Heroic B&B Friendliness: 2004
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. Questions should be posted in our Travelers' Helpline area; questions posted here will be deleted. 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 e-mail any complaints to Rick's editor at books@ricksteves.com.
Hornbeam House, Chesterfield UK
This is a 2 room small B&B (with a neat self service cottage on the property for more guests) along the A617. Tim and Freddie, the owners of the establishment, were the most gracious couple amomgst some pretty wonderful people we met on our trip. The room would make any American traveling abroad think differently about European hotel stays- roomy with either a 4 poster bed or king size bed. Plenty of water pressure in the ensuite bathroom, and I guess, just an overall feeling of warmth abounded in the place. Tim is a wonderful cook, and will allow you to sample local cuisine, and Freddie & Tim stayed up until early hours sharing drink and conversation. We came as strangers and left as friends. My aunt works for a major airline (for tour packages) and I'll definetly be telling her about this place!Favorite: Tim and FreddieLeast: Can't think of any.
Shane & Jessica Wilson
Bremerton, WA USA Sun 12/19/2004
Pension Lettie
Highly recommend this Pension mentioned in Rick's guide. Lettie is certainly effervescent, as Rick describes her, but she is very friendly, hospitable, and a true friend as well.Lettie was very helpful in providing train schedules and sightseeing recommendations and was very conversant over breakfast each morning as well.The accomodations were clean and much larger than we anticipated at a very fair price.When traveling to Bacharach, we would highly recommend staying with Lettie.Tell her Wayne and Lee from Pittsburgh said hello and thanks.
Wayne
Pittsburgh, PA USA Tue 12/14/2004
Rothenburg, Germany
My parents, my husband and I stayed a night at Karin Weiss's B&B just outside the Rothenburg wall in March 2004. We had never stayed at a B&B before, but after this experience, we'll do it again.Karin's English is very good, and she gives excellent recommendations for dinner (tasty and cheap, but portions so large I couldn't finish...sadly) and sightseeing (take the Night Watchman's tour!). She even loaned us a guidebook with map to take with us into town. She went above and way beyond our expectations, and the whole family highly recommends staying with her.http://www.haus-karin.de/
Jodi Wagner
Fort Collins, CO USA Fri 12/10/2004
B&B Bologna, Italy
I had the pleasure of staying at Ca' Fosca Due Torri, a luxurious penthouse B&B with a rooftop garden in the center of the historical district, and was taken under the wing of the vivacious owner, Patrizia Rampioni (+39.051.26122). My single room's french doors opened onto the garden and had its own small but new bathroom. Patrizia serves enormous breakfasts to order, cocktails and other gourmet specialities. She and her lovely teenage daughter (both speak English) took me on tours of the city they love passionately, helped me change my flights and made me dinner. They provided a computer with internet access and lots of goods advice. Patrizia even insisted on doing my laundry. This beautiful place with mile-high ceilings and walls of glass has been featured in Italian travel magazines and is something of an insider's secret. It's listed on rentalo.com.
Virginia Dabney
Ridgewood, NJ USA Fri 12/03/2004
Arnot House, York, England
Arnot House, York, EnglandRick?s recommendation was the reason we chose lodging at this B & B and my wife and I are so thankful we did. We are both in our 70?s and comfort is a major consideration. The room was nicely decorated, extremely clean and comfortable. The breakfasts were great and the location of the B & B is handy to the Minster and the other major attractions. Not enough can be said for the hospitality of the hostess, Kim Robbins. My wife and I had been on tour for over 3 weeks and due to unfortunate circumstances, my wife had badly blistered feet. Kim did everything she could to try to make sure that our trip was not hindered, even offering to loan my wife her own comfortable shoes if it would help. She directed us to a shoe store specializing in corrective shoes which alleviated the discomfort to a great extent. The only place we will consider staying at in York is the Arnot House.Bonnie and Ramon Walker, Northglenn, CO
Ramon Walker
Northglenn, CO USA Thu 12/02/2004
Heroic B&B Kindness
My husband and I recently returned from a trip to Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg. The highlight of our trip was our stay in Bruges, Belgium at the Van Nevel?s B&B. Robert and Lievetjes were wonderful hosts. Our stay started out with Robert sharing his knowledge of Bruges. He pointed out the highlights of the city and assisted us in making reservation for dinner and a tour of the WW I battle sights. We stayed in the room with a bath. It was beautiful; it was so well decorated and had a television, coffee pot, refrigerator and a microwave. Robert, a man of many talents, made the furniture. The bed was so comfortable and had good reading lights ? a real treat! We enjoyed breakfast in our room. Each day Lievetjes had something different not just the usual bread, ham and cheese. She even included a chocolate bar!
Before we left, Robert and Lievetjes gave us a tour of their house that they restored themselves. It is like a museum. I also saw the two other rooms with a shared bath. They were large and bright and well decorated also. We paid 60 Euro a night. It was the best place that we stayed on our trip. We highly recommend it!
Tony and Nancy Madeira
St. Louis, MO USA Wed 12/01/2004
Ballykine House B&B
While in Ireland, Sept. 2004, we traveled to Clonbur, Connemara.We stayed at the Ballykine House, which is listed with the Irish farmhouse B&B's and I must comment on the wonderful help Ann and Barry Lambe were in helping me locate family in the area. When making the reservation, I mentioned that I was researching my grandparents who came from the area. Ann wrote back that she had information and could give me some leads. They gave me someone to speak with who in turn, provided me with a cousin's address and we have exchanged letters and made a connection after all these years. They also directed me to the cemetary where my family is buried. They were so very kind and helpful, I had to comment.
They also had the most beautiful B&B of our trip. It was filled with antiques, and their land had walking trails through the beautiful Connemara landscape. They are close to Cong and Ashford Castle also and the town/pubs and restaurants are just minutes away. If in the Cornamona/Clonbur area I highly recommend their home and hospitality. I intend to spend several relaxing days there during my next trip.
Eileen Mushenheim
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 11/26/2004
Fantastic B&B in Dordogne, France
Bravo to ?Les Charmes de Carlucet? http://www.carlucet.com near Sarlat in the beautiful Dordogne region of south-western France.This bed & breakfast is really worth staying at and makes a great base for exploring the many wonderful sights nearby. Helen and Eric are most welcoming and they have transformed a lovely old house into a real home from home, with a splendid outdoor swimming pool. We stayed in the Lavande room, an unusually large bedroom for a B&B, with a nice big bed and a well-appointed bathroom. We hear an ambassador from Paris stayed in it recently!Helen is English and lived near Windsor in the UK and Eric (who speaks perfect English) is French and Swiss, so communication is easy in this idyllic part of France.
2 highlights:
Roger Harrison
Stratford-upon-Avon, UK Tue 11/09/2004
Heroic B&B Friendliness in Co. Cork
If you are going to Cork or attending the races in County Cork, Ireland, you MUST stay at Eileen O'Shea's Ashfield B&B. It is minutes from the track in Mallow, and it is about 20 miles from Cork City itself. This place is just gorgeous, and Eileen is the best host ever. She made sure everything I needed was taken care of to perfection, and her breakfast was to die for. She took my non-dairy, non-meat needs into account, and she went above and beyond any B&B owner I have ever met. I paid 40 euro for king-size bed with private bathroom and full breakfast. You can call her at 353-022-47979, or look at www.ashfieldbb.com. Trust me on this one!
Sara
Everywhere, USA Sun 11/07/2004
Great B&B in Rothenburg, Germany
We traveled in Germany last summer, staying in B&B's all the way. My husband was initially wary of staying in B&B's, sharing bathsrooms etc. but after experiencing them, is now totally convinced it is the best option. Our family (2 adults, 2 children) agreed that the B&B of Karin Weiss in Rothenburg, Germany was the best place we stayed. It is outside "the wall" but very close and an easy 5 min. walk into the town. It has been posted on this site before, but I feel compelled to again reinforce all the great comments that have been made. It is immaculately clean, great food, large bathrooms (yeah!) and an accommodating host/hostess. My kids absolutely loved staying there also.
Karin goes to great lengths to make everyone comfortable ie. she sets the table at night to avoid waking anyone in the morning (coffee cups clanging) and gives everyone food for sandwiches for lunch. The beds were also great and she gives the BEST advice on restaurants (quality food for less). The prices was great also--about $20 per person. Highly recommend it. She totally LIVES the role of a great hostess with scrapbooks full of pictures, correspondece and notes from her guests. www.haus-karin.de
Laurie
Minneapolis, MN USA Tue 11/02/2004
Off the beaten path but terrific in Istria (Croatia)
I feel compelled to enter one of my favorite all time B and B experiences at Scabe Farmhouse Holidays in a village 5 miles from Pula, Croatia (Istria) The couple, Mira and Marius and their son, Robert as well as grandma and grandpa who live next door, could not have been more accomodating. When we arrived they welcomed us with home made cakes and cookies as well as insisted on having a toast of the homemade brandy which was potent but excellent. Whatever we needed they provided whether information on nearby sights or resturants or giving us guided tours of the ancient pre-Roman city on the edge of their property followed by home made wine(excellent) cheese locally produced and bread made by grandma that morning.
They have self catering apartments but will prepare as much as you request foodwise. We had breakfast one day, and once we cooked in the room for our evening dinner. I went to Marius to purchase a bottle of his white wine for dinner and he gave me a tour of his cave and drew a pitcher of the new red out of the barrel for me to taste in addition to the bottle I purchased for a very modest sum. When we were leaving early the next morning the whole family turned out to tell us goodbye.
I have been travelling for 13 years now using many Rick Steve's ideas and concepts and I can tell you that I have only commented a few times (Absoluut Veerhulst with Benno and Freda in Bruges is an example) and this is one of those special times. The beds were a little harder than I would have preferred but certainly overshadowed by the overall excellence of the stay. The area is well worth a visit by the way, havine lots of Roman ruins, great beaches and a very American friendly culture. Email me if you can't find the website and I will dig it up. Give it a try. 3 hours from Venice airport
Jim Todd
Dalton, ga USA Sun 10/31/2004
Rome B&B
We recently returned from an 18 day European vacation which was marvelous. We stayed in hotels recommended by Rick and had a wonderful experience at pattysrooms, a B&B in Rome. The accommodations were very clean and roomy and in a nice neighborhood. Patty's personal touches were unmatched in our trip! She was very helpful in adjusting our itinerary to allow us to see all of the major sites and to relax in Rome. Don't miss taking one of Rudy's personalized tours of Rome, an opportunity to see Rome that is unavailable to the typical tourist!From welcoming us to their city to taking us to the train station when we left, Patty and Rudy went above and beyond in making our visit to Rome memorable. It would be almost impossible for us to return to Rome and not stay at pattysrooms!
Jerry and Pat Robinson
San Antonio, Tx USA Sun 10/31/2004
Venice lodging
Corte Campana, Venice. Our host, Riccardo, when asked where to shop for Venetian glass on the island of Murano, sent us to friends who met our boat, welcomed us with wine, and sold us beauty at wholesale prices. We are glad you recommended him to us.
Megan Clark & Richard Grimaldi
Eugene, OR USA Fri 10/29/2004
Four Seasons B&B Galway
We just had a wonderful three weeks in Ireland,using all of Rick`s excellent advise.By far the best B&B of our visit was the Four Seasons in Galway.Eddie and helen were the most friendly and hospitable hosts you could imagine.We had the best breakfasts and advice on tours,retaurants and pubs,not to mention Eddie`s amusing stories.We will definitely return next year for a longer staywww.galway.net/pages/fourseasons
Olivia
U.K Thu 10/28/2004
Ardconnel House, Inverness, Scotland
INVERNESS, SCOTLAND: We arrived as strangers for a two day stay at Ardconnel House in late September.... and were received as friends. Hosts John and Elizabeth keep a neat, clean home and serve wonderful full Scottish breakfasts. What set them apart from the nine other places we stayed during our three week visit to the UK is that John and Elizabeth have true hearts for hospitality.
I had purchased a kilt skirt at an EWM shop in another city. Several days later in Inverness I discovered that the skirt was too small. Sensing my discomfort at trying to return or exchange it, Liz accompanied me to the local EWM shop....which did not have the right size. Unwilling to see me stuck with a skirt I could not possibly wear [at a cost close to $100.00}, Liz asked the sales person to call another shop that carried similar items. The second shop had the right size and was willing to make the exchange. Liz had a full house and a myriad of things to do. But she made my problem her priority.
John helped my husband locate good local golf courses and restaurants. Our two day stay stretched to six days because this couple knows the difference between going through the motions of hospitality, and truly caring for people. They can be Emailed at ardconnel@tiscali.co.uk. Thanks, Rick, for letting us share this. Bob & Marilyn White St.Augustine FL USA
Bob & Marilyn White
USA Mon 10/25/2004
Hotel Corte Compana
The Hotel Corte Compana was wonderful. Even if the location wasn't great or the rooms enormous and clean, it would be worth the euros just to meet Ricardo. This guy is about 5 feet tall and full of fun. He told us about the city and about the history of his building. He directed us to authentic Venetian dining, and most importantly, the best gelato in Venice. He was great and you can be sure that any time I'm in Venice, I'll be found at the Hotel Corte Compana, chillin' with Ricardo, my man. Thanks, Ricardo, for making it a wonderful experience. And the rest of you, stay with him when you go!
Jacob & Bessie Sopeland
Spokane, WA USA Wed 10/20/2004
brock's gueshouse in bath
Our family stayed at Brock's guesthouse in Bath, which was very nice. We rented a car from Enterprise for one day and my son left his expensive mp player in the back seat. Enterprise located the player (still in the care), but we were not sure they would mail it back. Mrs. Dodd, Brock's proprietor (via telephone convesations since we had already left Bath) volunteered that they should drop the MP Player at her place and when they did she took it to a Mailboxes type place to send it to us fedex (we gave her our fedex#). Much thanks to Enterprise and especially Brock's!
Larry Manheim
Evanston, IL USA Mon 10/18/2004
Rothenburg Heroic B & B
I would like to add my recommendation for the very warm and welcoming B & B of Frau Karen Weiss. We found her B & B via another website and made reservations. She gave us her number to call from the train station to be picked up. We were promptly picked up and greeted very warmly. Our room was fantastic! A huge room with warm, pine panelling, clean as a pin, private bathroom for 44 Euros a night! We told her we were on our honeymoon and on our return to our room after a day sightseeing, there was a small bottle of champagne, two flutes with bows on them and fresh flowers! Breakfast was HUGE! Frau Weiss was attentive without being meddling making you feel like one of the family. Highly recommended.
Colleen Abbott
Santa Rosa, CA USA Fri 10/15/2004
Les Charmes ? Carlucet
....Another BIG Recommendation for Les Charmes at Carlucet (used to be Les Granges)We spent a wonderful four days at this B&B - the hosts (Eric and Helen Edgar) were so helpful and gracious. Our friends who had been there for 10 days had the misfortune of having their car break down in a big way! The Edgars actually offered them the use of their private vehicle! Their restaurant recommendations were perfect and their breakfasts sumptuous.
It was so nice to come back fromtouristing to the pools and thechurch bells and the lovely grounds.
Lynne Neufeld
Vancouver Canada, Can Sun 10/10/2004
Heroic London Hospitality
Having traveled 3 times in the last 4 years using Rick Steve's methods and hotels, we have a new favorite! The Winchester Hotel, with uber friendly hosts Jimmy and Juanita. In fact, when we checked in, Colin spent 30 minutes with us detailing bus lines, walks, sights, and even pubs on a map which I ended up using religiously. Also, as expensive as London is, this really is a great value when you factor in location to mass transit and the filling breakfast in the morning. I can't wait to go back!
Zach
Buena Park, CA USA Tue 10/05/2004
Milestone House B&B
Recently stayed at Milestone House B&B in Dingle, Ireland. It was the best experience. Barbara was very helpful in things to do and place to eat. Michael prepared a delicious meal with homemade bread every day. We were treated like family. I would highly recommend this B&B to everyone going to Ireland.
Mary Willingham
Cheyenne, WY USA Thu 09/30/2004
L'Ecole Buissoniere
I have just returned from the trip of a lifetime & that's saying a lot as this was my 15th time across the ocean with a Rick Steve's guidebook in my hand. My mother & I had the wonderful fortune of staying with Monique & John at the L'Ecole Buissoniere near Vasion la Romaine. The couple are wonderfully friendly helping with luggage upstairs to the room and offering drinks upon arrival...John makes his very own wonderful wine ( his secret recipe ). John is a wealth of knowledge on the area giving maps, directions and sightseeing options. Their home is just lovely and tha patio garden is completely equpped with an outdoor kitchen for guests to prepare light meals & chill wine for dinners in the garden. This was one of the nicest guesthouses I've stayed at in a long time.
Vickie LeVan
Jacksonville, FL USA Wed 09/29/2004
EXCEPTIONAL B&B - ANVERSHIEL HOUSE PORTRUSH, NORTHERN IRELAND
Just got home from Ireland and I want to let everyone know the amazing hostess at Anvershiel House, Portrush. After an overnite stop there, I left town and went to the Vistors Center at the Giants Causeway. The lady at the desk informed me that someone wanted to talk to me on the telephone. Erna the hostess at Anvershiel House had tracked me down and boy had she good news for me. She found $1700 in a wallet that I had left behind me in my room and I didn't even know it was missing. Howabout for honesty. Great hostess, great B&B and great breakfast.
Andy Smith
Milton, PA USA Wed 09/29/2004
Millfield B&B, Edinburgh, Scotland
Millfield B&BEdinburgh, ScotlandMy wife and I stayed at the Millfield B&B in Edinburgh in late May and had an incredible time. The owner, Mrs. Liz Broomfield, was gracious, accomodating, and the lovliest person we have ever stayed with. She made us feel welcome and assisted us at every turn. We might go back to Edinburgh next year just to stay with her! If you get a chance to visit Scotland, you must book a night at the Millfield B&B.Thank you Rick for your sage advice.
William Price
Jemison, AL USA Sat 09/25/2004
B & B in Rome
We recently spent 3 nights in Rome at a wonderful and reasonable B & B - the Nicolas Inn. It is run by a young couple - he is from Rome and she is from Chicago. The location is 295 Via Cavour and is near the Forum and the Coliseum - excellent location! Our hostess, Melissa, assisted us with tips, made reservations, gave us directions and made fabulous cofee. The rooms were recently renovated, the bathrooms some of the best in Italy, and there was a small friendly market next door with everything from wine to delicious snacks. I found the Inn on this website chat room and wanted to pass on this great find to others. I would highly recommend this! The inn is only 4 bedrooms and one can enjoy tremendous personalized attention.
Mary Nell Billings
Memphis, TN USA Mon 09/20/2004
Great Salzburg Gasthaus
We had our best experience in Europe in Salzburg. We stayed at the Haus Gassner, 126B, Moostrasse (0 66 2/82 49 90). It was recommended in our 2000 edition guidebook. The room was immaculate and breakfast was very good as well. Maria was absolutely the best host I have ever encountered. She was very attentive to our 3 young children at breakfast and really helped us with show and tour reservations, transportation advice and recommendations for activities. She really went the extra mile for us when we left our video and digital camera bag on the bus. She came out and waited with us for 20 minutes for the next bus to come and got a message to the driver who found it and met us in town to return it. Just amazing people. We would highly recommend staying with Maria if you get a chance.Michael and Betsy Winniman
Michael and Betsy
San Marcos, California USA Mon 08/30/2004
Roman and Italian Bed & Breakfast
Although my Mom,aunt and myself did not stay at this b&b, we had the opportunity of meeting Marco and experience the good customer service he extended to us. We accidentally met him at the Termini Station in Rome where he approached and offered a helping hand, sensing we needed some assistance and information while we were trying to figure out wherewe begin our tour. He volunteered to give directions on how to use the Metro station line and how to get to our destination. He also gave us helpful hints on what to watch out for and where to find the shops we were looking for.
Since we had an unfavorable experience with the taxi we took from the airport when we arrived, Marco, who mentioned to have airport transfer service reasonable low rates, convinced us to book our departure airport transfer with him.
He came early to give us plenty of time and during the trip was very informative both about the city of Rome and his b&b services.
In the brief moment we spent with him, we found him to be a very honest, accommodating person, dedicated to giving a straightforward good customer service and sincere customer satisfaction.
Eden V Padiernos
Seattle, WA USA Fri 08/27/2004
L'Ecole Buissonniere B&B
This has been our fourth trip to France so we decided this time to spend a week in Provence. As always, we use Rick Steve's guidebook to plan where to go and what to see as well as for choosing our accommodations. As usual were not disappointed. We chose the Vaison-la-Romaine area and spent the entire week at L'Ecole Buissonniere B&B. John and Monique welcomed us and made us feel so very much at home in their lovely restored farmhouse. Monique, was so kind to answer our questions by e-mail before our arrival and gave us advice as we planned our trip. John was the gracious host each morning serving our breakfast in the garden and spending time afterward to map out our sightseeing jaunts for the day. Our room was charming with beautiful views of vineyards in the surrounding countryside.
Michelle & Barry
Alden, NY USA Tue 08/24/2004
Old Presbytery
A few years ago, Philip McEvoy of the Old Presbytery in Kinsale went completely above and beyond the norm for my wife and I. After Philip provided extensive detail about local restaurants,we left to go into town. Some 30 minutes later we saw Philip coming down the road towards us calling our names. He then informed us that our daughter had just called from the states and although she said it wasn't urgent, he felt he should tell us immediately. He then took us to a pay phone in Kinsale, showed us how to use it, then gave us additional coins needed for the call, and finally ending up dialing the call for us. And he was correct...the call was definitley not urgent...our daughter simply wanted to know the time of our arrival back in St. Louis the following day.
To this day I am amazed when I think of Philip wandering through the town of Kinsale trying to find us to give us a phone message.
Bob Roth
St. Louis, MO USA Tue 08/17/2004
Recommendation of a B&B in Rome, Italy
My nephew and I stayed the Roman and Italian B&B (www.italianbandb.com) in July 2004. We found the owner (Marco) to be very helpful in every way, even when I had to call my bank in the US for funds. He allowed me to use his own personal telephone. Marco was great in providing directions, guidance and more than one would expect from a typical B&B host. The rooms we stayed in and saw (I looked at all of them) were of good size, always clean, and comfortable. Laundry is on site. The breakfast in the morning was all you could eat and drink. The location was perfect for walking to sites, as well as catching the metro in Rome. The prices of Marco's B&B were very reasonable on comparison to other B&B's and hostels. In fact, I would choose this place over a hostel. It felt like home. I would recommend Marco's Italian B&B for backpacker's, single travellers, and small families.
Patricia Payne
Seattle, WA USA Thu 08/12/2004
Il Poggiolo, Florence
More kudos for Graziella whose B&B (Il Poggiolo) I found out about on this graffiti wall. We stayed with Graziella on July 1st-2nd, 2004. What a delightful treat. We were touring Italy by car for a month and hers were easily the best accommodations we experienced (be sure to ask for the apartment in the detached building). Graziella went out of her way for us in several areas:
Mark Gould
Hanover, PA USA Sat 08/07/2004
Edinburgh,Scotland
We stayed at a B&B called Straven Guest House from 7/22/04-7/26/04..What a wonderful place to stay..very clean & quiet..Mac & Marian are very friendly & will go out of their way to make sure you are comfortable and will answer any questions you have about Edinburgh. We are hoping to go back in about 2 years to see the famous "Tattoo" and stay at this B & B again..
Walter & Violet Love
Levittown, Pa USA Wed 08/04/2004
Brugge B&B
My husband and I were fortunate enough to visit Brugge on our recent trip to Europe/England. Using your guidebook, we booked a room at Lievetje & Robert VanNevel B&B in Brugge. Before showing us to our room, Robert spent an hour with us giving very detailed information about the town. Our room was a delight - spacious, cheery, and very well appointed. There was a dining table where we enjoyed a breakfast delivered to our room every morning and possibly our best dinner of the entire six week trip. The B&B is directly across the street from a neighborhood market where we bought cheese, wine, bread and soup that we could heat in our microwave. The room also came with a small refrigerator, cd player, coffee maker, TV, and asofa. The bathroom was spacious and even had a hairdryer. We were so pleased with our room that we tried to extend our three night stay to five. Unfortunately, we were only able to stay four nights. One of the highlights of the trip was our bike ride to Damm, suggested by Robert. A most glorious town, charming hosts and delightful lodging.
Gayna Morris
Salem, OR USA Mon 08/02/2004
Great B&B south of Rome
We found a great B & B Anne's Place (http://www.byanne.com) about 30 minutes south of Rome in Palestrina, Italy - Six of us traveling together arrived after a long day of site seeing and traveling from the south. Anne's Place afforded us not only wonderful accommodations, there are 4 bedrooms each with baths attached and wonderfully comfortable beds, but the warm hospitality and pleasant conversation made us feel very comfortable. Anne helped us find our way to an excellent dinner in town and the directions she and her husband provided for our drive into Rome the next morning were very helpful. We cannot recommend this fine Bed and Breakfast highly enough!!
Suzanne Stendahl
Newton, MA USA Sun 08/01/2004
Neidpath B&B, Stirling, Scotland
My husband and I spent three nights at Neidpath B&B in June 2003. Kay and Andrew Campbell were wonderful hosts! We mentioned that we'd eaten at the Witchery in Edinburgh; two days later at breakfast Andrew brought us a magazine with an article about the restaurant. Kay had seen the magazine in her doctor's office, then went out and bought a copy to show us! When he learned we were interested in touring the Trossachs, while serving breakfast Andrew suggested a route for us to follow. Breakfast was wonderful; we were quite happy with our original choice of scrambled eggs but Kay was always asking if we'd like something else like an omelet. We will definitely go back to Neidpath on our next visit to Scotland as Sterling is a great "home base" to see that area of the country.
Sara
Loveland, OH USA Wed 07/28/2004
B&B in Honfleur, France
We recently stayed at a wonderful B&B 2 km from Honfleur, France, in Normandy (Madame Agnes Denis (28 rue Saint Clair, 14600 La Riviere Sant Sauveur, ph. 02-31-89-38-05). It is an old orchard and farmhouse that has been Mme Denis' family since 1816, and she helped her grandfather make "cidre" and Calvados here when she was a girl. She is a charming French woman, and although she speaks no English and I hardly speak French, we were able to communicate quite well with the help of an English/French dictionary. The first night we were there, she opened a bottle of "cidre" (4 1/2% alcohol) to share with us. When we were getting ready to leave at the end of our stay, she offered to show us a quicker way to the interstate and got in her own car and had us follow her to the highway. The price was reasonable (for 2 of us, high season, it was 42 euros a night). We recommend it to anyone going to Honfleur.
Joan L. Anderson, MD
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 07/27/2004
Birnam Wood House - Scotland
The Dunkeld, Scotland TI guided us to the Birnam Wood House 9http://www.birnamwoodhouse.co.uk/) after a late afternoon arrival. Robert Merriman met us at the door and we soon were relaxing over coffee and shortbread. He advised that his wife Laureen is part of a local singing group and that we were welcome to join them at the local pub that evening. By the end of the night, we had lyric sheets in our hands and were singing traditional and local Scotish music. A true ETBD experience!
Neil and Debby Krey
Hurst, TX USA Thu 07/22/2004
Schweinfurt, Germany
Just got back from a Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, and Switzerland tour. We had wonderful luck with all of Rick Steves suggestions for places to stay, but We had no suggestions in Schweinfurt, Germany. We decided to go to this town because my Dad was stationed there during the Vietnam War. We stayed at Gasthof Mangold, Run by Michael Mangold. A wonderfuly clean hotel. Our first full day in Schweinfurt, Michael asked us what our plans were for the day. We replied that we were going to Wuerzburg. Mike offered to guide us on a tour of the countryside on the way from Schweinfurt to Wu erzburg. We had a wonderful time. He took us to a winery and we got a personal tour from the owners! Mike was fun to talk to, also would not accept a tip for his services, he stated he enjyed himself. I would definately recommend Gasthof Mangold to anyone!
Molly
USA Wed 07/21/2004
Saved My Bacon!
With my family in tow, we spent a full day at the Avignon Tourist Office slugging it out trying to find lodgings during the Easter Weekend. A call to John the proprietor of the B&B , "L'Ecole Buissonniere", totally rescued our last week in France. He booked us for the one nite he had left and found us rooms nearby for the rest of the week. As the navigator I had us traveling the wrong way on the freeway and ended up making a 40 minute trip a 2.5 hour expedition. When we finally arrived, much later than planned, John looked at me and offered a beer and explained how Montiellier and Montplier can get you twisted around a bit. Wow, I couldn't have asked for more. But, he continued to astound me with his hospitality and got us dinner reservations when none were to be had. The room was spacious and the bathroom large with lots of hot water.
Both John and Monique speak English and that was an enormous help for us as we speak phrase book French! They were astonishly generous with local information and helped us beyond measure. They were genuine and welcoming, terrific hosts. They helped refresh our spirits and we were able to relax and enjoy this wine region of France.
"L'Ecole Buissonniere" is a French Country Farmhouse, as you would imagine it should be, on the outskirts of Vaison la Romaine.(http://www.guideweb.com/provence/bb/ecole-buissonniere/indexa.html)
Clint
Santa Rosa, ca USA Sun 07/18/2004
iverness b&b
Just back from a trip round Scotland and first stop was Inverness with no luggage because it was "lost" by the airline. Arrived at Melness Guest House Inverness late, tired, no luggage and hungry. Joy's cheery welcome imediately made us feel better by giving us some coffee and cookies, As our luggage was not likely to arrive before the next day she produced toothbrushes & toothpaste then washed and dryed the clothes we had been wearing so we had fresh things for the morning. Nothing seemed to be a problem for her although I am sure she had better things to do than wait in for our luggage to be delivered. This kindness made our holiday a good experience instead of the disaster it could have been. We will always remember her kindness extremely clean home and her 2 lovely westies. If you plan to go to Inverness be sure to call her first for vacancies.
shawna & Maggs
boston, USA Wed 07/14/2004
Ireland's Ocean View and Doolin Cottage - Great!
Travelling through Ireland last month (June) we had a couple of wonderful B & B experiences. First we stayed in Dingle with Phyl and Michael Brosnan at Ocean View B & B. It was delightful! Our room was beautiful, clean, and we felt immediately at home. In a 5 week trip, this was probably the safest I felt sleeping anywhere! Breakfast was marvelous, as was the conversation. The day we left, Mrs. Brosnan drove us to the bus stop in her pajamas - I call that 'above and beyond'! Another terrific place was "Doolin Cottage" in Doolin, with Carol Spencer. Our room was terrific - actually two rooms with a dividing wall, welcome separation after a month of travel with my daughter. Her home has a comforting, spiritual feel to it, and Carol is kind and interesting. In terrible weather, rather than leaving us to the bus, she drove us to the Cliffs of Moher, a gesture we greatly appreciated. She's also a terrific cook! Both of these B & B's were inexpensive and added so very much to our trip. I can't thank them, or recommend them, highly enough.
Terri ;
New Orleans, LA USA Mon 07/12/2004
Roman Italian B and B
Marco and his wife Carlotta were fantstic. Their bed and breakfast was clean, air-conditioned, and wonderfully located outside the Manzoni metro station. Marco picked us up at the airport, gave us a great commentary on the way to the B and B. They have walls filled with pictures of those who have stayed there, a great idea. I would not stay anywhere else while I am in Rome for the great price.
Adrian Alverson
Nashville, TN USA Mon 07/12/2004
Broken ankle
Dear Shirley at Il Porcellino in Florence was wonderful to me after I tripped on a curb and broke my ankle. She checked on me and brought me meals, helped me with the stairs. Great location, good prices. Check it out at www.hotelporcellino.com.
Mary
moraga, CA USA Thu 07/08/2004
family-friendly Colmar
We traveled to Colmar in the Alsace region of France this spring with our 22-month-old son. We followed Rick's recommendations and stayed in Maison Martin Jund. Mariam was so welcoming, and even had dug out some of her children's old board books for our son. Our French is rusty, but he enjoyed the pictures. We had arrived on Sunday, so the stores were closed, but she gave us a carton of milk to last us until the morning. Our room had a kitchenette, which was perfect for keeping snacks and drinks. And the little table was just the right size for the 3 of us. She also has a computer in the hallway by the guestrooms, and guests can use the internet for free.
Maureen Hein
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 07/07/2004
Help with broken rental car
We were the first Americans ever at Elsenhof a most wonderful B&B and apartments on a farm in "Ostriol" area of Austria 40k west of Lienz. Our new rental car had big mechanical problems. For 3 days Hildegard called the rental car company,the dealership etc as we spoke no German.While we were carless Hildegard and Toni organized for us to visit the mountain hut and to buy provisions.Finally, she even took us in her car to Lienz(with the baby) to attempt to pick up the car as there was no public transport! We finally rented another car . Again our family cannot say enough about the friendship and helpfulness of our hosts at Elsenhof -Hopgarten in Defereggen,Austria Calkins Family Katherine , Bill, Will
Katherine Calkins
Aurora, IN USA Mon 07/05/2004
Adare Ireland B&B
Coatesland B&B (coatesfd@indigo.ie)in Ireland saved me during my last trip. My daughter became extremely ill. The owners, Florence and Donal Hogan made arrangements for her to go to the hospital and insisted I stay with them during her recovery. Unmatched kindness and generosity. Great Oatmeal!
Maureen
Pax River, MD USA Sat 07/03/2004
Montcoffer B&B
We stayed at the Montcoffer B&B in Bardon Mill, England for 3 days in late June. John and Dehlia are wonderful hosts who went out of their way to give us tips about what to see in the area and where to eat. The room was large and very comfortable.
Phil & Lori Prins
Snohomish, WA USA Thu 07/01/2004
Il Poggiolo--Florence, Italy
Graziella, who runs this fabulous B&B about 3km out of Florence, definitely went above and beyond to make our trip lovely. (June 18th-23rd) Ever ready to drive you to the bus stop in the rain, get up early to make breakfast, or cook a special dinner that was easily the best food we had in all our time in Italy--If you want to get out of the hustle and bustle, at least in the evenings, and enjoy an astounding view of the countryside and a quiet cup of tea (but still be close enough to do the tourist museum thing in Florence during the day) definitely check out Il Poggiolo. http://www.il-poggiolo.it
Carolyn Golden
St. Joe, MO USA Mon 06/28/2004
Dunedin Guest House
My husband, son and I spent 6 nights at the Dunedin Guest House in Edinburgh this last June. Marsella is an exceptional hostess. Because we were there for more than 1 or 2 nights, she gave us 2 adjoining rooms, which was a real plus at the end of a 17 day vacation. She takes care of each of her guests on a personal and individual level. In addition the facility is charming and immaculate. It is amazing how she does it all and is still always available with a winning smile and suggestions for her guests. I recommend anyone heading to Edinburgh to consider this lovely, friendly Victorian Mansion!
Susan Earling
Edmonds, Wa USA Mon 06/28/2004
Haus Reichl--Great Place!
Our family (including our two young daughters and my husband's parents), just returned from a three-week trip to Austria and Germany. One of the best places we stayed was Franziska Reichl's house (Haus Reichl) in the Salzburg area.
The Reichls have three spotless Zimmers (rooms), a great view of the Alps, an attractive house with lots of flowers, and good breakfasts with fresh rolls from the bakery, homemade breads, meat, cheese, soft-boiled eggs, coffee, and the rest of the usual "fixings."
What makes Haus Reichl truly outstanding, however, is Franziska herself! She has a great gift for hospitality and immediately made us all feel like treasured friends. She also went beyond the call of duty several times during our visit...coming with her car to "save" us when we got lost on the tangled, one-way roads in Salzburg, acting as a travel consultant to help us custom-design our stay, giving us travel tips, steering us to the places "locals" enjoy, and even riding her bike to the bakery every morning to get fresh bread for breakfast. And when my husband's parents asked about a laundromat, she even offered to wash the clothes for them!
We found Haus Reichl on the Internet (not Rick's book) but can certainly see why Rick recommends it!
Linda
Knoxville, TN USA Sat 06/19/2004
Fantastic B&B in Portrush, Ireland
In June I stayed for two nights at the Belevedere in Portrush, County Antrim, Ireland. It's listed as the best value in the guidebook, and I completely agree. The 100 year old Victorian style mansion is facing the sea with nothing between it and rolling surf but a road and the rocks. Thomas, the new owner (not the Dunns anymore) is as gracious a host as I've met. When I raved about the black pudding at breakfast (part of an excellent and filling Ulster Fry), he offered me some to take with me! My room was oceanfront with a fantastic view clear down the Antrim Coast, and all this was for a price that you wouldn't believe if I printed it. The whole house is decorated with great taste and style. The large sitting room faces the ocean and Thomas keeps a fire in the fireplace to take off the chill. Russell is the chef, and the breakfasts are fantastic. You will NEVER get all these features in a B&B in the states for anywhere near the price! Stay at the Belvedere - I will when I return.
Rick Dale
Mansfield, PA USA Sat 06/12/2004
The Greenmount House-Dingle, Ireland
This has to be the best B/B my family and I have ever stayed in. John and Mary Curran are great hosts in a great home. What a pleasure it was to spend three nights on our recent trip to Ireland and to Dingle. Our southern hospitality has nothing over this true Irish hospitality.
Don Carter
Tupelo, MS USA Thu 06/10/2004
Anvershiel House, Portrush, Northern Ireland
My family's experience at Anvershiel House in Portrush, Northern Ireland truly qualifies as "Heroic B&B Kindness."
On our second and final night in town, Victor & Erna invited us into their living room for fun conversation and an after dinner drink. It was the next to last night of our trip, and we were headed to Trim the next day.
Upon arrival at our B&B in Trim the next night, we were informed that Victor had called and my husband had left his passport in Portrush - more than five hours away. Victor had remembered where we were going and called through the B&Bs in the area until he found us!
After determining that there was no way that we could get a new passport by the time our flight left, my dejected husband called Victor. Much to our surprise - and delight - Victor had taken it upon himself to put it on a bus bound for Belfast, where it was to be transferred to a bus driver driving to Dublin. The amazing thing is that this plan worked! We met the driver in Dublin a few hours later and drove back to Trim enormously relieved and thankful for Victor's incredible gesture.
We highly recommend a visit to Portrush (great sights) and a stop at Anvershiel House. If you go, please give Victor & Erna all the best from Susan & Jon in Seattle!
Susan Elderkin
Seattle, WA USA Thu 06/10/2004
Inexplicable Friendliness
Not only is this the most reasonable rate you will find for this excellent location in London proper, I have found the best London B&B is the Cherry Court. Mr. and Mrs. Patel are the kindest and most friendly host's. Cherry Court is near Victoria Station in the quiet Belgravia neighborhood. Another plus is the free and convenient email access mounted in the wall in the foyer. The rooms are cute and cozy with private bath and shower. The morning breakfast basket of fruit and biscuits always contained the sweetest and juiciest tangerines and oranges. Where do they get them? Harrod's?
They have a sitting area and small garden in the back for you to sit and refect on your day of sightseeing. I can't imagine I would stay anywhere else, trust me when I recommend them, as we have stayed there 3 times since 1998! Our last stay was October and Novemeber 2003 when taking the train all over England and Scotland. I can't say enough about these dear hosts and will always stay at the Cherry Court while visiting London and outlying areas.
Sincere Aloha,
Barbara Nakaahiki
Barbara Nakaahiki
Kailua Kona, Hi USA Wed 06/09/2004
Schweizer Pension Solderer, Vienna
I just returned from 3 weeks in Eastern Europe, using Vienna as the gateway city. In Vienna my wife and I stayed at Schweizer Pension Solderer within the Ring, in the Old City Center (www.schweizerpension.com). It is in a great location and is superbly run. It is a recommendation of Rick's and deserves the highest marks. Gerhard Klaus was the perfect host. He was the source of excellent information about Vienna and also pointed out options for regional sightseeing and for traveling on to our other destinations--even making phone calls for us. This B&B is clean, well maintained, has a very good breakfast, and is perfect in every way for the traveler to enjoy Vienna and beyond. Gerhard provided that extra special touch that made us feel welcome. He went the extra mile to see that we were taken care of--when we signed up for a trip that left very early (before breakfast) he had coffee and food waiting for us and also packed us some lunch. There were many nice extras that he did for us, and we will always have fond memories of our stay at this wonderful B&B.
Richard
Seattle, WA USA Sat 06/05/2004
Riverside House in Kilorglin, Ireland
If you're looking for a good base camp in southwest Ireland, then look no further than Riverside House in the Village of Killorglin. Not only do the Mangans provide great ideas for day-trip itineraries, they also helped us resolve a rental car issue. We made the mistake of stopping in Killarney (which is Ireland's equivalent of Wisconsin Dells), and ended up with damage to our rental car. Geraldine at Riverside House helped us resolve the issue with the company, and we traded in the Honda CRV we got stuck with in Dublin for a smaller sedan (it seems small by American standards, but the CRV was a monster truck on Irish roads!).
Besides the wonderful host family, the house's location is very beautiful and peaceful. And the Village of Killorglin has several nice restaurants and pubs. We could have easily spent a week there -- it's accessible to the Ring of Kerry, the National Park and the Dingle Peninsula. I wish all the B&B's we stayed in while in Ireland were as nice as Riverside House!
Victoria
near Chicago, IL USA Fri 05/28/2004
FANTASTIC FLORENCE
As a first tim visitor to Florence, Italy I have to tell you about our accomodations. The small, quaint hotel, Hotel "Il Bargellino" made our trip. Although the hotel is not large (10 rooms I believe) my host and hostess Pino & Carmel (owners) made our stay most enjoyable. We loved every minute of it. Pino & Carmel were so very helpful and accomodating and were fantastic with their suggestions on how Americans should "navigate" their city. We just loved my room and the adjoining terrace. Before leaving we reserved accomodations for next year. If you are looking for a reasonable rate and excellent
Jerry Hogan
Boston, MA USA Fri 05/28/2004
Blaine and Peter's B&B in Amsterdam
Blaine and Peter's B&B in Amsterdam
I spent a month travelling through Europe and stayed at B&Bs in each location. Blaine and Peter's was by far the most comfortable and affordable accomodation. Their warmth in welcoming you is well received by wary travellers. They ensure that you have the proper directions to get where you are going and give great suggestions on what to do based on your tastes. It took me hours to leave the house each day as I enjoyed chatting with Blaine and Peter and their guests. They foster friendliness and comfort at an afforable price!
Nancy
New York, NY USA Mon 05/24/2004
Pension Peters in Berlin--a bright spot in a big city
Rick Steves and the Thompsons highly recommend Pension Peters in Berlin. We stayed there on May 13, 2004. Annika, who reminded us of jolly Mrs. Garrett on The Facts of Life, greeted us like we were the first people to ever stay in her pension. When we arrived, our toddler's crib was assembled, and Annika gave us all kinds of good sight-seeing advice. She made our 24 hours in Berlin a wonderful experience.
It's a GREAT value. If you're traveling with a child/children this is the place for you.
Caroline Thompson
Athens, GA USA Mon 05/24/2004
Wonderful B&B in Salzburg
Found a wonderful B&B in Salzburg. It is Trudes B&B (online at trudeshome.com). Trude and her husband Heinz are wonderful hosts, speak very good English and are a wonderful source of info about things to do and see in the area. Their place is a 30-min stroll from the old town (Salzburg) but you stroll along the Salzach river and it is a beautiful walk.
Bill L.
Charlotte, NC USA Mon 05/24/2004
a wonderful host in Venice
We recently returned from Venice where we stayed at one of Rick's recommended places. This was one of the best tips we have ever gotten from his guidebook. The owner/host Roberto couldn't have been more helpful. He emailed us directions, carried our luggage up and down his stairs, served our breakfast early so we could catch the Alilaguna to the airport and had the room ready when we arrived at 11 AM from a cruise ship. The Locanda Correr is a real Venetian feeling place. Newly renovated, it is very clean and has a lot of amenities(hairdryer, AC, mini-bar, safe.) The breakfast room has a beautiful Murano glass chandelier. The ceilings are beamed and the walls are brocade fabric. Best of all it is close to St. Marks in the very heart of Venice. But with the windows open all I heard were birds and church bells. The price for one night double was 145 Euros. Their email address is info@locandacorrer.com. You can also find them on their website. Thanks Rick for a great tip!
barbara gesse
greensboro, nc USA Sat 05/22/2004
Ashgrove House, Bunratty, Ireland
Sheila & Frank Tiernan at Ashgrove House in Bunratty, make a true home away from home. Arriving exhausted from 2 nights of no sleep, we were welcomed in and fed a marvel of a breakfast. They jumped in to solve all 1st day problems, from lost luggage at the airport, to jet lag advice that worked, to a lovely Irish Coffee for that strange & dreamy first night. Sheila also phoned ahead for us to book the next week and a half, so we were able to ease into our 3 week trip without any stress at all about how or where to stay. They are very close to the airport. A perfect 1st & last night, not to mention base for all points.Go there, you won't regret it.
Judith Cameron
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA USA Sun 05/16/2004
Chipping Campden and the Bath area
The Bramley House was par excellance for our stay in the Cotswolds. Located just a 5 minute walk from the town center of Chipping Campden, it was a fabulous B&B with an excellent family and pristine, modern facilities in a renovated older home. Jane cooked a wonderful English breakfast with local and organic ingredients and gave the best advice on places to visit and eat. Nothing she suggested we see and do was beyond perfect. It, along with our stay in Bradford-on-Avon, was the highlight of our 2 week trip to Oxford, the Cotswolds, Wales, Bath, Brighton, and London. Double room was 50 pounds per night.
Bradford-on-Avon is the ideal place to stay while visiting Bath, Stonehenge, and Wiltshire/Somerset counties. A trip to Bath is a quick drive (7 miles) or train ride (15 minutes). We stayed in a wonderful, beautiful, and very historic B&B called the Lynchettes, that had a huge garden and was located just a 5 minute walk to the town center. The proprietor and her husband do their own gardening and many of the ingredients they use for their marmalades and jams are from their own garden, as well as the honey they collect from their 6 hives of bees. When we first arrived into the town, we were blown away by how beautiful it was (this after driving through the Cotwolds and mid-Wales). After walking into the B&B, we were further blown away. All in all, we had a very pleasant stay. Double room was 44 pounds per night.
Email me if you would like to know more.
Kevin
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 05/07/2004
Great B & B in Prague
My friend and I just got back from Prague. From the first day that we got there to our last Jiri (George) was great. He had everything ready for us. The room was great. He told us about all the things we needed to do to get around Prague. He even had tickets for the public transportation available. What was very important to us is that he was available, if we needed him. His hospitality was endless, including taking us to the airport at the un-godly hour of 5:30 AM.
The breakfasts were great.
If you plan to stay in Prague We highly recommend Lida House.
Elyse
marina del rey, CA USA Fri 04/30/2004
B&B in Kent England
If you ever need a B&B in Kent, please stay with Ginny and Nick at Charcott Farmhouse B&B. http://www.smoothhound.co.uk/hotels/charcott.html
They are out in the quiet countryside yet very convenient to many castles, historic homes, and other interesting places to visit as well as Gatwick. It is a 350 year old farmhouse with all the modern conveniences. Their hospitality is awesome. Another guest and I had the misfortune to catch a virulent stomach bug that was ravaging the village. Not only did they take care of doctors, pharmacy, and all other possible needs, but they fed the healthy members of the parties both lunch and dinner. We had such fun with these wonderful people. Nick even got up at 5:30 our last morning so that we would have tea before we left at 6! This was the best possible B&B experience.
Janet Solomon
Riverview, FL USA Mon 04/26/2004
Bruges,Belgium
The best lodging of my trip was at the B+B VanNevel on Carmersstraat 13. Robert VanNevel is the most knowledgeable host that I have ever had at a B+B. I was researching material on an artist, and he went the extra distance to photocopy some art prints in color. The rooms,by the way, have lots of extras: a refrigerator,tea , and coffee. All at a great room rate. This is a great value in Bruges,Belgium.
Robert MacNamara
Waltham, MA USA Sat 04/24/2004
West Sussex England B&B
Our trip to Southern England was greatly enhanced by out stay at Ashton House in Storrington. (http://freespace.virgin.net/ted. howl/) Lois and Ted go a step beyond to make their guests comfortable. During our stay, a couple biking the South Downs Way had some knee problems and ended up walking the last five of their 30 mile trek to the B&B. Their plan was to walk to the nearest train station, about 5 miles away, the next morning. Our hosts would not allow that to happen. They rounded up a relative with a larger car and the two cars took the couple and their bikes to a more distant but better connected station. We will stay here again if we are ever nearby.
Janet Solomon
Riverview, FL USA Fri 04/23/2004
Soggiorno Pezzati Daniela
I found Soggiorno Pezzati, located in the heart of Florence, through the graffiti wall - and what a find it was. Our early Spring (late March, early April '04) trip to Florence was our first and our accomodations at the Pezzati was absolutely perfect. We made our reservations by email receiving confirmation in a timely manner. Owner/manager Daniella and her staff went out of their way to make our stay memorable. Daniella even stayed late to accomodate our late arrival in Florence via train. She made the appropriate museum reservations, remaining unflappable through one of Italy's typical half-day strikes (where everything closes). The local eateries (trattatorias) were most enjoyable and featured superb menu selections and service. Soggiorno Pezzati is also centrally located and within walking distance to just about any spot in the city one might wish to visit.
I hope that Soggiorno Pezzati will be included in future guide books, which by the way, were invaluable, including the day tours of Florence and Sienna.
Susan Davis
Shelburne, VT USA Wed 04/21/2004
Lime Tree Hotel Friendliness
My wife and I stayed at the Lime Tree Hotel, 135 Ebury street last week (nearest tube station is Victoria - great location). The trip was made more enjoyable by the friendly helpfulness from all the staff at the Hotel. We would happily recommend the Lime Tree to friends and will ourselves return. Alan the night porters suggestions about daytime bus tours, and all the help from the staff while we ate breakfast made the trip personal and memorable!!! I am even going to start eating baked beans for breakfast back home! David's(the owner) golf stories and frinedlieness topped off what was a great week.
Mike and Jane Moss
Newburgh, NY USA Sun 04/18/2004
An Excellent B&B in Amsterdam
I've just returned from a very pleasant stay the Garden Lodge B&B in Amsterdam. The Lodge is a comfortable facility which resembles a small cottage, with a bedroom, kitchenette, living room and bathroom. The host, Theo Vrosch, provides fresh fruit, meat and cheese, yogurt, juices and other treats for breakfast. In fact, we returned one evening to find that four brightly-colored Easter eggs had appeared in the fridge!
Theo is a gracious host who provides many other thoughtful touches as well. We found a full set of dishes, a coffeemaker and tea kettle, tourist guides, notepaper, and even a small library of books in Dutch, English and German.
The Lodge is located in a small suburb of Amsterdam. There's a nearby shopping plaza with a full-service supermarket, library and several other stores. It's about a 20 minute bus or car ride from the Lodge to the center of Amsterdam, so you do have to factor the travel time into your plans. But in return for that, you get to stay in a comfortable, quiet, smoke- and drug-free B&B that's attractive for any family visit.
This one is a keeper!
JeffK
King of Prussia, PA USA Tue 04/13/2004
Rooms in Florence, Italy
Florence Italy, Soggiorno Pezzati
I just returned from a wonderful holiday in Italy. I was able to stay at Soggiorno Pezzati in a wvery clean and comfortable room with a private bath. Very affordable. Daniela and her staff created a warm and welcoming enviornment for us. They even help book reservations for us at the museums and get us a map and piece of mind. You can find plenty of places to have your morning coffee and pastry near by.
millie
NYC, NY USA Tue 04/13/2004
Outstanding B & B in Dingle, Ireland
I have stayed in many B & B's, but so far none have come even close to my experience at Milestone House, in Dingle. The view of Dingle Bay was spectacular. Our hosts, Barbara and Michael Carroll, were so welcoming, informative and extremely interesting. The food was home made, of unrivaled quality and beautifully presented. This was the most memorable stay I have ever had.
yvonne O'Kane
ventura, ca USA Mon 04/12/2004
Oustanding B&B in Bologna
We can't say enough about the B&B Accogliente Bologna in the center of Bologna, Italy. Maria & Roberto are outstanding hosts! Maria offers fabulous private Bolognese cooking classes for guests (at an additional, very reasonable charge). We learned to make fresh pasta and ragu sauce then ate both with them for dinner. If that wasn't enough, Maria woke us up at 4:15am for a early flight and had set out a wonderful full breakfast! Truly an amazing place. www.accoglientebologna.it
Scotti
Portland, OR USA Mon 04/12/2004
English B&B hospitality
Bath
Carla Lares
La Habra, CA USA Mon 04/12/2004
B&B Orvieto Italy
Valentina's Bed & Breakfast in Orvieto was absolutely wonderful. The hostess Valentina was absolutely gracious and always available with a friendly smile. Its centrally located, has clean and recently renovated rooms, and has a private entrance. I'd highly recommend it to any one planning a stay in this classic hilltown.
Joel Ross
Joel Ross
Winnipeg, MB Canada Sun 04/11/2004
Wonderful B&B in Dingle
The hospitality of the hosts at Milestone House is without compare. Barbara greeted us with tea, made a point of learning all of our names, made us dinner reservations, found out where the music would be that evening, made sure we all knew how the taxi service worked in case we outlasted our driver in the pubs, gave each one of us a card so we could find our way home, drew us maps, and was a wonderful source of local information. She was absolutely charming. In the morning, breakfast included Michael's homemade bread and beautifully presented dishes such as scrambled eggs and salmon. Barbara even threw my trousers in the dryer and blessed us for a safe journey. The house was clean, comfortable, warm, with plenty of hot water and a view of the bay. This B&B was, by far, the best we encountered in Ireland. Email is milestonedingle@eircom.net. Phone 066-9151831.
Liz Schreiber
Monument, CO USA Tue 04/06/2004
Conwy-Bryn Guest House is Best!
I was there in 2001. When I got to London, I found out my ATM card didn't work in UK for some reason. I called Ian at the Bryn Guest House in Conwy, Wales. He told me to get on the train & get there, we'll figure something out. When I got there, he & Janet were so nice to me. They lent me money to spend, drove me to banks in a bigger town nearby, and took me sightseeing. Finally, I was able to charge the amt on my CC. They are the best!
Jin
San jose, CA USA Mon 03/29/2004
Viva La Chevalerie!
M. and Mme. Aleksic, proprietors of La Chevalerie in the Loire valley will forever be remembered by our family as the the most kind, conscientious hosts we've ever encountered. We arrived late and exhausted after a five hour drive from Lyon, just as the restaurants in nearby Amboise were closing. After greeting us, Monsieur Aleksic spirited off to his wing of the home and returned with a meal of baguette, cheeses, butter, ham that his uncle had cured, juice, and the most delicious apples, all out of kindness. Then, the next morning, we were treated to eight fresh eggs that Monsieur had gathered from his hens back of the house.
Every morning, 10 minutes before the time we requested breakfast, Monsieur set our table attractively with croissants, baguettes, jams, butter and juice, as well as heating the milk for chocolate. We cleaned our own dishes and cutlery (provided in the well stocked kitchen) after meals.
The accommodations were spacious, clean and felt like home.
M. and Mme's hard work and special touches on the property were evident. Rates were extremely reasonable (80 euro, two bedrooms for four people, breakfast included).
We simply can't recommend this secluded, relaxing and family friendly establishment highly enough. Details and contact information are found in Rick's France 2004 guidebook.
GMC
CO USA Fri 03/26/2004
Sorrento recommendation
We enjoyed our stay at Chiaro di Luna b&b with Theresa, the owner. Lovely room with private bathroom. A beautiful setting! Nice breakfast and she will teach you how to make espresso the old-fashioned way, not with a fancy machine! We loved being with her!
check her website: www.casachiarodiluna.it
carol
vancouver, canada Thu 03/25/2004
Vaison-la-Romaine
My husband and I just recently spent 2 nights at B & B L'Eveche in Vaison-la-Romaine. This charming former bishop's home, which is tucked away in the medievel village, has been lovingly restored by hosts Jean-Loup and Aude Verdier. They are very gracious and warm hosts, making restaurant reservations for us, recommending driving tours of the area's villages, lending us extra umbrellas etc. Breakfast was lovely and the price very reasonable (about 73 euros for a double). Rick, this bed and breakfast should be included in your Provence guidebook!
Conny Mincks
Williamsburg, Va USA Tue 03/16/2004
Mas Perreal in Provence
My husband & I stayed at the Mas Perreal in September, in the Luberon region in Provence. We stayed at several beautiful B& B's in Provence and this one was by far the best. Kevin & Elisabeth were wonderful hosts and attended to every detail. Our breakfasts were gourmet and included things such as egg souffles, fresh fruit, baskets of freshly baked pastries from the local bakery, and homemade jams. Kevin and Elisabeth made dinner reservations for us at exquisite restaurants that we would not otherwise have known about. The mas itself is surrounded by vineyards and is very charming. It has a gorgeous pool and the rooms are very tastefully decorated. It is ideally located for exploring Provence and all of its charming villages and local markets. I cannot recommend this mas highly enough. Check out their website at www.masperreal.com
K. Lince
Vancouver, WA USA Fri 03/12/2004
Hotel Staubbach
The Hotel Staubbach, in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is terrific. After all their kindess and information during the stay, they left breakfast supplies for us because we had an early morning departure. Very nice and they offered, we didn't have to ask. Great place to stay.
Sue Fritz
Roswell, GA USA Tue 03/09/2004
La B?lie. Dordogne, France
My girlfriend Jane and I have just got back after a lovely winter break in the Dordogne. We stayed at a newly opened guesthouse we had heard about last summer, whilst visiting a very attractive medieval village called Meyrals.
La B?lie is a beautiful converted farmhouse in a conservation area near Sarlat. The house itself seemed to almost blend into the surrounding woods and fields which made for the most relaxing and peaceful stay. Our room combined this tranquil atmosphere with more modern comforts and, whilst newly decorated, had a homely feel that often seems hard to find in a guesthouse or B&B. Our hosts, Roger and Monique made us feel very welcome (Monique?s cooking was superb), and recommended some good places to visit and walks to take in the surrounding area. We are still convinced we saw a wild boar! We hope to return to the region soon and will definitely stay at La B?lie again.
La B?lie can be found at www.likhom.com/chambre_hotes.asp?code=AQ2404002
Ted Haden
London, UK Sun 02/22/2004
Il Poggiolo, Florence
I disagree with those who think Poggiolo was too far away from Florence. Having done our research before we went, we knew that Graziella's place was reachable by bus and that it was out in the country. For us, that was part of the charm. To leave bustling, noisy Florence and to come back to a piece of heaven called Poggiolo was just perfect. It may not be for everyone, but not having a car did not deter us in the least bit, as Graziella not only picked us up from the train station in Florence upon arrival, but drove us to a nearby store to buy deli-stuff for a picnic dinner, but she also very kindly drove us to the bus station when we left for Siena. Graziella's warmth, her fabulous breakfast and her overall helpfulness with everyhing will be what definitely takes me back to Il Poggiolo next I visit Italy.
MM
Vancouver, wa USA Sat 02/21/2004
High Praise for Roman and Italian B &B, Rome
Owners Marco and Carlotta offer a clean, charming, and affordable accomadation. A great location with easy access to all the city sights. Marco offers airport pick up and drop off at both airports, extensive tourist information and a hearty breakfast. Warmth, charm and ease abound at this oasis in the city. www.italianbandb.com
Raine Thomson
Wheatridge, Co USA Sun 02/08/2004
Holly Villa B&B in Bath, England
The Holly Villa B&B was a real pleasure. We stayed there for 2 nights in January and were thrilled by the friendliness of the owners and the niceness of the place. The breakfast is excellent, the rooms are big enough (for England) and very clean. It is in a quiet corner of Bath and was pretty easy to walk to from the bus station. We were easily able to walk to the rest of Bath. If you are going to stay in Bath, this is the place to stay!
Mark
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 02/06/2004
Staying with the Oeggimann's
Summer 2003 my children & I stayed in Gimmelwald, Switz, with Olle & Maria
Oeggimann, the village teachers. We'll never forget their wonderful hospitality.
When Olle heard of our plans to hike down from the Schilthorn, he took one
look at my athletic shoes and shook his head. Later he returned with his
wife's hiking boots (which fit me) and hiking poles for all of us! What
wonderful memories we have of our hosts, our hike, and Gimmelwald.
Marcia Gardner
Crescent Springs, KY USA Wed 01/21/2004
Dunedin Guest House-Edinburgh
I just called the Dunedin Guest House in Edinburgh to book my yearly visit and Marsella told me she is offering 3 nights for the price of 2--through Feb. 29th--when booked directly with her! (she is considering extending this offer through March, as well). I was particularly impressed that she offered me this deal, since she knows my wife and I are a "sure bet" every year! The Dunedin is closed Feb. 2-9 for some essential maintenance, so if you try to reach her then, don't be concerned if she's a bit slow getting back to you. Her phone # is 0131-668-1949, fax: 0131-668-3636 and Web site: Dunedin-Guesthouse@Edinburgh-EH16.freeserve.co.uk
As others have said on here, you will LOVE Marsella and The Dunedin!
Gene Jordan
USA Sat 01/17/2004