradise sitting at one of a handful of perches at the Lodge.
The next day was a road trip to Florence. Little did we know that Franca was born and raised in Florence and she knew the city like the back of her hand. After a dynamite breakfast, another map was ready for us with advice on where to park along with the best place to enter the City. Reservations were also arranged for us to take tours of the Uffizzi and Accademia museums which saved us a considerable amount of time judging by the long lines in prime Holiday season. Franca recommended that we end the day with one last stop on the way out of town at San Michelangelo Piazza. We made the trip and pulled up a table at a little cafe overlooking the City as we enjoyed a glass of wine, listened to some romantic music and captured an amazing sunset! (It doesn't get much better than this!)
We had one last incredible breakfast where Franco shared a wealth of information on the Palio after we inquired about it's history! His eyes lit up like the fireworks that we saw in Venice earlier in the week, and it gave so much more meaning to our trip and tour of this incredible area! Franco, out of earshot from Franca mentions, "Franco is the BEST!" He is great, but it is easy to see that this it is a loving team approach in all that they do to make their guests' feel welcomed and right at home. By the way Franca's homemade jams and honey were scrumptious (should have packed some in our bags.)
The only downside to our stay with Franco and Franca was that we couldn't stay longer. Based upon our experience, we would definitely extend our stay on another trip!
Todd & Mary Erickson
Hastings, MN USA 08/14/2011
La Scuderia B&B, San Zeno (near Arezzo), Italy
Background: We flew into Milan and rented a car, which broke down within 120 km. The rental company had the car towed to a shop in Parma and then abandoned us. It finally dawned on us to call the place we were to stay, La Scuderia B&B, near Arezzo. Anna, the manager, first suggested that we take the train to Arezzo. Then she said to call when we got there and she would tell the taxi driver how to get to the B&B. We called her between 10-11 p.m., long after she was off duty, and she gave the taxi driver directions. When we arrived, we were met by Sarath, who wecomed us and offered us anything they had to eat, as we hadn't taken time to eat since the car broke down.
The next day, Saturday, Anna and Sarath located a replacement rental car for us and arranged for the rental agency to stay open until we got there.
Throughout our stay at La Scuderia, Anna and Sarath were more than hosts, they were friends. They made it very hard to leave.
I highly recommend La Scuderia. It is a clean, neatly decorated, well-maintained place with 9 rooms and 5 apartments, convenient for exploring Tuscany and Umbria. But the best part was our hosts, who truly saved our vacation.
David Roach
Silver Spring, MD USA 08/12/2011
B&B in Provence
We stayed in a charming B&B, listed in
RS's Provence book, called Le Mazet des
Alpilles, in the well located town of Paradou. This had been our 4th or 5th choice as I wended my way through places in this area. Lucky choice for us! The room was lovely,
one of 3, the gardens out back were charming and so conducive to journal writing and a glass of wine in the late afternoon. The place is wonderfully located for Les Baux, Arles and Pont du Garde - and other rural delights.
I recommend it highly!!!
Karen
jsdavidson3@gmail.com, TX USA 08/06/2011
Tal Y Bont Festiniog B&B
We loved the 4 nights we stayed with Ann and Denis at Tal y Bont Ffestiniog. The house is full of character and set in a beautiful valley with a creek running thru it. Sheep graze along side the stone bridge which makes for a setting that looks like it's right out of a painting. It is very quiet, (except the sheep baa-ing)and peaceful, yet just down the road from villages where you will find delightful pubs to enjoy an evening meal. It is a perfect location for touring North Wales and Snodownia. Our bedroom was large with a queen bed and a twin bed, the bathroom was also huge. We had a beautiful view of the valley from our room. Ann and Denis were generous hosts, meeting our every need. Communication ahead of time via email with Ann was great. Ann went out of her way to purchase some train tickets for us in advance. Denis did some shopping for my husband when he expressed disappointment over not finding a specific souvineir. Breakfast was fabulous with fresh fruits and cereals followed by a hot cooked breakfast served with a smile. I highly recommend this b&b.
dan5124
Spokane Valley, WA USA 08/01/2011
B&B Hero
In Beddgelert, Wales, we were delighted with the service, warmth and care of Brian, host of Plas Gwyn. In addition to fine food and detailed suggestions on various travel sites, he gave us a 10% discount when spotting our Rick Steves book. Also, when it appeared we might be short of ready cash for our bill, he kindly waved the difference. Turned out we did have enough, but we were most impressed by his generosity.
Mike McMahon
Fresno, CA USA 07/31/2011
Hargreaves House Northern Ireland
Pauline at Hargreaves House in Bangor Ireland (close to Belfast) is our hero! We had an issue with our car rental that even our travel agent who booked it couldn't resolve. Pauline offered to try on our behalf and had the issue resolved in no time. She was an incredible help from the get go when I first contacted her by email about staying in her b&b. She truly cares about you and helping you have the trip of your life. Her b&b is comfortable, charming and has an incredible view. This is the place to stay in Northern Ireland.
L Veloski
Spokane Valley, WA USA 07/30/2011
B&B Canon Grange, Wells, England
I highly recommend Canon Grange B&B in Wells, England. My husband and I stayed there since Rick Steves recommended it and Annette and Ken were wonderful. We arrived in the rain and Ken rode with us in our car to help us find a place to park. Then, he carried my suitcase for me up the stairs and called Fountain Inn to make a dinner reservation for us! They were so gracious and helpful! The room had a wonderful view of the Cathedral and was so cozy and charming! It was our favorite B&B!
Karen Burke
Cincinnati, OH USA 07/30/2011
Il Villino in Florence
Our stay at Il Villino in Florence was outstanding. Sergio & Elizabeth were very kind and knowledgeable. The location was perfect and the accomodations for our family of 5 was perfect!!! Great cappuccino and breakfast! Wonderful homemade sweet breads made by Elizabeth each morning. Beautiful patio!
Rosanna
Westminster, CO USA 07/25/2011
Wonderful Belgian B & B's
Two really great B&B's....Absolute Verhulst in Bruges (in Rick's book) - lovely helpful hosts, beautiful rooms, tasty (and hearty) breakfast, great location... - and Cuberdon B&B in Ghent - very modern, crisp place with a steam room too! The owner was so helpful. Took us around to sites where family had lived in the 20's, gave us great tips for museums and restaurants, made us a custom breakfast, and gave us a lift to boot. Ghent is only about 20 minutes from Bruges and has some great sights to see.
Jeanne
Seattle, WA USA 07/23/2011
Bed & Breakfast: Dingle, Ireland
The Milestone B&B in Dingle, Ireland is a must-stay for anyone wanting to enjoy this area. The hosts, Barbara & Michael, have a wealth of information to share and will provide you with a handmade map, including where the WCs are located! The Milestone is a delightful place to stay, the breakfast menu is huge and the guidance you will receive to help you enjoy the area is priceless. We highly recommend this place.
Barbara Grosch
Redding, CA USA 07/21/2011
Catanzaro, Calabria
We found heaven at Il Cedro B&B, in Catanzaro Italy ( Calabria) Hosts Cherrye and Peppe made out stay very pleasant. Located a few mintutes from the beach of Catanzaro Lido and the excitement of downtown, it is a little oasis. Rooms are large, free wi-fi, and a great breakfast. Free SECURE parking. Google it, or use the link below. My wife and I enjoyed our stay.
http://ilcedro.com/about-il-cedro-bed-breakfast-catanzaro-italy/
Greg Speck
Branford, CT USA 07/19/2011
Best B&B
Best B&B - Barnacle Hall, Coventry, UK
After a long day of driving, we stopped at this beautiful farmhouse. Parts of it date from the 1500's - the newer part is from the 1700's. Excellent service, accomodations, advice, breakfast, and local recommendations. Couldnt rank it higher. Best B&B we stayed at in all of England.
Mike Haven
Fishers, IN USA 07/18/2011
Beddgelert, Wales & Kelbrook, Lancashire
Met two teachers from California when we toured the slate mines in Wales. They highly recommende a B&B in Beddgelert and we made a point to go there. The Plas Wynn was wonderful...Brian W fantastic. Gave us a 5 pound discount for mentioning Rick's book, even for one night. Would have loved to stay longer but we needed to head north of Manchester, England for our daughters wedding. If you find your way heading north to the Lake District, stop over in little Kelbrook, Lancashire (just north of Coln) and stay at the Craven Heiffer Inn...newly renovated B&B...great rooms, great food, and great prices!!!
JoAnn
Stillwater, MN USA 07/15/2011
My Guest Roma - Rome, Italy
Stayed at My Guest Roma based on postings I saw on the Graffiti Wall. Everything written about Stefano and My Guest Roma are accurate. Stefano goes above and beyond to make sure that you enjoy your stay in Rome and spends time to tell you what is worth seeing and not worth seeing and shows you on a map he provides where each of these places are. He also tells you areas of the city that have the most beautiful architecture and history. I took his advice and was never disappointed. Rooms were clean and comfortable and is close to some really good restaurants. Stefano deserves all the kudos he has received and My Guest Roma gets a 5 star rating in my book.
Bruce
El Dorado Hills, CA USA 07/12/2011
Staying At Il Bargello Florence
Just returned from a week in Florence with a side trip to Cinque Terra. Followed Rick's guidebook advice and had a great time. Just wanted to share a very positive experience at Il Bargello B&B in Florence. Gabriella and Lynn were outstanding in providing help and advice. Accomodations were nice - our experience was wonderful and we strongly recommend Il Bargello when visiting in Florence .
S Black
Decatur, Il USA 07/11/2011
Hotel Maitani in Orvieto, Italy
We stayed at the Hotel Maitani in Orvieto. In your guidebook you describe it as overpriced with antiquated outlets and rotary phones. We thought the hotel was wonderful. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with a direct view of the Duomo. They have tables set up and definitely want the guests to use it. Norma, the manager, was as sweet as could be. She brought my wife a Cafe directly to our room! The first night we stayed in a room with a view of the Duomo. We asked Norma if she could show us some other rooms. She showed us one with a view of the Italian countryside. Incredible view. Incredible service. Norma and her staff were wonderful. We definitely recommend the Hotel Maitani!!
Brad Jordan
Fallbrook, CA USA 07/08/2011
Bayeaux
We enjoyed a fabulous stay at the Relais de la Tour Louise. We were just around the corner from the church, and about two blocks from the Tapestry. We parked safely right across the street. This was a great base for exploring the Normandy Beaches. Will speaks perfect English, yet he was patient and willing to assist us with our meager attempt at French. Will made our reservation process very easy. He made a dinner reservation for us at "Assiette Normand". (- Also recommended in Rick's book!) This was absolutely the best meal we had in our entire 2 week travels around France. Will sat with us at breakfast every morning. He seemed to enjoy hearing about our adventures, and he had excellent advice regarding sightseeing; travel time-frames; directions; and food. We had a spectacular view of the church out our bathroom window. We highly recommend Relais de la Tour Louise in Bayeaux.
Diane
Seattle, WA USA 07/07/2011
Provence
PROVENCE
I just returned from a stay at L' Ecole
Buissoniere, in the countryside by Vaison
La Romaine. It was really enjoyable. The host, John, is English, with many years in Provence. Every day started with fresh croissants, bread, coffee, and home made preserves. Our days were spent on day tours suggested by John to the towns of Cote du Rhone and the Luberon. The scenery, wine, food and people are terrific. John and his French wife, Monique, are charming, welcoming hosts and turn handstands to make sure that your stay is great.
Phillip Wetzel
Spokane, WA USA 07/05/2011
B&B in Amsterdam
We stayed in a great B&B in Amsterdam, B&B Jordaan. Charlotte, the owner, could not be more helpful, especially in recommending great places to eat in the charming Jordaan area. Loved the B&B--spacious, sunny, with it's own private garden; loved the Jordaan area--charming, fabulous little restaurants and shops. Highly recommended.
Lin
San Anselmo, CA USA 07/04/2011
Budapest: Maria and Istvan (guidebook)
Maria and Istvan in Hungary (Budapest) were great. They were very helpful, and the flat was quite inexpensive (80 E night for 5 in family). The flat is right on the public transit. They also helped me find Grandma's church using their Hungarian knowledge on the internet to locate the church. Recommend highly!!
Paul Thompson
Sioux Falls, SD USA 07/04/2011
The Straven Guest House Edinburgh, Scotland
Two thumbs up for the Straven Guest House in Edinburgh, Scotland. Mac and Marian are the hosts and they are both very helpful and kind. The Straven is located a few steps from the sea and our room had a sea view which we requested. This is a very relaxing B&B. I highly recommend it!
Debbie
Boston, MA USA 07/04/2011
The Straven Guest House Edinburgh, Scotland
Two thumbs up for the Straven Guest House in Edinburgh, Scotland. Mac and Marian are the hosts and they are both very helpful and kind. The Straven is located a few steps from the sea and our room had a sea view which we requested. This is a very relaxing B&B. I highly recommend it!
Debbie
Boston, MA USA 07/04/2011
Railroad Cottages
would like to send a shout out to the Railroad Cottages in Moreton In Marsh (Cotswold Villages). Not really a B and B, but a self-catering apt. Emma was an angel sent from heaven. Clean, comfy, had a washing machine in the kitchen. Super awesome steam shower and jacuzzi.
Susan
Lakeland, FL USA 07/03/2011
Ardconnel House, Inverness
Want to echo other comments about Ardconnel House in Inverness. It was fabulous. John and Elizabeth were so welcoming and kind. He even carried our heavy suitcase up 3 flights of stairs for us! Breakfasts were cooked to order and delicious. They were so helpful to answer all our questions. Definitely a great place to stay! (Be sure to allow enough time in Inverness - there's so much to see!)
Mary & Ron
Clearwater, FL USA 06/25/2011
Speiss und Speiss
A helpful hostess, great location away from city bustle in Vienna. Very new and clean. Would recommend highly.
John Coppes
Austin, MN USA 06/25/2011
La Maison du Notaire Royal, Sarlat, France
My wife and I recently spent one night at La Maison du Notaire Royal, in Sarlat-la-Caneda, France. The owner, Pierre-Henri, welcomed us through the main door and provided a very nice, abbreviated history of the building. My French is fair, but Pierre-Henri spoke perfect English and was kind enough to accomodate my wife and I. The building had a great rustic/historic charm and the spatious room was very comfortable. The price of the room was very affordable and the maison was located right in the heart of the medievel town center. Pierre-Henri recommended a great place to have dinner and provided a very nice petit-dejeuner. I definitely recommend this place, and I will stay here again on my next trip to Paris. Thanks, Pierre-Henri
Jeremy Henson
Austin, Texas USA 06/24/2011
A Must Stay in Doolin, Ireland
The Daly B&B in Doolin, Ireland is exquisite and within walking distance of "lower Doolin". Susan Daly met us with a Bailey's & Coffee and homemade ginger cookies which were very welcome after a long day in the car. The rooms are very spacious and have beautiful rolling-hills views. Susan is the daughter of Gus O'Connor of pub fame and is an Irish gem!
Elle Page
Longmont, CO USA 06/24/2011
Dingle B&B to add to Rick's list!
Eileen and Tom Collins (rec. by Rick) had overbooked their B&B in Dingle so placed us at the Brosnan's B&B. What a stroke of luck! Eileen and John Brosnan are very warm natives who provide large, lovely rooms on the harbor, a great breakfast and wetsuits for visits to Fungie, the famous Dolphin.
Elle Page
Long, CO USA 06/24/2011
Slovenia- Lake Bled Area
A slice of heaven lies just a 15 min drive west of Lake Bled towards Lake Bohinj, in the small village of Kupljenik, Slovenia at the Dolinar-Krainer Farm Stay. Lake Bled is a beautiful azure lake, but quite touristy, so if you will have a car while travelling in Slovenia, and you desire a more tranquil and personal experience I highly recommend this spotless and friendly Farm Stay. I have travelled a number of times to Europe, but have stayed few places where I really didn't want to move on after a few days. Iza, is a wonderful and humorous hostess, and if you're lucky you may get a mini accordian concert from her husband Lojze, and he is not just any old accordian player, he was the #1 accordian player in Slovenia! In early June, wildflowers dotted the Alpine meadows surrounding their home, as goats grazed. Breakfast was generous and substantial, and the price was very reasonable. One of our breakfasts included homemade goat cheese. We found all Slovenians very friendly, helpful and most all were fluent in English. http://www.dolinar-krainer.com/en
Susan
Tulsa, OK USA 06/18/2011
Rocklea B&B, Windermere, Lake District
Rocklea B&B in Windermere, Lake District England showed us extreme friendliness. Landlord Ian picked us up at the rail station. My husband is a fisherman, so Ian telephoned the president of the local fishing association and introduced my husband so he could get the local fishing tips. Then, Ian made a run to the fishing shop in Kendal and purchased the fishing flies my husband needed. Doing this errand for us was beyond the call of duty, and gave us more time to experience the beauty of the Lake District. I highly recommend this place to stay!
Laura
Fredericksburg, TX USA 06/16/2011
Alpenhof, Stechelberg, Switzerland
I highly recommend the Alpenhof in Stechelberg, Switzerland. Easy on the budget, clean and comfortable rooms with full kitchen privileges - hosts Marc and Diane are friendly and helpful with suggestions on what to do in the area.
You can't beat the view of the Alps right outside your window!
If you take about a 10 minute walk through Stechelberg toward the cable car station, you'll see a small store where you can pick up a wifi signal even sitting outside on the porch.
Mary
Grand Rapids area, MI USA 06/08/2011
Love the Straven Guest House!
My husband and I have been to Edinburgh twice now. The first time, we didn't know about Straven Guest House and just stayed in a hotel. This past April we visited again and had a chance to stay at the Straven Guest House and it was awesome! Way better than the hotel. Our room was so nice and really was a sanctuary to escape to when we were tired of walking. Mac and Marianne were so nice and welcoming. They helped us with any info we needed to know, from getting into the city and which bus to take, to where to eat when we didn't want to venture all the way into Edinburgh. And to top it all off, Mac's homemade yogurt and preserves are worth the stay, just by themselves! We loved our stay at the Straven Guest House and highly recommend it to any travelers heading to the Edinburgh area!
Miranda
Johns Creek, GA USA 06/06/2011
Graffiti Wall
Best and worst accommodations:
Worst
West Gate Garden, 105 Mortlake Road in Kew, Surrey, TW9 4AA, England. I would not recommend staying at West Gate Garden. The recommendation is based on the unreliability of the operator not the accommodation. The operator or their representative was a no show after waiting over 3 hours. (The reservation was made 4 months in advance with a deposit; and a reconfirmation was made within 3 weeks of scheduled arrival.)
PS : This B&B is listed on: www.visitrichmond.co.uk
Robert
Baltimore, MD USA 06/06/2011
Graffiti Wall
Best and worst accommodations:
Best
Dunsford House, 16 Stanger Street, Keswick, Cumbria, United Kingdom
I highly recommend this B & B. The operators make this a home away from home. They welcome you into their home a treat you like family. The breakfasts – regular and vegetarian - are great. Additionally, a fruit and candy bowl are in your room for enjoyment.
bob
Baltimore, MD USA 06/05/2011
il Borgo di Genova - Genoa, Italy
For two weeks I had the pleasure of staying at il Borgo di Genova in Genoa, Italy. The owners of the B&B, Alessandra and Giovanni, went above and beyond the call of duty to make my stay amazing. From providing delightful conversation, information about Genova and the region and local transportation, and more, Alessandra and Giovanni's insight and assistance was fantastic. But when I fell ill with a terrible cold the second week of my stay, they truly went out of their way to help. They talked to me about my symptoms and told me what to ask for at the chemist, and when the nearest chemist didn't have in stock the homeopathic medicine that I was looking for, Alessandra gave me what I needed from her own personal supply. If there was anything that I had questions about or needed help with while I was sick, both Alessandra and Giovanni were right there to assist me. No one wants to be ill overseas, but I consider myself blessed to have been in their B&B and care for this week of the common cold. Their extraordinary kindness and friendship made what could have been a week from hell one of the best B&B experiences I've had, ever. Sincerely.
Marisa Allegra Williams
Oakland, CA USA 06/04/2011
Heroic Windsor Lodge, Dublin Dun Laoghaire
At the end of our ten days in Ireland, we turned in our Enterprise rental car in Dun Laoghaire late afternoon and got a ride from the rental company to the Windsor Lodge through torrential rain, traffic and heavy construction. After a friendly welcome from our hosts, the O'Farrells, we were unpacking and realized my husband's $500 camera was still tucked underneath his car seat! My husband called using a cell phone kindly lent by the B&B owners, was promised at Enterprise that they'd look for the camera, waited an hour (the time was short til the car rental company closed) while I went to a bank machine for more Euros to cover a taxi. Finally after another call, the camera had been found, much to our relief. He asked about a taxi, but Mr. O'Farrell insisted on driving my husband (at least 30 minutes each way) to fetch the camera.
We had an early flight and needed to depart on the (very conveniently located) airport bus by 6:30, and Mrs. O'Farrell set out a coffee pot ready to turn on, cold cereal, fruit, milk and toast makings for us.
They made a stressful last day so much easier - and gave good dinner recommendations too! I would definitely recommend to others based on their kindness.
Chris
Cedar Point, NC USA 05/27/2011
Farm B&B in Normandy
Our stay at La Ferme du Pressoir was far more than we expected. The quietness of this retreat healed after exploring Caen, Bayeaux, Arromanche, and numerous other attractions in the Normandy area. Our hostess, Odile is incredibly kind and generous and is a true champion of all things Normande. It helps to speak a bit of french here.
Al
Hercules, CA USA 05/27/2011
Castleview Guest House Durham, England
We had a wonderful experience.
We arrived late, w/o reservations. Our hosts were heading out but stayed to welcome us. Mr. Williams even got in the rental car to help me park it next to the B&B.
KC
Boston, MA USA 05/23/2011
My Guest Roma - Rome, Italy
My daughter and I had a wonderful experience at My Guest Roma. The host, Stefano Milano, made every possible effort to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. He spent considerable time finding out what we would like and telling us how to find it in Rome, how to get around, avoid long lines, find the best coffee, the best gelato, etc. The B&B is exceptionally clean and the beds are very comfortable. The rooms are simple but roomy. The breakfast was delicious and the breakfast room is pleasant. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. The B&B is out of the central city in a nice neighborhood and a good bus route and the Metro are easily accessed. It was a good value.
We keep kosher and are Shabbat observant. As with every other detail, Stefano went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed. There are two synagogues within a 10 minute walk as well as a kosher store, kosher bakery and kosher restaurant all nearby.
Pam Gellen
Chicago, IL USA 05/22/2011
Normandy B&B
See p 294 RS France. The Sebires' 300 year old farmhouse, 70 cows and generous hospitality outside of Arromanches, Normandy is worth finding--and not that difficult -- follow Rick's directions. Wonderful place to stay. Wish I spoke more French!
Julianne
Bellingham, WA USA 05/20/2011
Cill Breac B&B DingleTown
Cill Breac B&B Dingle Town: beautiful rooms looking at the Harbor, Angela is a wonderful host, short walk to town, generous, delicious breakfasts, amazing value.
Julianne
Bellingham, WA USA 05/20/2011
B&B #368 (Chantal & Joe) Paris, France
Chantal & Joe gave us the best B&B experience we've had in 35 years of B&Bing. From meeting us on our arrival at Gare du Nord; to the large, spotless, comfortable room; to the amazing assortment of fresh breads, pastries, and cheeses for breakfast Chantal's accommodation was fantastic. She packed breakfast leftovers into great lunches for us. Evening brought great conversation with tea and more snacks. And don't forget the outstanding location (5 minute walk from Place de la Concorde) and the great value price. Access this best-in-the-world B&B via "Alcove & Agapes" at bed-and-breakfast-in-paris.com.
Marlene & Dave
Fort Collins, CO USA 05/18/2011
Best B&B in Rome
Thank you to Laura, for making our stay in Rome the best!!! I think that sharing this kind of information help her and everyone that wants to have a enjoyable time...because she certainly know how to be a host and have fun in Rome!
http://www.aldebaranholidays.com/eng/home.asp
AldebaranB&B just got no. 11 in popularity in tripadvisor,
Gaby H
North Hills, CA USA 05/18/2011
Royal Stewart B & B -- Brugge Belgium
My cousin and I had the great pleasure of staying with Maggie and Gilbert at the Royal Stewart B & B in Brugge this April for five days. My cousin had an encounter with some bad mussels and we were unable to move on to Ghent as we had planned. No worries. Maggie worked her magic and with great efficiency and grace managed to keep us in our room and keep all her other guests happily accommodated as well. Over the past 25 years, I have stayed in many, many bed & breakfasts. Few have measured up to what the Royal Stewart has to offer. Lovely rooms, great location, excellent light breakfasts and helpful beyond words. I have been encouraging friends to travel to Brugge simply for the pleasure of staying at the Royal Stewart!
Christine Walker
Grand Ledge, MI USA 05/17/2011
Il Poggiolo B&B, Florence (Serpiole)
Our third stay at Il Poggiolo (May 2011) was wonderful and memorable, as always. Graziella is a terrific hostess, obliging and very helpful; her accommodations are large, comfortable and clean. She gives us "inside" information that would otherwise be unknown to tourists: where to eat, places to see, things to avoid, etc. This visit, our two sons wanted to rent motor-scooters for a day to travel the hills of Tuscany. Before leaving on our trip to Italy, I checked out several websites about this. Graziella found a place at half the price with far better machines; she even made all of the booking arrangements for us and gave us great directions to the rental store. If ever we had any problems while "exploring", she would always help us out, even if it meant interrupting her very busy schedule and driving to pick us up! I teased her about the "Graziella Taxi Service". On the day we left, her lovely daughter drove us to the train station in Florence. Graziella treats us like part of her family during our stays. We thoroughly recommend Il Poggiolo to anyone wishing to escape the busy streets of Florence, and spend some relaxing 'downtime' in the beautiful Tuscan hills surrounding the city, just a short (and pretty) drive from downtown Florence.
Ken Robinson
Brantford, Ontari Canada 05/16/2011
Panella Residence, Florence, Italy
The most charming, warm, and accomodating hosts you can imagine! We stayed at Panella's in Florence for 10 days and loved every minute. Our hosts, Graziella and Joseph, made us feel like family. They steered us to the best places to see, shop, and eat where tourists are few and Florentines frequent. They made our trip magical.
Vincent
Flemington, NJ USA 05/15/2011
Shoreline Guest House Penzance
Nice place, beautifully decorated and maintained. Breakfast was multi-choice and our hostess was super nice and helpful.
Swan
Napa, CA USA 05/14/2011
B&B Royal Stewart
ROYAL STEWART--Brugge Ah, Maggie, we love you lass and your sweet dogs. All of the good things written in other posts are true but I think too mildly stated. She IS a perfect hostess.
H. Gintzer
Chicago, IL USA 05/14/2011
Brugge B&B
We stayed at the Royal Stewart B&B for 3 nights. Maggie was a super hostess, an excellent source for good places to eat that won't break the bank, where to rent bikes and must see places. Her establishment is clean, attractively decorated and certainly reasonably priced.
Gus Cammaert
Eganville, ON USA 05/09/2011
My Guest Roma, Rome, Italy
I went to Italy for a business trip which I prolonged for a few days of fun. I booked well in advance when B&B My Guest Roma was rated number 2. It clearly deserves all the good reviews it gets. The staff is extremely efficient, booking is fast and the e-mails address all specific questions. Both Laura and Stefano speak very good English. The room was large and perfectly clean. Both AC and WiFi are complimentary. The B&B was obviously not equipped with a fitness room, but is 5 minutes walk from a park where I went running early morning, as and a swimming pool to which the B&B arranges a pass. As for tourist highlights, I walked to the Borghese Gallery, and was downtown in 15 minutes. The Vatican is a bit further away, but not too much of an issue. Stefano also recommended a number of great local restaurants which are great value for money and serve authentic local food. All my requests were always promptly answered. I strongly recommend him as well as his B&B
Sean Wright
Chicago, IL USA 05/07/2011
Le Mansarde B&B, Venice Italy
My fiancé and I recently stayed at this amazing B&B this past March. Wow, there is so much to say, where do I start?!? Anna-Maria is the owner and has three rooms for rent in this building and lives with her family in the other two. The location is ideal, 15 minute walk from the train station, a 3 minute walk to a Vaparetto stop or in the other direction to the Aliguna lines. There's a cute little veggie/produce market right in front of the building every day. We stayed in the room with the attic bunk beds and loved it. The room has two double beds out of the way up some steps and then a living area with a pull out couch, kitchenette, beautiful hardwood floors and spotless bathroom and shower. I signed up for a vegetarian cooking class with Anna-Maria and loved it! She is an amazing cook! It was so much fun, she is sweetheart! She and her family went out of their way to make us feel welcome and at home. We highly recommend this B&B for anyone going to Venice. Please email me with any questions @ hasson0422@yahoo.com
Bethanne Hasson
Philadelphia, PA USA 05/06/2011
Panella's Residence in Florence
Florence: Panella's Residence. My daughter and I were hosted by Graziella for 4 nights in April. What spacious rooms, with such lovely painted doors. Each morning was a treat, talking to Graziella as she served us breakfast. She drew all sorts of maps, made reservations for museums, showed us how to get to the most amazing gelateria, and when we ran into her at one of her recommended restaurants, she was happy to talk to us about our day. Graziella helped us prepare a picnic lunch one day. The B&B is great, but it is Graziella who really makes the stay there a treat. She is charming, gracious, savvy, and fun.
Ruth
Amherst, MA USA 05/06/2011
Lake Como Bed Breakfast
Paul Wrights Bed and Breakfast in Aregeno , >Italy is the very best!!!!
Balcony,fabulous view, walk to wonderful old town, walk to the boat and take in other little towns along Lake Como! Come back and be pampered in this excellent bed and breakfast. You will never be sorry!!!
Write if you have any questions!!
Pat Perry
Boise, Idaho USA 05/05/2011
Alpenhof Stechelberg
Highly recommend The Alpenhof in the tiny Swiss village of Stechelberg,cool location ,great breakfast,& very very clean.
A great place to chill,very quite & peaceful.
Terri Cobner
sweetwater, TX USA 04/27/2011
IRELAND
We just travelled to Ireland and spent time in some great B&Bs. In Kinsale we stayed in Cloisters B&B and Orla and Aileen were amazing hosts! The rooms were clean and comfortable. The hosts were so helpful and truly delightful! In Dingle we stayed in Coastline B&B (not in guidebook). Rooms and food were terrific. In Galway we stayed at the Prague B&B which was immaculate, friendly and only 5-10 minute walk to Quay St. Rick Steves guidebook went everywhere with us and was our go-to guide.
Amy & Joe Desthers
Long Island, NY USA 04/26/2011
Le Mansarde, Venice Italy
Anna Maria, the owner is such a delight!! Her bed and breakfast is centrally located within walking distance to the Rialto bridge, 10 to 15 minute walk to the train station, vaporetto station nearby and a seven days a week market on the same street surrounding by many shops and restaurants. The room was quiet, sun filled and delicately decorated with Italian antiques. Cosy, warm and very comfortable we were. The shower was the best - really great hot hot water and super pressure. Nice after a long day of walking and sightseeing. We ate daily a traditional Italian breakfast that varied from day to day. We partook in one of Anna Maria's cooking lessons - fish, veggies and strawberry sorbet. To die for!!! She is an amazing cook and teacher. We will definitely be returning to Le Mansarde. Anna Maria and her family are wonderful, warm and generous people. We highly recommend this bed and breakfast. Your stay in Venice will be a delight.
Wanjiru and Cyril
Paris, France 04/26/2011
Brugge - Royal Stewart B&B
I would highly recomment the Royal Stewart. Maggie was a magnificent hostess. Location was perfect, nice walk to the Centre. Price was excellent. The Stewart is beautifully decorated and spotlessly clean! Maggie and her husband made you feel very welcome.
Deborah Villegas
Lansing, MI USA 04/26/2011
Brugge - Royal Stewart B&B
We enjoyed our stay at the Royal Stewart B and B. Maggie proved extremely friendly and helpful. Clean, uniquely decorated rooms showed her knowledge of antiques. Breakfast consisted of breads, a plate of meat and cheese, and oj and fruits. The location let us walk almost anywhere in Bugge within 5 to 20 minutes and the price made for an excellent value. We highly recommend the Royal Stewart.
Craig Morgan
Westmont, NJ USA 04/25/2011
Mirela in Rome
I must add my wonderful rumanian savior Mirela, manager of a roman hostel ( not a B&B I know ) but after I had a confrontation with her night manager while checking in (we had a confirmed reservation, he didn't care- the place was sold out) Mirela was rousted at home to settle the problem. She not only found and took us to a charming B&B, negotiating the same price we were quoted at the hostel, but she drove us to the airport after our trip.
David Schneider
St Augustine, fl USA 04/25/2011
La Maison du Notaire Royal, Sarlat, France
We stayed here last fall and had a wonderful time, and should have written earlier. Located within the old walled city, it was convenient to everything worth seeing. The market set up within yards of the front door. Pierre-Henri Toulemon directed us to many points of interest not described in the books. Well-worth a
Bill Cure
Pittsboro, NC USA 04/21/2011
Straven Guest House (Edinburgh)
We just got back a wonderful trip to Scotland and stayed at a lovely B&B in Edinburgh, which is only a block from the ocean and sandy beach. Mac and Marian truly made you feel just like you were at home. We had a wide variety of choices for breakfast and everything was delicious. We had a large and comfortable room upstairs with a great view of the ocean. It was such a warm and cozy place to come home to each night after a full day of taking in the beautiful sights of Edinburgh. Mac and Marian provided everything we needed and made us feel like we were never a bother. I can say without any hesitation that if we ever make it back to Scotland, we'll be staying at the Straven Guest House. For more information, you can just go to their website: www.stravenguesthouse.com
Jim McTague
Niskayuna, NY USA 04/14/2011
Millestone B&B (Dingle Ireland)
Barbara and Michael pointed us to some perfect places to see and people to meet. The B&B is delightful, great breakfast, they even shared receipes and helped us plan our time. Great value and wonderful accomodations.
Gisele
Appleton, WI USA 04/14/2011
Olive Branch B&B, Vico Equense (Sorrento Coast)
It turns out we were some of their first guests! We spent a very enjoyable week in April. It was a 10-15 minute drive from Vico Equense. We really appreciated the nice breakfast, good coffee, and a very comfortable, clean room. And were pleased with the ample resources in English and the many novels that were available for us to read and exchange. We enjoyed exploring the area, and saw some amazing views on a hike from the local area to Positano – definitely worth it. We also ate well and inexpensively at reccommended restaurants in the local area. You don't necessarily need a car, as we took the local transit a few times from the house and also did park and ride in other areas to avoid the stress of weekend traffic in area hot-spots. Overall a nice and very enjoyable experience, and a great value. Highly recommended.
Deni
Toronto, ONT Canada 04/11/2011
La Magnolia B&B in Lucca
Andrea is a kind, friendly and helpful host for his small room in the heart of Lucca. We rented his room for the three of us; myself, my wife, and my 18 year old son. The room had old world charm and functional utilities.
However, it was way too small for three people (just a tiny bedroom and a small restroom with a very small shower). The Internet was expensive and it is not a true B&B. I'm told by someone else in Italy that most hotels are now calling themselves B&B's because Americans are looking for them; but they have no idea what they really are supposed to be. Instead of preparing breakfast for us, for the breakfast part of B&B, Andrea simply gave us each coupons to use in the morning at a local pastry shop (the Italian equivalent of a 7-11). It would buy only one of the least expensive pastries available and one small cup of coffee. The coupon was only good for about €3 worth of food and coffee. We had to purchase more on our own to satisfy our ordinary hunger. Note also that the unit has no air conditioning (other than a fan), so I was glad I didn't visit in the summer. If you need a hair dryer, you need to ask for it when you check-in. Andrea does take credit cards.
Lucca is a very different kind of city from anywhere else I've ever been. It has a medieval feel to it. We found good food near the B&B at the Del Leo Trattoria for fairly reasonable prices. However, if you are an American and you are planning to travel to Italy, I recommend you bring your own favorite container of seasoning salt because Italians prefer their food much blander than most Americans.
Mark
Santee, CA USA 04/08/2011
Casa Portagioia
Casa Portagioia (Tuscan Breaks) totally relaxing! Fabulous, full menu breakfast in a bright and casually elegant dining room. Helpful travel advice (and a loaner gps!) Beautiful historic farmhouse architecture renovated to exacting modern standards. Set on a countryside acreage (with the classic cypress bordered drive) Gracious and friendly hosts - Terry and Marcello, you are the best! Hugs from Canada
Shirley Avril
Victoria, BC Canada 04/08/2011
Le Finestre Sul Vaticano B&B - Rome, Italy
My fiancé and I stayed at the most wonderful place in Rome March 21-26, 2011 called Le Finestre Sul Vaticano B&B!!! They are located near the Vatican. Max & Lavinia are the owners and their on site manager is Lourdes. They are all very nice sweet people and their place is great!! Lourdes definitely made us feel at home! She was a highlight of Rome! The room was really nice, spacious and cleaned every day we went out, which was nice! The breakfast was great and consisted of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, croissants, melba toast, regular toast, nutella, fruit jams and great coffee!!! The living room area and the terrace were beautiful and so comfortable. We had many picnics on the terrace overlooking Rome. There is a supermarket right across the street as well as two different laudnromats, many resturants and a great coffee bar down the street. It's between two metro stops and made it so convenient to get to other areas of Rome. The rates were very reasonable and all their rooms have a bathroom. Lourdes couldn't have been more helpful with information, suggestions, tips, recommendations, etc... I highly recommend this adorable little B&B! It is what made our trip so amazing!! We are already planning on going back in a year!! Their website is http://www.romabandb.it and my email is hasson0422@yahoo.com , please do not hesitate to ask me any questions about our stay or to see photos of Le Finestre Sul Vaticano B&B!! I am also posting on Tripadvisor and will be uploading photos there!!
Bethanne & Michael
Philadelphia, PA USA 04/05/2011
Setola Bed and Breakfast, Brugge, Belgium
Hello! My husband and I just came back from a wonderful 8 day trip to Brugge, Belgium. We stayed with Lut and Bruno at Setola Bed and Breakfast and they were the best part of our whole trip! The room was so comfortable, the breakfast tasty and fresh every morning, and Lut and Bruno made us feel as if we were "home". The location was perfect; nice and quiet area but within walking distance to the beautiful markt square, amazing restaurants, and the postcard beauty of Brugge. We felt like we discovered a new lovely pocket every day. We also went on a FABULOUS 15 mile bike ride with Quasimundo Tours (recommended by Lut and Rick Steves) through the Flemish countryside that was unforgettable; filled with beauty, history, and a tasty beer. :) We can't wait to go back!
David and Jennifer Rodriguez
Portland, OR USA 04/03/2011
ROME ... This B&B is great!!!
We very much enjoyed our stay at Le Finestre sul Vatican. The breakfast was excellent and the rooms very pleasant. The owners were very helpful and gave us good information in order to see Rome and its sites. Its a nice appartment, also the bedrooms and the "living room". There was all, that we needed (own bathroom, air conditioning, cabinet, desk...and so on). The apartment is near the vatican and also near a metrostation and so you reach the attractions very fast and pleasant. And you have also resterants, bars and a supermaket the same street.We highly recommend Le Finestre and would go there again. www.romabandb.it
Kelly
Tucson, AZ USA 04/03/2011
My Guest Roma
We recently returned from a nice visit to Rome including a wonderful stay at My Guest Roma. Stefano was very knowledgeable about sights (including lesser known) and he took time with us explaining the sights, how to get around, what day things were opened/closed etc. He was very attentive to our needs and great with our kids. He wanted to ensure that we had a good experience in Rome.
The apartment was easy to find, meticulously clean, spacious for our family of five and reasonably priced. Stefano gave us recommendations for nearby restaurants. Bus stops, metro, grocery store and great restaurants are within easy walking distance.
Stefano arranged airport transportation. The driver was right on time; the conversation enroute was lively. (Smart man, referred to his wife as "the boss.") Also, we were on a Delta flight connecting through Amsterdam, and the driver advised us that we would depart from a different terminal than Delta flights going directly to the US, saving us confusion and a shuttle ride.
Should we return to Rome, we'll be looking up Stefano again.
Rob & Amy
Raleigh, NC USA 04/01/2011
Corte Compana
We recently returned from a great stay with Riccardo at Corte Campana. We stayed at his B&B six years ago, and this time (with the whole family) was just as fantastic as last time. Riccardo is such an amazing host, very kind and willing to help with anything you need. Riccardo recommends great restaurants, which days to tour the sights, and provides much needed directions around Venice. He has a great sense of humor and is fantastic with children. The room was clean and spacious, and the breakfast he provides is delicious. His B&B is within reasonable walking distance from all the main sights of Venice, as well as some less touristy sections of town, which we prefer. Our family has come to love Riccardo and we strongly advise anyone planning a stay to Venice to consider staying at Corte Campana.
Rob and Amy
Raleigh, NC USA 04/01/2011
Very nice B&B in ROME
Le Finestre sul Vaticano was a great surprise in Rome and left me with a taste for more - starting from the perfect location , 2 minutes to Metro station and to the Vatican , continuing with the spacious , clean and luminous interior - this B&B is great value for the money. But the real highlight are the owners and Lourdes , a friendly lady taking care of the premises. She makes a great fresh italian coffee for you in the morning and is very knowledgeble in guiding the first time visitor in Rome to the key points in Rome. I want to come back to this place wih my family next time. www.romabandb.it
Sally
Los Altos, CA USA 03/30/2011
Roma B&B: my Guest Roma
I stayed at the My Guest Roma last week and was absolutely satisfied with the place and location. The room was neat, large, and filled with light. And as far as location, it was ideally connected. We would pick up the first among the many buses (60, 36,..) running on the Nomentana and be downtown in 15 minutes. We reached the Vatican and the banks of the Tiber by metro in about half an hour. A direct bus to the Termini takes just a few minutes. We often had dinner in the neighbourhood and sometimes we stayed downtown and returned late. We were given a map and all the necessary hints by the owner. I really found it optimal, especially given that the rooms were 50% of what they cost in the direct centre.
Helen
Miami, FL USA 03/29/2011
Where to stay in York, UK
Thanks to Rick's Great Britain 2010 Guidebook, I chose Abbeyfields Guest House to stay at while I was in York for a week in March. It simply was a Wonderful experience. The owners, Al and Les took very good care of my needs and their morning breakfasts was outstanding. To wake up in the morning smelling homemade bread was comforting. The location and walking distance to sights in York is very reasonable. I traveled alone, and found the price range perfect for my budget. I HIGHLY recommend this B&B to anyone. It truely felt like a second home to me by the end of my stay.
Amy
De Pere, WI USA 03/29/2011
L'Iris des Marais Bed and Breakfast in Amboise, France
We were so pleased to stay in the garden accommodation, where Katia was our hostess. The "ramshackle house", part of which was built about 700 years ago, is exactly that. The "artsy garden" was in early bloom and decorations did make us smile. Katia was the perfect hostess, prepared great breakfasts and offered helpful tourist information and suggestions. Vianney, her husband, is a talented musician and artist. We were privileged to stay with them our five nights touring the Loire Valley.
Lawrence Barnes
Stayton, OR USA 03/28/2011
Casa Selita, Orvieto
Wow. I wanted to add my very strong recommendation for Casa Selita in Orvieto and I see someone else just beat me to the punch. I have made many trips to Europe over the last 15 years and Casa Selita is definitely my favorite. Selita and her husband Ennio (a sommelier) are absolutely wonderful hosts, their place is beautiful and nestled in a pretty grove just outside the city walls (and a short walk to the escalator that takes you right up into the heart of Orvieto), and very reasonably priced. Excellent breakfasts too. But most importantly, Selita & Ennio are the most fantastic hosts, with great recommendations on restaurants and sites to see. HIGHLY recommend.
David Reynolds
Athens, GA USA 03/27/2011
Casa Selita, Ovieto, Italy
Casa Selita B&B in Orvieto gets our family's highest recommendation. Selita and Ennio greeted us like we were lifelong friends that they'd finally convinced to come visit. The hillside view and grounds were beautiful, the rooms pretty and clean, and the coffee delicious. We didn't want to leave.
Joe L.
Southlake, tx USA 03/26/2011
Orievto B&B, Italy
I must recommend the B&B Trattoria "La Palma"in Orvieto, Italy. Very clean rooms right at the edge of the mountain top city a stone's throw from the Funicular (small train that takes you to the top). The breakfasts are worth the price of admission alone! Best cappuccino in Italy ( my opinion).
Two cute little old ladies run it.
Contact:
Corso Cavour, 326 05018 Orvieto (TR)
Tel. 0763 340840
Fax 073 341145
cell. 320 240180
E-mail: lapalamabb@virglio.it
www.bedandbreakfastorvieto.com
will agar
mpls, mn USA 03/24/2011
Your home away from home in Prague!
My boyfriend and his twin sister were turning 30 in January, so we decided to go on vacation to celebrate. As I rely on Rick Steves for my travel guidance, I immediately bought his Prague guidebook and started researching B&Bs/Apts in Prague. I also perused his site in hope of gaining additional information about Accommodations. I actually found a recommendation on Rick Steves' Graffiti Wall, but currently Arcadia is not in Rick Steves' Prague guidebook (but hopefully it will make it in there soon). I booked a 2BR Apt at the Arcadia Residence in the Vysehrad neighborhood, 7 minutes by tram to the city center. From the moment we arrived in Prague it was evident we were receiving the best service Prague has to offer. Max, our concierge (but really, more like a friend!), arranged our pick up from the train station. He was waiting at the door and greeted us as we pulled up to Arcadia Residence in Prague's New Town. He helped us inside with our luggage and warmly welcomed us. He immediately went over a map with us and acquainted us with Prague's neighborhoods. He explained how the tram system worked and even supplied our tram tickets (which he added to our bill...so we didn't have to worry about exchanging money each time we got tickets). After helping us up to our room with our bags, he went over everything in the apartment (we were 2 couples and got a spacious two-BR apt.) and then offered to take us on a mini-tour of the neighborhood. He recommended a superb local restaurant, pointed us toward the closest ATM, brought us to the closest tram stop, and showed us the mini-market. Though Arcadia is not located in the heart of the city, it is located in a neighborhood filled with locals, just 3 tram stops (along the river!) to the Charles Bridge, and 4 stops to the Old Town Square (only 7 minutes away). We were happy to be able to get out of the city center each day and go back to a quiet, quaint neighborhood in the New Town.
I cannot say enough about Arcadia Residence and Max-- his warmth, class, and genuine kind spirit brought our experience in Prague to the next level. He recommended restaurants, set up tours, and gave us information on cultural sights, as well as nightlife information in the city. He was always there to answer a question, help us find something, or just to greet us on our way in and out of the residence. We also thoroughly enjoyed our breakfast that was delivered by Arcadia's staff each morning. They, too, greeted us with warm smiles and genuine care. Had we stayed in a large, commercial hotel, we never would have had the experience we had. And while we went in December, in the heart of winter (Prague was beautiful but freezing), coming back to our apartment at Arcadia each day was a warm, cozy haven.
Max and Arcadia really made our time in Prague an unbelievable stay. We highly recommend Arcadia Residence to anyone looking for a truly authentic, warm, and stellar experience in Prague.
Kristen L.
New York, NY USA 03/20/2011
Italy-B&Bs
Just spent a month in Italy and stayed at some VERY good B&Bs that I am very comfortable recommending. All are in excellent locations, provide a good breakfast with nice and helpful owners and are comfortable, convenient and a great value. In Venice-Ponte Chiodo. Bellagio- Borgo Residence. Vernazza- Camere Giuliano Vernazza. Siena- Alma Domus. Firenze-La Signoria de Firenze. Positano- Venus Inn. Rome- Al Centro di Roma. Contact me for specifics but none will disappoint.
Brian
Ft. Lauderdale, FL. USA 03/20/2011
B&B
My husband and I stayed at Jardin de Bacchus B&B in Tavel in Provence. It was a wonderful place, very centrally located and Christine and Erik were wonderful, warm hosts. Christine prepared us a delicious dinner that we all sat down and enjoyed together. I highly recommend this B&B and will definitely return to.
Sarah Bowers
Cape Neddick, ME USA 03/10/2011
Panella's Residence - Florence
My wife and I just returned from Italy. During our trip we visited Florence and stayed at Panella's Residence which was fantastic! The rates were reasonable and the room was just as shown on the website. It was very large and the bathroom was modern, clean and good sized. The hostess Graziella could not have been nicer - serving breakfast in our room each morning, giving advice as to restaurants and letting us leave our luggage for several hours before leaving.
Mark Madden
Scituate, MA USA 03/09/2011
great B &B in southern Spain
My husband and I just returned from Spain where we were fortunate to have stayed 4 nights at the Casa Olea in Andalusia- conveniently located between Cordoba and Granada, in a very rural area, with olive trees, hills, and beauty as far as the eye could see! Tim and Claire (a very nice and super accomodating young British couple) were the best hosts ever!Tim was full of information about the area and sights/towns he felt worthwhile for us to visit- tailoring his recommendations to us personally and to what he could see that we liked.He even took us on a tour of the tiny little local olive pressing mill! Claire is so sweet and a wonderful gourmet cook, who served excellent food with a flare! The establishment itself was wonderful- an old farmhouse completely rebuilt for the purpose. It was so relaxing, and we were SO pampered! We would recommend it to anyone without reservation. Great website- just search "Casa Olea".Reasonably priced. We would dream of returning sometime!
Becky
Waukon, Iowa USA 03/04/2011
Hidden Secret in Tuscany
Dei Mori La Massa in Casentino Valley. It is owned by the same owners of Dei Mori(B&B)in Florence. (highly recommended in your guidebook) Located an hour from Florence, high in the hills of the vallley. After turning off the main road at the Vertelli sign, you begin a long climb to LaMassa, and are transported into a world of serenity and beauty you cannot imagine. We were treated like family by Peter and Danny. Contact person is Peter Gosmore. E-mail address is peter@bnb.it. Would highly recommend this not only for the beauty and serenity, but the hospitality shown by the owners. The accomodations are first class, from the mini kitchen to the down comforter, with small patio for each room with bistro table. Lap pool, star jasmine, geraniums, lavender, te trees, olive trees in a serene courtyard. Check the website. It is a definite find, and one that I think Rick Steves followers would love.. I thought Dei Mori in Florence was fabulous, but this tops everything.
JoAnne Cruson
Nampa, Idaho USA 03/03/2011
Coach House B&B in Bardon Mill, England
My husband and I are currently living in England, whild he pursues an MA in Archeology. Two weeks before school began, we took the opportunity to do the excavation at Vindolanda, near Hadrian's Wall. We had originally booked a room with the Montcoffer, a B&B in Bardon Mill recommened in the 2010 Great Britain book. We recieved an e-mail shortly after booking a room there that the Montcoffer had closed its doors to visitors. However, rather than leaving us to figure out what we were going to do, the owners of the Montcoffer graciously tranfered our booking to the B&B across the street. We ened up staying with Carole Hall at the Coach House B&B. She generously put us up in their nicest (and largest) room, typically used for families with children. Normally, a two week stay in one B&B is pretty long and kind of tedious, but our experience was absolutley astounding! Carole's husband even drove us to our excavation nearly every morning (we don't have a car here)! At the end of our excavation, we had a lot of VERY dirty clothing that we did not relish attempting to pack in our suitcases that way, so Carole even did our laundry (which is pretty unusual even for a B&B)! Carole and her husband were probably the most kind and gracious B&B hosts I've ever met. If you'd also like to stay in Bardon Mill, as a home base for exploring more of Northeast England and the Hadrian's Wall area, please contact Carole Hall at:
South View, Bardon MIll
Hexham, Northumberland
NE47 7HZ
Telephone: 01434 344779
E-mail: mail@bardonmillcoachhouse.co.uk
Online: www.bardonmillcoachhouse.co.uk
Thanks, Carole!
Erin
Newcaslte Upon Tyne, Uk 02/28/2011
L'Antico Borgo (Cinque Terre)
L'Antico Borgo: a little Gem!! This B&B is clean, beautiful, and quiet with a wonderful and helpful staff! It is in the small hillside town of Dosso - not on the beach but don't count it out because it is within driving distance of several beautiful beaches and has a free car park! We stayed two nights and wanted to do some hiking on the nearby Cinque Terre trails, the friendly staff who lucky for us spoke very good English helped us plan by indicating places to park and how to get to the start of the trails as well as recommendations for restaraunts. The breakfast that was included in the room price was delicious and plentiful plus it was served on the terrace overlooking the hillside with beautiful views of the coast and nearby Levanto!! There was a computer in the common area for internet access and local wines for sale. We've been home two weeks and I have thought about this place countless times - I am determined to go back some day!!
Mary
New York, NY USA 02/26/2011
Ripa Medici-a room with a view
We want to absolutely recommend Ripa Medici B&B in Orvieto, Italy. Sabrina, the owner/hostess, was accommodating, friendly, and exceptionally ready to help travelers. Her B&B (ask her for directions!) is situated with an overlook to the valley below this ancient city on a hill. Talk about a room with a view! The breakfast was substantial and served with pleasant conversation and tips for seeing Orvieto. She made reservations for other guests and seemed willing to do as much assisting as they needed. She recommended restaurants, and more importantly, was very interested in knowing what we thought about her recommendations so that she could (or wouldn't) make the recommendation to future guests. That shows commitment to her guests and her business. You won't go wrong visiting Orvieto and staying at the Ripa Medici.
Margaret Payne
Morris, MN USA 02/13/2011
An truly amazing B&B in the CENTRE of Rome!
The B&B Smart in Rome was a truly great choose! www.bandbromeitaly.com
The location is less than 5 minute walk from the train terminal in Rome, Isa (Manager/Owner) is very helpful, the accomodation we have is a large rooms with shared bathroom which is very clean. Good value for money (and secure), located on the 5th floor of a buliding but there is thankfully a working lift. We (myself and wife) enjoyed our stay at B & B Smart, and the provided breakfast snack food which was enough (very good coffee!).
This was our first trip to Rome, we don't have any scheduled tour or idea of where to visit, and Isa took us to Trasteverre (correct me if it is wrong Isa). She guided us on how to travel around using bus and trem, and giving suggestion to schedule our visit in Rome too (that was really helpfull).
Neighborhood is great, there is a public school across our room (which keep us longing to our children), and great deli's, cafes and grocery stores as well as a few gift shops can be found in just few minutes walk. We will certainly comeback again to stay ...Very very nice..!
Isa, thank you again for all of your hospitality during our stay ..
Alejandra
London, UK 02/10/2011
Bed and Breakfast in Normandy
Last April my mother and I stayed at Castel Provence, the most lovely bed and breakfast in Ver sur Mer, Normanday, France. Not only were Josette and Jean Pierre fantastic hosts, Josette makes all the jams served at breakfast (at least half a dozen) and the house was a German headquarters during WWII and became a British headquarters during the D-Day invasion. The rooms are reasonably priced, the breakfast delightful, and rooms clean and sunny. Josette even made us dinner reservation for a nearby restaurant.
Miranda
Salt Lake City, ut USA 02/09/2011
Ardconnel House, Inverness
We spent an awesome week during September 2010 in the Scottish Highlands, guests of John & Elizabeth at the very impressive Ardconnel House.
Our hosts just couldn't do enough for us with all their helpful suggestions of what we should see - and how we should get there.The boat trips to Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle were very special - as was our day trip to the Isle of Skye.
Our son and daughter-in-law should have been with us on this trip, but had to cancel, but on our recommendation they have now booked up at Ardconnel House for May 2011!
Karen Peterson
Portland, Oregon USA 02/04/2011
My Guest Roma B&B - we loved it !
Neat, clean, reasonably priced, and having a great charm. At My Guest Roma, everything is new: from the fixtures to the interior decoration. Both the common room and guest rooms are impeccably maintained. I took my husband on a weekend trip to Rome in order to celebrate his birthday and made a lucky choice. The smell of espresso and croissant just filled the air in the morning and the atmosphere was just so warm that we both felt on a holiday since the moment we entered the establishment. As for location, we had a nice sunset walk in the Torlonia park and great wine tasting within 5 minutes' walk. What else we could we ask for?
Brittany Bittman
Schaumburg, IL USA 01/19/2011
Dunedin Guest House Edinburgh Scotland
The Dunedin Guest House in Edinburgh is in a word wonderful! David and Irene are fabulous hosts. My sisters and I felt well taken care of and our hosts were superb in every way. The accomodations were extremely comfortable. We had a robust and filling breakfast daily. I plan to stay at the Dunedin in the future and gladly recomment it to all.
Adele Kestner
Dallas, TX USA 01/19/2011
Orth Zimmer, Bacharach, Germany
Wonderful. Very easy to find; just walk to the right (facing away from the river) from the train station down the main road, and after a short while you will come to a teensy alley on your right (Obergasse) Orth Zimmer is right down there; Ursula is on the left, Irmgard is on the right (I stayed with Irmgard for a few days in early October 2010). Irmgard greeted me exuberantly when I rang at the door, transcending the language barrier between us. She showed me to my room, which had a briiiiight orange theme to it and was super cozy. Irmgard and Walter's breakfasts are ample and delicious; Irmgard's homemade jams are like nothing else. Irmgard listens to German oldies from the 70s, which puts anyone in a good mood for the morning, although Walter quietly turns the channel when Irmgard leaves the room ;) Irmgard and Walter were wonderful hosts and kept me up-to-date on everything from the time change to the daily weather to good places to go in the region. A wonderful stay, and a home away from home that I will undoubtedly return to soon.
Emily
Baltimore, MD USA 01/18/2011
B&B Lake Como, Italy
We had a fabulous fortnight at the beginning of August in Argegno village, on the west of the lake, with Nicole and Paul. Details can be found at www.wrightart.com. As well as providing all of the usual B&B kindness and friendliness, they can also advise where to go and what to see, and equally importantly where is good to eat (plus they have wi-fi). We loved it! The accommodation is located five minutes from the lake side boat pier, with its superb ferry and hydrofoil service. It's possible to access the entire lake and MILAN. They also have a self-catering apartment with breakfast provided; but where the more adventurous can shop in the wonderful food markets in the villages on the lake for evening meals. Almost forgot to say the views are spectacular from the apartment balconies! Sitting eating breakfast or drinking an early evening glass of fizz overlooking the lake is just fabulous. We will be returning again without a doubt.
Lorna & Ron
Oxford, UK 01/15/2011
Venice, Italy
After purchasing and reading three of Rick's books about travel we spent two months in Europe. We followed many of Rick's recommendation including finding our own Europe hide-away. In Venice we stayed at Alloggi Barbaria S.N.C. and found it to be a wonderful place to stay. Girogio greeted us on arrival and personally gave us recommendations on what to see, hear, visit, and of course the places to eat for the best value. I would stay with Giorgio again when I do visit Venice. Thanks for the introduction Rick.
Tom
Manton, CA USA 01/03/2011
Brugge B & B - Kwalito
If you are looking for a great place that feels very homey with great hosts in Brugge, check out Kwalito http://www.kwalito.be// Els and Chris will take care of you. They treated us so well and welcomed us right into their home and B & B. It was awesome. They have bikes, a jacuzzi and sauna too. Great place!
Matthew J. Clark
Seattle, WA USA 01/02/2011
Walchsee, B&B
It's run by Maria Selman and her son. Birkenweg 11, 6344 Walchsee, Austria. 0 53 74 /55 37. We've stayed with Maria twice and stopped by for a quick visit with her and her son, last Sept on our way to Italy. A very wonderful cozy place with a lovely lady running it. And cooking! Walchsee is a good base area for sightseeing, including day tripping to Salzburg, Berchtesgaden, Sankt Johann in Tirol, and the Grossglockner Hochalpenstraße
Ken
MD USA 12/30/2010
Santorini, Greece
My friends and I spent a week on the island of Santorini. We stayed in the Villa Altos and were delighted with the facilities and the hospitality of the owner and his wife. When our ferry arrived Gianni met us and drove us to the villas. He allowed us to use his personal computer when our blackberry was not working. He also woke up very early to drive us to the airport when it was time to leave. He and his wife run a very clean, fresh and inviting establishment. They also have a pool and jacuzzi on the premises. We all agreed we would return in a heartbeat. For those of you that like to be near the beach, this place is about 2 blocks from the water. It really is lovely!
Darleen Weyandt
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Taromina, Sicily
I can't say enough good things about the Terre Disicilia located in Giardini Naxos.
The rooms are nicely decorated and clean, with a large terrace which give you a beautiful view of Mt. Etna.
The host and hostess are such a lovely couple and were very very helpful with providing information on the area, recommending places to eat, and giving directions. On our first day the owner actually got in his car to show us the way to the beach. They served a very nice breakfast in the kitchen area which they also allowed us to use. The only drawback was the distance from the beach. (about 10 minutes) But if you have a car it really is not a problem. Please go and enjoy !
Darleen Weyandt
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Agrigento, Sicily
Bed and Breakfast Villa Amico is run by a friendly young man, Pierre Dominico. The rooms are large and clean. He served us a wonderful breakfast on the terrace. It is located on a quiet side street and is not far from the ruins and the Turkish steps near Porto Empedocle (which is a must see). Pierre went above and beyond when upon our arrival he made a call to our Sicilian relatives so they might come to visit. When they arrived he stayed to translate for us. He speaks English very well and enjoys conversation with his guests. (villaamico@venere.com)
Darleen and Angela
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Taorminq/Giardini-Naxos
We stayed at the Terre Di Sicilia in Giardini Naxos during our week-long stay in Sicily.
The B & B is run by Kristina who is extremely pleasant, helpful and accomodating. We chose this B&B in Giardini Naxos rather than staying in Taormina which is busier. Giardini-Naxos is a beautiful village. Kristina made sure we went to the "Isola Bella" beach, one of the most spectacular stops by the water on our trip. I even got a massage on the beach from a Chinese woman.
Highly recommended, just a short trip to the beach. wonderful rooms with terrace and breakfast. bbterredisicilia@tiscali.it.
Tell Kristina the "5 woman from NY "recommended her Band B!
Angela
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Meteora/Kalampaka
We stayed at the B&B Guesthouse Monastiri, run by a very nice woman named Dita and her husband. Located in Kalampaka proper, with a fantastic view of all of the monasteries. Uniquely furnished, spacious accomodations, immaculately clean with terrace and the view. Excellent breakfast served inside or out. our hosts ordered local pizza for us when we arrived and recommended wonderful local restaurant. They speak English and allowed use of their internet service. We spent two nights and didn't want to leave. If you contact Dita tell her the "five ladies from NY" sent you and say HELLO! Would definitely go back there again.
www.kalampaka-meteora.com or email : info @monastiri-guesthouse.gr
Angela and Darleen
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Ancient Olympia
We had a one night stay here. The rooms were adequate, clean. nice, typical breakfast, conveniently located to the sites in Ancient Olympia.
Angela and Darleen
Nararowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Nafplio
This was our first B and B upon arriving in Greece. It was hot and late. They were helpful and the A/C was fantastic on a very hot night. The hosts gave us a nice, filling breakfast of grilled ham and cheese. located very close to the beach and fortress site, in the heart of Nafplio. Would stay there again. Very affordable.
www.pensiondafni.gr or email: info@pensiondafni.gr
Angela and Darleen
Narrowsburg, NY USA 12/28/2010
Brugge B&B
A bargain not mentioned in Ricks book is Arasabroch B& B, perhaps because there are only three rooms available. Lieve Van Handenhoven makes you feel like one of the family the moment you arrive. www.aarsabroch.be
Walt Keller
Malibu, CA USA 12/22/2010
Casa Portagioia. Tuscany, Italy
We just posted this under agrotorism, but we think it should be here
My wife and I were very happy with the outstanding location and facilities of this wonderful bed and breakfast. Even more impressive was the friendly service and helpfulness of Terry and Marcello in helping us in any way possible. They recommended and made restaurant reservations, found us hard to find museum tickets, gave detailed driving instructions, and even gave me suggested jogging routes for a great run through the Tuscan countryside. By all standards, this is an excellent choice for a great Tuscan stay.
Andre and Irene
Austin, TX USA 12/18/2010
Gastehause Raidel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
We arrived late tired and hungry after a non stop trip from Seattle and a missed train connection from Frankfurt, The German trains were actually 20 minutes late. Norry met us at the door and showed us to a clean comfortable room. He recommended a wonderful place to eat that was only a block away. In the morning he serves breakfast himself. The Gastehause is really charming. Much of the downstairs furniture was designed and built by Norry. We were only a few blocks down the main street from the town square. We stayed three nights and on the last morning we got to talking to Norry and he actually played his Norryphone for us. The Gastehuse Raidel is a great place to stay in Rothenburg.
Allan wing
Woodinville, WA USA 12/16/2010
the rooms bed&breakfast in Vienna
oh. my. goodness.
we stayed for 4 nights in one of the great rooms of The Rooms Bed&Breakfast and it blew us away.
the design, attention to detail, cleanliness and Eva's understanding (I had my wallet stolen in Paris and had no way to pay for the apartment until midway through our stay) made our Vienna sojourn a very memorable one.
such reasonable rates in a beautiful city.
no faults.
Fiona Jones
Boston, MA USA 12/16/2010
Guesthouse Friedwiese/Schonau am Konigssee (Berchtesgaden, Germany)
We recently stayed at the Guesthouse Friedwiese in Schonau am Konigssee by Berchtesgaden, Germany. Perfect in every way. The rooms are immaculate, the views of the Alps outstanding, buffet breakfast terrific and the location for exploring the area, including Salzburg, ideal. But what really makes a stay at the Friedwiese special is the warmth and friendliness of Frau Eder, the owner and host. She is also a wealth of information on things to see and do in the area.
Paul
NYC area, NY USA 12/16/2010
Residenza Il Villino
Our stay in November 2010 was my second experience at Residenza Il Villino (I was there in 2004) and it was just the way I remembered it: the service was impeccable; the B&B owners and staff were warm, welcoming, helpful and kind; the whole property was immaculate; our room was beautiful - nicely appointed, large, clean and comfortable; the location was easy walking distance to everything; the food was delicious; and the cost very reasonable. In short, we would never stay anywhere else in Florence!
Kathleen
Ellicott City, MD USA 12/12/2010
B&B Trier, Germany
Three or four miles from Trier in Konz-Niedermennig is Allegra Restaurant and B&B. What a wonderful place..Gaby is a delight and the food preparation is absolutely outstanding. From here we experienced Trier about 5 to 10 minutes away. Look here for more infomation: http://www.allegra-restaurant.de/
George Buettner
Portland, OR USA 12/09/2010
B&B in Arromaches-Les-Bains-the best! Le Mulberry
We recently stayed at Hotel Restaurant Le Mulberry in Arromanches-Les-Bains (Dday,Normandy area). The accomodations were peaceful and Christian and Sophie were great. Sophie is a accomplished chef and we looked forward to breakfast and dinner everyday! This B&B has it all!
Mona
Casstown, OH USA 12/05/2010
Parkside Guest House, Bath, in London 2011 Guidebook
A bright, welcoming home on a very QUIET side street with a lovely private garden in back and a community garden across the street. Inge was a joy to visit with and gave us good advice and directions to enjoy our trip.
A. Bowen
Pensacola, FL USA 11/30/2010
Wells, England
We had the best time in Wells, staying at the Old Farmhouse B & B! Felicity Wilkes was the epitome of British hospitality, and a great chef , too! Her tips for area excitement were followed to the letter, and made for a rich holiday experience. Thank you Rick,too, for suggesting Market Day and Evensong.
Lisa Ramey
jaffrey, NH USA 11/29/2010
Bath, England
Dear Rick and Staff, Thanks for recommending the Parkside Guesthouse in Bath. Inge was delightful and the place was spotless. we met Frankie the neighborhood cat, and loved being close to the Royal Crescent. You were also right on with Yak Yeti Yak as a great restaurant, and at the enthusiasm of the free Bath tour guides. Can you tell I'm a huge fan, and can you guess I own all of your guide books? Yours gratefully,
Lisa Ramey
Jaffrey, NH USA 11/29/2010
Pension am Jakobsplatz - Munich, Germany
Pension am Jakobsplatz in Munich is the best! Christopher Zenker is the owner and the absolutley impeccable host! There are only 4 rooms. We stayed in 2 of them, 2 separate times. Everything is exceptionally clean, the breakfast is terrific and all organic! It is located 1 floor below Pension Lindner which Rick recommends. Christopher goes way above and beyond in his efforts to make your stay comfortable and pleasant. We will definitely stay there every time we are in Munich! Location is 5 minutes from Marienplatz, is quiet, convenient.
Pam
Sun City, AZ USA 11/29/2010
Terrific Provence B&B
La Ferme De'goutaud [INVALID] We had a glorious stay with Madame Veronique at her homey B&B near Suzette (Rick Steves Provence and the French Riviera). Mid-October in the Cotes du Rhone couldn't get any better. 16th century famhouse run by a family that maintains a real farm with vineyards, fruit orchards, vegetable gardens, goats, ducks, pigeons, and of course, dogs and cats. Veronique makes all of her own preserves, tapenades, pesto, etc. Tucked away between Suzette and Malaucene, we would go back in a heartbeat.
Woody Kloesel
Asheville, NC USA 11/26/2010
23 Mayfield Guest House Edinburgh, Scotland
23 Mayfield Guest House
My wife and I stayed four nights at 23 Mayfield Guest House, and we would highly recommend this B & B to anyone. Ross is an attentive host, and his breakfasts are outstanding. The buses to downtown Edinburgh are a block away and very convenient.
Steve Read
Madison, WI USA 11/23/2010
B&B Massangis France
My husband and I stayed three nights with Patrick Cabon at Carpe Diem in Massangis,France and it was our favorite B&B during our three week visit. We felt so welcome and Patick went above and beyond in his help with information on the area. He has done a wonderful job restoring and decorating a beautiful old farm. Our rooms were very large and comfortable and had great bathrooms with lots of hot water. Carpe Diem is a wonderful place to visit Vezelay, Abbey of Fontenay and Beaune. We could have stayed more nights as there is so much to see in that area of Burgundy, We traveled with another couple and would highly recommend Carpe Diem
Marsha VanVoorhis
Garden Grove, Ca. USA 11/22/2010
Great B&B in Wells, England
When travelling in SW England, I highly recommend staying at the Beltane Bed and Breakfast in Wells. It's highly rated in Trip Advisor but not on Rick's list, perhaps because it is not quite in the center of Wells. However, it is an easy 15 minute walk along one of England's famous walking trails to the town center, castle and cathedral. Wells seems to have much more "soul" than Bath and is only a 40 minute drive away. Elaine and her family at the Beltane will make your stay one of the best you'll ever have. (http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g1769321-d1389154-Reviews-Beltane_Bed_and_Breakfast-Dulcote_Somerset_England.html)
Joe G
Beaverton, OT USA 11/17/2010
La Magnolia B&B, Lucca, Italy
Charming B&B in the heart of Lucca, perfect for the solo traveler. Owners Andrea and Laura are the perfect host and help you navigate your way thru Lucca and the Tuscany region. Rooms were simple but had private baths, TV's and internet. Close to everything in Lucca and the train and bus stations.Bikes were available to ride on the wall and around town. You get a chance to live with the locals in the Palazzo Bottini and share a cappucino at the local bar. I left my heart in Lucca and plan to return in the near future and, of course, stay at La Magnolia.
Beverly Ventimiglia
Calistoga, CA USA 11/17/2010
La Magnolia B&B, Lucca, Italy
Charming B&B in the heart of Lucca, perfect for the solo traveler. Owners Andrea and Laura are the perfect host and help you navigate your way thru Lucca and the Tuscany region. Rooms were simple but had private baths, TV's and internet. Close to everything in Lucca and the train and bus stations.Bikes were available to ride on the wall and around town. You get a chance to live with the locals in the Palazzo Bottini and share a cappucino at the local bar. I left my heart in Lucca and plan to return in the near future and, of course, stay at La Magnolia.
Beverly Ventimiglia
Calistoga, CA USA 11/17/2010
Dordogne-Sarlat
We were so happy to have a few days at La Maison du Notaire Royal, a beautiful building where we had a comfortable & spacious room right in Sarlat. But because our host M. Toulemon was so knowledgeable about his area, and so enthusiastically made suggestions for our days, we had many wonderful adventures we would have missed if not for him. We wish to return!
Sally
Seattle, WA USA 11/13/2010
Gulliver's Lodge in Rome
We can't praise Mary at Gulliver's Lodge in Rome enough. The B&B is a wonderful oasis! Mary's genuine interest and concern for her guests, as well as her suggestions and advice on seeing the city makes her a wonderful hostess!
Nancy Holt
Edgartown, MA USA 11/13/2010
B&B in Empoli, Italy
The Ristorante Bianconi on Via Tosco Romagnola in Empoli, Italy runs a clean, modern, and efficient B&B for drivers enroute to Florence. And you have breakfast in their bakery!
Sally Flood
Edgartown, MA USA 11/13/2010
Residenza il Villino, Florence
We completely agree with the comments made by Deborah Lamberty regarding the Residenza il Villino in Florence, Italy. Sergio, Elizabeth, and their son, Lorenzo, were delightful hosts, and their B&B was clean, quiet, well equipped, and centrally located. We will definitely be visiting them again.
Harry Caldwell
Severna Park, MD USA 11/08/2010
Penzion Berc in Bled, Slovenia
My wife and I stayed at Penzion Berc in Bled, Slovenia in October, 2010. The host, Luca Berc, was extremely helpful and friendly. Always smiling and eager to help, he really went above and beyond for us during our stay. The breakfasts were fantastic as was our room. We will never forget our visit to this beautiful part of the world!
Steve
San Antonio, Texas USA 11/08/2010
Florence B&B
Elizabetta asking if I want ANOTHER cappuccino, Sergio saying "Buon giorno, De-Bor-Ah, both answering my "how do you say..." questions. This is a nice family. Good breakfast offered with different meats, cheese, Nutella, croissants, blood orange juice (my favorite), cereals, oatmeal, yogurt, etc. will keep you fueled for those long walks at museums or shopping. A room with a view on the lovely courtyard was quiet and clean, and the B & B is located not far from all the sights yet far away enough to get the feel of a neighborhood. They also offer free WiFi, a great way to keep in touch with home. All in all, I enthusiastically recommend Residenza il Villino. Molto bene! I know that I will be back.
Deborah Lamberty
Chicago, Illinois USA 11/04/2010
Friendly Innkeeper and an Inn Loaded with Character!!
We loved this place! Virena is a wonderful hostess and prepares a yummy breakfast and great coffee! In the heart of on-the-lake Halstatt, we enjoyed strolling the town. A bonus was our balcony views of the beautiful lake. This inn is dripping with character and lovingly maintained by it's owner.
Braugasthof Halstatt
Halstatt, Austria 10/30/2010
Heroic B & B Friendliness
5 gold stars to Aida Assad, proprietor of Les Clos du Remparts B & B in Avignon. We were inadvertently caught up in the recent protests in France. On our way from the station to our B & B our taxi had to drop us off at least 10 mins walk from our accommodation. We had no map of Avignon. Completely lost in a strange city. Thankfully I had Aida's address and phone number She quickly came and rescued us. What a wonderful host who runs one of the best B & B's I have stayed in. Merci beaucoup Aida
Judy
Adelaide, SA USA 10/28/2010
Asgard Guesthouse - Galway, Ireland
Asgard Guesthouse saved my friend and I this summer - we had booked a very noisy, very uncomfortable hostel and went looking for a B&B last minute. The owners were lovely, took us in right away and made us feel at home. Our room was large (a double bed and a single bed), and the included continental breakfast was wonderful. One day they even gave us full breakfast free of charge. As well, they arranged a bus tour for us to the Cliffs of Moher - the highlight of our 4 days in Galway. Highly recommended, I would definitely stay at Asgard Guesthouse again.
Cait
Burlington, ON Canada 10/24/2010
Badia Fiorentina Guest House B&B
Highly recommended!!! Made the trip for me! Badia Guest House is centrally located - only a block from the famous Uffizi Gallery. Bathrooms are modern and the six rooms are attractive and well appointed. There's a shared guest refrigerator stocked with beverages, perfect for storing leftovers! Night time is extremely quiet from street noise, and drapes block out the light for a restful sleep. Wi-Fi is available free. Bruno, the proprieter, is the guest house's best asset. A warm, life-long Floretine, he is happy to make reservations, give directions, and offer suggestions. He manages well in several languages and has a personal love and knowledge of local art, history, and culture which he eagerly shares with guests that are interested. For those who want a multi-cultural experience, the large breakfast room and sitting area provide a perfect setting for conversation - I met people from six different countries during my 4-day stay! Badia is not listed in R. Steve's guidebook, but should be! (It's in the same building as Dei Mori B&B.) I can't wait to return!
Briana Bill
La Grange, IL USA 10/23/2010
Central Paris B&B
I found an outstanding B&B in the center of Paris, near Chatelet & Pont Neuf metro stations. Mona, the hostess, speaks good English and was very helpful, including a bus map & tips for riding the bus. The room is simple but very comfortable with 2 twin beds and a private bathroom. Their flat is on the 3rd floor, but there is a tiny elevator. It was very quiet, and the central location can't be beat. We could walk to Notre Dame and the Louvre in less than 10 minutes. The metro is right around the corner. The price was very reasonable too. I found her on www.bedbreak.com. Click on Paris, select 1st arrond, her name is Mona.
Marcia
Spokane, WA USA 10/23/2010
Panella's Residence (Florence)
While in Florence last week, we stayed at a fabulous B&B suggested in Rick Steves Italy book. It was Panella's Residence, and Giuseppi and Graziella are wonderful, warm and very caring proprieters. The rooms were large, spotless, and comfortable, the breakfast was delicious, the home beautiful, and the location was great. It is the perfect place to stay while visiting Florence, Italy!
Sheryl Danner
Norcross, GA USA 10/20/2010
Hotel Center, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Three of us stayed at Hotel Center in Ljubljana for three nights and it was a good hotel but I must disagree with Rick's comments that it is a three-star hotel for two-star prices. In this case, you get what you pay for as for us it was a two-star hotel at two-star prices. Nothing negative to say about it and Marko was great. Just don't expect a three-star
Alan Scott
Salem, OR USA 10/19/2010
Lida Guest House (Prague)
Recently stayed at Lida Guest House in Prague. Jan and his wife couldn't have been nicer and helpful. Great place, clean and quiet. Would definitely go back.
Debbie Beach
Whitehouse Sta, NJ USA 10/19/2010
My Guest Roma - Rome B&B
Relying on Rick Steves' and Tripadvisor's fantastic reviews, we booked four nights at the My Guest Roma (www.myguestroma.com) and it was just excellent! This B&B is located in an apartment building in a very safe area on the verge of the town centre. Greatly connected to pretty much all important sites and surrounded by nice – non touristic and inexpensive restaurants. The room and indoor bathroom were brand new, spacious and spotless. We stayed in an stylishly furnished fantastic blue/green room.
We had a kettle to have a tea upon our return to the room , as well as a private fridge, which we filled every day when passing the next door supermarket. And the internet was free. But the greatest treat was the breakfast: rather than wrapped brioche and coffee, usually provided in B&B , we got a variety of yummy fresh croissant (by themselves worth the place!), bread, biscuits and cereals, fresh fruits, cheese, cherry tomatoes, yogurts, honey, marmalades, Nutella and fresh juices. They had more choices than any other B&B we have ever stayed at.
The owner, Stefano, personally attended the breakfast and overwhelmed us with great tips. He gave us a map, attentively explained us how to reach each and every attraction, booked us tickets for the Borghese Gallery, reserved for us an early pick up to the airport. We couldn't have asked for more.
Rebecca Butler
Gettysburg, PA USA 10/18/2010
Pitho Rooms B&B in Delphi
George, the proprietor of Pitho Rooms in Delphi, Greece, and his wife Vicky really understand the nature of their profession, namely, hospitality. In addition to providing clean, pleasant rooms and a nice breakfast, they go out of their way to facilitate your visit in any way they can. We had a problem with our rental car. George called the emergency road service on his phone and got an estimate for their arrival time from another town. He sent us to dinner and called the restaurant when the road service arrived. He definitely conveyed the feeling that nothing was too much trouble to make our stay a good one. Oh, and the room was just 50 euros/night.
Rosalyn
Berkeley, CA USA 10/17/2010
Badia Fiorentina, Florence
My husband and I were in Europe for the first time and had the pleasure of staying at the cute B&B named Badia Fiorentina in Florence. Bruno, the host, was warm and extremely helpful. The rooms were clean with modern bathrooms. Great breakfast and fruit available all day. Highly suggest staying here for a very reasonable cost. Check out www.badiafiorentina.com
Deni Miller
Chicago, Il USA 10/17/2010
Le Finestre sul Vaticano B&B (Rome)
This B&B is great!!! It was our first time at a B&B ever and we enjoyed it. Max, Lavinia and Lourdes are very informative, helpful, friendly and just awesome! Was almost exactly what we expected based on the website: clean, friendly, quiet location within walking distance of the Vatican and the subway, and good value for the price with fantastic room. Very modern and spacious. Would stay there again for sure! www.romabandb.it
Kelly
Hartford, CT USA 10/15/2010
Bath: Holly Villa B&B
We just returned from our week stay in Bath at the Holly Villa B&B. This was our first experience at a B&B, and it couldn't have been better. Jill and Keith are warm and friendly and made us feel truly at home. The B&B is conviently located just a few minutes' walk from the train station and to the middle of town. The train is easy to take to the outlying cities of interest. Mad Max tours are available to go to the nearby Cotswolds for a highly informative day. If you want to have a relaxing week or few days, there is plenty to do in this area, and the Hollly Villa was an excellent, home away from home.
Marcia Sattley
Murrieta, ca USA 10/09/2010
Fantastic B&B , Rome , Italy
We truly had a great stay at Downtown Accomodation ! Everything was perfect ! Fantastic location and very reasonable price! Right next to the Roman Forum , Colosseum ... The room was clean , bright and nice with a private bath and staff was so helpful. We would definitely stay there again if we return to Rome , highly recommend!! www.downtownaccomodation.com e-mail : isaluo@alice.it
Sarah Kulas
New York, USA 10/08/2010
Great B&B in a chateau in Le Perche, Normandy France
We've been to France many times and while Le Perche is not at the top of the priority list for a first trip to France, it is a truly picturesque place to discover on subsequent ones. We were lucky enough to stumble upon a great B&B at the Chateau de Blavou (www.chateaudeblavou.com). Had a great stay with a huge room, a king-sized bed and large turret bathroom and yet while everything is spacious in the chateau it manages to be cozy and welcoming at the same time. Lots of walking to do in the area and little villages to discover.
Anne
New York, NY USA 10/07/2010
Bellevue B&B, Budapest, Hungary
We have been traveling overseas for 13 years, and this is by far, our favorite. Judit and Lajos were kind, gracious, and always available to answer any questions we had. Our first day, when we are so disoriented, was made much easier with Judit's "mass transit orientation". Breakfast was lovely every morning, and even packed and waiting for us in our room refrigerator if we were unable to make the breakfast hour. This place is definitely worth booking early if you are going to Budapest.
Becky
Ft. Wayne, IN USA 10/07/2010
B&B in Halstatt
Staying in Halstatt and want to avoid the crush of visitors in this tiny town then stay at Haus Veronika in Obertraun (5 min from Halstatt). Debbie & Kevin Jordan, UK Expats run a clean, clean comfortable modewrn 3 double bedroom Zimmer. Excellent breakfast, parking at house. Friendly, warm and gracious hosts. Our family of 6 stayed two days. Made life easy. Excellent restaurants nearby and reasonable. Heartily recommend staying here. Fischergasse 237, A-4831 Obertraun Tel: 0043 (0) 6131 / 26725 www.hausveronika-obertraun.com
Gib Brown
Twin Falls, ID USA 10/06/2010
Dordogne B/B
Le Lys de Castelnaud on the Dordogne River: we spent 4 nights there and heartily recommend Nathalie's hospitality. She speaks English quite well. She offers to do laundry and while there, made special breakfasts requested by another couple. Access to guest refrigerator made picnics easy, view from several rooms to castle across river, lit up at night. Bicycling/ kayaking very near. Central location for anyone wishing to explore the Dordogne River area and who has a car. Few minutes from Sarlat, La Roque Gageac, and Beynac.
C and J
Hillsborough, CA USA 10/05/2010
Ardconnel House Inverness
I thoroughly enjoyed my 3 night stay in Inverness during August, as guests of John & Elizabeth at the Ardconnel House.
William J Jamieson
Brandon, OR USA 10/04/2010
Wonderful B&B inb Vaison la Romaine, France
My husband and I stayed at a wonderful B&B in Vaison la Romaine, France, Les Tilleuls d'Elisee. The room was immaculate, charmingly French and the hosts were helpful and friendly. The breakfasts were amazing! Homemade jams and cakes, plus figs picked off the tree in the yard, delicious! It was a picture postcard perfect experience! You would never find this kind of experience at a chain hotel.
Jane Kistler Halweg
New Bern, NC USA 10/01/2010
B&B Koen & Annemie Dieltiens
We had a wonderful three days in Bruges. Stayed with Koen & Annemie Dieltiens-Debruyne at their B&B. The room was lovely and well appointed, breakfast magnificent and Koen andn Annemie were wonderful hosts.
David and Pam
Adelaide, SA Australia 10/01/2010
Katja's B&B
Katja's B&B will stop working as a B&B 01 Jan 2011. They will only rent out long term contracts. Gianluca will be retiring and moving abroad. I got an email from him yesterday when I inquired about his B&B.
Teresa
Saugus, MA USA 09/30/2010
Great B&B in Rome
Just back from 3 nights at the Aldebaran B&B in Rome, www.adlebaranholidays.com. The B&B is on a quiet street in a great location just 3 stops (by metro, bus or tram) from Termini station (approx. 10 minutes travel time). Laura, the owner is extremely helpful,speaks good English and provides a plentiful and tasty breakfast that really sets you up for the day. Because there are only a handful of rooms this B&B feels more like a boutique hotel but without the steep prices. The rooms are large, clean and stylishly decorated. Bathroms are similarly on the large side and come complete with power showers! If you find yourself in Rome check this place out, it's great value for money and a real gem.
Karen Davies
Wales UK 09/29/2010
Gulliver's Lodge B & B
My husband and I recently stayed at the Gulliver's Lodge B & B in Rome on Cavour, which is not only a great location (up the hill from the Roman Forum & Coliseum), but a great B & B too. We lucked out and Mary was actually in at the B & B (we tried calling but had an outdated phone no. and stupidly didn't print out their e-mail like they told us to). She was very friendly and took time to go over a map of the city and point out interesting places to visit and good places to eat. We actually took her up on some of her suggestions and found them very useful. Unlike the two other hotels/B&B's we stayed at in Italy, the beds were really comfy. We also got breakfast in our room and were able to save our ham and cheese sandwiches for lunch saving us some money there too. The only minor problem we had was unlocking the door of the 'honeymoon suite' as it's quite tricky, and if you look at the handle from the inside, it's slowly collapsing into the door, so I really think it needs to be replaced both to preserve the door and help the guests.
Cindy May
Hilliard, Ohio USA 09/28/2010
Enniskillen area B&B
Enniskillen, Fermanagh County, Northern Ireland, is not on most Irish tours, but I wanted to visit the place from which my grandfather emigrated when he went to the Caribbean in 1884. I loved it, but then I love Ireland! We stayed at Dromard House B&B, a couple of miles from the town of Enniskillen. Undisputedly the best accommodations we had on our recent five week European holiday. Breakfasts were excellent and our hostess, Sharon Weir, is the best! dromardhouse dot com.
Marilynn
Willits, CA USA 09/28/2010
Lovely B&B near Betws-y-coed, N. Wales
Eating at a pub in Ironbridge another couple told us of a B&B in Snowdonia where they liked to stay. (We were headed that direction.) Cwmanog ISAF Farm B&B is near Betws-Y-Coed and is a real farm with a few rooms of B&B. Don't ask how to pronounce it! The room was pleasant and had one of the best baths we experienced in our 2 week trip. The English breakfast featured homemade sausage that was much tastier than we had elsewhere. There is a nice path that runs through the Fairy Glen and along the river. It takes about an hour to walk. The hosts can give you information on the nearby slate mine tour and other attractions. We paid 72 pounds for the night. If you are interested their post code is LL24 OSL and the phone is 016 9071 0225.
Charles Mitchell
Austin, TX USA 09/27/2010
B&B Arco Antico in Florence
A very pleasant stay. Just a ten minute walk from the train station, and close to the major sites. Neat, clean, and comfortable, it serves a tasty continental breakfast. Host Matteo was friendly and knowledgeable, tipping us to several good restaurants across the town. Note that Arco Antico is on the third floor of a building served by a very small elevator. So when arriving, use the street level intercom, and Matteo will arrange to have your luggage brought up.
The Hansens
Park Ridge, IL USA 09/24/2010
Affittacamere Marco, Levanto Italy
Affittacamere Marco in Levanto, right outside of the Cinque Terre, was a terrific place to stay. We had our one year old and Levanto was the perfect mix of stroller accessibility, nice stores, lower prices, great food (my wife is from Italy and she was very happy), and quick access to Cinque Terre (5 min by train). Also the walk to Bonasola should not be missed. Anyway, the room was clean, quiet and recently renovated. The price for the room was also half of what we were looking at in the Cinque Terre. Marco was incredibly helpful and even met us at the station to help us with our ample luggage both coming and going.
John
Boston, MA USA 09/24/2010
"t Gerrwijn B&B - Brugges
My wife and I stayed at B&B of Chris de Loof & her husband for three nights in September 2010. If anything, Rick's guidebook doesn't do the B&B & the de Loofs justice. The rooms are clean, very comfortable, tastefully furnished, and cozy. The sitting room and dining room of the 16th-17th century home are elegant. The B&B has all the modern conveniences. The de Loofs are charming, gracious, and very helpful. Mr. de Loof called a local restaurant (Restaurant De Bottelier)our first night for dinner reservations. The local, non-touristy facility, within easy walking distance, was so good that we made reservations to eat there our third night, as well. We heartily commend the de Loofs and their B&B to anyone who plans to visit Brugges.
Art Cantrall
Olympia, WA USA 09/24/2010
Castelrotto
The Wolf in Castelrotto is a great B&B. The rooms are larger, the bathrooms are enormous compared to usual closet size. The folks running the place were very nice and helpful.
Casey
Orlando, FL USA 09/24/2010
Chambe d'hote in Burgundy
B and B in Puligny-Montrachet Chambre d'hote called Domain des Anges, comfortable, immaculate beyond imagination, great British hosts, terrific breakfast, lovely property. Try to stay out of the main house due to dinners served, unless you plan to attend those. If quietude is important, that is. Would stay and recommend again!
Karen
Denver, CO USA 09/22/2010
Seek out the B&B Experience!
As Rick states in his guidebooks, by listing the smaller b&bs, he could totally inundate them with customers in a negative way, so he doesn't list many. This should not, however, discourage you from seeking them out.
We stayed almost exclusively at b&bs during a 2 week trip to Italy and could not have been happier. Our experience in Italy was very different from b&b experiences in the U.S., which mostly favor couples only and an uber-quiet atmosphere. We were travelling with an 8 and 10 year old and they were most welcome everywhere we stayed. I found our b&bs based on internet reviews-it's not hard to find places that have dozens of favorable and no unfavorable reviews-so keep looking until you find the perfect place. You won't be disappointed. Travelling with children, having breakfast taken care of was a priceless way to start our days. One recommendation is to make sure the breakfast is served on-site if that's important to you; many b&bs have contracts with local cafes, which wasn't as convenient for us.
Tanya
Denver, CO USA 09/17/2010
Straven Guest House, Edinburgh Scotland
Would like to recommend Straven Guest House in Edinburgh, Scotland as the best! Great, quiet location near the Firth of the Forth, lovely Victorian house, gracious hosts, nearby bus stop to take you where the noise is. I might also mention: lovely beds, huge towels, and absolutely top-notch breakfasts.
marilynn motteler
Albuquerque, NM USA 09/14/2010
Downtown Residence in Brussels: Lovely!
My husband and I and our adult daughter stayed at the Downtown Residence in Brussels. We highly recommend this charming B&B (just 3 rooms, one per floor). The proprietors are a retired couple who are utterly warm and charming. The breakfast (included in the price) was made to order in their restaurant downstairs, whatever we wanted, at whatever time we wanted: such service! We also had dinner in their restaurant, and it was absolutely wonderful, reasonably priced and again, basically made to order. The rooms are clean, modern and comfortable, and the location is quiet and convenient. We paid 130 Euros/night for the 3 of us and felt it was well worth it. www.downtownresidence.be
Mary
NY, NY USA 09/14/2010
Bed and Breakfast Noaillan FR
Hidden Gem in Noaillan Fr. What a wonderful stay at L'Oree de Lansot? The rooms were beautiful. Great architectural detail. The host renovated the barn and it was really nice. Our bedroom had exposed beams, stone vanities and beautiful hardwood floors. The breakfast was amazing. Sophie had fresh bread, croissants, selection of cheeses, fresh squeezed orange juice, assortment of jams, speciality coffees. On Sunday she made us crepes. They were so warm and inviting. The place was out in the country but very relaxing. They treated us like family. I would definitely recommend this place.
L'Oree de Lansot
Noaillan, FR 09/06/2010
Irish B&B
We stayed at the Rockcrest House in Kenmare,Ireland. Excellent B&B, great breakfasts (we were there three nights), good location up a quiet lane close to downtown. Even the parking was good! On arrival she offered tea and biscuits, which was very welcome after a nerve-wracking drive on the Ring of Kerry road. Best to drive counter-clockwise on that road, and there is another route from Killarney.
Rosemary Shelton
Visalia, CA USA 08/29/2010
Your home in Rome
We booked in the B&B Le Finestre sul Vaticano after reading all the great reviews on Rick Steves graffiti wall and we were not disappointed in the least. We cannot say enough nice things about Lourdes, Lavinia and Max. They were so wonderful and helpful and a real pleasure to be around (often our breakfasts lasted longer than usual because we just kept chatting with Lavinia!). They gave us maps, sold us tickets and gave us a million great tips on what to do/ see while in Rome. They also arranged for a car to pick us up from the airport which saved us a lot of headaches and time after a long overnight flight (getting picked up by a man in a really nice suit driving a new Mercedes was also a great way to start our trip!). The location is great - down the street from St. Peters, and the subway is just a short walk away as well. The beds were comfy, the air conditioning in the room was quiet and very appreciated considering temperatures were in the high 30s everyday. The ensuite bathroom is modern and everything was very clean. We had a wonderful stay and highly recommend this B&B. It was one of the most memorable of our entire 2 week stay, and we will stay there again if ever we find ourselves back in Rome. Book early as word is spreading fast that this is such a great place to stay. If they are booked when you're coming - ask about their other B&B nearby- it looked just as lovely and I know they'd give you as much care there as they did with us at the View of Rome! Visit their website www.romabandb.it
DawnRea
Portland, USA 08/25/2010
Food and fun for the family
Ca Gioiosa ("house of joy"), in Monteveglio, Italy, is a comfortable and charming B&B in the Emilia-Romagna region. From horseback riding to personal tours of a parmesan factory, Bologna (terra cotta statues), and Bazzano (oh, the gelato), hostess Fiona and her adult kids spoiled us with unexpected, but welcome, attention. A cooking class in Fiona's kitchen with her friend, Claudia, was unforgettable. Easy day trips to Ravenna (mosaics), Maranello (Ferrari), Venice, and more.
Kelly M
San Diego, CA USA 08/22/2010
The Chance B & B in Chipping Campden
We have stayed in many of Rick's recomended B & B's over the years, but this time we went on our own and booked THE CHANCE in Chipping Campden. It was fantastic. Spottlessly clean, great breakfast and available parking. Most of all, Sally, the owner, was fantastic. She said she even met Rick at the Eight Bells the week before when he was there for dinner. We highly reccomend THE CHANCE. Walking distance to downtown, clean room and best hostess we have had yet!
Martin Bartik
Xenia, Ohio USA 08/17/2010
Oban, Scotland
The Glenburnie House in Oban was truly special. It's a beautiful setting, and it's quite elegant, especially the breakfast room. The walk to the main part of town is short, level, and scenic. They go out of their way to help; as Graeme says, "You're on vacation, I'm not!"
Jamie
Wayne, PA USA 08/09/2010
Central Florence--Tourist House Vittorio Ricci B&B
My family and I chose this B&B because of it's central location, less than a block from the Duomo and Baptistery. It's an easy 15 minute walk from the train station. The owner Stefano buzzed us in and gave us a warm welcome as he showed us our rooms. Each of the spacious rooms had an espresso machine and were very reasonable and clean.
We had a very nice conversation at check out with Stefano as he invited us to leave our luggage while we did some sightseeing and shopping before our train. Bravo and see you next time!
Harry O.
Arlington, VA USA 08/09/2010
B&B Jaroslaw Cholodecki (aka B&B Boutique) in Warsaw, Poland as recommended by Rick Steves
Wonderful place to stay. The breakfast has a wide variety - cold cuts, cheese, jam, cereal, bread, eggs, juice, coffee and tea. The people working here are friendly and very helpful with any questions about what to see or how to get around town. We are completing our second stay here - at the beginning and end of our trip. We couldn't be happier with the hospitality we received.
James
Ottawa, ON Canada 08/07/2010
Dublin Gate Lodge Guesthouse
The Gate Lodge Guesthouse in Dublin is where I stayed upon recommendation from another Rick Steves traveler. Grainne runs a very nice house by Phoenix Park, a short walk from Heuston Station where you can catch the tram and buses run right from the city center right to their location. Very good breakfast, quiet location with good eating and convenience shopping within a block or so. I was in Room 2, which faced the back of the property (triple room).
Kevin
GRAIN VALLEY, USA 08/07/2010
Le Bellevue outside Sarlat, France
We spent 4 days in the Dordogne Region at this fabulous B&B run by a British couple, Dave and Jenny. A great place for our children with room to run and sights galore. None of us wanted to leave our new-found friends or the gorgeous surrounding region!
http://www.sarlat-bellevue.com/
Amy
Tucson, , AZ USA 08/06/2010
Staying in Rome, Italy
Recently stayed at My Guest Roma in Rome,Italy and the service and kindness of our stay there was terrific. Highly recommend. Easy access to trains, supermarket and restaurants. Great staff and willing to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Adam
Chandler, AZ USA 08/02/2010
Katy House in Florence, Italy
Recently stayed in Florence at Katy House and it was terrific. Friendly staff and great accomodations. Highly recommend.
Adam
Chandler, AZ USA 08/02/2010
B & B in Edinburgh
I stayed at the Castle View Hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland recently. Unfortunately, it is about 5 floors up with NO elevator. Also, I booked a single room and got the one where its private bath was not IN the room, but down the hall. Be sure if booking a single room, you demand the one with the en suite. The room was also exceedingly SMALL. I was very disappointed.
Kathleen
Stockton, CA USA 07/31/2010
B&B Edinburgh, Scotland
The Castle View Guest House, 30 Fredrick St. in New Town is a first rate accomodation! Great location, wonderful and friendly owners, very clean, and fantastic breakfast. They have a website and are prompt to return messages. I will return!
Michael Stuckey
Flagstaff, AZ USA 07/30/2010
B&B Rome ... great service!
My husband and I stayed in the Finestre sul Vaticano B&B for 3 nights in late June and I can't say enough about it. The staff was warm and very helpful and the room was very clean and very comfortable. The location couldn't have been better. We were less than 10 minutes from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter square or a just few subway ride away from all the major sites. We were within walking distance from the Vatican or a just few subway ride away. Rome was a great city to get around in and we felt very safe walking late at night around the B&B. The service at this b&b was great and also free wi-fi if having personal laptop or mobile. They gave a 10% discount for some restaurants nearby the B&B and do not miss a gelato at Millennium ice-cream shop. We will definitely stay here again when we visit Rome in the future. Visit their website www.romabandb.it
Patrick
NY, NY USA 07/29/2010
Bruges, Belgium B and B
Koen and Annemie Dieltiens B & B provided excellent value at a great location: quiet, but a very short, pretty walk to all the sights. It was extremely easy and pleasant to arrange our visit via e-mail with Annemie. Since our hosts are also musicians like us, we enjoyed the additional benefit of musical conversations.
Sally
Princeton, NJ USA 07/28/2010
B&B in Loire Valley - Chinon
L'Etape en Chinonais in Chinon, aside from being in a central location for viewing Chateaux west of Tours, is in a perfect location in Chinon - on the square directly across from the TI office. The large family room we had was immense and beautiful with two large french windows opening directly into the square. Surprisingly the square was quiet on a night where the town was swelled with thousands of people from the surrounding area who had come to see a sound and light show that night on the fortress wall that rises over the town and the Chateau. Madame Francoise Barbotin was personable and extremely helpful. She called around to several places to find us a place for dinner on a very busy night in town. She enjoys speaking with Americans (she lived in Florida for 5 years) and has lived a very interesting life (ask her about being a "private stewardess" for Nancy Reagan, Valery Giscard d'Estaing, Jacques Chirac and Julio Iglesias, among others - she has the autographs from most of them).
Paul Ellison
Berkley, MI USA 07/24/2010
B and B in York, England
Just completed a great 3 night stay at the Four Seasons B and B in York. It is on a very quiet road, just a 10 minute walk from the historic area and 20 minutes from the train station. Price (98 pounds a night) was excellent considering had nice touches: a high powered shower, large bed, beautiful garden, nice linens, large homemade breakfast, homemade biscuits and tea tray in room, etc. B and B is close to good restaurants and all the sites and hosts were just wonderful. Will stay there again.
F. Plendl
Tallahassee, FL USA 07/23/2010
Vue de Rance near Dinan, France
The Vue de Rance is a beautiful old home with four bedrooms. it's perched on a hill overlooking the Rance River and a yacht club. This gite is conveniently located a couple miles outside Dinan. An easy ride to Le Mont St. Michel. Very reasonably priced.
Ed
Richmond, VA USA 07/23/2010
This B&B is Winner of Travelers Choice 2009 Garni Hotel Berc in Bled, Slovenia
When I saw this B&B award going to one of RS recommended places, I put it on our 2010 itinerary. Gorgeous Garni Hotel Berc at Pod Strazo 13, Bled, Slovenia is a knock-out winner. For just 75 euros (cash) per night, we had a beautiful double with bath and balcony, free scrumptious breakfasts, a great internet and info center, and complimentary bikes which added to our joy in being in Bled. Hotel Berc is new, immaculate, and classy. It's still #1 on tripadvisor's popularity index for Bled and with us. Luka, the owner, is the epitome of excellence in hosting. He recommended Chilli Restaurant and Bar in Bled, so good we ate several meals there and brought one to eat on our sweet balcony. Bled is a delight, put it on your itinerary and don't miss the Travelers Choice B&B.
Linda Letnes
Blaine, MN USA 07/21/2010
Les Carmes - Le Thor, Provence, France
We just returned from Provence and stayed in a gem of a B & B - Les Carmes. I am surprised I hadn't heard more about it in the usual publications. The room was large, reasonably priced, and very elegant. The son of the B & B owners, James, is a gourmet cook who has studied with a Michelin rated chef. The breakfast was all specially prepared and the candlelight dinners in the beautiful courtyard, which were offered at an extra price, were fantastic. In fact, there we were in Provence and we felt that we did not need to look any further for the best meals - we ate dinner there every night of our 4 night stay. The hosts were warm, and since they are English, no communication barriers. They had several inside tips for touring and we appreciated their extensive knowledge of the area. Les Carmes was everything I dreamed about for a true Provence experience. Decor was perfect with all the amenities one could ask for. I highly recommend this wonderful B & B.
Pam Stein
Lakeland, FL USA 07/14/2010
B&B near Rome
My wife and I just returned from a trip to Rome, where we stayed in a small B&B southeast of the city in Zagarolo. This B&B, known as Il Colle degli Ulivi (Olive Tree Hill) is well run by a husband/wife team of Ivano and Terhi. They are a great pair who enjoy the business and it really shows. Their facilities are beautiful and spotless. Ivano's meals are uniformly great and he will do his best to work around any food issues that his guests may have. Olive Tree Hill is about a 20-30 minute train ride from Rome and you will be met at the station. Check their web site for details. This is up there with Joy's Rockside House in Cashel, Ireland as the two best places that we have stayed in the last 40 years. If you want to see Rome and still stay in a quiet area with easy access, try Olive Tree Hill
Bill
Dayton, OH USA 07/12/2010
Excellent B&B in Rome
I had a wonderful 3 nights stay at My Guess Roma B&B. The owner, Stephano was very helpful. He took the time to answer all my questions, helped me to make reservations to the Colosseum and the Vatican, gave me suggestions as to what to see & where to go. Rooms are clean & nice. I would definitely go back again the next time I visit Rome.
BC
Cincinnati, OH USA 07/11/2010
LISBON , PORTUGAL AREA B&B
QUINTA DO SCOTO BETWEEN LISBON AND SINTRA IN PORTUGAL. EASY FOR DRIVERS AND CONVENIENT TO THE TRAIN IN AND OUT OF BOTH PLACES. BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED FARM BUILDINGS, INCREDIBLE ROOMS, BEAUTIFUL POOL, KIND AND HELPFUL OWNERS. THE BEST PLACE WE STAYED DURING OUR 17 DAYS IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL. www.quintadoscoto.com
VELDA PICK
HAMMOND, IN USA 07/08/2010
Kilmalyn House in Fort William, Scotland
Visiting the Kilmalyn Guest House in Fort William was a bright highlight of our trip to Scotland. The entire family made us feel at home, from the baby with the shy smile to the mom who left amazing home-baked shortbread by our bedside every night. The stories of our host's ski adventures entertained us, the daughter's harp music was captivating, and the breakfasts with homemade jelly started every morning with a sweet smile. This lovely taste of true Scottish homelife -- with chickens and garden, as well as children playing in the yard -- was oh so refreshing. Their travel advice about ferries and such was most helpful, but our thoughtful hosts went above and beyond in every way to make our stay wonderful. When I washed out clothes our first night and hung them in the shower, I came in the next day to find they had been set on the line outside to dry and hung in the closet. I'd never expect that, not ever! When my husband forgot his passport, our hostess put it overnight post so that we would not lose a day of our vacation by having to turn around and retrieve it. Our hostess was even kind enough to bake extra shortbread for me to take as a gift for friends we would visiting later on in our trip. The breakfast was excellent, the bed was restful, the view was remarkable -- but these things can often be expected. What was so rare and wonder-filled about Kilmalyn is the family that shares their warmth with visitors in an unobtrusive and kindly way. Delightful, simply delightful! Without question, these were the warmest and most considerate of any B&B owners we have met on our travels over the past 25 years.
Sue Summer
Newberry, SC USA 07/06/2010
Milestone House B&B, Dingle, Ireland
We have just returned from Dingle, Ireland. If you are seeking a great
B & B try the Milestone House. They have wonderful breakfasts with freshly baked Irish soda bread and very comfortable rooms with views. Barbara and Michael went above and beyond in helping us with tour tips and explaining Irish culture. It's terrific!
Sandy Galbreath
Ithaca, NY USA 07/06/2010
Noto, Sicily
If you are visiting Sicily, take time to go to Noto. Spend a night with enthusiastic Paula at the B&B Alberini. (http://www.bb-alberini.it/)We did not plan ahead and found Noto a bit confusing. When we found B&B Alberini, with a large, airy, very comfortable room, we were thrilled. Noto is a stunning, over the top example of the Baroque architecture used after the major 17th century Sicilian earthquake. It's really unique and beautiful.
Peggy
Seattle, WA USA 07/05/2010
Sarlat area Great B & B La Tour de Cause
Sarlat area.The Dordogne area of France offers some of the best ancient and historic sites in Europe. We travel to Europe often, and La Tour de Cause B & B is the biggest and best B & B we have found in many years. Finding it in the Dordogne was fantastic. It is located in the small settlement of Pont de Cause, which is South of Sarlat. It is strategically located so it is very easy to visit all the charming villages and sites within a 20 mile radius. Finding it is easy if you follow the owner’s directions on their website. La Tour de Cause has excellent car parking. A car is a must in the Sarlat /Dordogne area or you will miss 95% of the wonders, remarkably there are adequate car parks at most historic sites. The owners of La Tour de Cause, Caitlin (who is fluent in French) and Albert are great hosts, they are Americans who have lived in this area for seven years and know every detail to help you enjoy your vacation. There are hundreds of restaurants in all the villages and they are familiar with most of them and will help with reservations if necessary. The large historic building that is the B & B has been painstakingly modernized in the right places and the original charm left otherwise. The rooms are stunning and would be considered large in the U.S.; they are huge by European standards and are beautifully decorated. The bathrooms are BIG, with high quality fixtures, hot water, and large showers and very clean. The breakfast is great and unless you are fluent in French it is wonderful to have an English speaking host so that at least once a day you can ask questions and trade info in English. They also have a swimming pool and beautiful grounds. The value of La Tour de Cause for this area is great. Before arriving at La Tour de Cause we stayed in another village and we paid the same amount for an attic room not big enough to turn around in, mediocre breakfast and street parking. Staying at this B & B is the perfect location to really enjoy the Dordogne. Thanks Albert and Caitlin for a wonderful stay.
La Tour de Cause
Castlenaud-la-Chapelle , France 07/04/2010
Dieltiens B&B in Bruges
We loved having Dieltiens B&B as our “home base” in Bruges. The location was quiet but very convienient. We particularly enjoyed the communal breakfasts and the opportunity to visit with our hosts Annemie and Koen and the other guests. (And eat Belgian chocolate at breakfast!) Listening to Koen play the organ at St. Walburga’s and getting a personal tour of the organ was a special treat we will always remember.
Shirley
Austin, TX USA 06/28/2010
Excellent B & B
The Amber House B & B in York England is fantastic. Excellent location and high quality lodging. Be sure and use your guidebook to receive the discount
Jacob
Taylor, TX USA 06/28/2010
Great B&B: Amboise and Sarlat
Near Amboise, our stay on the small farm at La Chevalerie was wonderful and the hosts were exceptionally friendly and helpful, recommending our best dining experience at Cheval Rouge and even giving us a lift to town.
Sarlat - Our stay in the heart of the village at La Maison du Notaire Royal was an exceptional value. The host was very friendly, giving us a bit of local history, was around often to answer questions and provided a number of maps and books for reference.
Ginger Bigbie
Gainesville, FL USA 06/26/2010
Downtown Accommodation in Rome
I just got back from a week in Italy and a week in Paris with mu daughter. We stayed at various types of lodgings to compare them. One of my favorites was in rome, a B&B called Downtown Accommodation. Isa and Lorenzo were very easy to work with, both in preparation and when we arrived. the room was clean and comfortable and the price was excellent. Breakfasts were freshly baked croissants and yogurt with coffee and juice. We were just up the street from the Colosseum and were able to walk just about everywhere. We found many lovely cafes and bars nearby. I recommend it!
Susan T
Augusta, GA USA 06/26/2010
Great B & B
McCarthys Bar & Guest House is a very nice B&B in Westport, Ireland. The hostess was a great source of info (including where to get a bargain full laundry service). She also served a scrumptious breakfast. The menu allowed for individual preference, which was a nice change after 10 days of B&B's. Rooms not fancy but large and clean. I accidentally left my money and passport in the room all day, but all was fine when I returned. This is a good place to stay right in Westport, and a bargain!
Judy Durant
Hendersonville, NC USA 06/24/2010
B&B in Rome
My daughters a friend and I just returned from a month long trip to Italy. I have to say one of the highlights of our trip was our stay at Remo and Angela's B&B in Rome. By the time we left there we felt like we were part of their family. They could not have been more gracious hosts. Angela prepared what all of us declared was the best Italian meal we had ever eaten. Unbelievable! Remo and Giavonna entertained us with music and song. Delightful!. If ever you find your self in Rome. Here is the place to stay. We found it through Driver in Rome. Best Yet!!!
Joby Daniel
Newcastle, CA USA 06/24/2010
Irish Charm
My wife and I stayed at Wattie's B&B in Cashel, which of course is one of Rick's recommended B&B's. The owner Maria is absolutely wonderful. Besides a great breakfast and comfortable rooms, she is full of sight seeing tips for Cashel and the surrounding area. Maria and her B&B is a must stay if you visit Cashel. Stay two nights if you can and she will give some great recommendations that most people do not bother to visit. You will not be disappointed!
Keith Altazin
Baton Rouge, LA USA 06/24/2010
Great Galway B&B
On our visit to Galway my wife and I stayed at Clochard B&B. The hosts, Pat and Helena Hanlon were tremendous. They held our room even though we were unable to give them any sort of information due to some computer problems. The room was great and the breakfast prepared by Helena was outstanding. They had more choices for breakfast than any b&b we stayed in on our trip. Pat was a great source for local events and getting to the Arran Islands, he even provided us with a ride to catch the bus to get to the ferry of Inismore Island. The Clochard B&B is about a 10 minute walk to the city center but the warmth of Pat and Helena is well worth the walk. They also have a nice car park.
Keith Altazin
Baton Rouge, LA USA 06/24/2010
Bed and Breskfast's
We found the best Bed and Breakfast in our Rick Steves book 2009 for Great Britain We just got back from our trip to Great Britain June 3-20th 2010. What a great trip. Here are some of the great places we stayed at Villa Magdala in Bath,
Abacourt in Keswick, Glenalmond House in Edinburgh Scotland, Bryn Derwen Guest House in Conwy Wales, Hedley House Hotel in York.
Nancy Hughes
Highlands Ranch, Co. USA 06/24/2010
LaPallotta B&B in Assisi
We stayed at LaPallotta in Assisi several years ago and liked it so we suggested that friends stay there this past May.As they were walking to the B&B a female fell and gashed her leg.They managed to get to LaPallotta and asked where a hospital was located.The B&B owner stated wait a minute and shortly his son pulled up and took them to the hospital where he made arrangement for her to be treated after which he returned them to the B&b. The hospital cost was free and the B&B owner would not take anything for his service stating I take care of my customers.Service like this is hard to find.Additionally they also have a excellent restaurant by the same name.
jack
Sheboygan, Wi USA 06/23/2010
Il Colle degli Ulivi B & B, Rome
"Olive Tree Hill" B & B (www.olivetreehill.com) is actually a 25-minute train ride south of Rome in a small town called Zagarolo. The owners, Ivano and Terhi (he's Italian, she's Finnish) are charming and very helpful in planning excursions, also offering rides to various places. Ivano also teaches Italian cooking. They also offer transfer to the airport which we found handy, since we spent our last two nights in Italy last month with them. Terhi drove us to Palestrina, a historic town with a huge temple which was accidentally discovered during WW2 bombing---there's an amazing Nile mosaic. Ivano is very keen to promote the sightseeing possibilities in Lazio province outside of Rome, but they are also both very knowledgeable about Rome as well, since they lived there for 30 years before moving to Zagarolo. The breakfast is marvellous, and one can also opt to have dinner there (we did, both nights: after tasting Ivano's cooking the first night, how could we not?) Plus it was fun having dinner with the other guests. We'd already spent the first 5 nights of our trip in Rome, so we simply relaxed in the B & B atmosphere, but I think it would be very doable on a future trip to Rome to stay here and just hop on the train from Zagarolo to Termini each day.
Hilda
London, Canada 06/23/2010
Bay View House, Clonakilty Ireland
My husband and I stayed at Bay View House for three nights and loved the home and our hosts, Noreen and her daughter Miriam. Lovely well appointed ensuite room, beautiful gardens, and a GREAT breakfast every morning. Just a two minute walk into Clonakilty which is a nice town that is a good base for touring Mizen Head, Beara, Bantry, Kinsale, etc.
Patricia
Phoenix, AZ USA 06/22/2010
Great B&B in Amsterdam
After not being able to reserve a room at the Amsterdam B&Bs recommended by the Rick Steves guidebook in the area we were looking to be in because we started planning too late, we stumbled upon the B&B Jordaan. It is one of the best places we stayed at when we traveled through Europe. The owner, Charlotte, is very friendly, helpful, and offers great assistance when needed but otherwise gave us privacy-- the perfect balance of a good hostess. We appreciated her detailed directions and quick follow up to our emails. The room we stayed in was clean and spacious, and the bed was especially comfortable. We felt wonderfully rested each morning. The bathroom is large and shower pressure good. We loved the private outdoor patio where we could relax each evening the most. Charlotte offered a generous, fresh breakfast each morning with plenty to eat and a coffee press in the room which we were grateful for. The price is very fair, the neighborhood is safe and charming, and this location is close to many good cafes, restaurants, and city sights. We highly recommend staying at B&B Jordaan!
Chelsea & John
Portland, ME USA 06/20/2010
Katja's B&B - Rome
We stayed at Katja's Bed & Breakfast for 3 nights. The location was excellent. It was only a 2 minute walk to St. Peter's & the Vatican. The #64 bus took us from St. Peter's to within walking distance of the Colloseum, the Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish steps. The owner, Gianluca, was the perfect host. Great recommendations for restaurants and transportation.And he also organises wine tastings and tours. His breakfasts were feasts. I have already recommended his B&B to friends travelling to Rome soon.
Gianluca's email: g_calzavara@hotmail.com
Mary Fennwick
Toronto, Canada 06/19/2010
Wonderful Dun Laoghaire, Ireland Experience
The proprietors of both the Windsor Lodge and Lynden Town House were so helpful to us during our 5 night stay in Ireland. Mary, from the Windsor could only accommodate us for one night, but called her friend, Maria at Lynden and was able to find us a room for our remaining days. Both places offered wonderful breakfasts, helpful advise and went way beyond to help us with our luggage from one B&B to the other when it was raining. Dun Laoghaire was convenient to Dublin city center, has friendly pubs and nice restaurants. I would gladly go back and stay at either place for their charming rooms and hospitality.
Cathie
Willits, CA USA 06/19/2010
Wonderful B&B in Provence
My wife and I just returned from a terrific holiday in Paris and Provence. We loved our stay at a wonderful B&B in Provence called Ecole Buisonniere, near Vaison-la-Romaine. It's in an idyllic setting in the country and is easily used as a home base for exploring all of Provence by car. John and Monique were gracious hosts, with John practically serving as our personal concierge. Born in Britain, but having lived in Provence for over 30 years, John knows Provence extremely well. He knew of beautiful sites, excellent and affordable restaurants, and markets we would have never discovered without his tips, and was eager to help us plan an itinerary for each day. All this, plus a great breakfast each morning, for only 63 euros!
Gary Lewis
Broomfield, CO USA 06/17/2010
Italy Country Stay B&B
Italy Country Stay B&B in Pescosolido, Italy is an incredible place - incredible people, incredible views, incredible history, and incredible food. This place is really a gem and the best place we stayed during our entire trip! Anna is a wonderful, generous host and made our trip so much more enjoyable!...
Bethany Shuck
Anaheim, Ca USA 06/17/2010
B&B Kinvara, Co. Galway Ireland
I just recently returned from Ireland were we traveled for several weeks as a family. This often made finding appropriate and affordable accommodation difficult, but not at this wonderful B&B, The Meadow. The rooms were clean, comfortable, and spacious. The location was great a five minute walk from the town center, but situated in a quiet neighborhood with little traffic. They had adequate parking for several vehicles, and served a very good breakfast. The whole place was very sharp, with a beautiful yard. Finally, the Prop. Mrs Mary Duffy and her husband Danny were the best part. They were both very friendly and made my family feel both safe and welcome in their home. My only regret is that we could only spend one night with them. I would gladly suggest this B&B.
The Meadow Bed & Breakfast
Prop. Mrs Mary Duffy
Tel: 091 637245
Kinvara, Co. Galway
Lance Berry
Torrington, WY USA 06/15/2010
Palazzo Masi, Siena, Italy
Palazzo Masi in Siena is in a location just one block from Il Campo. This is the center of activity in siena. The newly renovated B&B, on the second & third floors of the palazzo, is very comfortable, clean, and furnished with some of the furniture from the old days. But the fun of staying there is talking to Daniela as she and Alizardo prepare your breakfast and cappuccino. As Rick Steves says, she goes above and beyond to help you any way she can, with suggestions for sightseeing, where to eat, etc. She arranged a superb tour of the Chianti region for us, called the taxi for us and helped carry our luggage. The location could not be beat for convenience, dropping off purchases, stopping for a rest, and other necessities. Having a key to the door off the street makes you feel like it's your palazzo, and you know that people passing by think you live there. Take Rick's recommendation and try Palazzo Masi. It will be one of your favorite experiences.
John Peveto
Dallas, Texas USA 06/11/2010
Italy Country Stay
I really enjoyed staying at Italy Country stay near Sora, Italy, which is between Rome and Naples. It is a newer place and they are still working on some things, but it has tons of potential. I went for a three week trip around France and Italy and this was my favorite place, by far. They are affiliated with Italy Farm Stay, down the road, and so there are plenty of activities, if you're so inclined, like hiking to a castle or waterfall, horseback riding, or going to see a shepherd make cheese. Or you can just hang out and relax in a part of Italy not many tourists see. The people who run the B&B are great, too, especially Anna. I hope to go back one day for a longer stay.
Kristen Steele
Nashville, TN USA 06/10/2010
B&B
If you are looking for a charming, cozy, B&B in Ballyvaughan, Ireland we recommend Turlough House. The insuite room was well appointed and even had a bathtub. Breakfast was delicious and included several fruits including homemade rhubarb sauce. The proprietors were friendly and engaging. We stayed in three other B&B's during our week in IReland and while all were lovely, Turlough House had a quality that set it above the rest.
Frances
Lynnwood, WA USA 06/08/2010
Great B&B near Minerve, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
la Cortanela in La Caunette, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Denis and Maryline have two rooms in this small town 1k from Minerve. It is absolutely charming. The rooms are large and beautifully decorated. Maryline is Swiss and speaks English. We had snacks and sparkling wine with them when we checked in. There is an outdoor patio for picnic dinner and/or breakfast. there is also an indoor room for guests with a refrigerator and microwave in case of rain. The price was only 55 Euro including breakfast though it's 65 in the summer. Still a great value. Have Denis show you his "cave" room. He'll also give you a shot of calvados. www.lacortanela.com
Tom Kruse
Salem, Oregon USA 06/03/2010
Just returned from a week in France.
We stayed for several days in a beautiful B&B near Bayeux. Jeanne is a perfect hostess. She speaks English very well and serves a fabulous dinner meal. The B&B is a very old farmhouse sitting in the beautiful French country side. If you are heading to Normandy, check out this B&B. www.beuffrerie.com
Nancy
Springfield, IL USA 06/02/2010
Superb B&Bs at Milan, Florence, Rome and Paris
My husband and I stayed in B&Bs that I picked up from this page and although they weren't our first choices they turned out to be amazing! and I would highly recommend any one looking for a comfortable, clean and cheap place to crash. Furthermore our hosts were extremely friendly and helpful. They arranged for maps of the city and suggested great places to eat and they even helped us make reservations to museums. Thank you Pier, Graziella and Stephano!
Milan - Villa Magnolia Florence- Panellas Residence Rome- My guest roma and 21 Aprile House Paris - Grand Hotel Leveque, the room and hotel compared to the above three was just okay but the location was great, it has an amazing Greek restaurant right opposite called the Ulysse, which serves to die for crepes!
Thank you Rick Steves for your entertaining and informational podcasts! that are all free we highly recommend that ppl download and use those as opposed to the extremely intensive audio guides at museums and other places.
Sabrina
Karachi, Pakistan 06/01/2010
excellent B&Bs-Great Britain
Priestvielle B&B im Edinburgh,Arnot B&B in York,Castle View B&B in Conway,CrossKeys B&B in Stow,Brocks Guest House in Bath. All five places were excellent.Not pricy,clean,friendly staff,well located
jack
Sheboygan, wi USA 06/01/2010
b&b in rome. Much better than some 4 star hotels
Le Finestre sul Vaticano B&B ... a rare find and much better than some 4 star hotels I have stayed in. You are made to feel so welcome by Max, Lavinia and Lourdes. They will give you a whole host of information about getting the best out of Rome and all thier tips work. There are a couple of really great local restaurants which are half the price of the centre with a great local atmosphere and great food. The metro and local buses are only 2 minutes walk away as is the Vatican. Rooms are spotlessly clean and large. Breakfast is good. Staying here is like staying with friends, I would most definately stay here again and will be recommending it to anyone who says they are visiting Rome. A truly great place to stay. Visit their website www.romabandb.it ... ARRIVEDERCI ITALIA!
Kelly
St Louis, MO USA 05/31/2010
Review of Residenza il Villino
My husband and I had a wonderful experience staying with Sergio&Elisabetta at Residenza il Villino. It was beautiful, clean and the food was delicious. We felt so comfortable. They helped us with everything we needed in such a pleasant way. If you go to Florence this is a must. I miss them already.
Cheryl Flora
Clarksville, , IN USA 05/31/2010
B & B Wright, Como, It
My wife, Dee, & I visited Argegno on Lake Como during the first week of May. I found Paul & Nicola’s B & B information on the Graffiti Wall last year, making our arrangements via email for their 1st floor apartment overlooking the lake with Paul, who to my surprise did not require a deposit. Our stay was for 3 nights, with a quick morning trip to Milan on May 7th to see DeVinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria Delle Grazie for the 8 am showing. Paul & Nicola were gracious hosts who answered our questions & made us feel like we were staying with old friends. The wireless internet was definitely a plus. Paul’s hand painted furnishings were so realistic my wife thought we had two rabbits staying in the room with us. We would definitely recommend their terraced, above the tree tops villa to anyone heading to Como. Initially, we were concerned about parking our rental car on the side of the road at the base of the cliff but we did not have any issues with leaving the car parked there. B & B Wright can be found at http://www.wrightart.com.
Monty Hopey
Beaufort, SC USA 05/29/2010
Amber House B&B in York
We really enjoyed our stay at Amber House. It's a great place to stay while visiting York. Hosts John & Linda Fletcher are welcoming & provide all sorts of useful information on sites to see, walking shortcuts to take, to help get the best out of your visit. They helpfully offered an early cooked breakfast for us on the day we were leaving. (Some b&b's will set out the cold items such as cereal only). Their location on Bootham Crescent is close to all the sites. We didn't need a car as everything is walkable. It's also quiet - no need to have the windows closed while sleeping. Amber House provided many of the same extras that pricier b&b's offered. If you're going to York - Amber House is the place to stay!
G & C Galpin
Calgary, AB Canada 05/28/2010
Great B&B in Brugge.
The Royal Stewart in Brugge is fantastic. Maggie and Gilbert are fantastic hosts and she is full of good tips. She knows the best and least expensive chocolate and beer shops in town. Her stories are marvelous. Their location is excellent. What more could a traveler want?
Our stay in Brugge was the highlight of a three week trip.
Marty
Madison, WI USA 05/27/2010
Badminton Villa - Bath
We've just returned from a two week trip around SW England and, while we stayed in some great B&Bs, I was especially pleased with Badminton Villa in Bath.
They got high marks for the location (near the city centre), the room (clean and fresh, a good size), amenities (free wifi, available computer for guest to use), and the welcome we received when we arrived worn-out and a bit jet lagged (both the hosts were sincerely warm and kind, with helpful advice and suggestions, without being remotely overbearing about it). We loved Bath and will definitely stay there whenever we get to the city again.
Vanessa
Halifax, NS Canada 05/25/2010
Helpful hosts
Pauline and family at the Ferry House in Dun Laorhie (spelling!) Ireland were very helpful. Helped me contact the airports to find out if my plane would beat the ash cloud earlier in May. Invited me right on in to look at the news for any updates.
Deb Hoffman
Aurora, co USA 05/25/2010
Best B&B in Provence, near Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
My husband and I just returned from Provence, where we spent 5 nights at the Mas de Miejour. Fantastic hospitality, charming house & decor, extremely helpful hosts, central yet peaceful location and delicious breakfasts. This place is a great value for Provence! Husband Fred is an American-trained computer scientist who left the tech world to study wine and later to open the B&B with his wife Emma. They advised us each morning on where to go, which market was happening, which wineries to visit and where to go for dinner. Breakfast was different each day - Emma's homemade yogurt, Fred's jams and the best croissants during our trip. We can't recommend it enough!
Lisa and Jean-Marie
Falls Church, VA USA 05/24/2010
B and B friendliness in Salzburg and Bacharach
Haus Steiner, Salzburg, Austria
Frau Ursula Orth, Bacharach, Germany
Frau Steiner washed clothes for us at minimal cost. When it rained, she gathered clothes off the line and used her electric dryer. We had beautiful mountain views from our balcony. Three restaurants are nearby. Her home is easily reached from the Hammerauerstrasse stop on Moosstrasse, Bus #21.
Also, Frau Ursula Orth welcomed us with a hug at our arrival as if we were family, and, we felt as if we were home! She was up early to prepare breakfast and accommodate our leaving early to catch the train on our day of departure.
Lawrence Barnes
Stayton, OR USA 05/23/2010
L'Echappee Belle in Carcassonne
Owner Johanna was our hero. We arrived there with stomach troubles. She was helpful about what to eat, what not to eat, and what to have for breakfast. She even supplied us with over the counter medicine for our troubles. She was a wonderful, informative, and entertaining hostess. Our room was very nice, and the common room and breakfast room were warm and welcoming. We'd love to return there.
Barbara Barto
Wilmington, DE USA 05/22/2010
ROME B&B S.Pietro alle Fornaci
Our host, Marius, discovered my camera lens in the room after we had left. We'd been traveling for 2 months and I couldn't imagine where I had left it and when he e-mailed me I was overjoyed. I recommend this B&B to anyone looking for a clean and highly affordable accommodation with a great location 2 minutes from the Vatican. Marius was a great source of information and was always available if we needed anything. He arranged airport transportation for us on very short notice which made travel easier and we would recommend him and his B&B to anyone.
John
Phoenix, AZ USA 05/21/2010
Le Logis du Jerzual, Dinan, France
Our B&B was adorable, but not as adorable as Sylvie Ronserray, the owner. She went out of her way to be helpful by making phone calls on our behalf after we had had a rough travel day, and providing us with easy directions once we picked up our car. But it was her cheerful smile that really impressed me. I don't think we ever caught her without one on her face. Just being in her presence put me in a good mood.
Regina Swan
Santa Rosa, CA USA 05/20/2010
Pas de Calais B and B
The Pas de Calais region is a lovely area to explore. Arras and Lille are two great cities and the WW1 sites (Vimy Ridge) are very moving. Chateau de Philiomel is a peaceful historic B and B to use as a base in Lillers. Easy drive into Belgium. Frederik is a good host with a great French breakfast (fresh squeezed OJ!)www.lechateaudephiliomel.com
Wendi VanExan
Ancaster, ON Canada 05/19/2010
A great place near The Vatican - ROME
My wife and I spent Easter week at Bed and Breakfast Le Finestre sul Vaticano. The room was spacious and very clean ... great location 2 minutes walking to subway station. Breakfast was very good typical Italian B & B but very friendly service. Max and Lavinia were very helpful and helped us to arrange side trips and answered all our questions!!
I recommened this B&B and the wonderful owners (Max & Lavinia) and Lourdes will make you feel like you have found a home in Rome. Grazie! www.romabandb.it
Tom & Kathy
Southern New Jersey, NJ USA 05/19/2010
Marvelous Il Villino
Il Villino - Florence, Italy Just a beautiful B&B with the most wonderful hosts especially Sergio & his humor. I am so glad I made the decision to stay here our 3 nights in Florence, May 11 -14.
Stephanie Norris
Trussville, Alabam USA 05/18/2010
Wonderful Corte Campana
Corte Campana B&B Venice, Italy A fantastic experience staying with Riccardo at his lovely B&B. One of the funniest & engaging hosts you will ever meet. I'm just thrilled to have made the decision to stay here & the opportunity to meet a host whom all of us will never forget.
Stephanie Norris
Trussville, Al USA 05/18/2010
Milestone House B&B Dingle, Ireland
Thanks Rick for the tip on the Milestone House B&B in Dingle, Ireland. Hosts Barbara and Michael were friendly, competent, and kind. We were traveling with my parents (in their 80's) and Barbara went the extra mile making sure they were comfortable & warm. Everything was spotless. They also provided great maps and sightseeing tips. Breakfast was fabulous and generous! A beautiful, quiet location just outside Dingle. We even had baby lambs in our backyard! This was one of our favorite places!
Linda Pugmire
PROVO, UT USA 05/18/2010
A Year in Provence--if only!
Our only regret during a recent visit to Provence was that we couldn't stay longer (like a year)! John and Monique Alex-Parsons run a peaceful, relaxing B & B near Vaison-la-Romaine, an old Roman village in the Cote du Rhone wine region. L'Ecole Buissonničre is in Rick's "Provence" book and now we know why. John (who is British) and Monique (French) spent 20 years restoring an old country farmhouse, a la Peter Mayle. What gracious hosts they were, serving a great country breakfast with big guest rooms and and engaging conversation. We feel like they are old friends -- and we only stayed two nights. If you're going to be in the neighborhood and want a charming, welcoming place to stay in the beautiful Provencal countryside, look no further! La vie est belle!
Michael S.
Iowa City, IA USA 05/16/2010
Pension
Leire and her mom are two of the nicest people you would ever want to meet. From the first time we meet then we felt like special friends. They are so gracious with helping you with places to eat as well as sites to see. The restaurants they recommended were outstanding. Some of the best we have experienced in all Europe. We highly recommend a stay with then. You will never forget it.We are sadden we have to leave them. Thank you Leire and Mom.
Mike and
bev de la Pena
Bellas Artes
San Sebastian, Spain 05/10/2010
guest house douro
I just stayed a couple of days in Porto in a new place called Guest House Douro. What service ! What friendliness ! The owners moved from Canada to Porto to open this little B&B with 8 rooms, right in the historical waterfront Porto. Wonderful location, amazing breakfast. You are received like old friends, like you just came home from a long journey. Very confortable bed, all very clean. Ask for a waterfront room !
alda
05/02/2010
Edinburgh B&B - Ard-Na-Said
We stayed at Ard-Na-Said (ard-na-said.co.uk)and can't say enough wonderful things about our stay. Olive and Jim Lyons are gracious hosts who took good care of us during our stay. Breakfasts were huge and delicious. Our room was large and well-appointed, with a huge beautiful bathroom. It was close to the bus route and conveniently located. We would stay there again and would recommend it as a reasonably priced and cozy B&B.
Sue Knight
Orange, CA USA 04/30/2010
Via Piana Italy Country Stay
Via Piana (www.italycountrystay.com) is a small Bed & Breakfast located near Sora, Italy. Some of the buildings are still being renovated, but the restored buildings combine modern comforts with rustic style. The host, Anna, is sweet and very considerate. She made sure that I had an enjoyable experience, and she really cares about her guests.
Via Piana is on the edge of the Abruzzo National Park. The region is tremendously beautiful, with opportunities for scenic hikes and other outdoor activities. The area is absolutely breathtaking.
There are lots of opportunities for great food in the area. Anna herself is an excellent chef, even making fresh bread in her brick oven. There are several delicious pizzerias in the area, which are both affordable and generous. Additionally, for a really wonderful experience, Le Grotte Della Locanda is a restaurant in a nearby village (Campoli Appennino) that specializes in delicious truffle dishes.
There are also opportunities to watch a local shepherd make fresh cheese, ride horseback, and visit a local market on Thursdays. The area is fairly untouched by tourism, so guests can count on an authentic Italian experience. Via Piana offers a wonderful opportunity to see a part of Italy that one can't in Rome or another larger city. I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Christopher Weaver
Little Rock, AR USA 04/25/2010
Prague Guest House Lida
We just returned from our visit to Prague, a visit unexpectedly longer due to the 'ash cloud' problems. We LOVED the Lida. We had spent the first part of our visit there before trekking south to Cesky Krumlov (recommend it) and ended up back at the Lida after being stranded. All of what Rick says about Lida is true: nice, convenient, etc. What was truly great though was the hospitality. Jan/Jitka and Jiri/Jana were perfect hosts. Jiri especially made us comfortable during the extended portion of our stay. It was very stressful worrying about when and 'if' we would ever get home, but it was great to have the comfort of a home-away-from-home. I highly recommend the Guest House Lida. We will go back if we can ever get up the courage to fly past that darned volcano!
Lydell Sullenbarger
Petersburg, KY USA 04/23/2010
Rome great B&B- My Guest Roma
I would definitely recommend to everyone visiting Rome to stay at the My Guest Roma.
It is not easy to find such as an “Amphitryon” as Stefano: his hospitality has been the first positive sign of a trip that hadn’t started in the best way ( yes, we too were among the victims of the Volcano last week!). This B&B deserves and will certainly be our base if we ever go back to this gorgeous city. The price/ quality rate was excellent.
Laura Cho
Oxford , MA USA 04/23/2010
Great Florence B&B experience - Arco Antico
If you're visiting Florence, I'd like to recommend the B&B Arco Antico (www.arcoantico.net). Matteo, the owner, definitely went above and beyond when it came to helping us better fit our family to his rooms, power adapters, reservations at the museums, even with our laundry. It doesn't look like much from the street, but inside, the rooms are clean and modern. Plus, it's a 5-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station. We will return!
Dave Beyer
Los Altos Hills, CA USA 04/21/2010
Great Hosts - Alpenhof B&B in Stechelberg Switzerland
I was fortunate to stay at the Alpenhof B&B in early April. The owners Marc & Diane were gracious and friendly – their knowledge and suggestions made my experience in the Lauterbrunnen Valley better. Their front porch was a wonderful place to end the day sipping on a cold beverage while watching the light fade to dark. The Alpenhof had everything that I was looking for – clean, rustic accommodations that had private rooms, a hot shower, laundry facilities, great common areas, fabulous breakfast with killer jams and good conversation. I hope to return soon. Here’s their website: www.alpenhof-stechelberg.ch
Rob
Winston Salem, nc USA 04/19/2010
B&B
I will never forget the wonderful time my husband and I had in Umbria, Italy. We stayed at a delightful B&B (El Marsam). Mike and Ginda Simpson, the owners, were wonderful tending to our every need. Very comfortable bedding, unbelievable views,the food was fresh and homemade and the inn itself is very charming. I highly recommend El Marsam (www.elmarsam.com) to those visiting this region. My husband and I came home and started planning our next stay.
Wendy White
Baltimore, MD USA 04/16/2010
Straven Guest House - Edinburgh, Scotland
Mac and Marianne were wonderful hosts during our stay at Straven Guest House. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the breakfast is delicious, and the location on the Esplenade is absolutely lovely. We had a wonderful time in Edinburgh, and was made even more so by our stay at Straven Guest House. Will most definitely stay here again on my next visit!! HIGHLY RECCOMENDED!
Holly Hecht
Kenai, AK USA 04/16/2010
Straven Guest House in Edinburgh
I can't say enough wonderful things about our stay at Straven Guest House. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood steps away from the Firth of Forth, Straven Guest House was the perfect place for a visit to Edinburgh with my 12-year old daughter. Mac and Marian, our hosts, were gracious, helpful and interesting people--oh, and hard working, too! In addition to making Straven Guest House an inviting, comfortable and super clean place, Mac makes his own yogurt and Marian makes homemade preserves, which are both served up with the other wonderful breakfast offerings. We loved it, and you will too! You can find them at
www.stravenguesthouse.com
Laureen
Atlanta, GA USA 04/14/2010
Vegetarian Farm Guesthouse in Cork Ireland
We recently stayed in County Cork, Ireland at Gort Na Nain vegetarian guesthouse. Our hosts, Lucy and Ultan, went above and beyond to make us feel "at home." The guesthouse is a warm and beautiful place - Lucy designed it herself! For an extra 30 euros per person, Lucy and Ultan make a 3 course meal. Most of the veg is from their farm. We enjoyed amazing meals with them.
They were super helpful with giving us directions (no need for a GPS) and pointing us to the right places to visit. The farm is about 20 minutes from Kinsale and 30 minutes from Cork. This is a special place. Visit if you can.
http://www.gortnanain.com/
Holly
Pasadena, Ca USA 04/12/2010
Visit Via Piana and EXPERIENCE ITALY!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Via Piana. Set in a small Village at the foot of the mountains of Abruzzi National Park, Via Piana is a rustic bed and breakfast, in an untouched area of Italy.
The B&B itself is in an actual Italian village, and you interact with locals on a daily basis. Anna was a wonderful host, and offered many opportunities to view artisan products being made, including visits to the neighboring shepherd and olive press, and you will never run out of wine since all of the properties surrounding make and sell their own!
The project is still being renovated, but this is offset by the kindness, and helpful nature of Anna who runs the B&B. Opportunities to hike in Abruzzi National forest, and visits to the nearby town of Sora, give you the option to be removed or immersed in Italian culture, which is something that is unique. For those that crave something different in their travel experience, this place is definitely off the beaten path!!! If you want a truly authentic Italian experience in the beautiful countryside, I encourage you to visit Via Piana! Check out the website and see for yourself:
http://www.italycountrystay.com/
Thank you Anna, for being such a great host, hope to visit again soon!
Alexandra De Natale
San Francisco, CA USA 04/09/2010
Heckberry House, Keswick, UK.
my husband and i stayed at Heckberry house in Keswick England this week. great place, definitely recommend it. i don't think it has wifi, but i didn't ask. there are plenty of places around the town square (only 1 block away) with free wifi, so it wouldn't be an issue. the owners of the Heckberry house were very friendly. the house is nice and quiet, bed is super comfy. we were in room 2. the house, room, bathroom were SPOTLESS. breakfast was yummy. 2 thumbs up for this place.
Lacey
ATL, GA USA 04/08/2010
Steve’s tips work again !! Great Rome B&B
My husband and I spent 4 wonderful nights in Rome at the My Guest Roma B&B following a suggestion published on this website. I am writing to say we are very very grateful. The place is great delightfully furnished, colorful and spotless. The location is fantastic, close to all the attractions but far enough to allow much more reasonable fares (we payed 80€ with an awesome Italian breakfast); the owner is also fantastic…. Too bad I am married!(Stephan 0039 06 86324590;info@myguestroma.com)
Elisabeth Langer
Philadelphia , USA 04/04/2010
Pension Sarstein
Our stay at Pension Sarstein was perfect. The accommodations were warm and comfortable. The Fischers were very friendly and helpful with great ideas for mountain views. Although the view right from our room was just about perfect. The price and a nice breakfast were added benefits. Thank for the recommendations and thank you Fischers.
Benedetti
Dayton, OH USA 04/04/2010
Personal service extraordinaire on the Amalfi coast!
Diane the host of the little B&B "My Salerno Apertment, in the village" went beyond the call of duty. After a chaotic 11 hours of travelling we lost the directions to her location but as we had her cel number on file still, we called her and as she getting off work, she met us at the station. Then as we were famished she whipped up a nice dinner and shared it with us. We felt like royalty! Other than that the apartment had lots of sun a very nice view of the sea there was a little supermarket and cafe nearby. We loved her dogs as we are dog people too. There were transit stops for the Amalfi Coast not too far away,and the ceramic town Vietri sul mare was close. We hiked in the hills with our host and saw some great views.She had tons of maps, and good resources available. It was comfortable at a good price. We really enjoyed our stay!
Lisa
Calgary, USA 03/24/2010
Residenza Il Villino - Florence
We had a perfect stay at Residenza Il Villino in Florence. Our hosts were amazing - friendly, helpful, and kind and the accommodations were beautiful and quiet, the breakfasts bounteous and the location perfect. We'd stay there again and again.
Jennifer Haines
Ann Arbor, MI USA 03/17/2010
Nicolas Inn B&B in Rome
Francois and Melissa at the Nicolas Inn B&B go way above and beyond to make a visit to Rome special. The accommodations are lovely, clean, and comfortable with dependable wifi, good water pressure, fruit always available, and a small refrigerator in the room. It is close to the Forum so you can walk to many sights plus public transportation is close. Breakfast is at a nearby bakery where we had lots of delicious choices and were able to mingle with the locals. Melissa and Francois were very helpful and friendly. We felt like we were visiting friends in Rome with all the perks and tips that go with that. We highly recommend the Nicolas Inn B&B!
Kristin
Minneapolis , Mn USA 03/13/2010
Ardconnel House
We've just spent a highly enjoyable 3 days as guests of Elizabeth and John at the Ardconnel House, Inverness.
This house is very comfortable, in a nice quiet street, but is only a few minutes walk from the town center. Our hosts attended to our every need by helping us with visits to Culloden Battlefield, and to Loch Ness. They made dinner reservations for us at the excellent Redcliffe Hotel, and the Cafe 1 restaurant.
We should point out that Elizabeth and John have changed their plans to move from Inverness during 2010 and expect to remain at Ardconnel House for some years to come. Good news indeed.
We rate this guest house very highly.
Chris & Karen Page
Colorado Springs, CO USA 03/11/2010
Normandy Bed and Breakfast
A great Normandy B&B I stayed at,twice, is owned by Dale and Debbie Booth.Their website is www.dday-experiencebedandbreakfast.com.
They are a lovely couple with a wonderful and warm home to share right in the middle of the D-Day landing zones. Facilities are top notch and they bend over backwards to help with your every need. Dale is a guide for Battle Bus Tours and his knowledge of the area and it's history is wonderful. If I could rate it a 12 on a 10 scale, I would!
Joe Miska
Minneapolis, mn USA 03/10/2010
Stechelberg Alpenhof (Di & Marc)
Thumbs up for the Alpenhof in the tiny village of Stechelberg.Great B&B right in the heart of the mountains.Wood fires,cosy rooms & the best hot chocolate.Very very clean & friendly with a great price for a double room.
Lorri March
Gil & Lorri March
Austin, TX USA 03/09/2010
Casa Olea near Priego de Cordoba, Spain
The Casa Olea B&B is on an olive farm near Priego de Cordoba, Spain. It is half way between Granada and Cordoba and a great base for visiting both cities. The hosts, Tim and Claire, are a young English couple who recently opened the B&B after spending four years restoring the farmhouse. The house is beautiful and clean, the food delicious, the wine cheap, and the hosts very friendly and extremely helpful.
Buz Craven
Chicago, IL USA 03/08/2010
Great B&B near Arles, France
Mas du Petit Grava is a wonderful B&B within 10 minutes of Arles, France. It is a great place to do day trips from all around south Provence. I found it on my own via the internet but then saw the write-up in Rick's book on Provence. My husband & I stayed at the Mas just last week & it made our trip. It is a beautiful, comfortable home with calm, relaxing atmosphere & grounds. The owners, Jim & Ike are wonderful hosts & we felt like friends immediately. Ike is a great cook & Jim is a fantastic tour director complete with maps & pamphlets to help get you going in the right direction for all your day trips. My husband & I would go back to the Mas immediately if we could & highly recommend staying there to all you folks who want a wonderful place to relax while enjoying Provence.
Linda Murphy
Round Rock, TX USA 03/01/2010
GREAT B&B IN ROME
A rare find and much better than some 4* hotels I have stayed in. You are made to feel so welcome by Max, Lavinia and Lourdes will give you a whole host of information about getting the best out of Rome and all thier tips work. There are a couple of really great local restaurants which are half the price of the centre with a great local atmosphere and great food. The metro and local buses are only 2 minutes walk away as is the Vatican. Rooms are spotlessly clean and large. Breakfast is very good. Staying here is like staying with friends, I would most definately stay here again and will be recommending it to anyone who says they are visiting Rome. A truly great place to stay. www.romabandb.it
Gloria Y.
Denver , CO USA 02/25/2010
WE HAVE STAYED WITH DALE AND DEBBIE MANY TIMES AS THEY ARE A LOVELY HOMELY COUPLE THAT MAKES YOUR STAY RELAXING, THE ROOMS ARE VERY CLEAN AND SPACIOUS, THE FOOD IS TO DIE FOR, DEBBIE USES LOCAL PRODUCE AND IT SHOWS,SITTING IN THE GARDEN WITH A GLASS OF WINE AT THE END OF THE DAY CHATTING WITH OUR HOSTS WAS DELIGHTFUL, THE KNOLEDGE THAT DALE HAVE OF NORMANDY IS EMENSE. WE HAVE EVEN STOPPED BY TO SAY HELLO WHEN WE GO TO OTHER PARTS OF FRANCE AS A VISIT TO FRANCE IS NOT COMPLETE UNLESS WE SEE THEM.ROY & MEG WICKS NORFOLK UK
pretot-sainte-suzanne, france 02/22/2010
DDay experience Bed & Breakfast and Dale & Debbie Booth
My Family and I have stayed with Debbie and Dale at La Heroullerie in Normandy many times. It is an ideal location for visiting the D Day beaches or any of the great Normandy countryside. The website www.dday-experiencebedandbreakfast.com says " La Heroullerie Where Peace and Tranquility are the order of the Day" and that is certainly true. It is warm and friendly and caters for you. Dale is also a Battlefield guide and has his own museum and indepth knowledge of the area.
Fred Beamish
Cambridge, UK 02/21/2010
My Guest Roma: terrific B&B in ROME
We couldn’t have asked for more! Great location, impeccably clean, great value for money and very quiet. It’s amazing the amount of love and hard work Stefano has put into this beautiful establishment. His warm hospitality has definitely made a difference .
Suzanne Turner
Chicago, IL USA 02/19/2010
Lovely & inexpensive B&B in Rome
During our visit to Rome , we stayed at Downtown Accomodation . Fantastic location and very reasonable price ! It's located right next to the Foman Forum , Coliseum and Piazza Venzia ... The room was clean and nice with a private bath in a charming building . The owner was very helpful .
A great place to stay from which to explore the main attractions of Rome.
We would highly recommend this accommodation to anyone staying in Rome. www.downtownaccomodation.com
Jassica Virgine
New York, USA 02/19/2010
katja's...charming B&B in Rome
This B & B was in a really great location, right near St Peter's Basilica and an easy bus ride to all the other attractions in Rome.Gianluca was a gracious and accommodating host,very helpful in providing tips on finding great wines and good food in Rome.The breakfasts are amazing - Gianluca is a wonderful cook. Cereal, breads, sweets, juice, coffee, tea, eggs, vegetables and cheese...
I definetly choose to stay at Katja's next time.
their contact: g_calzavara@hotmail.com
connie o'toole
toronto, canada 02/16/2010
Budapest - accommodation
Having had some trouble with another rental it was simply wonderful moving into the Astoria Residence by www.budapesting.com . The owners are very kind and helpful. I found the bathroom really nice and clean - the hot tub was without question a big plus. The room I had was cozy and the bed very comfortable. I was also very happy about the good washing machine and the well equipped kitchen.
The location is excellent - it would have been hard to find a better place.
Many thanks to Marton and Susie.
Budapesting - Astoria Residence
Budapest, Hungary 02/07/2010
B&B in Bruges
Rick Steves guidebook recommended staying at a B&B in Bruges, and we were very glad we took that advice. Koen and Annemie Dieltiens have several rooms in a lovely, large home and they also have a oouple flats for larger groups. And after those teeny cups of coffee in France and Belgium, it was a delight to have a whole pot with our breakfast each morning. Highly recommended!
Kay Clarey
Cheverly, MD USA 02/06/2010
B&B at Lake Como
Very pleased to add our thanks to Paul and Nicola for their great B & B in Argegno, Lake Como (www.wrightart.com). After a hectic week in Rome last summer, we finally felt like we were actually on vacation once we arrived in sleepy Argegno. The villa had wonderful views for a budget price, was a comfortable walk from the ferry, and came with the most delightful hosts! My mother had injured her leg in Rome, and both Paul and Nicole were a tremendous help when we needed it. From finding a doctor's office for us to providing proper wine glasses to enjoy lovely summer evenings on our private balcony, they both went out of their way for their guests. I hope everyone gets a chance to visit these lovely folks and their welcoming B&B!
Debra
Ft. Collins, CO USA 02/05/2010
Great little flat in Old Ghent
While in Amsterdam my family and I took a side trip to Ghent for a few days. I stumbled on a B&B.The Puerto Patershol is a Little Gem. Located in the center of old Ghent and on the river.The people who run it are helpful and didn't hover over you. Great little kitchen,big tub and bath and quiet check this one out.ImiloaSoCal.
Puerto Patershol
ghent, USA 01/23/2010
Excellent B&B in Kent, UK
Swan Cottage is David Gurdon's home, and he is a magnificent B&B host. He has only a couple of rooms, but quality of accommodation and service are excellent. Breakfasts are cooked to order and at your convenience, and David, who is also an artist, is very knowledgeable about Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding countryside. One day we mentioned at breakfast that we were tired of driving, so he volunteered to be our chauffeur on a sightseeing trip, and took us to a wonderful pub in a small village. Our stay could not have been better, although Sydney the cat was a little snooty. David can be reached at swancot@btinternet.com and his website is http://www.swancottage.co.uk/
Richard Wafer,
Vancouver, Canada
Swan Cotage
Tunbridge Wells, Kent UK 01/19/2010
Frances' Lodge - Siena, Italy
Frances' Lodge in Sienna was a small luxury for us during our two week trip around Northern Italy. Host Frances and her husband Franco were incredibly charming and friendly, and very proud of their beautiful property with a stunning view of the walled City of Siena. The lodgings were clean and very comfortable, in a beautiful rural setting, but only a short distance to Siena. You'll love Frances' Lodge -- we plan to go back there again someday.
Tim Murphy
Elk Grove, CA USA 01/17/2010
Beautiful BB in Rome
The owners of this B&B have provided a beautiful, spacious apartment for its guests next to the Vatican (only minutes away). We found the B&B to be quiet and provided a relaxing respite for the holidays. The hostesses (max, Lavinia and Lourdes) that lives on site were extremely pleasant and helpful with our requests and went the extra mile to make sure we were always comfortable. Nice and large rooms. Subway 2 minutes walking. A very beautiful place! We will raccomend to all our friends! Thanks guys!
www.romabandb.it
Carol
Denver, AZ USA 01/15/2010
Castle Steps Hotel, Prague
Heroic B&B friendliness is an understatement!
We stayed in a lovely apartment earlier this month with a balcony for next to no price. We actually booked a small room and got upgraded for no extra charge. The staff were organised and efficient before we even got there and were so friendly and helpful - making sure everything was going ok - at both reception and at breakfast.
Very personable and in the very centre.
Leigh Jackson
Chicago, IL USA 01/14/2010
Gasthaus Silbernagl
I want say how much we loved Gasthaus Silbernagl, owned and run by Petra in Castelrotto/Kastelruth, Italy. The rooms were cozy and had great views. Petra was full of information from driving tours, hiking trails, and ski areas to events in town. She made us feel at home and excited to explore her area of Italy more than we might have. We will definitely be back.
Annie
Reno, NV USA 01/10/2010
Sunny Days B&B, Interlaken Switzerland
Sunny Days B&B in Interlaken, Switzerland was a cute home on a very nice street. However, Dave, the owner, was morose and gruff - perhaps a bad day? We felt very unwelcome and chose to spend our dollars elsewhere - can not recommend this B&B.
Annie
Reno, NV USA 01/10/2010
Gasthaus Lindenhof, Dinklesbuhl, Germany
We found Gasthaus Lindenhof, in Dinklesbuhl, Germany to be a gem. The owner is lively and friendly and the breakfast is sumptuous and lovingly presented. It is outside of town, with a nice road to walk, passing by a pond with swans and lots of trees. It was a peaceful setting and our suite was roomy, with lots of wood and a little kitchen area. We sat on our balcony until dark, enjoying the views and the quiet. It is a good choice if you are visiting Rothenberg or Dinklesbuhl on the Romantic Road.
Annie
Reno, NV USA 01/10/2010
B&B Il Bargello (Florence)
B&B Il Bargello in Florence
What a gem! What a gem! I stayed at this very clean and comfortable B&B in the heart of Old Florence for 4 nights, and absolutely loved my stay there. From the courteous and friendly service at check-in with Allsion to our check out with Canadian-Italian ownwer, Gabriella it was a wonderful experience. The location was superbly central, and our special outings were organized problem free by Gabriella. It was such a home away from home feeling that I would sincerely recommend a stay at Il Bargello to all friends and family without hesitation. I will be staying there again on my next visit.
Annie
Montreal, QC Canada 01/05/2010
GREAT LOCATION IN ROME...KATJA'S B&B
Gianluca's welcome, hospitality, and especially the breakfasts were superb. The appartment was delightful and full of character, and he was always ready to provide information and suggestions about where to visit in Rome. Highly recommended.
Derek Jowett
MA USA 01/04/2010
Haus Reichl--Salzburg
This B and B has been mentioned many times by Rick Steves travelers--so much that when we booked there we were expecting so much we were prepared to be disappointed! We weren't. The house was cute and in the middle of a meadow surrounded by mountains with a picturesque church across the road. It was impeccably clean and Frau Reichl was wonderful. We complimented her on her strudel the first day (gushed is more like it--it was great!) and she made sure to make it for us on our last morning--before her husband gave us an early ride to the train station, free of charge. We are going back to Salzburg soon--as much to stay here as to see the city!
Kim Peterson
Atlanta, GA USA 01/02/2010