Amsterdam, Bruges & Brussels

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Absolut Verhulst-b&b Bruges
Why: My wife became ill on our trip and Frieda and Benno could not have been more helpful. Frieda also helped me connect to a real live telephone operator (very difficult to do)so I could connect to Bank of America who improperly put a hold on my debit card after having been informed in advance of our trip. The accommodations were excellent as were the breakfasts. I highly recommend this b&b.

Bill in Andover, MA USA 11/06/2009

Best: Hotel Jan Brito- Bruges
Why: Should be added to the recommendations. A wonderful and interesting old mansion that has been tastefully redone into a quaint & elegant little hotel. The breakfasts were great as was the staff.

Worst: Hotel Plaza Brussels
Why: Large and impersonal. Arrogant staff(except for the concierge who was great). Very expensive breakfasts, not well located.

Catherine Fox in Saratoga Springs, NY USA 10/26/2009

Best: Boogaard's B&B
Why: friendly and warm place with hearty breakfast and Curly and Pepe welcoming you.

Mike in Macungie, PA USA 10/23/2009

Best: Royal Stewart B&B, Bruges
Why: Maggie and Gilbert are gems. The room was large, beautifully appointed, quiet and comfortable. Breakfasts are wonderful, relaxed and delicious. Maggie goes way beyond the expected to make your stay memorable.

Craig in Portland, OR USA 10/17/2009

Best: Hotel de Leydsche Hof in Amsterdam; Absolut Verhulst in Bruges
Why: These two B&Bs were exactly as advertised. We spent 3 nights at each, and their owners were wonderful hosts, making us welcome and comfortable. Both B&Bs are in excellent locations for easily getting around Amsterdam and Bruges.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/14/2009

Best: Hotel de Leydsche Hof in Amsterdam; Absolut Verhulst in Bruges
Why: These two B&Bs were exactly as advertised. We spent 3 nights at each, and their owners were wonderful hosts, making us welcome and comfortable. Both B&Bs are in excellent locations for easily getting around Amsterdam and Bruges.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/14/2009

Best: Ibis at Central Station Amsterdam
Why: Clean and convenient with very helpful and efficient staff

Worst: The Moon in Brussels
Why: Place was clean and convenient but I did not receive the 10% discount as stated in guidebook

Jeannine Willis in Houston, TX USA 10/07/2009

Best: Hotel Cavalier is great
Why: Not a luxury place, but the woman who runs it is friendly and helpful and it is not far from the square. In Amsterdam, Tulips B&B is also very nice.

Craig in New York, NY USA 10/04/2009

Best: Brugge - Royal Stewart B&B
Why: Maggie & Gilbert are superb hosts. The rooms are clean, quiet and spacious, the breakfast terrific. Best of all are Maggie & Gilbert themselves. They are our favorites on a list of greats.

Bill in Miami, FL USA 09/22/2009

Best: Hotel de Emauspoort
Why: This was a very nice hotel! The staff was VERY kind and helped up find restaurants and shops. They even have a free book trading library for travelers!

Carla in Hollister, CA USA 09/17/2009

Best: B & B Dieltiens-Debruyne
Why: I agree with all of the nice things that others have written about this jewel of a B&B and its gracious host and hostess.

George Allen in Ann Arbor, MI USA 09/09/2009

Best: Hotel Adornes, Bruges
Why: This bed and breakfast was truly fantastic. It had a beautiful location, lovely rooms, and a delicious breakfast every morning. The staff was friendly and helpful, willing to recommend places to eat, places to hang out, anything we needed.

Worst: Hotel Ibis off the Grand Place, Brussels
Why: While this hotel had reasonable rates and clean rooms, the only problem we had with it was an excessive amount of noise throughout the entire evening. Our rooms were on the 5th floor and we were still kept awake by teenagers screaming, music blasting, etc.

Sarah in Bethesda, MD USA 08/16/2009

Best: Boogaard's B&B, Amsterdam
Why: Host Peter was so accommodating. The breakfasts were fabulous. Every afternoon we had freshly-baked cakes waiting for us. He encouraged us to make sandwiches out of the breakfast leftovers, so we rarely had to buy lunch at all. It was centrally located in the Jordaan area in a really quiet neighborhood. We met several very nice couples there, too, and it was easy to chat with them over breakfast. Best B&B we've stayed in.

Amery & Dan Bodelson in La Crosse, WI USA 08/13/2009

Best: Hotel Adornes, Bruges
Why: Great hotel, nice breakfasts and free bike use! Windmills just a short ride away!

Joy in Dayton, OH USA 07/23/2009

Best: Wildervanck B and B
Why: The hosts were nothing but friendly, and I really felt like I had my own little home in Amsterdam for a few days. Eating breakfast right off their own kitchen allowed me to see a slice of their real family life. The location is great too; it's far enough out to feel like a neighborhood, but close enough to get around easily. About 20 steps to the tram.

Abby in Seattle, WA USA 07/09/2009

Best: Dieltien's B & B-page 311-Bruges
Why: Everything about your book says about this B & B is true. The price is right, the accomodation is great and the location is excellent. These are really nice people.

Paul Overmyer in Fort Collins, CO USA 06/09/2009

Best: Hotel Brouwer - Amsterdam
Why: Fabulous location, large room, terrific breakfast.

Anne in Montgomery, IL USA 05/18/2009

Best: Ibis City Centre
Why: The rooms were definitely pretty basic, but clean & decent and we had a city view that was very nice. The location is fantastic! The staff was friendly too. One thing was that I prepaid for an internet special rate of 89 Euros per night. When I checked out I was told I owed 90 Euros. When I explained that I prepaid, I was told that the room rate was 357 Euros for 3 nights (119 Euros per night) and I only paid 267 Euros. I pulled out the printed confirmation showing a full pre-pay rate of 89 Euros per night. The gentleman made a copy of my confirmation, updated the account to 0 balance and apologized for the confusion. Ironically, I had confirmed with the person at check-in that my stay was paid in full (except for any incidentals). Regardless of the hotel, definitely take hard copies of confirmations with you.

Mary Ann in Orlando, FL USA 05/13/2009

Best: Royal Stewart B & B, Genthof 25-27, Bruges Belgium
Why: Maggie and Gilbert, owners of this wonderful establishment, treated my wife and I to the very finest B.& B. experience: EVER. The sunlit dining room looking out on a beautiful garden, and the spacious, comfortable, bedroom was fine, but the real reason for this recommendation is the genuine warmth and caring of Maggie and Gilbert and the outstanding attention to detail. Delicious and bountiful breakfasts were also appreciated. AS the taxi drove us away, there were Maggie and Gilbert, standing in the front doorway to bid us a big, smiling farewell. We'll be back.

Merv and Dolores in Eagle River, AK USA 05/10/2009

Best: Hotel Patritius in Bruges
Why: Classy in every way. Large comfortable rooms, helpful staff, great breakfast. One of the best hotels we have stayed at.

Worst: Hotel La Legende in Brussels
Why: By far the only dumpy hotel we stayed at. The room was slightly larger than a walk in closet, and the one chair could not be placed so as to see the TV. Should be removed from your book

Richard Becker in High Point, NC USA 04/02/2009

Best: Haus de Kiefte in Haarlem (Netherlands)
Why: This was a great place to stay. Hans and Marjet were amiable and we learned a great deal of interesting things about the Netherlands from them. Hans loaned us his map of the national park, phoned up the fellow at the train station to reserve some bikes for us and we biked to Zandvoort and saw the North Sea.

Dave W. in Seattle, WA USA 01/20/2009

Best: Hotel de Fortuna in Edam
Why: Charming town, canal-side location, felt comfortable and homey. Edam is a nice, quiet place to use as a base when exploring the area north of Amsterdam. Great bus connections with all-day pass. Plus, 1/2 hour bus into Amsterdam.

Diane in Tucson, AZ USA 11/21/2008

Best: 't Geerwijn B &B, Brugge
Why: Great location! We stayed in the attic room (2 adults and 1 child) and had plenty of room to spread out. Good breakfast and Chris is a great hostess.

DDK in Novi, MI USA 10/30/2008

Worst: Ambassador Hotel
Why: If you want a two star hotel that comes with a four star price and a five star attitude, this is your place.

Robert in Moses Lake, WA USA 09/13/2008

Best: Hotel Noga, Brussels
Why: All desk staff were very helpful -- one came running out the door after us to give us better map. Another day he spent time finding the best way for us to get to the Horta Museum.

Nancy in San Carlos, CA USA 08/14/2008

Best: Hotel Amadeus and Hotel De Fortuna
Why: It was everything you said they would be. Lovely views, great people and nice lodging.

Bruce Weinberger in Tollhouse, CA USA 08/05/2008

Best: Waterside B&B in Brugge
Why: My reservation from TI was screwed up and I landed on the doorstep of the Waterside B&B by pure chance. Refurbished, very clean, quiet, comfortable and the hostess is well traveled, very knowledgable (born and raised in Brugge), and so accommodating. All this at a very reasonable price (2 guest rooms).

Sherry Pietras in Huntington Beach, CA USA 07/31/2008

Best: 't Geerwijn B &B, Brugge,
Why: Accommodations were great and the owner, Chris De Loof, was delightful and very helpful. We had the pleasure of staying in the "A-frame" attic room, and found it to be very comfortable. Even climbing the narrow stairs to the 2nd floor was a unique part of the experience. Chris' attention to detail was remarkable, such as toiletries and other amenities in our room. Breakfasts were plentiful and offered lots of variety, including her willingness to cater to individual tastes and preferences. Chris sat with us as we lingered over coffee on our last morning, and we chatted for almost two hours. She then offered to drive us to pick up our rental car on the outskirts of the city. It was a most positive experience with a congenial and interesting hostess, and the location was ideal -- a 5-10 minute walk to the main square. We heartily recommend this B&B to future travelers who seek a receptive host and a pleasant experience.

Kathy & Jerry in ANN ARBOR, MI USA 07/21/2008

Best: Debruyne B&B
Why: I had a wonderful experience with Marie Rose and Ronny's B&B and home. They are delightful and truly care about their guests really knowing and experiencing the best of Bruges. The room was clean and modern, a welcoming difference from gothic Bruges. I spoke with Marie Rose about her reason for maintaining her B&B with such care - her response was that to her, this was not a job, as she enjoys welcoming others to Bruges and meeting a world full of individuals. She truly appreciates Rick's recommendation of her B&B. I would highly recommend her B&B to other friends. Thank you for steering me in this direction!

Beverly Lui in Thousand Oaks, CA USA 07/11/2008

Worst: Charlie Rockets Hostel in Brugge, Belgium
Why: Awful!!! Please remove this from the book. We had a double room w/ shared bath here. Shared bathrooms smelled of urine (we opted then not to take a shower), hostel area (hallways) is dark and grungy, we got up early to leave the hostel at 6am to take pictures of the city before the sun was up and we could not exit the hostel area unless we used an emergency exit which would set off an alarm. All main doors exiting the hostel were LOCKED!! We were locked in the place. At least we weren't leaving early for a flight or something. After knocking on the door for an hour off and on, someone cleaning the bar downstairs finally unlocked the hostel around 7am so we could get out. Of course, it ruined our morning. Luckily, we only stayed here one night as I could not wait to leave the place. Loved Brugge itself though.

Kristel Comai USA 07/03/2008

Worst: Die Raeckse Hotel, Haarlem
Why: Although they were as nice as they could be, they wouldn't give us the Rick Steves discount. The only discount they would give was 5% off if you pay in cash. Also, we really wanted to take the bus back to Amsterdam, since it would pass the Rijksmuseum, and made more sense, than taking the train, then taking the tram to the museum. They simply wouldn't give us the bus information and insisted that we should just take the train. We knew it might take longer, but we really wanted to take the bus, and they just wouldn't give us the info... odd. The breakfast room is very pretty, and the breakfast was ok. Rooms are pretty spartan.

Stacy in Freiburg, BW Germany 06/04/2008

Best: Hotel Cordoenier
Why: Loved it! It was small but had lots of character. It was very close to Burg/Markt square but there was no street noise. The buffet breakfast was also very good.

Kate Buechler in Winnipeg, MB Canada 05/22/2008

Best: B&B Setola
Why: Lut was great, accommodations and breakfasts were very good. Never saw Bruno. :)

Winston & Suzie in Seattle, WA USA 05/11/2008

Best: Amsterdam Hotel Pulitzer
Why: We used points. Breakfast & Internet was included. Quiet room overlooked the courtyard.

Worst: Brugge Hotel Egmond
Why: We didn't have reservations when we arrived & used the railroad station info to get get a room.We didn't know it was holiday all week. Secured a room at Egmond,everything else was full, & was told we could have it for only 5/1/08. When we check in we asked about availabilty for two more nights & was told by Ann that it should be no problem but check in the AM.The location was great,the room was large as stated by others but the bed was hard, 2 old screens & 1 old TV littering the room, scaffling obstructed our view. All for 140 eur. Breakfast was a half hour late & limited. When we saw Ann we asked about the next nights. She said she would check. When she come back she abrubtly said no. So we checked out then noticed a sign outside saying rooms available. Some of the locals were rude when we asked for info the evening before. We tried to walk by to see the parade & they blocked our way on purpose & told us to go around. Even the policeman was abrupt when we asked for info.

Charles Shelleman in Arlington, VA USA 05/11/2008

Best: Amsterdam Hotel Fita
Why: Stayed 6 nights in a room overlooking the street and facing the school.Terrific location, 2 minutes to the tram stop.Except during recess, (and we were only in our room to drop something off at that time of day) this is a very quiet and safe neighborhood.The room was perfect. Hans the owner had just installed new capacino machines in each room, at the expense of room clocks.But the most memorable part of this stay was during breakfast when Hans mingled with his guests. He has a dry, witty sense of humor and we enjoyed him thoroughly. He will also debate your leg off about any subject, as he is an expert in every field :o))Would not hesitate to return to Hotel Fita and would recommend this hotel to any of my family and friends.

Jeff in Mercer Island, Wa USA 04/29/2008

Best: Hotel Groeninghe in Brugge
Why: A great value. Room was large and recently redone. Price was right, especially given the over all higher prices for most everything else in Brugge.

Peter Banchieri in Union City, CA USA 04/23/2008

Best: Bruges - Hotel Cavalier
Why: Very quaint and comfortable hotel. Vivian was most hospitable and served a delicious breakfast. It was the perfect location for Bruges. I will certainly stay there again.

Tamara in Ardmore, OK USA 04/01/2008

Best: Bruges - Koen and Annemie Dieltens B&B
Why: The hosts provided the most memorable place we stayed in all of our European travels, due in no small part to the Dieltiens themselves who are musicians and artists with the gift of providing intelligent conversation that opens hearts and minds to what travelers truly seek--broader understanding amongst us. Their home and the rooms in particular created comfort with the ease of elegance but not a bit of pretentiousness. It was the best experience and we cannot recommend it more highly to you.

Janet & Roy in Portland, ME USA 03/06/2008

Best: Hotel Ibis
Why: The Ibis just to the right of Amsterdam's Central Station. Perfectly located, inexpensive, clean and friendly staff. Much more than we expected from a chain hotel.

Vince in Crestline, CA USA 02/24/2008

Best: B&B Marieke
Why: Highest praise for B&B Marieke, one of the finest B&Bs I've stayed in! Very large room with extra large, comfortable bed, spotless bathroom with large, fluffy towels, and many extra amenities. Exceptional breakfast featuring homemade breads and jams and many other choices. Internet access provided. Warm, knowledgeable, and helpful hosts who truly make guests feel welcome, provide recommendations, and go out of their way to take special care of guests. Highly recommended.

Peggy Brever in Wauwatosa, WI USA 02/21/2008

Best: Bruges - Hotel Botaniek
Why: In Bruges, we stayed at Hotel Botaniek - Jasmine, the innkeeper, was the best! Very friendly and very helpful, I'd love to stay there again. Breakfast was great also. And the atmosphere was nice.

Kathy Geaslen in Macon, GA USA 12/02/2007

Best: Koen Dieltiens & Annemie Debruyne B&B in Bruges
Why: Delightful! Warm, helpful hosts welcome you to a beautifully decorated home, a veritable art museum with an eclectic collection, that is centrally located. Delicious, copious breakfast included. The shock is the price ; you would expect to pay twice the amount. This has to be the best bargain in all of Europe! A must stay if you are in Bruges.

Laurie Guitteau in Santa Barbara, CA USA 11/20/2007

Best: Brussels--Downtown Residence
Why: My wife and I followed up on Laurie Adato's recommendation (see post on 6/11/2006) and stayed at the Downtown Residence in Brussels. It was FABULOUS! As its name implies, it is located right in the heart of Downtown Brussels, within easy walking distance of everything, including the train (about a five-minute walk from Brussels Midi station). We were greeted by its friendly owner, Skal, who also runs the restaurant located at street level. In talking with Skal, he has put over 100,000 euros into renovating the rooms, of which there are only three. The rooms are ultra-modern and very tastefully decorated. As we were leaving, Skal was spending another 30,000 euros to enclose the outdoor patio of the restaurant. At 90 euros, Downtown Residence is an excellent value, which, of course, includes breakfast. To make a reservation, visit their website at www.downtownresidence.be.

James Robinson in Phoenix, AZ USA 11/14/2007

Best: Brugge - Hotel Adornes Amsterdam- Tulips Paul and Karens
Why: Rick, Nathalie and Kim were fabulous! My son was ill and we needed to change the date of our arrival and they accommodated us with graciousness. They provided great advice and the FREE bikes, all in awesome condition made our stay! Brugge is a wonderful place to tour around on bikes. It's a lovely place.

Amsterdam - Paul and Karen's Tulip's Hotel - We needed to change our the date of our arrival and they were qutie understanding . Paul provided us with great maps and recommendations. The apartment was beautiful! Very spacious and clean and overlooking a can with lots of action. We loved staying at their place a little ways away from the center all. We felt like were living in Amsterdam instead of just visiting.

Lauren in Dublin, USA/ Ireland 11/08/2007

Best: Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde B&B Brugge
Why: Paul & Roos' B&B is very close to the major sites, making it a very convinient location and yet quiet. The rooms were very clean and spacious. The breakfast was great. I liked the freshly squeezed orange juice.

They were very attentive to our needs.

My husband twisted his ankle while riding a bike. It was a friday night, he was in pain and we did not know what to do. Roos drove us to the hospital and stayed with us until we were settled in. The following day she took me to the pharmacy to get crutches and medication. She also made sure he had ice available for his foot. We could not continue our trip for the next 3 days so Roos not only helped me make the calls to cancel our reservations but she and Paul accomodated us for 3 more days. We are grateful for Roos and Paul for taking a difficult situation and making it easier for us.

Maria Geary in lakewood, ca USA 11/07/2007

Best: Bruges - Koen and Annemie Dieltiens B&B
Why: This B&B cannot be beat! What wonderful, intelligent, talented and graceful hosts for our stay! At my age "I've been around!" - and this B&B is one of the best you will find in this wonderful city. Both Koen and Annemie are musicians, collectors of beautiful antique pieces, and have done a wonderful restoration on their house/B&B. Every morning was a joy for breakfast with wonderful pasteries, cold cuts, fruits and coffee - all served at a beautifully set communal dining table. As with all ancient buildings, stairs need to be climbed - but THESE stairs are magnificent hardwood craftsmanship at it's best! Lovely rooms, graceful hosts, and intelligent conversation - you cannot ask for more! Here's another secret - Annemie is so well respected in Brugge that she is the head of the B&B association for the area!!! www.bedandbreakfastbruges.be

Phil Lapin in Boring, OR USA 11/06/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes
Why: The bikes! They were always available, any time of the day or night. The staff is absolutely the best there is. Ric is friendly and attentive. Ask him a question about a place to eat and he's got the city map out and plotting a way for you to get therre. Ask about a bike trip to take and he's already on the computer pronting out directions. Kim welcomed us on our arrival and couldn't be more friendly. Nathalie, the owner, is also friendly and helpful. Her dog, Arthur, is always out by the bikes when Nathalie is at work. He plays a great game of football (soccer). He is an unbeatable goal keeper! I can't say enough about this hotel and the staff. They even agganged for an early breakfast on the day we departed. The staff (especially Eva) came in early to get it together. Above and beyond! It's well situated: Near the Markt, and Burg Square.

George Cody in Franktown, CO USA 10/28/2007

Best: Hotel de Leydsche Hof in Amsterdam
Why: Good value. Large room. 105 euros per night. Not in central part of city but easy to get to by tram for sightseeing anywhere in the city. Stayed for 4 nights in September. Adequate included breakfast.

Ian in Fuller, CA USA 10/18/2007

Best: Hotel Nicolas, Brugge
Why: We stayed at the Hotel Nicolas for 3 nights in September. On our 2nd moring, we told them we were leaving at 7 a.m. the next day, and inquired about check-out procedures. They had us leave the keys on the desk; but told us they'd have our breakfast packed and in the refrigerator. That night, we found a huge bag outside our door with a very generous breakfast packed along with a note advising us to remember to get our coldcuts from the refrigerator before leving the next morning. How very nice of them to volunteer to pack our breakfast! That did not happen at any other hotel durin gour 16 day trip.

Susan Koenig in Northport, NY USA 10/13/2007

Worst: Hotel Botaniek
Why: The proprietor gave us the wrong account information for wiring the room deposit and our deposit went to the old owners' account! She admitted it was her fault, but offered nothing more than an apology. We reserved an ensuite family room, but upon arrival were told we'd been upgraded because of the deposit problem. The "upgrade" was to a set of rooms in a house on a busy street next to a construction site with a groundwater pump that ran 24/7. Also, the rooms were not ensuite & we discovered we were sharing the bathroom with other people! Certainly not what we contracted for--I advise staying elsewhere.

Sarah in Paris, France 10/04/2007

Best: DeBruyne B&B, Bruges
Why: Marie-Rose was the most cheerful, helpful an caring innkeepers we've ever stayed with in Europe. Her breakfasts were delicious. I'd recommend her B&B to anyone going to Brugge.

James Kovacs in Troutman, NC USA 10/01/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes-Bruges
Why: The wonderful breakfast and the free use of bicycles makes it a great deal. Bicycles are the way to go in Bruges! The staff is very attentive and gave great suggestions.

Julie in Provo, Ut USA 09/04/2007

Best: Hotel Chic and Basic, formerly Hotel New Amsterdam
Why: We loved our stay Aug. 9-12. The staff was so very kind and helpful (with the exception of the one breakfast server the last day who told me to put a saucer under my coffee cup so I didn’t “mark his table.” The first gentleman we met with the beard at the front desk and the intern were exceptional. The reception clerk got us online tickets to the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh museum. We so much appreciated that. He was better than the concierge desks in all of the 5-star hotels we booked in Italy. The intern spent a lot of time with us, even showing my boys fun Dutch websites. The two of them even carried our luggage up three (and a half, including the ladder) flights of stairs. The other reception desk clerks were also very accommodating as well as the first morning breakfast server. He joked with us as he scurried around making sure that everything was stocked. What a great breakfast! We never expected so much. We will be sure to stay there the next time we are in Amsterdam!

Donna comar in Pleasant Hill, CA USA 09/02/2007

Best: Hotel Egmond.
Why: The staff were very helpful. They spoke great english and provided map directions to all the sights and good beer drinking bars. The room was large. The garden was very quiet and peaceful We were provided champagne in the garden because we were staying for two nights under their champagne hotel special. We bought wonderful cheese and bread at a store 2 blocks away. The neighborhood stores in that area are cheaper than the downtown market stores. The food is great. There was an outdoor singer at a bar a few blocks away. We came upon the Mystery Party group which was dancing and sitting on the ground. They were having a great time. WE had to joing in and dance to the music.

Roger Goppelt in Cottage Grove, Wi USA 08/22/2007

Best: Hotel Egmond, Bruges
Why: Quiet, clean, nice garden, parking, good room size. Very helpful staff. Easy to find.

Roger Goppelt in Cottage Grove , Wi USA 08/16/2007

Best: Paul & Karen's B&B Amsterdam
Why: Beautifully situated at the end of Vondel Park with a good restaurant a couple of doors away. Very helpful local information and maps provided. Our rear ground floor room with own courtyard was delightfully decorated and appointed. Recommmended highly.

Stephen & Pippa West in Exeter, England 08/14/2007

Best: Brugge - Absoluut Verhulst
Why: You would be hard pressed to find more gracious hosts than Frieda and Benno. They were extremely helpful and accommodating. We had to leave a little early the last morning and they had their usual gourment breakfast ready for us even though it was before their normal serving hours. They lent us their bikes to take a ride to Damme - follow Rick's route in the book.

Chris Towne in Harmony, PA USA 07/29/2007

Best: Hotel Botaniek- Brugge
Why: At Waalsestraat 23, just 2 blocks south of the Burg, this small hotel is a real find. It is very quiet and convenient, with clean, well-appointed rooms, a delightful breakfast and an extraordinary manager. Jasmine is a delight, making sure that all the guests' needs are met. She helped us find a hair salon for my mother and was eager to make reservations and find information for us. We will certainly recommend this hotel to our friends and Rick Steves' readers!

Bob Rollins in Davis, CA USA 07/26/2007

Best: Setola B & B
Why: Absolutely lovely in every way; highly recommended.Great breakfast, very nice rooms, and kind host.

Worst: Hotel Opera in Brussels
Why: Dirty,rundown loud, really tiny, did I say dirty? The "breakfast" was also gross, serving room was filthy. I sat down and then left 1 minute later. Take this place out of your book for Pete's sake!

Tory Van Wie USA 07/15/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes
Why: Wonderful, caring staff who directed us to the best eating, drinking, and snacking areas. Bikes were available for use at any time which is a wonderful way to get around. Our room was clean, beautiful, and comfortable - can't get any better than that!! Recommend this hotel to all.

Ann Slemmer in Show Low, Az USA 07/11/2007

Best: Hotel Keizershof
Why: We spent 4 nights at Hotel Keizershof in June. It was a wonderful experience. The location was great - half a block off the streetcar line and in the middle of everything you would want to see. Mrs. de Vries was a wonderful hostess and was readily available to answer our questions. Yes, the stairs are very steep so that is a good reason to pack light. We had a small room on the 4th floor which looked out on the canal. There was a sink in the room and a bath and shower were just across the hall. Mrs. de Vries offered a wonderful, complete breakfast. She also offered us an omelette made of eggs, Gouda cheese, and chives which we took advantage of each day. We reserved the room with our credit card, but when it came time to pay the bill, she preferred cash so you need to plan ahead for that.

Sandy Schwartz in Sumner, WA USA 07/05/2007

Worst: 't Geerwijn B&B, Bruges
Why: We stayed at 't Geerwijn B&B and while it had some good aspects, there were far too many negatives. I booked two rooms, one for my children, one for my husband and myself. Our three girls stayed in the spacious loft, very nice, and they said a comfortable bed.

My husband and I were not as lucky. Our room, located on the same floor, was not good. Rick definitely didn't sleep in this bed! I barely slept, the mattress was hard as a rock and lumpy and obviously very used as both sides of the mattress tilted way down with a big hump in the middle. I almost rolled out of it when trying to get out of the bed.

Also, the room did have a bathroom in it but no real door separately the two, only a half swinging door and thus no privacy (even being married a long time, there are some things that require privacy!) My husband had to hoof it down to the other bathroom constantly.

On the plus side, the breakfast room/breakfast were wonderful. The owner, Chris, was just okay when we arrived but left one evening for a family reunion. My husband had a question that evening and went downstairs to find the older woman, left in charge, shall we say, overly imbibed (drunk) and no help with the question. Okay, well, I can overlook that, the question wasn't that important and the woman needed some downtime although she could have picked another evening to do it.

Also, everytime we came in (not that often) the door to the lounge (living room) was closed and thus took away the lounge! All we really saw was our rooms and the breakfast room for 30 minutes. A clear message: leave us alone and go to your room. It's not like I wanted to chat either but it would have been nicer and more welcoming to at least have the door open and sit down to look at brochures.

Okay, on to the big problem. I had e-mailed Chris and explained that we had to catch an early morning train and could she arrange an early morning taxi for us by calling the taxi the evening before. I asked her three times, just to make sure, as we had a non-refundable flight to Vienna booked. She assured me would do it and further stated that the taxi service she used was very reliable.

My entire family was downstairs at 6AM, waiting outside and no taxi ever came. I went from nervousness and alarm to quick panic. There's a big bell you can ring in the lobby, well I rang that bell for her to get the number of the taxi company and woke up other guests in the process (so sorry for that) and she never came out! I finally found a phone book in the bureau drawer, called a taxi company, didn't know if they'd come because the final message was in Dutch and I have no idea what it said. My family and I decided to run to the train station and try to make the next train. The taxi service had gotten my message and were sending a taxi for 5 people. End of story, we made our flight to Vienna but this B&B ruined my morning and very nearly cost us a domino effect of missed flight/hotel.

Chris had asked us to leave our bags downstairs the evening before we were to leave. I told her I could only leave so much down there as we travel with minimal luggage; each daughter gets one backpack with all their clothes/stuff in it. We've learned to pack light and buy it if we need it. My husband thinks she was mad about us not leaving the bags downstairs and didn't call the taxi for us on purpose. Also, she gets no awards for being friendly or helpful; she's definitely running a business.

The last time I was in Bruges I stayed at Paul and Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde B&B. Do yourself a favor and stay at their place and not at 't Geerwijn B&B.

Sandra in Arlington, Te USA 06/14/2007

Best: Hotel ADORNES
Why: Hosts Natalie & Rick were the best. Staff could not be any more helpful & accomodating. Building and bike access/use were great. Great breakfast. Small but great elevator. Better than any US unit. Don't worry about location. It was never an issue.

Worst: Shower
Why: Not a stall. Just a tub with no enclosure and a handheld hose/sprinkler".

Dave Huthwaite in Leesburg, VA USA 06/07/2007

Best: Paul & Karen's B&B in Amsterdam
Why: Friendly owners with delightful service! Situated in Vondelpark, a nice relaxing atmosphere away from the busy city center.

Worst: Les Ecrins in Brussels (recommended online)
Why: Overbooked the hotel and did not have a room for us. Placed us in a hotel down the street and charged much higher prices than agreed on while reserving.

I suggest to future travelers to avoid this hotel and consult various guidebooks before booking! The good ones are in them for a reason.

Tiffany in Atlanta, GA USA 06/04/2007

Best: Patritius Hotel - Bruges
Why: This hotel was lovely, reasonable (compared to Amsterdam), clean, with a large breakfast each day. We felt like we had died and gone to heaven! My brother and sister-in-law had stayed there 6 mos. before and recommended it highly.

Marcia in Manchester, CT USA 06/04/2007

Worst: Die Raeckse Hotel in Haarlem
Why: Asked for a quiet room in my reservation and was given a room on the street with lots of street noise at all hours of the day and night. This was our 1st stop and we were really looking forward to a quiet night's sleep after our flight.

Bill Schmidt in Norfolk, VA USA 05/22/2007

Best: Welcome Hotel Brussels
Why: It was everything you said it would be and more. The owner said he was looking forward to seeing Rick this summer. The service in the hotel was first class. The roms are charming.

Evelyn Clark in Montain View, Ca USA 05/21/2007

Best: Hotel Amadeus - Haarlem
Why: Lorna who works at Hotel Amadeus was very gracious in helping us on our recent trip to Haarlem. While we didn't stay here, we did need a place to leave our luggage, as we had just arrived in Holland and wanted to stop in Haarlem on the way to Delft, in order to see the flower floats from the parade on April 21. The lockers at the train station don't take money, only credit cards with a chip, so we couldn't leave our luggage there. The Tulip Inn close to the train station refused to hold our luggage.

We stopped at Hotel Amadeus, in the market square and asked Lorna if she could help us. She was so gracious and kind and gladly helped us out. With the wonderful kindness we received from this hotel, I would highly recommend a stay here. The people make the difference. They also have a computer in the breakfast room so you can keep in touch with home.

Thank you Lorna.

Lorrie in Cincinnati, Oh USA 05/20/2007

Best: Hotel Keizershof
Why: My sister and I loved the charm of this wonderful house with it's steep, windy stairs, orginal delft fireplace, and lovely garden. We really enjoyed sharing tips and ideas with other travelers over the delicious breakfast. But it was Mary's hospitality and warmth, especially when my sister's purse was stolen on the train in Amsterdam, that made this place so special for us. I will return there again and again.

Lynn Phillips in Dana Point, CA USA 05/13/2007

Worst: Amstel Botel, Amsterdam
Why: I reserved a twin and a single canalside in December. In April, the hotel repeatedly called trying to talk me into a triple which my group was not interested in. When we checked in, we were put in a double instead of a twin, so we had to move to the landside. The hotel did not reimburse us for the move from the more expensive canalside. Also, the person who slept on the canalside was kept up all night by the non-stop people, luggage, and bikes on the metal ramp along side the boat. Very disappointing.

Melissa in Maryville, TN USA 05/10/2007

Best: Egmont Hotel
Why: We want to compliment the Egmont Hotel in Brugge. We loved the location – right in the Minnewater garden-like atmosphere and not smack in the middle of all the tourist hubbub and walking distance from the train station. The rooms were unusually large, in our opinion, and our view was relished after a day of sightseeing. The breakfast (which was included in the reasonable price as opposed to being extra in many of the hotels where we stayed) was bountiful and colorful and yummy – that liver pate’ was the best ever! I appreciated having bottles of water (or wine or soda) available at any time (at cost, of course). The “Boederwaffel” offered during the afternoon tea (or coffee) were top-notch and unique – we brought some home for “souveniers” for friends and relatives. And the help from the owners was most helpful, for example, when we were trying to visit Ghent to see the famous altarpiece. Chris was especially interesting to talk to.

Susan Thompson in Laurel, MD USA 05/08/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes
Why: The breakfast alone makes it worth staying here, not to mention the friendly staff. I would definitely stay here again.

Regan Turner in Kailua, HI USA 05/07/2007

Best: DixSeptieme, Brussels
Why: Well located, helpful staff, charming accommadations.

Marcia Weisser in East Williston, NY USA 05/05/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes (Bruges)
Why: Clean hotel, friendly staff, picturesque location in front of the canal. Perfect. It's also opposite the best pub in town: Terrastje.

Edward Avila in Blackpool, UK 05/04/2007

Best: Hotel Hestia, Amsterdam, B&B Setola Bruges, Belgium
Why: Both were ideal for a family of 4. Both accommodations were quite, clean, had great beds/pillows, showers and breakfast.

Kristin in Philadelphia, PA USA 04/27/2007

Best: Absoluut Verhulst
Why: What a fantastic recommendation! Absoluut Verhulst was truly excellent and without Rick Steeves we would never have discovered it. The hosts Benno & Frieda were absolutely delightful, the location perfect,the room excellent and the breakfasts were as good as I've had anywhere. We would definitely recommend it and it's where we'll be staying the next time we visit bruges. Sandra Gallagher

Sandra Gallagher Ireland 04/25/2007

Best: Brugge: Absoluut Verhulst B&B
Why: Hosts Frieda and Benno were the best in our many travels through Europe. We're a family of four and have made six trips to Europe staying in about four B&B's each trip (many of Rick's recommended hotels and most very good) and this was the first time I felt compelled to get onto to Rick's website to brag. We stayed in the 2-story loft - very roomy with couches and a bar w/ refrigerator that you can use to store drinks - the best breakfast ever (try Benno's scrambled egg special although he'll make any kind of eggs you'd like) - but the best of all is the hospitality of Frieda and Benno themselves. We stayed in Brugges for four nights and loved the town (so typically medievel but with all the things us tourists love including 50 chocolate shops)but it is also convenient to some great daytrips (Ostende, Brussels, Ghent, etc.). When we left we felt like we had made new friends in Frieda and Benno - a most highly recommended accomodation for anyone staying in Belgium!

Bob Drexelius in Cincinnati, OH USA 04/16/2007

Best: Hotel Patritius, Bruges
Why: It's hard to believe that this is a budget hotel. Located in an elegant old mansion, the rooms are a very good size for a European hotel. The bedrooms and common areas are tastefully furnished and clean. Breakfast was good, and is served in a beautiful chandeliered room. The hotel is quiet, yet conveniently located close to town. The owners are gracious and helpful.

Mary in Portsmouth, RI USA 04/03/2007

Best: Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde - Brugge
Why: Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde is absolutely the best in B & B's. They are wonderful hosts and the breakfast's they serve are fabulous! The rooms are spotless and spacious and the 5 days we stayed with them were wonderful. They give you extra amenities, like hair dryer, internet and converters that were especially helpful. It is such a short walk to town, seeing more, on the way, than the center of town. I would HIGHLY recommend them to everyone!

Annette in Portland, OR USA 03/28/2007

Best: Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde - Bruges
Why: We stayed at this great B&B for 5 nights and it was fantastic. The breakfast was always wonderful and the room was huge, bright and clean. One of the great things was that they provided an electical converter in the room (the one I bought didn't work). Both Roos and Paul were friendly, attentive and happy to help out with suggestions. The location was excellent and on a quiet residential street. There is nothing bad to say about this B&B and we will stay here when we visit Bruges again!

Julee in Seattle, WA USA 03/24/2007

Best: Brugges: Koen and Annemie Dielteins
Why: We spent the weekend with the Dielteins and had a great time. The accomdations were clean, comfortable, quiet and very convenient. Annemie and Koen were very hospitable and the breakfast was excellent.

Jenine in Houston, TX USA 03/11/2007

Best: Hotel Adornes (Bruges)
Why: Great location, quiet room. The people at the front desk were so helpful. Our hotel was on a quiet canal, very picturesque.

Chris Kanda in Los Angeles, CA USA 03/04/2007

Best: Hotel New Amsterdam
Why: Location, staff, amenities. We couldn't have chosen a better place to stay!

Stacey Mazuelas in Saint Paul, MN USA 01/18/2007

Best: Hotel Die Raeckse Haarlem
Why: Following the guidebook suggestions, we spent our first two nights in Europe in Haarlem, indeed a simple bus ride from Schiphol. This lovely town was a perfect beginning to our journey, and made big-city Amsterdam all the better for the contrast a couple days later. In Haarlem, we stayed at the Hotel Die Raeckse. Our room was very comfortable. Downstairs, the charming lounge area hosted delicious breakfasts. Later in the evenings, it was the perfect setting for drinks and friendly comany of international travelers. A billing error made it necessary to recontact the Die Raeckse owners weeks later by email. They went out of their way to solve the problem and provided complete satisfaction. High recommendations for this great little hotel and the folks who run it.

Kim Solga in Mt Shasta, CA USA 01/11/2007