Heroic B&B Friendliness: 2006
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.
Wonder B&B in Bruges, Belgium
A few weeks ago (early December 2006), I stayed at Carmers B&B in Bruges, Belgium (Carmersstraat 13), owned and operated by Robert and Lievetje Van Nevel. I was treated like a member of the family -- what wonderful people! Their home is practically a museum, with many fascinating antiques, and Robert is a font of information about the history and culture of Bruges and Flanders. I highly recommend this B&B! (It is recommended in Rick's "Best of Europe.")
Robert
Vienna, Austria Sat 12/30/2006
Wonderful Venice b&b
We stayed at the charming Palazzo Odoni in Venice in August 2005. It was a small b&b right on the water and absolutely top notch. The furnishings, linens and bathroom were those of a first class hotel. Breakfast was the best we had in Italy including eggs, cereal, fruit, rolls and lattes. Owner/manager was a delight and spoke perfect English. Dinner recommendation was also one of best we had in our 2+ weeks in Italy. I only wish we had stayed longer. Enjoy!
Teresa
Burlingame, CA USA Wed 12/27/2006
Great B&B in Rome - Italy
That's incredible! Kathy from California just left a message about Le Finestre sul Vaticano B&B in Rome (www.romabandb.it) … and we just spent there few nights a couple of weeks ago! Hahahahahaha.
Thanks to Rick Steve's Graffiti Wall, we found this warm and relaxing B&B in the centre of Rome just in front of the Vatican! And how can we not talk about Max and Lavinia and how they made us feel very welcome!? They are a mine of information on what to do and how to get there … they have been extremely helpful with everything. They do not mind spending time to talk and advise. Very relaxed and easy going atmosphere and in a save area. Rooms were quiet, very clean, spacious enough and comfortable. The AC worked well. Breakfast was pleasant and adequate. B&B location is ideal, good transport connections (subway to get all around Rome is only 2 minutes walk), most sightseeing spots within walkable distance (Vatican Museums and St. Peter Square are 5/10 minutes walk). This was a great deal in a nice neighbourhood. It was very convenient also to some great restaurants, a couple of which we even received discounts for from the B&B.
I spend a lot of time in hotels for work and this was so much friendlier. We will strongly recommend friends to stay there. It was a real pleasure!
Ciao Italian Friends
Susan Williams
Colorado Springs, CO USA Thu 12/21/2006
ROME -
We stayed at Le Finestre Sul Vaticano the second week of September, for the begining of our Italy vacation. The perfect way to kick off the trip. Although Rome was hot, humid, noisy, overwhelming, and a wee bit scary, having this welcoming, warm (air conditioned), quiet refuge to return to each evening, made Rome much more inviting.
To start with the B&B was spotlessly clean, and everything worked, including the lift to get to the 6th floor. However it was so tiny that I chose to walk up (I get a bit queasy when enclosed). They are located on a quiet residential street, and it feels quite safe. Just 3 or 4 minute walk to 2 different metro stations, and the bus stops just up the street a bit. You can truely get anywhere easily, and back again till quite late. The Vatican is about a 10 minute walk to St. Peter's Square. Loved the location, I'm not into being in the middle of the action, so it was perfect.
Probably the very best thing about this B&B, were the hosts Max and Lavinia. Max has a day job, but found time to answer questions and visit a bit each day. Lavinia on the other hand is a total angel, I want to adopt her. She put up with our nonstop questions and was very gracious, and helpfull. She went out of her way to help us make arrangements and gave us many little tips on how to get around and when to see things. Even after we moved on North, she helped us through emails.
I heartily recomend this B&B to anyone who asks and will not hessitate to book with them again if I return to Rome. Visit thier B&B website www.romabandb.it
Thanks Max and Lavinia, Ciao
Kathy
Missimona, CA USA Thu 12/21/2006
Bed & Breakfast in Bruges
We'd like to highly recommend the B&B run by Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde at 9 Ridderstraat in Bruges, a charming renovated house in the oldest part of the city, and within about three blocks of the market. Their home reflects the talents of Roos, an artist, and Paul, an architect. We loved the delicious breakfasts, the views of the garden, the music, and the lovely atmosphere produced by all the surroundings. We would not hesitate a minute to stay at 9 Ridderstraat again. Contact info: bb-bruges@skynet.be
www.bb-bruges.be
Tel: +32 50335627
Melinda Barnhardt Jud
Amissville, VA USA Tue 12/19/2006
Dolce-Toscana B&B--Tuscany
I recently returned from a wonderful stay at Dolce-Toscana B&B, located just outside the picturesque Tuscan town of Montescudaio, Italy. This B&B is perfectly situated for guests wanting to stretch their travel legs and explore the lush surrounding countryside of Tuscany in a relaxed and unhurried way. It's only a couple of hours from Rome, and is also well-located for exploring Pisa and Florence.
My hosts, Silvia and Charles, could not have been friendlier or more accommodating and hospitable. They provided many of the little extra touches that made the stay at their beautiful Tuscan home seem too short and more like visiting old friends than staying at a B&B. They provided tips on local restaurants, meals, wine, things to do and see, local history, tours and tour guides, samples of wonderful olive oil (their own--you can even help to harvest it in the autumn if you like!)--it was all just great.
In addition, both Silvia and Charles are multi-lingual, so communication with guests is not a problem. Five or six languages (Italian, French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and now German) form the back-drop for daily life here, a wonderful and invogorating mix that is spectacular practice for anyone trying to learn a new language.
As for the food in the area, well, what can I say--it's Tuscany! Enjoy. Personally, I really can't wait to return for another visit. This is what a vacation should be. Have a look at their web page www.dolce-toscana.com for some great pictures.
Ron Carlisle
Carnegie, PA USA Mon 12/18/2006
Corte Campana
My husband and I just got back from a five day trip to Venice. We stayed at the Corte Campana run by Riccardo. He was a very gracious host and even helped us to accomodate our 18 month old daughter. His recommendations for food and sights were fantastic and the price and location can't be beat!
Lindsey Fisher
Phoenix, AZ USA Tue 12/12/2006
Rothenburg: Another Rave about Karin and Hans Weiss
I had seen raves about this comfy, friendly and economical b&b on this board and stayed with Karin when we went to Rothenburg for its Christmas market. Our room was attractive, clean and comfortable with a sitting area as well as a king-sized bed. It was sunny and bright, but the window blinds darkened it enough to let us sleep quite late--good thing hostess Karin is flexible about breakfast!
Besides a great breakfast spread: delicious German breads, cold meats and cheeses, and warm sausages, yogurt, cake, juices, coffee and tea, Karin keeps a refrigerator of bottled water and beer as well as 24 hour coffee and tea for guests.
She will meet you at the train station and return you there at the end of your stay. There is also parking by the house.
Karin is a gracious hostess who makes you feel truly welcome; she keeps a collection of guidebooks in different languages for guest use as well as being prepared with her own stock of recommendations for restaurants (the one we tried on her recommendation: the AlteFrankische Weinstube-was wonderful--delicious, large portions, economical prices, and great ambience) and attractions such as the Nightwatchman tour.
Her house is just outside the city walls, an easy 5-10 minute walk to the market square and almost anything else you might want to see in this beautiful, romantic medieval town. You won't be disappointed in Karin and her Haus Weiss B&B.
Donna Williams
Duncanville, Texas USA Tue 12/12/2006
Ardconnel House - Inverness
Ardconnel House - Inverness
We were two couples traveling for over two weeks in Scotland and Ireland and truly had nothing but very nice experiences visiting many of Rick's recommended sites and accommodations. However, each and every one of us individually and collectively wished at the end of our three night stay at Ardconnel House (and at the end of our entire trip) that we had built more time into our schedule to spend in the Inverness area in general and at the Ardconnel House with John and Elizabeth in particular. The rooms are beautiful including a fabulous guest parlor, but John and Elizabeth really made it special. What really struck me was their ability to be invisible on the one hand if you needed or wanted some private time, but yet available at all times (John usually from his closet-sized office behind the stairs)to answer any question, to provide any kind of service, advice, or just friendly conversation. Elizabeth's breakfasts were fabulous and this leads me to just a couple of examples of their service. My brother-in-law and I had an early golf tee time, before scheduled breakfast hours, but John & Elizabeth both insisted that we have breakfast which they prepared early just for us. As it turned out, our golf was rained out and had to be rescheduled for the next day even earlier. Despite our protests, Elizabeth insisted on packing a picnic for us. Upon departure there were tears and hugs and new friendships made. There are so many things to do as day trips or half-day trips around Inverness, I would heartily recommend a visit and by all means stay at Ardconnel House, www.ardconnel-inverness.co.uk. Only one important tip, do please call ahead to get proper directions, as it is a little tricky to find the first time because some streets on the map are actually a pedestrian mall.
Ron & Kerry Petty in Bakersfield, CA USA 12/09/2006
Ron & Kerry Petty
Bakersfield, CA USA Sat 12/09/2006
Bob & Jenny in Vicenza
We stayed at Bob & Jenny's B&B in Vicenza (one hour by train from Venice), in October of 2006. Altho Jenny had given birth the day before we arrived, Bob was helpful and attentive to our needs and we enjoyed a nice apartment at a reasonable rental of €70/night. We highly recommend it.
Paul n Sara
USA Mon 12/04/2006
B&B The Netherlands, Haarlem near Amsterdam
Summer 2005 we stayed with Hans & Marjet,"Bed-and-Breakfast House de Kiefte", who are a wonderfully friendly, informative and helpful couple. Since Hans is a Rick Steves Guide in Haarlem we learned (and laughed - he's funny). Haarlem is 15 min by train from Amsterdam and the B&B is a 12 min walk from the station through a quiet suburb. Haarlem has galleries, street cafes, a spectacular church in a huge central square, rental bikes-take a ride along the river or a paved path to the sea and eat lunch in Zandvoort. Haarlem is a walking-around town - we were so comfortable that we made it our base and did all our trips from there. We loved The Netherlands, Hans and Marjet!
Gail and Dean
Ladner, BC Canada Tue 11/28/2006
Very nice B&B in Paris
We had a wonderful honeymoon in Paris, in part thanks to Marie-Helene Pinel-Beaujolin. She has a great penthouse apartment (2 blocks from the Wagram Metro Station in the 17th Arrondissement, the NW corner of Paris). It is on the top floor and overlooks the roof-tops of Paris. She was extremely helpful and cooked us a dinner when we first arrived and found that all the restaurants were closed for a holiday. We found her to be a wonderful guide to Paris. She is a classic music teacher and arranges a several concerts a year. Her email is paris-chic@hotmail.fr and her phone # 33-(0)1-47-63-48-14 and we found her through a website for French B&B's http://www.fleursdesoleil.com/
We would recommend her highly.
Martin Cahn
Seattle, WA USA Sun 11/26/2006
L'Ecole Buissonnière in Provence
This past October, we had the pleasure of spending 4 nights at L'Ecole Buissonnière near Vaison la Romaine in Provence. Our hosts, Monique Alex-Parsons and John Parsons, went out of their way to make us welcome. They gave us tips on parking for the Vaison market day and the best directions to the TGV station in Avignon. But, most of all, we enjoyed our evening with John at the local soup festival - a part of Les Journèes Gourmandes 2006. John is a fabulous cook and former restaurant owner, and has won this soup competition in the past. He began explaining the competition and his planned soup over the generous breakfast table. By the time we returned from the Vaison market, he had his cooking in progress and invited us into the kitchen for tastes. We all debated the addition of certain ingredients and left for a visit to the Roman ruins with a promise to return and accompany him to the festival at Buisson that evening. It was an unforgettable experience to join in a small, village festival with the locals. We were even treated to the ceremonial inauguration of the sparkling new public WC, complete with a cutting of the tricolor ribbon. We sampled the soups, drank the wine, saw the awarding of the prize, and then paraded into the Salle des Fetes for the dinner. Seated at long tables, we made friends with the locals over wine, onion soup, cheese and profiteroles. This was far beyond the usual tourist experience and all thanks to our hosts at L'Ecole Buissonnière!
The accommodations were clean, spacious, and well equipped; the gardens with koi pond and aviary were restful; and, the location was central to the Cote du Rhone and Luberon. We'll go back again, but, next time, we're staying a week!
Kathy & Ivan Landreth
Issaquah, WA USA Sun 11/26/2006
Fabulous B&B in the heart of Florence, IT
Panella's Residence in Florence, Italy was a wonderful B&B; our favorite of 4 throughout Italy. The rooms were spacious, the bathrooms (showers) very nice, and all in all a beautiful place to stay. In addition, you could not ask for a nicer hostess than Graziella Panella. A WONDERFUL place to stay!
Erin
Louisville, KY USA Fri 11/24/2006
Casa Quireza, Pontevedra, Spain
If you're in the area of Pontevedra and are looking for an alternative to a hotel, stay at Casa Quireza with Chris and Margaret! When we were lost, Chris came out and found us and led us to their beautiful home. The house is situated in the mountains of Galicia (about 30 min from the city of Pontevedra and 40 min from Santiago de Compostela) and is more than 100 years old. It's a wonderful mix of old and new, as the rooms are modern and have great bathrooms. Chris will make dinner with some advance notice, or recommend a local restaurant. He even led us to the restaurant and explained the menu to us! The breakfast was a nice mix of fresh breads,fruit, orange juice, and coffee/tea. Margaret helped us plan the rest of our trip in Spain and we weren't disappointed! www.casaquireza.com casaquireza@telefonica.net
Kristie Larson
Oberarnbach, Germany Wed 11/22/2006
Out The Ordinary B&B in Sicily
My husband and I recently spent 11 days in Sicily. Over the years we spoke off and on about Sicily as a vacation destination. And, although we have been to Italy 4 times in the past; somehow Sicily has always seemed to be "too far away" and "too unknown" to us.
In 2006 my husband, whose maternal ancestors came from Termini Imerese, Sicily, gave in to my continual challenge and agreed to go back and research his roots. I threw myself feverishly into the reading of the Travel Reports and Forums in Fodor, Frommer's, Trip Advisor, Le Routard, Internaute Voyage. We viewed Rick Steve's DVDs on Italy and Sicily. Per chance in the Summer 2006, I read superlative reviews about "Home from Home" in Bolognetta (Region of Palermo) in Trip Advisor posted by Americans who mentioned that they were reunited with long-lost relatives in the region thanks to the efforts of the B&B owners. In a matter of seconds I sent a reservation inquiry to Kathy Curran the owner of the "Home from Home" bed and breakfast.
From the first contact Kathy led us in her able hands to our goal of reunification with a large branch of my husband's family tree in Termini Imerese. Toto her husband met us at the Palermo airport and drove us to their home where we spent 5 unforgettable days in the company of the two uniquely warm individuals who turned from "strangers" to "dear friends" in a matter of minutes.
Kathy gives new meaning to the "hospitality" business. She welcomes her guests in the style and dedication of a top-notch hotel. Everything one can possibly need is at one's fingertips in the clean and well-decorated double room with a wonderful mattress and private adjoining bathroom. She is truly a "mind reader" when it comes to the needs and desires of her guests. Kathy's philosophy converts this B&B into an expert travel agency and cultural seminar on her adopted "Sicilia". Before leaving Boston we looked hard for a good driving map of Sicily but did not like what was available. We mentioned it to Kathy and, abracadabra! She and Toto have bought a dozen of booklets of the most helpful maps of Sicily for their guests "just in case". A stay here is more like a visit to one's relative's house for a special holiday. Breakfast offerings are varied and plentiful and presented with pride and personal care. Both she and Toto are eager to please their guests. Be careful about mentioning any food item because the next morning it will be on the table in front of you. The breakfast area often resounded with laughter. We walked to the excellent pizza places (The Roxy Bar is our favorite) in the charming town of Bolognetta and drove a very short distance to fancy (but reasonable) restaurants where one can pick and choose the most delectable Sicilian fares.
As if that is not enough of a treat, airport pick-up, all-day or half-day guided tours and Italian lessons in the immersion style can be arranged ahead of arrival with Toto. Looking for a discreet, charming, knowledgeable companion to drive you SAFELY around and reveal to you the local artistic and archeological treasures, the complex cultural structures, the unique geography and history of Sicilia? Toto is your answer. Typically, each day Kathy would pamper us, feed us royally, entertained us with her charming conversation and send us out with her Toto in their car with special maps, and picnic bags to visit Palermo, Cefalu, Termini Imerese, Agrigento and anywhere else our hearts desired. And, while we were out exploring, she would drive to Palermo in extreme heat and even more extreme traffic jams to shop for unique souvenirs from Sicily for us and surprise us at the end of the day!!
It was my husband's luck of a lifetime that Toto's secret hobbies are his photography and researching and reuniting long-lost relatives. We returned home to Boston with sweet memories of reunification and pictures of a significant branch of my husband's family tree from Termini Imerese. Toto had found them prior to our arrival.
During our stay, there was a group of certified hang gliders from Austria and Germany who told us this region is the best for hang gliding "flights". In reading their Guest Book we also learned that hiking enthusiasts and bicyclists come often to this B&B.
A few months ago Bolognetta was an unknown spot on the Sicilian map for us. Today Bolognetta is a name we say with a "Sichilian" accent, a smile on our face and the fondest memories one can possibly take away from this B&B called Home from Home.
Before we left Home from Home, Kathy referred us to a "trusted" friend's B&B, Malacala in the bay of Calabernardo, 35 minutes drive South of Syracusa and only 4 kilometers east of Noto. The two ladies consulted on the phone about what we like for breakfast and our general interests. Kathy also spent a long time on the Internet researching a hotel close to the Catania airport for us so that we can easily catch our 7 a.m. return flight to the US. After many hugs and promises to stay in touch, Kathy and Toto sent us off in our rental car on our drive to the east of Sicily. They called us the same evening at Malacala to be sure that we have arrived safe and sound!
Sicilian autostradas are well maintained overall and local drivers are assertive but respectful of others' safety. We stopped at the Villa Romana del Casale for a couple of hours to view the world renowned vast and well preserved mosaic compound; and continued on toward the east coast. In Avola, the next village to Calabernardo we got lost a bit and, after inquiring our way in hesitant Italian, two local traffic policemen took pity on us and escorted us for 2 miles onto the SP 34 where we headed safely to the Malacala B&B in Calabernardo.
The glamorous Malacala B&B is located in Calabernardo, (Region of Noto). This refined and tastefully decorated gem is located in one of the most idyllic vacation spots in South East Sicily. The secluded and exclusive home is only100 meters from a pristine coastline. The owners Anti and Pietro are semi-retired professionals from Bologna. Anti, an accomplished interior designer, graces the 3 bedroom, 3 full bath seaside home with her tasteful and remarkable sense of color and decoration. Pietro indulges his love of gardening in the creation of a stunning cactus garden which brings nature into the main living quarters. Both husband and wife enjoy creating gourmet, healthy Italian cuisine. This couple truly enjoys receiving travelers and welcomes their guests in the grandest style. The beds are very comfortable, the closets are large, the bath linens are fluffy and plentiful, and the "amenities" are equivalent to those offered in a classy 5 star spa!! During our stay, the bed was made each day and the bathroom linens were changed daily. Breakfast is a generous display of healthy and scrumptious home-made sweet and salty items (hot from the oven) made with fresh local produce and herbs. A lavish assortment of fruit, local cheeses, fruit juices, and coffee complete the morning choices. Fresh flower arrangements graced the breakfast table for each couple or party. Well read, sophisticated, yet easygoing Anti and Pietro are the most engaging and helpful hosts. As a surprise our son arranged by phone with Anti and Pietro for a home-made dinner for us. This dynamic team of culinary experts created a sumptuous Sicilian feast. Fresh fish carpacio, home-made pasta (Pietro's signature contribution), local ham and cheese wrapped in pork simmered in a wine concoction and served with steamed rice, braised fennel, fresh salad, platter of exquisite local cheeses, home-made coffee flan, and, to tease the palate, different special local wines were served as well as a wonderful liquor to enhance the dessert experience!! When not dining with Anti and Pietro and their charming daughter Andrea (home from a university break) we strolled down (two minutes' walk from their home) to the local bistro to enjoy a delicious Sicilian meal, sitting outdoors, the sweet breeze keeping us cool, listening to the waves lapping on the rocky coastline and watching the fishermen come home with their catch of the day (which is the highlight of the dinner menu). A car is necessary to fully enjoy the surrounding area. One can reach a clean and sandy beach located only 5 minutes away. Other places of interest are the famous village of Noto (only a short ride away); the National Reserve of Vendicari; the fascinating foremost tip of the Sicilian island, the sandy Capo delle Correnti where the Ionian Sea meets and collides with the Mediterranean Sea; Ragusa; Modica; Syracusa and the island of Ortygia; and, farther north, the Catania region.
We came to Sicily in hopes of finding some paper trace of my husband's ancestral roots and to see stunning Greco-Roman ruins as well as meet friendly people. Instead, we returned home rich with precious pictures and memories of family reunification, friendships for a lifetime, visions of incredibly beautiful archeological ruins and awe-inspiring duomos and cathedrals. One must stand in the mile long sand bar under a blue sky and a gentle breeze, where the Ionian Sea meets and embraces the Mediterranean Sea to really appreciate why Sicilians are so proud, friendly and eager to welcome travelers. They have so much natural beauty and they want to share with the curious at heart. Better learn some Italian though!! English proficiency is still a rarity here. We had no problem because Kathy is from England and speaks French, Spanish and German. Pietro speaks some English; and we learned Italian very quickly with Anti (who also understands some French) and Toto, who are the most patient and expressive people.
We left Sicily with mixed feelings. We were eager to get home as our journey lasted 3 weeks (including a stop over in Paris) but we felt remiss that newly found relatives and dear friends are left behind. We are resolved to learn Italian seriously so that we can correspond with our Sicilian "dear ones" or rather "Ai nostri cari…"
For those interested the B&B sites are:
www.homefromhome-sicily.com in Bolognetta (Region of Palermo); and
http://www.homelidays.com/bedandbreakfast107972 or http://www.bedandbreakfastmalacala.com/
Granville
Boston, MA USA Sun 11/19/2006
Rome Leone IV B&B
Thanks to Rick Steve's suggestion for Cross Pollinate brokers, we found Leone IV B&B in Rome. This was a perfect place for us, clean, very good location and Nancy, the owner, was a real gem. She was always ready to give advice, bus schedules, etc. She made our week in Rome truly memorable!
Georgia Newcomb
Cortland, Ohio USA Sat 11/18/2006
B&B Logis des Remparts and Battle Bus Tours - Normandy
My daughter and I also stayed at the B&B Logis des Remparts in Bayeux, Normandy during the summer of 2005 and would highly recommend it. We also took the 9 hour Battle Bus tour of the Normandy beaches and towns. Excellent guide.
JB
Antioch, CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
B&B in Bayeux, Normandy
We just stayed at B&B Logis des Remparts in Bayeux, Normandy. The couple that run the B&B are very nice and the rooms are spacious and in decorated very beautifully. It's in a perfect location with restaurants and the cathedral nearby. They also are connected with Battlebus-the tour we took to the beaches of Normandy which was fantastic. Would highly recommend both the B&B and the tour.
Kristina Berg
Costa Mesa, CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
Burgundy, Provence B&Bs
My husband and I recently returned from four weeks in Scotland, France and Italy. We highly recommend Les Verpilleres in southern Burgundy -- a charming, beautiful house with gracious hosts Margot and Kenneth. We stayed in Le Chambre du Jardin, an enormous room with huge bathroom featuring a clawfoot, deep bathtub as well as a party-size shower; full breakfast included; 75 euros per room per night. We also borrowed bikes to ride in the beautiful countryside: www.les-verpilleres.com. In southern Provence, we highly recommend La Bastide du Planouquier near Saint Antonin du Var. We were instantly at home with Eric and Christian; they were incredibly welcoming and thoughtful. Beautifully appointed rooms, private baths, wonderful breakfast; 65 euros per room: www.planouquier.com (tell them Candace and Rick recommended them!).
Candace
WA USA Sun 11/12/2006
Hooray for Nicolas Inn
Positives:
- Location!
- Great rooms with lots of hot water
- Very frienly owners. They even looked up train schedules for us for the rest of our trip.
Cash only, no credit cards hence no discount for cash.
PS-Nicolas Inn is in Rome!
Al
USA Thu 11/09/2006
Castlebank Hotel,Conway Wales
Castlebank Hotel,Conway, Wales with its' 9 rooms should be called a B&B. Henrique came out to carry our luggage.A fabulous room, king bed,with breath taking view of the castle. Classical music in the library and dining area. Dinner by request. Henrique went to the butcher for our lamb chops! Our best stay in 18 days of England, Wales & Scotland. Gary and Barby, Denver, CO
Barby& Gary Hahn
Denver, CO USA Wed 11/08/2006
European B&B good surprises
I just posted about our recent 3 week trip and I failed to mention a wonderful stay at Esther Von Allmen's B&B in beautiful Gimmelwald, Switzerland. It is totally redecorated and much of the breakfast is home grown or from Esther's cows.
Also I failed to mention a highlight of our visit to Hallstatt, Austria. While dining at Gottfried Sulzbacher's Gruner Anger, we were suddenly startled to hear a group of about 20 at an adjacent table break into a wonderful Austrian harmony. It turned out the local choral society was celebrating a member's 80th birthday and they were excellent. I requested permission to videotape them and returned home with an authentic concert for repeat viewing. A great treat!
Richard Henley
Memphis, TN USA Wed 11/08/2006
B & B's
My wife Nancy and I just returned from a great 3 week trip to Europe (10/11/06 to 11/3/06) following Rick's guidebooks just about all the way. I wanted to give very special commendations to four outstanding B & B's in order of our stay:
The Royal Stewart in Brugge, Belgium, La Cour Ste Catherine in Honfleur, France, Gruner Anger in Hallstatt, Austria and Kloster Stuble in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. All of them went out of their way to live up to Rick's mention or recommendation.
Richard Henley
Memphis,, TN USA Wed 11/08/2006
Tuscany B&B,
Nestled in a quiet valley not fifteen minutes drive from the ancient and charming town of Castiglion Fiorentino, this elegantly designed, equipped, and decorated, Tuscan guest house ("B&B" hardly does justice) at which we spent a recent, blissful, week, almost defies belief: impeccable grounds; aromatic gardens; elegantly simple rooms (marvellous beds and linens) with luxuriously finished en-suite bathrooms; and a friendly dining room with an adjacent patio for al fresco dining. There is also a grand swimming pool and sun-deck, slightly above and behind the main buildings, looking out over the sun-drenched valley's olive groves to distant neighbours;
Our charming, erudite, and witty hosts, Terry and Marcello, were the icing on this lovely Tuscan cake. Helpful, attentive and ever-friendly, their recommendations, whether for evening restaurants or travel routes, were always just right! In the nearby town, thus, we discovered a full range of delightful family-run restaurants where, after a prior few expensive days in Rome, the modestly-priced yet excellent fare was a very pleasant surprise, although not to be missed is at least one of the twice-weekly, five-course dinners (at extra cost) offered at Casa Portagioia. Terry and Marcello also have a formidable wine-cellar. Nearby Castiglion Fiorentino railway station has a free car park and frequent, inexpensive trains to Florence (about an hour) and Rome (2hrs). Nearby, visit-worthy towns of Cortona, Siena, Arezzo and Montepulciano, to name only some, were all within easy day-tripping drives..
Having found Casa Portagioia's website, www.tuscanbreaks.com, through the typically modern medium of internet surfing, and having never been to Tuscany before, it seemed all the more remarkable when Terry and Jan, discovered, during a breakfast-time conversation, that they shared a mutual friend in U.K. from many years before. Small world, beautiful place, charming hosts.
Larry & Jan Sullivan
Richmond, B.C. Canada Tue 11/07/2006
B & B in Normandy
There is so much to see in the Normandy area, and Sally and Michael Byrne's La Thiaumerie B&B is the perfect base for one's holiday in this part of France. We stayed for a very enjoyable week, and are looking forward to visiting again. The house and the surrounding countryside are extremely beautiful, and it is very quiet. It is easy to visit the local towns and historical sites. Their website is www.vacances-normandes.co.uk/home07.htm
Charles A, Robinson
Lodi, CA USA Sun 11/05/2006
Bath, Keswick, London
Just back from a two-week trip to the UK. Stayed again at Brock's Guest House in Bath. Still the comfortable and sparkling B&B that I had remembered from three years ago. It is now under new management. Managers Debbie and Mike go out of their way to make your stay all that you could wish for. Nice fruit and yogurt at breakfast in additon to the full English option.
Keswick, Fell House, the good: spic and span, good breakfast, convenient location...the not so good: inadequate hot water (must be on a timer) forced one of us to get a bath at night and the other in the morning, even then the lukewarm water lasted barely long enough to rinse your hair. Just seemed to be a parsimonious air about the place.
London: stayed at Luna Simone Hotel near Victoria Station. I discovered Luna Simone from the positive comments they have received on Trip Advisor. We found it the be a great, safe location, quiet, neat and clean, firm matteress, and adequate hot water and forceful shower which were much appreciated after the experience in Keswick. Luna Simone is a family-run hotel and the "family" attitude shines through. Should be added to Rick's guide.
Marilyn Dixon
Raleigh, NC USA Thu 11/02/2006
Bed and Breakfast
Antibes,France :
Had a fabulous stay at" La Bastide de la Brague" in Anitbes on the French Riveria.
We were fortunate to find this impeccably cared for B&B which just opened in June 2006.
Isabelle and Franck head this family run business that bar none, was the best hospitality and generosity I have ever experienced in all my travels.
Reasonably priced, beautiful rooms,
gourmet meals, hosted by a family that made you feel right at home.
Please view their website :
http://bbchambreantibes.com
Bonnie Beed
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Wed 11/01/2006
Verona, Italy
L'Ospite Appartments/hotel, this is not a BB, but it has a kitchen, but I could'nt find where else to place it.
We just returned from Verona, Italy, we stayed at the comfortable L'Ospite, hotel apartment. Our very gracious and knowledgeable hostess, Federica de Rossi, gave us much information (fluent english). On the day before our return flight we found out that the Pope would be in town,in effect stopping all transportation. Federica got up early to drive us to the airport at 6 AM, we never would have made it without her.
George
Oregon City, OR USA 10/30/2006
George
Oregon City, OR USA Wed 11/01/2006
Recomendations for Rome, Siena and Venice
Just returned from a glorious two weeks in Italy. Three accomodations worth noting include Roman Rooms B & B in Rome, Albergo Bernini in Siena and Ca' Riccio Inn in Venice. Roman Rooms is conveninently located within a five minute walk of the main train station and is just footsteps away from a Metro station. Tom provided good tips on excellent sightseeing close to the B & B. He also went out of his way to assist with reservations for transportation from the airport for members of our group whose arrival was delayed. Once we found Albergo Bernini in Siena we were extremely pleased with the accomodations. Mauro even entertained us with his exceptional accordian playing one morning after breakfast. Their terrace was our favorite meeting point and we spent each night enjoying the view, the sounds and the wine. Ca' Riccio in Venice was a slice of heaven. Christiano speaks very good English. The rooms were immaculate and complete with Venetian glass chandeliers. Their location is a quiet reprieve from some of the more crowded and bustling areas of Venice. He was also most gracious in allowing us to store our luggage until early evening as we were departing on a night train.
http://www.albergobernini.com/,
http://www.cariccio.com/.
http://www.romanrooms.com/,
Tom E
Grapevine, TX USA Tue 10/31/2006
Bed & Breakfrest
We just got back from Italy and for our final week we stayed at Casa Portagioia,a
Bed & breakfastt in Tuscany. It was everything that we could have hoped for. Amazingly clean and the owners went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. Lovely area and close enough for easy field trips.
Bill & Sue Sipprell
Owen Sound, Ontari CAN Mon 10/30/2006
Rothenburg B&B
What a great experience we had in Rothenburg in September. We contacted Karin Weiss based on a comment on the Grafitti Wall. Karin rents rooms in her house and bends over backwards to be hospitable. We stayed in a "bakery-hotel" in Rothenburg last year, and this year's stay was far superior to that of last year. I will contact Karin any time I am able to get to Rothenburg in my travels. I only wish she had branch offices in Paris and/ or Munich!
Pat Nealy
she can be reached at KarinWeissRtbg@aol.com
Pat Nealy
Monkton, MD USA Sun 10/29/2006
Belgium B&B
Visitors to Brugges, Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp, should try the centrally located Vanherke B&B in Laarne, Belgium (near Ghent). Ingrid and Daniel offer two spotlessly clean cottages with modern bathrooms, refrigerator, stove,internet service, attractive private grounds (including lovely duck pond) and much more at very reasonable rates.
Lantz Lewis
San Diego, Calif USA Fri 10/27/2006
Casa Portagioia, Tuscany
Hi Guys, finally have a chance to reply and to thank you both again. We have been asked, "what was your favorite place to stay while in Italy?". Without a doubt, Casa Portagioia! You've captured what people are looking for in a Tuscan holiday and we truly appreciate all your work that makes it so. Also, your knowlege and recommendations of the region were extremely helpful and took a lot of pressure off. The where's and when's such as restaurant recommendations were memorable. But, above the hospitality, the beauty of Casa Portagioia, its the professionalism you show that makes you stand out. From the fine wine glasses, the farewell card, this welcome home e-mail, right up to the room upgrade. You both go the extra distance that people truly remember and appreciate. We have recommended and will continue to recommend to our friends and all we meet that if they want to experience and enjoy an authentic Tuscan holiday that your Bed & Breakfast is the place to be. Best of health and success, Tom & Sharon
Tom & Sharon Bozzanca
Ruskin, Fl. USA Thu 10/26/2006
Audley House, Cork
I had eaten something that gave me food poisoning and as I drove into Cork I realized I could go no further. I pulled in to Audley House and my friend ran up and asked if there was a vacancy for two rooms (since I was sick!)and explained the situation. Brenda immediately said come in and rushed to get an electric blanket to put under the sheets of my bed. She checked on me and when I finally emerged later that night made me tea and toast in front of the peat fire. A real port in a very sick storm and I am forever grateful to her.
Vicki Blake
Spring, Texas USA Mon 10/23/2006
Corte Campagne, Venice, Italy
Corte Campagne is an excellent choice for staying in Venice, Italy. It is well-priced, clean, quiet, comfortable and 5 min. from Piazzo San Marco (St. Mark's Square). The host, Riccardo, is bi-lingual,extremely knowledgeable and full of tips. His input definitely made our stay more enjoyable. I'd recommend this B&B to friends and family.
Ann Bush
Sebastopol, CA USA Mon 10/23/2006
Craig Park B & B; Bushmills, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland
From a night-before call for confirmation and directions, to a warm and cheerful greeting in the driveway, to casual conversation in the large and comfortable guest parlor, to a discussion of plans at the breakfast table, to photos and hugs all around upon departure, we felt that we were visiting our old friends, Jan & David Cheal, whom we hadn't seen in years, whose home just happened to be Craig Park B & B. Even if the location, the rooms and the food had been average, staying with Jan and David would have been a great experience. But, on the contrary, the setting was stunning, the views magnificent, the accommodations roomy and comfortable, and breakfast, especially Jan's secret-recipe waffles, to die for. Also, Ordnance Survey has a good customer in David and he is ready, willing and able to pull out his maps and help plan a variety of activities during your stay on the Antrim coast and throughout your stay in Ireland and beyond. In fact you will find that his "local" knowledge extends to a large part of the globe. Partly to accommodate travelers without a car, Rick recommends Portrush as the sleeping destination for the Antrim coast area of Northern Ireland, but if you do have a car and fancy a lovely home in the country with great views and great hosts, but just as close, or closer, to the area's major attractions, then you owe it to yourselves to stay a few miles away with Jan & David, truly our old friends now, at Craig Park B & B just outside the small town of Bushmills.
Ron & Kerry Petty
Bakersfield, CA USA Sun 10/22/2006
Amsterdam Lodge B and B
My wife and I stayed in the Amsterdam Lodge B and B in the de Jordaan area of Amsterdam. Anita was a superb host. De Jordaan area is about a 20 minute walk from Dam Square. De Jordaan is a residental area and it is very quiet. Anita bought fresh bread each day.I would stay there again.
Lou Budler
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Sam Rooms in Rome, Italy
We were moved to Sam Rooms (the new wing in conjunction with the Roman and Italian) and it was GREAT. Perfect location to walk to Colossum etc and even breakfast delivered to your room every morning! (toast, cereal, juice and coffee). The owners are really lovely and so helpful! They even booked us onto a tour bus of the city, so really go out of their way to make your stay in Rome comfortable. Rooms are very secure and clean. Would definately go back to this hotel!
Emma Jones
New Zealand Sun 10/22/2006
sleeping in England, Germany, Austria
We've just returned from a great trip and I'd like to share our accomodation experiences with you. Beverley, UK, near York -Minster Garth Guest House -beautifully decorated, breakfast in your room, temporarily have to climb the fire escape but that's being resolved with a refurbished staircase, no heat or hot water.
Slipper Cottage in Montacute, UK, beautiful village near Yeovil, in Somerset: tiny but very nice and homey, wonderful hosts, voluntarily helped us with the family tree and printed out several pages from his computer.
Guesthouse Flemming in Rothenburg from Rick's book was lovely but when our flight to Germany was first cancelled, then rescheduled 7 hours later, I phoned to let them know we'd be arriving after midnight. Mrs. Flemming gave us a very cold reception when we finally arrived at 12:30 a.m.
Hotel Jakoberhof in Augsberg, Germany was nice and large but no heat or hot water. We were told we had a phone in our room, but when we had no dial tone, we realized then were no wires connecting the phone!
Das Beck in Reutte, Austria was our favorite hotel, another of Rick's recommendations -had heat, hot water, large, beautiful location and very friendly hosts.
Despite any negative comments, I'd stay at any of these again, except Hotel Flemming.
Carol Culig
Tillsonburg, ON Canada Sat 10/21/2006
Bath B&B
Mind fogging dental pain forced us to cut short our day trip to Avebury and go back to the Radnor Guest House, our B&B in Bath. Within 45 minutes of explaining the problem to the proprietor, I was in the dentist's chair. Peter Briggs called his own dentist, secured an urgent appointment, and called the cab. I was better within hours. Bravo for compassionate care from a wonderful B&B in a wonderful city. www.radnorguesthouse.co.uk
Peter Detwiler
Sacramento, CA USA Sat 10/21/2006
Bella Casa Capellini
We traveled to the Cinque Terra late September 2006 for a week stay. What a delight to find our little top-floor apartamento so charming.While small, especially the bathroom, we couldn't have been cozier. The terrace offers a 360 degree view of sea, town and vineyards. We booked this studio apartment directly with Gianni (who we never met) via their website based on Rick Steve's guidebook. At 64 Euros a night this is a real bargain for spendy Italy. We called Franca from Siena to advise the time of our arrival and there she was as we arrived at her door, hanging the laundry. She spoke very little English but was gracious. When we met her in the streets of Manarola, she always bid us a friendly Ciao! Please be advised that Casa Capellini is not a hotel! If you are expecting daily maid service or the assistance of a concierge, this place is not for you. We had read some negative comments about poor service from the Capellinis. The rented rooms are part of their home and they are not professional hotel staffers and shouldn't be expected to be travel coordinators. We liked Manarola best of all the Cinque Terra towns. Every evening we traveled back, either by trail or rail to our little Italian paradise on the hill overlooking the sea and town. The walk up the hill and the four floors to our rooms were steep, but short. The discomfort of the walk up was quickly erased by the stunning views. By the end of our stay, the clerks at the Co-op grocery store knew us by sight and always smiled at our feeble attempts to speak Italian. We loved the delicious cheese, cheap wine, and ever present pesto and foccacia bread. We were sad to leave, but glad that our first trip to Italy ended with a week at Casa Capellini.
Quinn-Bell
Seattle, WA USA Thu 10/19/2006
B&B in Prague
Carpe Diem in Prague
Once you climb the 5 flights of stairs, you will be treated to a wonderful stay. Macela and her Mother will treat you like family, and Moma will even serve breakfast in bed. The price is great too. We are going to stay again on our next trip.
Contact Info. www.bedandbreakfastprague.com
Barb Thayer
Albany, OR USA Thu 10/19/2006
TUSCANY - DOLCE TOSCANA B&B
We just returned from a 2-week trip to Rome and Tuscany--and I am not sure I want to share all our wonderful secret places, for fear they will be overrun and lose their magic! Ah well, for my fellow Rick Steves travelers I will at least share my wonderful experience at the Dolce Toscana B&B near Montescudaio, 2 hrs north of Rome near the Tuscan coast. Silvia and Charles went above and beyond to make our trip special. They provided us information on local sights, gave us great advice on how to tackle everything we wished to see, and were just great hosts. Silvia even took us to town on several occasions--she introduced us to the kind folks in the local towns, showed us where to shop and eat (which is important to know when you are this far out in the country), and guided us to some lovely, out-of-the-way restaurants that we never would have found had we explored the area on our own. She also arranged a wine tour for us with a very knowledgeable local sommelier. Even the little details were wonderful and memorable: fresh fig preserves and tomatoes from their garden, the wonderful little dish of ground herbs for the bread they brought daily, the delicious local olive oil, the nice big towels (and great bathrooms!)...
The location of the Inn is stunning--if the views and the local food & wine aren't enough to tempt you, the kind hospitality of Silvia and Charles might do the trick! I suppose they won't mind if I post their website: www.dolce-toscana.com.
Happy travels!
Jennifer
Nashville, TN USA Thu 10/19/2006
Villa Margherita
It is the doorway to the Garden of Eden. I would highly recommend. The view of the sunset from our third floor balcony was exquisite.
Request rm. # 4.
CL
Houston, TX USA Tue 10/17/2006
Forus Inn
Nice accommodations and very roomy. I thought they were 007 as it is a refurbished apartment on 2nd floor. However, the Jacuzzi bath jets were moldy and the walls are paper thin. Woken up several times to cell phone conversations of neighbors, rush hour traffic (7am) and the rumbling of the subway 2 floors below us... If not noise adverse would recommend.
CL
Houston, TX USA Tue 10/17/2006
Roman Italian guest house in Rome
We loved this B&B. The owners Marco and Maddie really make you feel at home, and have good recommendations for local cafes and things to do. They even offer a taxi service to get you to or from the airport comfortably. The room was very nice and was quiet, even though it is located on a very busy street. The shared bathroom was very nice, and there are only three rooms, so using the bathroom and shower was never really a problem. They have a computer available in the shared room and even have wireless internet available in the rooms. When we return to Rome again, we will deffinetly be staying with Marco and Maddie!
Russell DeLaire
USA Mon 10/16/2006
Great Accomodations in Brugge
I would highly recommend the Debruyne B&B. Marie-Rose was a super help to me. I had failed to confirm my stay (I thought I had), so on the night before leaving I found out that there was only one night available, but Marie-Rose made arrangements for me for the other 2 nights at the Royal Stewart B&B.
Maggie, at the Royal Stewart, is just terribly charming and so very helpful. It was delightful to stay at her place, too.
Ann
Dayton, OH USA Sun 10/15/2006
Do Not Stay at Hotel Olivedo
I had booked a room with a "great lake view" 3 months ago in Varenna. When I arrived the owner, Laura, said she had a room with a "little view". The "view" was from the attic from a 4 inch windo on the ground. One would have to lay down on the floor and stick ones head out the window to catch a glimpse of the lake.
When we approaced her with her email confirmation she became confrontational and told us we had 30 minutes to find another place or we would be charged for the room. Her attitude was horrendous. We found a lovely place to stay with a lake front view for 45 euros less a night than Olivedo. I would recommend Villa Cipressi anyday over Ricks listing of Albergo Olivedo. Save your money and a headache do NOT stay at Olivedo.
CA USA Sun 10/15/2006
B&B ST. CIRQ LAPOPIE
On a recent trip to ST. Cirq we had the pleasure of staying at a terrific B&B right in the village.
Phillippe and Marisa Campoli
lopeirolevado@wanadoo.fr
www.lopeirolevado.net
I had made an error in reserving a B&B with Mme Balmes who told me she was within walking distance of the village when in actuality she was 10km up hill from it.
In arriving back at the tourist info after this mix-up they found us accommodation with Phillippe and Marisa. What a delightful couple. The following morning we were heading for Lourdes so rather than having us taking a bus to Cahors, Phillippe offered to drive us to Toulouse because Marisa was taking a flight from there. They even stayed with us while we got our next part of the journey sorted out.
Please visit this area - it is worth it and stay with Phillippe and Marisa.
Jewell
Calgary, Canada Sun 10/15/2006
KARIN'S - ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER
Again Karin outdid herself to make us feel welcome. This was my fifth time to her house.
WHY IS SHE NOT IN YOUR BOOK!!!!!!!!!
We met a couple at the train station looking for a place to stay and they ended up staying at Karin's after my suggestion. Both of them told me at breakfast the following morning they were staying an extra night at Karin's and could not praise Karin enough for her excellent service.
Jewell
Calgary, Canada Sun 10/15/2006
Great B&B in London
I recently completed a 10 day trip to England, and planned the trip around Rick's guidebooks. I wanted to spend about a week in London, and found that most of the B&Bs that Rick recommends were booked. After careful online research, I found the Victor Hotel, and would like to recommend the Victor Hotel at 51 Belgrave Road, London, to Rick's readers. It is a great little place...5 minutes from Victoria Station, incredibly clean, with a very good continental breakfast (cereal, fruit, juice, toast, coffee/tea). I had an ensuite twin room and paid 65 pounds a night.
Connie Hamilton
Newtown Square, PA USA Sun 10/15/2006
Colquhoun Guest House
COLQUHOUN GUEST HOUSE - EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
My cousin and I spent 5 weeks in Scotland, and only planned to stay one with Grace and Jim at the Colquhoun Guest House, but we ended up spending four out of five weeks there. Grace and Jim are absolutely the best people to stay with, full of information about Edinburgh, and also other areas in Scotland. Always helping us with directions, how to save money, and taking us to the airport at 6:00 am in the morning. We would not have had half the fun we did have without their kind assistance and smiling tolerance of our bags of "stuff" we kept bringing in and attempting to get into our bags. Anyone who wants to feel welcome in Scotland should take note and go stay with Grace.
Lilian Young
Hamilton Square, NJ USA Sat 10/14/2006
Florence, Italy – Il-Poggiolo B&B
Adding a whole new dimension to the rich cultural experience that is Florence (and every bit as rich) was our 4 day stay with Graziella Camilloni at her Il-Poggiolo B&B (www.il-poggiolo.it). We took an immediate liking to her when she picked us up at the bus stop and drove us to her B&B located in the hill country about 6 km (4 miles) from the city center. The tranquility of this location was perfect – a relief from the downtown crowds. It's a small farm (olive trees, horses and 3 friendly dogs) that is reasonably well served by local bus. Be it explaining local customs, making museum reservations, driving us around (there was a 1 day bus strike when we were there), Graziella handled it all with grace. As a "for instance" she made dinner reservations at a local restaurant, drove us there and back, escorted us inside to our table, said something unintelligible to the staff that all led to a very memorable meal with an idyllic view of the city in the valley below. Moreover, she did it all again 2 nights later! Be it on the small local bus, in the deli in the nearby town or at the neighborhood eateries, you will absolutely connect with the locals while staying at Il-Poggiolo. It's a perfect location if you're planning 2 or more nights in Florence. (If you plan only 1 night, then change your plans!)
Doug Parker
Abbotsford, BC Canada Fri 10/13/2006
European B&Bs
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil - A magic highlight of our recent visit to France.
Florence, our hostess, welcomed us every morning with fresh croissants and delicious homemade jams. She helped plan our 3 days in the Loire. However dinner with Florence was magnificent. We can highly recommend the experience. It is also very good value. Blere is a great central spot to explore the Loire Valley and its castles.
David Bennett
Sydney, Australia Fri 10/13/2006
Florence, Italy - Terrace with a View!
Soggiorno La Cupola is a a perfect place for the budget traveler who is more interested in experiencing Firenze than experiencing the room. Rooms are clean, small and basic, and a great value considering outstanding location. Vouchers are given for a small, family-run cafe nearby and allow you a typical "Italian" breakfast of cappucino and a pastry.
The B&B is short walk from the main train station, and very close to all of important attractions - The Duomo, St. Maria Novella, Ponte Vecchio, The Uffizi Gallery, etc. Cafes, restaurants, shopping and gelatarias all nearby.
The proprietor, Antonio is very gracious host, supplying you with a complimentary bottle of Chianti and pointing the way the the rooftop terrace which offers outstanding views of this beautiful city! Do NOT miss this!
Dyana
Portland, OR USA Thu 10/12/2006
Casa Portagioia - Tuscany
Our recent stay at Casa Portagioia in Castiglion Fiorentino, IT was the highlight of our 22 day European vacation. The innkeepers went above and beyond in every aspect -- warm companionship, food, wine savvy, day-trip planning, immaculate rooms with sweet smelling linens. The best B&B I've ever stayed at. The views and surroundings were magnificent. I give this B&B my highest recommendation.
Ethel Alexaner
Chocowinity, NC USA Wed 10/11/2006
Excellent B&B Rome „Finestre sul Vaticano"
We had a very pleasant stay at the excellent B&B „Finestre sul Vaticano". The B&B is perfect in term of comfort and location. Max and Lavinia are great host. They both are always ready to help for arrangements and transportation. They demonstrated a great hospitality. (few meters from the Subway station and nice Italian restaurants). We will strongly recommend friends to stay there. It was a real pleasure! www.romabandb.it
Mike
Chicago, IL USA Tue 10/10/2006
Cozy, romantic & delicious breakfast at Loes B&B Amsterdam
Our B&B in Amsterdam was a true find and we never would have found it without Rick Steves, though this isn't in the book. One of his reccomendations, though very nice, couldn't accomodate our foursome but referred us to gorgeous B&B canal side close to Anne Frank House and Central Station.
www.wildervanck.com Helene Blok and Sjoerd Wildervanck Wildervanck Bed & Breakfast
referred us to Loes (woman's name) and the only way we could reach Loes was through the Wildervanck B&B.
Our room was $120 a night in cash (yes, pricy but so worth it) and we had our own private attached bathroom, large bed with very comfortable bedding and canal view. They also have a separate wing with a small living room!
Basically they are a normal family whose two grown daughters moved out and so now on the weekend Loes rents out their rooms and makes a traditional Dutch breakfast complete with amazing breads and pastries, gouda cheese, eggs and coffee.
Our of all our travels this was by far the best B&B we stayed at. Please patronize and be friendly.
(Oh, the only slightly annoying thing is how damn difficult it is to operate the front door lock with the key they supply you. It took us 10 minutes almost each time, and longer after visiting a coffee shop! hah!)
LA Woman
Los Angeles, CA USA Tue 10/10/2006
Antica Torre - Siena
Looking for a truly "Tuscan" B&B and a room with a view of Siena and the nearby Tuscan hills? This is your place! Please do be aware however, that in order to have the to-die-for view, you must be willing to climb about eight flights of stairs, however, the payoff is well worth it!
Antica Torre is a uniquely Tuscan B&B offering all the comforts of home, without losing it's rustic charm. Located in a 16th century tower with wood beamed ceilings and warm light, Antica Torre sits on a quiet side street, with a short walk to the Campo, and close to many trattorias and cafes.
The owner, Patriza is very helpful with calling you a cab to the train station, checking train schedules for you, and helping you get around Siena.
I will definitely be back!
Dyana
Portland, OR USA Sun 10/08/2006
Ireland B&Bs recommended
Near Dublin,Windsor Lodge in Sandycove very comfortable with great breakfast. While there, the 12 year proprietors put the B&B up for auction.
Cashel: If B&Bs near the Rock are full, check out Gort Na Cloc. It's in the country, very quite, with terrific hosts and breakfast.
Kenmare: River Meadows is on the Ring of Kerry about 2 km outside Kenmare. Eileen is terrific with great stories (ask about John Travolta) with nice, quiet accommodations.
Dingle: As everyone has experienced, the Milestone House was a real treat. Barbara gave each guest individual tour guidance sitting down with a map. Michael's breakfasts are wonderful. 3 cheers!
Doolin: A nice little village with great music. I enjoyed McDermott's pub a lot. See if you can catch Tara and Eimear, two young sisters with quite the talent. No CDs yet, but wait! For lodging, Dubhlinn House afforded the largest room and bathroom--a family operation with a fine breakfast.
Our suggestions represent a mere smattering of what's available. These were enjoyable, quiet, and friendly.
Steve Payne
Olympia, WA USA Sat 10/07/2006
George Green Farm near Stansted Airport
If you are traveling through Stansted airport, or even if you are not, Doug and Marie at George Green Farm (www.georgegreenfarm.co.uk) are wonderful hosts. Part of their service is free pick-up and drop off at the rail station and/or Stansted Airport, which is about 10 miles away from the B&B. My husband and I spent an extra day in the area and our hosts even ran us to and from the station so we could explore nearby Cambridge.
The ample breakfast included wonderful farm fresh eggs and dinners next door at the George pub were gastro-pub quality without the price. Highly recommended!
Martha and David
Rohnert Park, CA USA Sat 10/07/2006
Provence
We spent 18 days in Provence in September 2006.We stayed at a B and B noted on the graffiti site and we loved it.It is at www.maspomona.com.This is a lovely completely refurbished 200 year home near Cheval Blanc and Cavaillon.This is at the foot of the Luberon mountains in the heart of Provence.Marianne and David are terrific hosts ensuring that you have travel plans for the many day trips and also local dinner spots that are only 10 minutes away.We stayed only 3 nights and would like to return for a week.This location is perfect for many day trips.
Jan Moore
Ocala, Fla USA Sat 10/07/2006
Provence, France B & B
/after seven delightful trips to beautiful Provence we have found the perfect B & B! La Petite Provence is located in the tiny village of Lirac in the heart of the Rhone valley. Operated by an Irish flight attendant and her French chef husband they charge 60 Euros for a charming room with bath. Their website is www.lapetiteprovence.net
diana mendenhall
pleasanton, CA USA Sat 10/07/2006
Bruges B & B
Just returned from a fabulous trip. A highlight was the Royal Stewart Bed & Breakfast in Bruges. Maggie was a delightful host. We wished that we would have stayed longer than just one night!
Beth Hansen-Overmyer
Mooresville, NC USA Fri 10/06/2006
Straven Guest House Edinburgh
We highly recommend The Straven Guest House to anyone visiting Edinburgh.
It is tastefully decorated and incredibly clean. We appreciated the lovely guest lounge across from our bedroom. The breakfast was all that one could ask for in a Scottish breakfast and to top it off the host was multilingual! A perfect spot
a half a block from the ocean!
Gale and Frank
Oakville, on canada Thu 10/05/2006
Ardconnel House
We have just returned from an ancestral heritage trip to Scotland, Norway and Denmark. I would love to keep Scotland a secret, but John and Elizabeth at Ardconnel House in Inverness, Scotland were such endearing hosts that I feel it unfair of me not to let people know of their gracious hospitlity. John cooked a hardy breakfast each morning, that was more than adequate to keep us going all day, while Elizabeth kept us well informed about Scotland and Inverness with her friendly manner. Ahh, Inverness what a beautifully situated town on the banks of the Loch Ness, I could have stayed on the bridge all evening watching the sunset on this historically picturesque town/city. The Highlands hold many stories of the land going from the hands of one clan to another, and from one country to another. And, oh those wonderfully colorful Tartan plaids, bagpipes and kilts that added to the majic of Scotland. My one disappointment was not being able to see a Highlad cow with their hidden faces behind all that curly hair. We will definetly be returning to the Highlands to continue to seek out my heritage and become more familiar with the land and it's jovial friendly people. So keep the light burning John and Elizabeth.....
Bob&Chris
Talent, Oregon USA Wed 10/04/2006
NORMANDY B&B
My husband and I just returned from a 2 week trip to France. We enjoyed a 3 night stay at La Ferme du Pressoir in Villers Bocage France. It is a working farm and our host Odile was wonderful! She speaks little English but communicates very well. She recommended great restaurants, itineraries, routes, etc. Each morning she goes into town for fresh pastries, cheese, etc. We were also lucky enough to have fresh eggs each morning from her chickens! Be sure to ask for a tour of the farm. The rooms are immaculate and huge! We stayed in Chambre Rose but she has more rooms in the cottage. Location is ideal; 20 min. to Bayeux and Caen, 45 min. to Mont. St. Michel, 30 min. to D-Day beaches. Villers Bocage is a cute little town with shops, restaurants, grocery store, etc. This was the highlight of our trip! www.bandbnormandie.com/
Jenny
Seattle, WA USA Tue 10/03/2006
Murren, Bavaria, Rohtenburg, Hallstatt
Just got back from our amazing trip in Europe. We just have to mention some wonderful hosts of guest house/ B &B's we stayed in.
Murren, Switzerland - Bob's Chalet - Albert and Kitty are the Best! The most helpful and kind hosts. Best views. Albert even played his alphorn for me - amazing! This chalet is a must if you are staying in Murren!!
Rothenburg ODT Germany- The Family Froehlich is very friendly and genuine. Mrs. Froehlich speaks some English. Even though Mr. Froehlich does not speak English, he was very accommodating by indicating that we could park our car in their courtyard after he picked up the wood and that we could go out to see the town while he made our room ready, since we were there early. A good breakfast was brought up to us in a basket and spread out in our small kitchen. The room had a bedroom, sofa, bathroom, and tiny kitchen. It was a good bargain, especially for it's location near the town center.
Bavaria - Pension Albrecht was a fantastic location - right under the castle, Neuschwanstein. (Lovely at night.) And just a couple of blocks from the tour center but still nice and quiet.
Hallstatt, Austria - Pension Sarstien -Great place - balcony, one of few grass areas to relax on.
The Schwangers
Lancaster, PA USA Mon 10/02/2006
B&B in Rome
Roman Rooms in Rome is fabulous!! The rooms are very clean, well taken care of, and have plenty of space to tuck away all of your luggage. It is centrally located and near a metro stop!! I just stayed there for 5 nights and had a wonderful experience!! Tom (the owner) was well informed and helpful but didn't get in our way. Breakfast was wonderful and exactly what we needed!! I would definetly stay here again!! Rick needs to add this charming B&B to his book!! Tom's contact info is info@romanrooms.com.
Anne
Arlington, VA USA Mon 10/02/2006
B&Bs in Cambridge
Rick doesn't recommend any B&Bs in Cambridge, because he doesn't think it's worth staying over night. But we need to stay there one night, because it's on the way to our next stop. I would appreciate any recommendations.
Elizabeth Hokanson
Heber City, UT USA Sun 10/01/2006
Great Barcelona B&B
the Hotel Suite Gaudi in Barcelona was an excellent deal. With high ceilings breakfast in the room, super clean, small balconies, and only a block away from La Ramblas, this place was great. The manager was extremely friendly and chatted us up for all our recommendations on where to visit in the US. Highly recommended.
Kelly & Alisa
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Rothenburg -- we second the recommendation
We second the recommendation for Hans and Karen Weiss in Rothenburg, Germany. She was the best, and so damned spry for an older lady. Also, word of advice, skip the "Romantic Bus" -- it was a complete waste of money and highly un-romantic, and we'd have been happier staying in one of the small towns along the way instead.
Kelly and Alisa
santa barbara, CA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Food Hospitality in Czech Rep.
although there is lots of good well priced food in Prague, "Banditos" across from Miss Sophie's Hostel has some excellent Tex-mex, and cold Budvar. The owners are friendly former Americans who moved to Prague for family. Friendly service and excellent Tex Mex.
Kelly & Alisa
santa barbara, ca USA Sun 10/01/2006
Como perfection
The Torno Allariva bed and breakfast was one of the best B&Bs on our 2 month Euro-excusrion. With a small Gelato bar, and beer on tap downstairs, the hosts were some of the friendliest of our tri-p. Located right on the water in Torno, I recommend this sleepy B&B to anyone. The rooms were good sized, and clean as can be. They are new, and they don't have a website yet. Their phone is 0039031419150.
Kelly
Santa Barbara, CA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Woodville House; Anne Toalster
Anyone staying in Bath, England has to stay with Anne Toalster at Woodville House. It was like going home to grandma's. I have never stayed with anyone as nice or who made me feel more at home. I was not feeling well and she made me feel comfortable. I would go to Bath again just to stay with Anne. We loved Anne.
Margie Martinson
Willowbrook, IL USA Sun 10/01/2006
Griffin Inn, Ruthin, Wales
My husband and I stopped here late one Sunday night. Not only did the owners find room for us they then asked us what they could make us for dinner! The atmosphere of the inn was wonderful with many friendly locals. I would definitely recommend it to anyone traveling to that area.
Kerri
Santa Rosa, CA USA Sat 09/30/2006
Arles B&B
We just returned from Arles France using this location as the hub to venture out into Provence. We stayed at an incredible B&B where our hosts were warm and courteous. They only have two bedrooms available which are charming, spiffy clean and homey. Because they have no email and aren't officially on the web, they are under the radar. Their rates are inexpensive...only 50 euros/night with breakfast. The location is in the old town and central to all of Rick Steves recomended restraunts. Ten minutes walk to the but/train station and the car rental. You may find it in the web at www.fleurs-soleil.tm.fr/crans-maisons/voyage/13-vernassa.htm or phone 04.90.93.93.47. Jean-Pierre speaks english, Sylvie does not.
clark montgomery
lakewood, w USA Sat 09/30/2006
Willows Lodge, Kenmare Ireland
It seemed I had messed up my reservations and gone to the wrong Willows Lodge B&B, very much out of the way from the proper one. When I arrived at the one in Kenmare, the hostess was absolutely wonderful. She called the other B&B (by the same name) and canceled my reservation for me and since she didn't have any space to accomadate my parents and I, she called a fellow B&B friend. (This lady was also absolutely wonderful. She's around the corner and its call the Finnehey Lodge, also in Kenmare. This B&B was fantastic too and the hostess a gem. The Finnehey Lodge was absolutely charming. Thank you Agnes for your care and thank you for sending me my forgotten camera chip. Your the best)
The owners of the Willow Lodge even helped us with sorting out a flat tire on our rental car.
Thanks to both of my hosts at the Willow Lodge and Finnehy Lodge in Kenmare, Ireland. These two ladies (and their husbands) did everything in their power to help.
Meg
Long Island, NY USA Fri 09/29/2006
Number 40, York, UK
Dilys Billingham at Number 40 in York, England was the perfect hostess. She provided wonderful breakfasts and great touring hints. Their home is very close to downtown York and the best possible place to stay in that city. We thoroughly enjoyed our 3 days there.
Bob and Donna Johnson
Hendersonville, NC USA Thu 09/28/2006
Great Cotswold B and B
We spent four wonderful days at one of the best B and B's we've ever experienced. David and Jane Povey at the Bramley House were all one could hope for--personable, caring and efficient. Jane took care of my ailing wife like she was a member of the family and provided the best stay ever. If in the vicinity of Chipping Campden, you'll never be disappointed here.
Bob and Donna Johnson
Hendersonville, NC USA Thu 09/28/2006
AmarAgua Guest House, Edinburgh Scotland
This was by far the best B&B of our holiday in the UK! Outstanding, friendly, clean, tastefully decorated right down to the fresh flower arrangements by the owners, Dawn Ann & Tony. Fresh cut fruit was a welcome addition to their excellent breakfast fare demonstrating how much effort is put into doing a caring, and professional job. Also, we were greeted warmly upon arrival and bid a fond farewell the day we left...a warm, human touch of sincerity for the traveler in a foreign land and a very good feeling. To put it simply, this guest house was adorable! Consequently, our memories of Edinburgh will always be pleasant ones.
So, we would highly recommend this B&B and its proprietors to anyone staying in Edinburgh, Scotland and only wish they all could have been such wonderful places.
Deby & Ken Seaman
Danville, CA USA Tue 09/26/2006
Dingle Town, Ireland
My husband and I stayed at the Heaton House in Dingle Town last week and what a pleasure it was!!! Nuala and Cameron are just wonderful. The room and bath was large by any standards, the breakfast was the best we had in all of Ireland . . . I can still taste the porridge and kippers . . . yum. It was right on the water with the most spectacular view with an easy 10-minute walk from the city centre. It's just far enough away to be quiet for a good night sleep but close enough that you can leave the car behind. It's simply perfect and we will return! We just flew back from Ireland yesterday and I just booked the airline tickets for our next trip!!! We'll stick to the west coast next time as it was our favorite. In addition, you must, I mean must take the drive around the peninsula!! Follow Rick's suggestions from the guide book, but be careful as he indicates stops or things to look for in miles and the odometer in the rental was in kilometers, so we kept thinking we were missing things until we realized. Also, as he suggests, read it completely through - drive and passenger - before you leave so that you don't spend time reading rather than enjoying every minute of the scenery. Rain or shine, it's truly memorable. The pubs are all just grand. For a nice dinner, Out of the Blue is good. (I'm a food snob & a PT professional cook, so that's saying a lot). The best meal outside of the Heaton's or Out of the Blue is simply raw oysters and mussels (in any fashion) with a pint in almost any pub.
Kristen Americk
Bayonne, NJ USA Mon 09/25/2006
Villa Margherita-Levanto-Best B&B
We stayed at Villa Margherita in 2005 and we enjoyed it so much we went back again in 2006. If you have difficulty walking, the entire region will be challenging because of the hills. Villa Marherita was very enjoyable and relaxing. The hospitality and friendliness was wonderful - Federico and his family were there for everything we needed. We hate to give out our secret, but the apartment is spacious and very private. We highly recommend staying at Villa Margherita and the town of Levanto is wonderful.
Sue & Bill Kane
Livermore, CA USA Sun 09/24/2006
Spelling correction: it's
In my previous post, I extolled "Athos B&B." That's spelling in the confirmation e-mail from the booking agent. Here's the correct spelling, along with full contact information, from the business card of the proprietors.
Bed and Breakfast "Atos"; Via Milazzo 23 Int. 23; 00185 Roma (Italy);
Tel. 3291688296;
Tel. 064460031 - 368288879(alternates?);
Fax 064959411;
www.atoshome.com;
info@atoshome.com
Michael Knoll
Seattle, WA United States Sat 09/23/2006
Rome, Italy -- Athos B&B -- great value
Athos B&B, Via Milazzo 23, Rome (Tel +39 329 168 8296) was a great value and is conveniently located one block northeast of Roma Termini, the city's transportation hub. For 69.50 Euros a night, I got a modern, newly remodeled, tastefully appointed, and spotlessly clean hotel-like room with two twin beds, air conditioning, and a voucher for morning coffee and two delicious pastries at a cafe across the street. Less than a block away was a laundromat that included a half hour of Internet access in its 9-Euro charge to wash and dry a load of clothes. I found Athos B&B on www.cross-pollinate.com, a booking service recommended in Rick Steves' Italy 2006 book. The friendly proprietress, Gabriella, spoke little English, and I spoke only a bit of Italian, but it was enough to get me comfortably settled. Despite the noise of its bustling neighborhood, the room was astonishingly quiet. I was 100 percent satisfied.
Michael Knoll
Seattle, WA United States Sat 09/23/2006
Rome - Hotel Sileo
This is a great place to stay and is a great value. However, if you are arriving late, double and triple check on the late arrival procedures. We had arranged for a late check-in due to a late flight. Keys were to be left at a 24 hour hotel in the same building one floor below. When we arrived, there were no keys and no one to answer the phone or bell at Hotel Sileo, even though I had confirmed my reservation and had a printed copy of the email with me. The 24 hour hotel was full and trying to find a hotel past midnight in Rome was an adventure. We had reservations for 3 nights and were able to stay there the last 2 nights, but the first night was a bundle of errors on Hotel Sileo's part.
Charles Nance
Columbus, Ohio USA Fri 09/22/2006
Bath--Henry Guest House
After years of reading great reviews of the Henry Guest House in Bath, I have finally stayed there. Liz and Steve, the new owners, couldn't be nicer or more helpful. It fit nicely into my budget at 35 GBP for a single. I walked everywhere from there, shopped at the nearby Marks and Spencer, trekked along the canal, and had lunch around the corner at the Manvers Street Baptist Church. Liz set up a couple of tours for me; they held my luggage when I was coming and going.
Swan
USA Tue 09/19/2006
Sam Rooms ,Rome,Italy
This place was so pretty. We had booked to stay in the Itlain place but we stayed in sams b&b. the building looks really old from the outside but when the door opens to sams b&b, i was so suprised, it was lovely. the room had a flat screen tv, air con and it was really modern. great value for money. The metro outside was not working but there is one right down the road. we were about five minutes walk from the roman forum. Beside the b&b there was a shop/bar and the sandwiches and coffee were amazing and the staff were really hot and friendly because one night we couldnt get a taxi so they ordered us one! also the rooms were so clean, so clean i could eat my dinner off the ground, plus clean towels everyday.. so going to stay here next year.
Shirley English
Ireland Sun 09/17/2006
B&B in Provence
L'Ecole Buissonniere near Vaison La Romaine is as good as all the nice things you read about it. John goes out of his way to be helpful and friendly. We went for one day and stayed for three. Fortunately there was room in early September. We sent friends there and they also loved it. It's a great base for exploring the area by day. We returned to the nearby village of Villedieu for fun dinners in the square. We enjoyed the tapas from the cafe the most. L'Ecole Buissonniere is a sure fire hit. We plan to return with other friends next summer.
Walter D. Harris
Bryn Mawr, PA USA Fri 09/15/2006
Willow Corner - Near Stratford-upon-Avon
Trish & Allen are the gracious hosts at Willow Corner, located about 7.5 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon: http://www.willowcorner.co.uk/
Since Willow Corner is in the tiny town of Armscote it is a great place to stay if you have rented a car.
We stayed for 4 nights and were sorry to leave. The bed was supremely comfortable and the room was nicely decorated. There was a full coffee & tea service in the room and along with homemade cookies (biscuits!) each day. It is the most cozy & charming place we have ever stayed.
We paid 64 GBP a night and that included a wonderful breakfast consisting of: fresh fruit, juice, yogurt, cereal & milk, a fried egg, bacon (our ham), sausage, grilled tomato & mushrooms. Trish made her own bread so each morning we had a choice of white or wheat toast made fresh on the premises. The coffee was french-pressed & plentiful.
Armscote is a quite town of about 3 roads. As we drove "home" in the evenings we saw people out for an evening ride on their horses. If you visit the Willow Corner web site you will see that it has a thatched roof. You are truly in the English Countryside when you stay with Trish & Allen.
We used Willow Corner as our base to see Warwick Castle, Blenheim Palace, other Cotswold villages & take in a play in Stratford. (Much Ado About Nothing). There are also dinner cruises in Stratford, but we didn't manage to squeeze one in.
We highly recommend Willow Corner as a relaxing & charming place to stay. We took pictures of our room, so if you're interested let us know and we will send them to you.
Susan
Port Orchard, WA USA Thu 09/14/2006
La Palma B&B in Orvieto, Italy
We stumbled into Orvieto without reservations - all of my phone calls from Rome to the hotels had been met with an unequivocal "No". It turns out we were arriving the last night of big religious holiday so the town was pretty booked.
I set off to find us a room and about 100 yards from the train station up Via Cavour I saw a little "Camere" sign in the window of a restaurant. I asked and was shown a couple of different rooms in the second story of the converted house behind the restaurant and was offered (especially after Rome prices) a very low rate for any room I wanted.
With the exception of a view the rooms at La Palma were everything you would want from an Italian B&B. Giant antique furniture, ridiculous Venetian chandeliers, big skeleton style keys that swim in the locks and a huge (shared) modern tiled bathroom. Despite the homey kitchen in the house section we were served breakfast in the restaurant downstairs in the morning. (They ask you for a time when you check in.)
There are 5 or 6 rooms and I can see it being noisy if they all were filled (only two were when we were there) but it is very Italian and that's exactly what we wanted. It is on the far end of town from the "sights" but the town is tiny and walking the town is about all there is to do anyway after seeing the Duomo. La Palma is above the first restaurant with a patio area up via Cavour from the funicular station. I don't have an address but the handwritten receipt I have lists both 0763/341630 and 0763/360840. Their English is sparse but as per usual in Italy our shared desire for the same goal easily overcame the language barrier.
Orvieto was wonderful and this place is exactly what we wanted.
=Tod
Tod Kukyendall
San Diego, CA USA Thu 09/07/2006
Above and Beyond
My boyfrind and I stayed at the Priestville B&B in Edinburgh with some friends that were visiting us from the States. Colin was fantastic in helping us with last minute accomodation for two nights. He stayed up late to greet us and was very welcoming of our dog. He also provided us with a great deal of information about the sights in the area and packed us a breakfast as we had to be on the road very early one morning. The service was warm and personal and each room was unique. I will definitely stay here again on my next visit.
Cindi Hunnewell
Hillingdon , UK Thu 09/07/2006
Straven Guesthouse
We would highly recommend the Straven Guesthouse. It's proximity to the beach makes it an ideal location for morning and evening strolls, and the bus stop is a couple of minutes' walk away. The house is very comfortable and welcoming. Mac and Marian were always eager to help, without being interfering in any way. You'll not go hungry in the morning either!
George and Terri Hage
Longmont, CO USA Wed 09/06/2006
Windy ridge near stow Eng
Found this B&b on a "Britian -great places to stay with gardens".If you want to stay in a manor house with huge property this is the place for you.Large stone country house with arboretum,beautiful flower gardens ,huge breakfast with everything AND WONDERFUL HOSPITALITY.It is 2 miles from Stow.Rooms are clean,large and baths well equipped.Owner has dogs.
greg
fl USA Tue 09/05/2006
B&B Le Petit Clos-Amboise, France
Our family of four just returned from a 2 week vacation in France where we took advantage of the many suggestions in your 2006 book.We wanted to let you and your readers know of one recommendation in particular that became one of the highlights of our trip.We booked a 3 day stay at Le Petit Clos and rented the family cottage for four.The proprietor, Madame Roullet, could not have been more hospitable or helpful. She met us with fresh squeezed juice on our first day and immediately produced maps, brochures, restaurant menus and much welcomed advice for our stay in Amboise.Breakfast in the morning was served in the pretty, outside courtyard weather permitting,or in the cozy dining room when it rained. The pastries, breads,and jellies were all homemade and delicious and were some of the best we tasted during our trip in France. Madame Roullet is a charming, gracious, and resourceful host.It was clear from the beginning that she devotes herself to helping her guests have a good time. Her tips on what to see and where to go were well informed and suited to our family. We cannot recommend Le Petit Clos more highly;a truly wonderul experience!
Terry and Kay
North Attleboro, MA USA Sun 09/03/2006
Fantastic B&B in Normandy!
Hospitality and service is second to none at L'Atre Fleuri in Balleroy. Margaret and Jim are wonderful hosts and their restored 200 year old house and grounds are beautiful. Highly recommended!
Kevin
Daphne, AL USA Sat 09/02/2006
Galicia, Spain. (The Ribeira Sacra)
A Casa Rural, (B&B) which is run by a Dutch/English couple. Situated in the Heart of Galicia, The Ribeira Sacra. It has views over the local wine growing terraces. The house dates back 100s of years and has been restored in keeping with the original traditional Galician style.
The owners have various routes to explore the countryside. These can be undertaken by either, car, mountain bike (which they can hire) or by foot. Their knowledge of the area was insurmountable. We were welcomed with open arms, and almost did not leave!!! (but we had to). We have stayed in a few casa rurals (B&B) in Galicia and this was for us the most friendly. We thoroughly recommend it. All food is home made.
They have a web site. www.ribeirasacra.com.
Joe
Reading, Uk Fri 09/01/2006
Thanks to Marco and Maddie
Ciao Maddie and Marco! I wanted to take a moment to truly thank you for your wonderful hospitality and all of the great conversations we had while I stayed with you in Rome. It is so rare to find two people such as yourselves that are enthusiastic about opening your lives and time to us at the B & B. Breakfast was above and beyond the normal Italian fare and every morning I stayed later and later in order to keep talking with you both. Because of your generosity and friendliness I am already planning to return next summer!! Thanks again to the both of you for making my stay such an excellent one :) Hope to talk with you soon! Stephanie PS --I\'m attaching my contact info here in case you ever get some time for a vacation in the Colorado mountains :)
Stephanie Smith
Colorado, CO USA Fri 09/01/2006
B&B-Caumont, France
My wife and I recently stayed in a wonderful B&B/Chambre d'Hotes in Caumont, France. This is a small town just outside of Rouen, along the Seine. The proprietress, Madame Piron, has three wonderful rooms. We stayed in the "Chambre de la Seine," which had a very nice view of the river. The room was 75 euro per night (70 for the two of us and 5 for our dog) and included a marvelous home-cooked breakfast, featuring local specialities, baked goods, and fresh fruits and confitures from her garden. Mme Piron helped us plan day trips to both Rouen and Giverny, both an easy drive from the house. She also helped us find a fantastic restaurant in the next town to celebrate a birthday dinner. To top it off, she brought a small refrigerator up to our room so that we could chill some champagne! Great hospitality, lovely setting, wonderful food, at a very reasonable price. Can't beat it! Also, she was very willing to speak French with us, though her English was better than our French! Her website is:
http://bascaumont.free.fr/
Enjoy!
GW
Wed 08/30/2006
Great Yorkshire Dales B&B
I just got back home from staying at the School House B&B in the village of Gunnerside in North Yorkshire, England. I give it my highest reccomendation. The owners are friendly and the room was great. All their rooms have private bathrooms! Gunnerside is in the Yorkshire Dales and there is a great tea room and pub right down the street. If you are walking in the Yorkshire Dales, I would say to make it a point to make this your stop. Well worth it! School House B&B, Gunnerside, North Yorkshire, DL11 6LD 01748 886874 schoolhousebandb@aol.com
Hyden Ettevroc
Rockwall, TX USA Tue 08/29/2006
Great Sam Guest House
Best thing about the room was the huge widescreen plasma TV! We never thought we would see one of those with the money we were spending on accommodation.
Gerard Johnstone
New Zealand Sun 08/27/2006
Mas du Petit Grava, Arles, France
We have stayed in many B&B's in Europe, but none compares to the hospitality and friendliness we experienced in Mas du Petit Grava near Arles, France. Ike and Jim make you feel like royalty with their wonderful accomodations, pool, sumptious breakfasts, surroundings and wine and cheese before dinner. Truly, nothing is spared to add to the fond memories of your vacation. If you are looking for a B&B 15 minutes from Arles and not far from other localities, this is certainly the place.
Gil and Neomi Weinstein
Jerusalem, Israel Sun 08/27/2006
L'Ermitage, Cote du Rhone
Lovely. Best jam (plum, homemade) I've ever had.
CG
Heidelberg, DE Sun 08/27/2006
The Gallery, Kinsale,Ireland
Our stay at the Gallery in Kinsale was absolutely wonderful, Tom and Carol were delightful and very helpfull in our daily planning.We enjoyed the morning breakfast with the professionally recorded music by our host Tom who is a jazz musician.Great breakfasts,especially the pancakes and ice cream.The colorful exterior and the collected art decor was very enjoyable. the location was perfect for our plans. thanks tom and carol.
Gary and Margot
Milton, delawa USA Sat 08/26/2006
B&B at Spiddal, Ireland
Staying in Michael and Maureen's home was like visiting friends. Their beautiful white Thatched cottage, lovely flowers, peat fire in the evenings, and the best hot breakfast of a 2 week trip contributed to a wonderful stay. For travelers who want a good base for both Aran Islands and Connemara I highly recommend the Burren B&B
Jaunita
Wirtz, VA USA Sat 08/26/2006
Pension Vestergade, Aero
Suzanna Greve set a high standard as our first night in a B&B. Her unfailing friendliness (even when speaking with a grumpy guest), offers of help I didn't know I needed (but did!), beautiful and comfortable accomodations and tea in the garden upon arrival were a hard act to follow. However, all Rick Steves recommendations were on target(except one that had changed hands).
Jaunita Eichman
Wirtz , VA USA Sat 08/26/2006
Borgo Argenina, Tuscany Italy
We recently spent "the best" week in Tuscany, thanks in part to the spirited and welcoming owner, Elena, of the Borgo Argenina B & B! The ancient and beautifully restored hamlet of Borgo Argenina, in the Chianti region, is a photographer's dream-come-true. We stayed in the spacious (and well appointed) Villa Oliviera, recently recognized in an Italian home magazine. Elena was so generous with her knowledge of the region and her skilled culinary talents! Our stay was first class in every way, plus we gained a new friend. Her website accurately displays this lovely oasis. www.borgoargenina.it Ciao!
jo
Gig Harbor, WA USA Thu 08/24/2006
B&B La Meridiana, Nontesilvano Italy
We stayed at La Meridiana in Montesilvano. Luisa, the owners lovely daughter picked us up at the Train station. The owners Paolo and Giovanna were so wonderful, at the mere mention of a side trip to Guardiagrele, they graciously offered to take us. It was the experience of a lifetime, more than I could have hoped for and they interpreted for us!! The B*B has a wonderful view of the Sea and surrounding mountains...meraviglioso!
Carla Auriti
Houston, Texas USA Thu 08/24/2006
Guesthouse Raidel, Rothenberg
We recently stayed at the Guesthouse Raidel in Rothenberg, Germany, and we were very pleased with our time there! The B&B is just as quaint as the walled city: the owners quiet and friendly, the breakfast good, and the price was right.
Beth Knudsen
Maple Grove, MN USA Wed 08/23/2006
Roman Italian , Roma , Italy
I thought Roman and Italian B & B was an excellent place to stay. It was about a 10 minute walk to the colosuem and a great place to start sight seeing. It was a clean and comfortable place to stay. The staff were nice and friendly and speak english. Unfortunately, the metro station in front of the building was closed foor renovations, so we had to walk to the next station, and this was difficult with our heavy luggage. I would highly reccomend this place and the rate was great for all that you get.
Rosa Longo
Canada Tue 08/22/2006
Guesthouse in Arcos, Spain
I cannot recommend this place enough! I would go out of my way to stay in this guesthouse again. The owners go out of their way to make you feel welcome and comfortable and the balconies have the best view in town. Arcos is definately worth a visit even if it is just to stay that this guesthouse.
Kristen
Montclair, NJ USA Mon 08/21/2006
B & Bs Edinburugh, Scotland
We were delighted with the hospitality extended to us at the Amaragua Guest House. The food was excellent, the house tastefully furnished and decorated and there were beautiful floral arrangements around. Internet services were also available.
Howard & Ceridwen Merrick
Phoenix, AZ USA Wed 08/16/2006
Great B&B in Conwy
We have just returned from our vacation and felt we must recommend Gwynfryn B&B. From the moment we arrived the hosts Monica & Colin made us feel so welcome and could not do enough to help. The room was simply the best with a great big wooden bed and a beautiful bathroom with a big bath tub. Colin even arranged for the car rental company to collect our rental vehicle and then gave us a lift to the train station to catch our train back to the airport. Conwy is such a beautiful town with some great places to eat including Alfredo's next door to Gwynfryn. Our few days in Conwy were the highlight of our vacation. Monica & Colin Thank you so much and we hope to visit you again soon. If you are thinking of visiting Conwy don't miss out on this gem!
John & Nancy Edwards
jackonsville, fl USA Wed 08/16/2006
Cotswold B&Bs
On our June walking tour of the Cotswolds, my daughter and I enjoyed The Gower House and Little Pitch in Winchcombe, both tidy establishments run by delightful folks. After a long trudge through the countryside, Number Nine in Stow on the Wold soothed us with a plush, comfy room, a stout breakfast, and all the soccer commentary we could hold. Back in London, we upgraded to an air-conditioned room at the Corus Hyde Park, which was spotless!
Donna
Winston-Salem, NC USA Wed 08/16/2006
B&B
My husband & I stayed at Crestow House July 6,7,8,&9 of 2006. It was a fabulous stay. We had a warm welcome from our host, a charming big room with a king size bed, sitting area and a large en suite bath. The breakfast was excellent and the host Frank was extremely helpful. We loved sitting in the conservatory in the evening. We would definitley stay again as this area( The Cotswolds) and this B&B were the highlight of our trip.
Crestow House
Stow on the Wold, UK Mon 08/14/2006
B&B Smart in Rome
We recently stayed at the Smart Bed & Breakfast in Rome. We found the location of the B&B is perfect , it is between Termini train station and Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore , easy walk to most of the major sites. The hostess , Isa was very helpful , everything about our stay was great . Nearby there are supermarkets , shops , bars , pizzerie , banks , post office , internet point , also a number of decent, inexpensive restaurants. If you're traveling on a budget and want nice , clean, comfortable, conveniently located accommodations , please check : www.bandbromeitaly.com or e-mail : isajiang@virgilio.it .
Anne Palmer
New York, USA Sun 08/13/2006
Chambre Plus Ghent
We recently enjoyed a wonderful weekend in Ghent, Belgium. Mia rents two rooms in her home in the historic center of Ghent, just a few blocks from the Gravensteen, St Bavos, city hall and numerous other attreactions. She is a great hostess who makes you feel right at home in this fun university city.
Seattle, USA Sun 08/13/2006
UK B&B
My wife and I had a wonderful short stay at the Montcoffer B&B, Bardon Mill near Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, UK. The accomodation was first class and the host most helpful in providing information of the surrounding area. Should the opportunity arise we would not hesitate in making a return visit.
Howard and Ceridwen Merrick
Phoenix, AZ USA Sat 08/12/2006
A perfect spot- Just south of Dublin
DunLaoghaire, Ireland
Thank you, Pauline! We had a wonderful, comfy stay at the Ferry House. Conversation fun and informative and hospitality superb. Great quiet, oversized rooms and baths. So close to the Dart train it made trips into Dublin easy.
Pauline is a delight and breakfast cooked to order and yummy!!
Nancy
Benicia, CA USA Fri 08/11/2006
B&B in Amsterdam
My wife and I stayed in a really different B&B in Amsterdam. It is the home of an artist called Marcel, and his house is more a design then an accommodation. We could not stop looking at all the different designs on his walls. You can find his site here: www.marcelamsterdam.nl. It is located in the center within the canal ring. Am still looking for similar places in other European cities for my next escape. Any tips ? Thanks, Steve
Steve L.
Palm Springs, CA USA Fri 08/11/2006
L'Atre Fleuri, Balleroy, Normandy
Our two nights here were a treat. Margaret Stephenson attends to every detail, with lovely bed linens and fresh flowers in the rooms. The bedrooms and bathrooms are immaculate. The breakfast, served on Spode china, was fabulous: Margaret walked across the street to fill our pastry order each morning, and served magnificent local yogurt. Our two teenage boys had their best nights of sleep here during our 10-day trip. What a great find, and I would recommend this special place to anyone.
Gwen
Bolton, CT USA Thu 08/10/2006
Nicolas Inn - Rome
We just returned from our stay in Rome and spent 3 great nights at the Nicolas Inn. We rented 2 rooms (1 for us and 1 for our sons) which were roomy and immaculate. The Inn is a short 10 minute walk to the Forum, Collesium, Palantine Hill and the Metro. Plus, there's little market right next door for quick essentials. Melissa and Francois were exceptional hosts and made us feel very welcome. The breakfasts were fresh croissants, fresh fruits, yoghurt and the best blood red orange juice we've ever had. Melissa and Francois offered outstanding restaurant recommendations to local restaurants that did not disappoint. They provided great suggestions, advice and directions that made our stay in Rome a true delight. We would highly recommend the Nicolas Inn and we absolutely hope to return to the beauty of Italy and the hospitality of the Nicolas Inn.
www.nicolasinn.com
Skiobx
Hopedale, MA USA Wed 08/09/2006
Bed and Breakfast at Karin and Hans Weiss
My wife and I had a great experience at the Bed and Breakfast of Karin and Hans Weiss in town of Rothenberg ob der Tauber. We also want to advise all who visit Rothenberg to be sure to take the night watchman's tour starting at dusk in the town square. That tour was the best I have had in decades!
Larry William
LOS ALTOS HILLS, ca USA Tue 08/08/2006
Hessle House Spa
Ray Bennett offers a guide service from Bath, UK to the surrounding countryside. If you use his guide service you are welcome to stay with him and his lovely wife Sheila at their home the Hessle House in Bathampton. It is an amazing house. Shelia provided a sumptuous arrary of breakfast goodies in our mini kitchen. We slept as late as we wanted and had a plentyful fruit bowl to refresh us when we awoke. Sheila runs a heath spa in the lower floor. If you like you can enjoy the hot tube or sauna as well as the wonderful garden. We came as strangers and left as friends.
Contact Ray at: http://www.bath.co.uk/classicsights/ or
Sheila at : http://www.handsonhealthbath.co.uk/4484.html
Tracie
Redding, CA USA Sun 08/06/2006
Dublin Bed & Breakfast
My husband, daughter and I spent time at the Auburn in Dublin last year, June 18-21, 2005. This recommendation is long overdue. We had never stayed at a B&B before. Our first experience in a bed and breakfast was wonderful. We felt very comfortable and welcomed. The Gunns were wonderful hosts. Transportation into Dublin was a short walk to the Dart train Station. I recommend a stay there. Judith
Judith Votisek
Fremont, CA USA Sun 08/06/2006
Hotel Basilea
I can't say enought good things about the staff of Hotel Basilea. They prevented 4 ladies from Texas from being homeless in Paris. They worked long and hard to get us flights when our train was booked. Thank you, Basilea.
Alma Maynard
Dallas, TX USA Sat 08/05/2006
Gabriele's B&B Amsterdam
Staying with Gabriele felt more like visiting friends or family than being a guest. Her bubbly, outgoing, hospitable personality and helpful advice made our first visit to Amsterdam a most enjoyable experience that we'll never forget. She picked us up at the airport and even showed us around some of the beautiful little towns like Volendam, Zaansche Schans and Hoorn.
Our room had a beautiful balcony overlooking a quiet street; just the place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
If we ever get back to Amsterdam, we will most definitely stay with our new friend again. Thank you Gabriele !
Heinrich & Linda Stander
Cincinnati, OH USA Sat 08/05/2006
Hotel Mueller, Cologne, Germany and B&B Geerwijn, Bruges, Belgium
Both are very clean, and offer delicious food for breakfast. I never saw on any of my trips the amount of choices offered by Mr. Mueller. Chris makes her own preserves! Reminded me of my mom's home cooking. Great décor at B&B Geerwijn (referenced as Chris de Loof B&B in Rick's book).
Irina
Boston, MA USA Fri 08/04/2006
Belgium: B&B Geerwijn, Bruges and Hotel la Vieille Lanterne, Brussels
My great compliments and lots of thanks to two B&B owners in Belgium: Chris de Loof, owner of B&B Geerwijn in Bruges and Ruytinx Mireille, owner of Hotel la Vieille Lanterne in Brussels. I injured my foot and could hardly walk. Ruytinx took me to the hospital, and Chris drove us to the train station. It was so comforting. I could not believe they were taking so much of their time to help me out.
Irina
Boston, MA USA Fri 08/04/2006
Balestrand, Norway
This note expresses deep kindness to Unni Marie Kvikne abd Eric Palmer who run the Balestrand Hotel as if it IS a B&B. It is a B&B!! They pick you up at the ferry dock in their Volvo. They assure themselves that you know all the activities in town. And, breakfast is absolutely delightful. The place is a treasure, and the VIEW of the fjord ... They also show off a couple of local artists' work in their lovely place.
Steve Olsen
Concord, CA USA Thu 08/03/2006
B & Bs in Europe
I just returned from my honeymoon in Europe and we had a great time thanks to people's advice. Here are some B & Bs that we stayed at:
Amsterdam-We stayed at Eric's B & B and we loved it. You actually have your own apartment with a kitchen and everything. They provide some breakfast goodies, but we went to the local store to stock up. The apartment we stayed in was pretty close to tram and tube stations which is how we got around. It was a great apartment and would definitely stay again.
London-We stayed at the Alhambra Hotel. Clean, but incredibly small. We could not pass one another...one of us would always have to jump on the bed so the other could get by. One plus, was the ensuite bathroom and also we were right next to the tube station. Easy access to the rest of London City. Breakfast was pretty good as well.
Bath-The BEST place we stayed at was Roman City Guesthouse. Sheila was amazing and went above and beyond to make sure that our stay was wonderful. She even drove us out of town to pick up our rental car. She was so sweet and we loooooved our room and the breakfast. We will go back FOR SURE!!!
Dublin-We stayed at Aileen Doyles' B & B which we loved. The room was great and clean, although the traffic was fairly loud on the main street. Aileen was very sweet and helpful. The breakfast was great and the bus station was right there.
Hopefuly these tips help someone as much as others helped us. We had a fabulous time.
Rebecca
Santa Cruz, CA USA Wed 08/02/2006
Old Mill House, Dingle, Ireland
I was surprised by the friendliness of the owners of the Old Mill House B&B in Dingle Town, Ireland. The owners, Veronica and Tom, make you feel very welcome and help you to plan your vacation touring the area. The Irish Breakfast was a highlight, especially the crepes. The location is ideal for exploring Dingle Town and Dingle Penninsula.
Peggy Close
Ramstein, Germany Wed 08/02/2006
Milestone House in Dingle
Have to add my compliments on the Milestone House in Dingle. Great view from our bedroom which was so clean.
Micheal sat down with us immediately upon arrival and helped us plan our itinerary for the area. Barbara cooked a great breakfast and was equally friendly.
Janet
Manchester, MO USA Wed 08/02/2006
Doolin, Ireland
Stay in Doolin village at one of the new B&B's or hostels for the night you're doing the pubs. Roads around Doolin are so curvy and might be dangerous after a night of great Irish music and partying. We loved Dubhlinn House. It was walking distance to all pubs and clean and spacious. The breakfast included fresh fish as one of the selections and the young couple who own it are very helpful in planning your itinerary for the area. You haven't done Doolin unless you stay the night there and enjoy everyone walking to and from pubs in this very tiny and friendly village!
Janet
Manchester, MO USA Wed 08/02/2006
Irish B&B's
We stayed in a new B&B in Cashel, Ireland called Joy's Rockside House. The place is located two doors down from the entrance drive to the Rock. It is a beautiful house and the owners (Rem and Joan Joy) are literally a joy to be around. They have lived in the area all of their lives and truly enjoy what they do. Great place, great people, great location. This one is truly a keeper.
Bill Gruesbeck
Beavercreek, Ohio USA Tue 08/01/2006
Sam Rooms in Rome
Sam Rooms in Rome was awesome! Marco and Maddy really made our stay pleasant but the room we had was great too! The air conditioning works really well (as long as the windows are closed all the way) and it was great to know we had a cool place to relax after the sweltering heat of the city. The location was very close to the underground and we walked all over the place right from our room. The room we had slept 4 comfortably and it was awesome to have the plasma TV to relax with before bed. It can cause a bit of apprehension when you first arrive and are led to the rooms. The stairwell is rather rustic. Once you get past the very secure outer door and into the corridor the rooms are FANTASTIC! This place rocks. It is a bed and breakfast so some of the things that you would expect in a hotel are not part of the deal but Marco and Maddy do a great job of taking care of everyone in a friendly and professional manner. We really enjoyed our chats in the morning over coffee!
Brad and Jules Burzynski
Seattle, WA USA Tue 08/01/2006
BB in Bayeux, France
We stayed 4 nights at a nice B and B in Bayeux, France. Bayeux is a good base for Normandy since many of the tours leave from there (our family did 2 days with Battlebus). We stayed at Les Trois Pierres which has been run for only a year by a lovely family Pierre, wife Marie Pierre, and young son Pierre Antoine. We have 2 teenagers and have learned to ask for a family type room (which is less expensive than 2 separate rooms). They speak enough English to get by with making email reservations and also in person. Marie serves a lovely European breakfast with an assortment of her homemade jams and jellies (which we consumed major quantities of each morning). Pierre Sr. also runs a wine business (has stands at the local markets) and will do wine tastings at the B and B if you request. We met Americans as well as French at breakfast each morning (another opportunity to practice our French while they practiced their English, while we all raved about the delicious jam).
Our room was upstairs in a house in the center f town (1 block from the main street). We had a double and 3 single beds and a large modern and very clean bathroom. We also had a view of the Catherdral's lighted dome at night from our bedroom. We drove to Bayeux from Paris but other guests had taken the train to town. We found them through a link on the Battlebus website (when all of Rick's picks were booked up and/or did not have family rooms). Rick should check this one out.
Their mail is: mplemessier@wanadoo.fr
Les Trois Pierre- Famille Lemessier
22 rue de Bouchers
14400 Bayeux, France
Laurie Dolly
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
Roman Italian or Sam Rooms
while everything about this b-n-b was top notch, nothing was better than marco, the propietor. not only did he provide us with breakfast in bed, or guide us to the best sightseeing routes, or recommend excellent dinner spots with a special marco discount, but with the taxis on strike he took time out of his day to run us to the airport on a moments notice. marco is our hero. if you are going to rome, stay with marco, either here or at sam's b-n-b. you wont b sorry.
Louis James
USA Sat 07/29/2006
Marco and everyone at Sam Rooms in Rome
Marco,Thank you very much for providing all of us with a lovely stay in Rome especially breakfast in bed !We have had a brilliant time visiting the highlights you mentioned on the map and we hope to see you again. The ladies
Becky,Oawn,Kate and Becky
England Thu 07/27/2006
Sheridan B & B
We stayed in a wonderful B&B in Edinbugh. Actually it was in Leith but right on a bus line which took you right to Princes Street in about 15 minutes. It is called Sheridan Guest House and is run by a wonderful couple, Tom and Rowena Watt. This house is immaculately clean; breakfast in scrumptious and Rowena is a great deal of fun. It really enhanced our stay in Edinburgh.
Linda Peterson
Mukilteo, WA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Web site!
Forgot to give their web address: www.pattysrooms.com
Claudia
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Thumbs up for Patty's Rooms in Rome!
We had a great stay with Patty and Rudy…good tips, great chats in the morning, best cappuccino, comfy rooms and had the best meal in their neighbourhood, plus they are always available.
Highly recommend.
Claudia Morson
New York, USA Tue 07/25/2006
Hazel Grove B&B - Cong, Ireland
We arrived here after driving past the "Quiet Man" cottage. We couldn't visit because it wasn't the season and arrived very tired at Hazel Grove. Our hostess, Ann Coakley, took excellent care of us even to providing hot water bottles for our beds.
Vicki
Spring, Texas USA Mon 07/24/2006
Rocksberry B&B - Castlebar, Ireland
Wonderful bed and breakfast with John and Bernadette Walsh aas our hosts. View from our window across the hills. We picked up snacks at the local grocery to make our dinner in our room and Bernadette supplied us with all the dinnerware. Our breakfast was one of those fabulous Irish meals.
Vicki
Spring, Texas USA Mon 07/24/2006
Ashbrook Lodge - Doolin, Ireland
Very close to the Cliffs of Mohr and with a view of the Aran Islands on a clear day. The room was huge with a lovely deep tub. It was stormy that night and we were in an 'attic' room with skylights. The sound of the wind sweeping across the roof while you are submerged in a hot bath was awesome.
Wonderful young family manage the Lodge and treated us wonderfully.
Vicki
Spring, Texas USA Mon 07/24/2006
Ashdene Country House, Avoca, Ireland
Just down the road from the woolen mill and on a beautiful wandering road is Ashdene Country Home. Absolutely beautiful location, lovely big room with shower and lots of hot water. On the hillside behind was a flock of sheep and out our front window a beautiful view into a valley.
Jackie Burns was our hostess and served us tea when we arrived and a warming breakfast in the morning.
A great location of you are visiting the site of "Ballykissangel". The villagers love to tell you about the filming.
We were not impressed with the woolen mill and did a self guided tour. They have a little restaurant but we didn't eat there.
Vicki
Spring, Texas USA Mon 07/24/2006
Milestone House - Dingle Peninsula
My friend and I planned our two week trip by following the suggestions for B&B's on the Graffiti Wall. Milestone was exactly what everyone had told us. Our room was bright and clean, breakfast was delicious, and Barbara was a gem to sit down with us and draw maps of places to eat and things to see. Michael even helped 'repair' my car when a light came on the dash and I knew I had done something terrible. He pushed a button (I didn't know I had pressed it in) and I was back in business.
Vicki Blake
Spring, TX USA Mon 07/24/2006
B & B
La Grange Chambers, Amboise, France.
Yveline and her husband,the owners, were extremely friendly and helpful. The hotel itself is charming and close to any place you want to go in Amboise.
Elena Belinskiy
Chattanooga, TN USA Mon 07/24/2006
4 stars for dolce-toscana.com
To reach out and touch the soul of Tuscany, you cannot do better than dolce-toscana.com. Guests are treated like family. Silvia, the owner/hostess, is highly entertaining: boredom is strictly prohibited. Be careful with planning important events just after your departure date because you may simply not want to leave on time!
Roland Crim
Geneva, Switzerland Mon 07/24/2006
Great Roman B & B
Nicolas Inn--Rome
Our host provided excellent tips that really enhanced our experience in Rome. We had the best dinners and gelato per her recommendations of off the beaten path places. They served us breakfast in bed each morning and even left a tray the night before when we planned to leave early the next day. Food included wonderful fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries.
The room was beautiful and spacious. The nicest B & B we stayed in throughout our travels in Italy. Highly recommend!
Kim
Minneapolis, Mn USA Sun 07/23/2006
Straven Guest House-Edinburgh
Hosts Mac & Marion graciously welcomed us into their tastefully decorated,spotless period home.Breakfast was excellent,& on the days we had to depart early for tours Mac always made sure to have food available for us.Lovely location,quiet neighbourhood,1/2 block from the Sea.Frequent handy bus service & several good restaurants nearby.Spent 9 days there & after touring the UK upon our return to Straven for our last night it was like returning home.They were very accomodating & helpful which made our stay so much more enjoyable.Definitely a B&B we hope to return to.
Siobhan & Helen Beeton
Thunder Bay, Ont Canada Sun 07/23/2006
Charming Austrian Inn: Bloberger Inn -Salzburg
Charming, recently renovated Austrian inn at a very good price (category A double room was spacious and had a view of the mountains; room for 4 person family was about $120/night with kitchenette). The room finishes are top quality and service was very good. It was a quick 5 minute drive in to town (bus runs too) so you can avoid the $250/night hotels in Salzburg and get spacious accomodations. Highly recommended (no air conditioning) for this price! Has restaurant for breakfast/dinner.
Jeanne Tiscareno
Seattle, WA USA Sun 07/23/2006
Bed and breakfast in Italy
We recently returned from Italy. We read about the bed and breakfast, La Tartaruga outside of Sienne on the Graffiti Wall and decided to stay there. It was absolutely the best experience that we had in Italy. Sylvie, the owner, went above and beyond the call of duty to help us book tours in advance, arrange train schedules, help with restaurants. You name it. The rooms are very nicely furnished in a homey atmosphere. The price includes a continental breakfast. The location is central to Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Sienne, etc. When I return to Italy, I will definitely stay there again. The website is info@la-tartaruga.com
Kathy Bear
jacksonville, Fl USA Sat 07/22/2006
Turkey hotel
Just returned from Turkey. Stayed at Hotel Bella in Selcuk, Turkey. An awesome place! They drive you to the sites for no additional charge. Have a lovely roof top terrace with breakfast included and rooms are furnished in wonderful Turkish rugs and Ottoman antiques. Better yet, cost is only $30 per night for a double room and $20 per night for a single!
Mary
USA Sat 07/22/2006
Desmond House Kinsale, Ireland
On a busy summer weekend in Kinsale, Ireland,we were unable to get a room at any of Rick's usual recommendations, but took a chance on The Desmond House. It was fabulous. As stately and grand as the Old Presbytery at 25% less. Anne and Michael Mc Laughlin were wonderful hosts. Breakfast was superb and the luxurious amenities second to none. They have only been there for six months, having relocated there themselves from running a B&B in County Clare for 25 years. Check out their website that says it all www.desmondhousekinsale.com
Kathy and Jim
Pittsfield, MA USA Thu 07/20/2006
B & B Brugge
We found the A Room With A View B&B in Brugge (check the Brugge tourism website) to be exceptionally clean, conveniently placed, charming and quiet. Corine speaks english as well as several other languages (the bottom floor is a language institute). There are bicycles free for your use, free coffee and tea throughout the day, a kitchen for guests to use, and helpful advice about touring the city.
Eric Kessel
Kensington, CA USA Thu 07/20/2006
Inn - Dordogne, France
Les Charmes de Carlucet is the kind of place you dream about. About 20 mins from the magical medieval city of Sarlat, out in the countryside, yet not inconvenient.
This is a beautifully renovated house of golden stone, with tastefully decorated and comfy rooms (great beds), a gorgeous pool and a charming family of proprietors. Eric and Helen are both english-speakers, and Eric is a consummate outing planner. He deftly helped us prioritze what to do with our 4 days in the region -- one that warrants a much longer stay. The hosts' children are also welcoming. Son Thomas played soccer and board games with our son. (There's a whole expanse of lawn given over to soccer, complete w/ goals!)
Breakfast is copious and included. Current prices: 75-99 euros/rm. Extra person: 20 e.
Website:
http://www.carlucet.com/
email:
lescharmes@carlucet.com
Go! (But leave a room free for us!)
Maia
Maia Krache
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 07/19/2006
B&B recommendation
TORQUAY: WESTBROOK HOTEL, 15 Scarborough Road, off Belgrave Road. Run by Maureen Tanner. Back in Feb. 2006 I read a positive recommendation for this B&B in Torquay. After staying there I fully agree. Once of the best B&B's of my trip to the UK.
Lisa
Windsor, CA USA Tue 07/18/2006
B & B in Montecatini
My family & I stayed at La Tartaruga in Nov. 2005. Sylvie & her family were very gracious and accomodating in every way imaginable. The breakfast was delicious and the selection endless. She was full of information to help plan your day. My family and & I always looked forward to mornings and meeting with her to plan our day out. The location of the B & B is convenient if you want to explore the Tuscan Region and the train station is very accesible from her home. The rooms were immaculate and beautifully furnished. When I return I definitely would stay there again. You will miss Sylvie and her hospitality!!!! My family & I will always remember our stay with Sylvie!!!
Judy Mattias
Danville, CA USA Tue 07/18/2006
Outstanding B&B in Balleroy, France
We recently stayed at L'Atre Fleuri, a fantastic B&B in Normandy, France. Great accomodations, great food & hospitality. Highly recommended. See their web site www.nighty-night.net
Tom
Plainsboro, NJ USA Tue 07/18/2006
Dingle and Clifden, Ireland
While in Ireland, we stayed at two family-run guesthouses we will never forget. One was Gorman's, a little outside the town of Dingle, overlooking the ocean. Sheilagh runs the house, her husband runs the dining room. They also have fine dining there at night and the views are breathtaking. Then, while in Clifden, in Connemara, we stayed at the Quay House with Julia and Paddy Foyle. They are the loveliest people. After getting back on a rainy, dreary day, Paddy saw me as I was passing by the kitchen and asked if I wanted a cuppa. He fixed me a lovely tray and told me to put my feet up in the drawing room in front of the peat fire. I had the best 45 minutes of my whole trip!
L.Joyce
Austin, TX USA Tue 07/18/2006
Great B&B's in Ireland!
We only had one week in Ireland, so cut it down to what we really wanted to see and stayed in Western part. Stayed 3 nights in Catherine and Paddy Lydon's Carriage Beag B&B near Salt Hill, Galway (great people-used this as a base to explore Connemara, Aran Islands, etc.) Next, stayed at Captain's House, in Dingle...would like to have stayed longer here. We loved Dingle Pennisula more than anything else! Stayed next Beach Cove B&B, in Portmagee! Great views, great people, beautiful house. Ring of Kerry disappointing after Dingle, especially with all the driving to see a few things. Needed to stay in Bunratty to leave from Shannon Airport early next morning,though not in Rick's book, so stayed at Park House B&B, nice people, close to airport, great breakfast, but bed saggy.
The Godshalk's
Gainesville, FL USA Mon 07/17/2006
Florence B and B
Florence July 2006-by far and away the best place we stayed on our three week Europe trip was at Il Villino. The price was reasonable 145 euros plus Rick Steves discount. The place was beautiful (big wooden beams 15 foot high ceilings and tile floors which were nice and cool). The breakfast was great and the service was above and beyond. It was REALLY hot when we were there early in July, the air conditioning was so worth having and the courtyard they have is a great place to relax after surviving the heat and noise of the city. There are daily newspapers and free internet access. We stayed in the apartment on the first floor with our 14 year old daughter and had our own room with a living room with a pull out couch and access to a refrigerator. This was great as we would go to the market nearby and be able to keep snacks in the fridge. Sergio and his wife are thoughtful and friendly (but not overly) hosts and the B and B is really close to the Accademia with easy access to the Duomo and the Uffizi. Incidently it is also about a block from the Piazza that was filmed in A Room with a View. I would recommend Il Villino without reservation and if we ever have the pleasure of returning to Florence we will NOT stay elsewhere.
Lise
Seattle, WA USA Sat 07/15/2006
Mas Pomona - Luberon - Provence
Our family had a wonderful stay with David and Marianne at their incredibly wonderful b&b in Provence. They lived in England prior to moving to Provence where they bought the "shell" of a farmhouse and restored it with stunning success as a b&b and home for themselves. The location is perfect - in the middle of an apple orchard outside of Chevral Blanc - a village outside of Cavaillon. It is within 45 minutes driving time of Avignon & Marseille and less than 30 minute from the author - Peter Mayle's Luberon villages. David and Marianne were incredibly helpful with directions, recommendations for sightseeing, markets and restaurants. All of their recommendations were perfect and they made the reservations for all of our dinners. We would start the day with a wonderful breakfast on their outside patio,sightsee during the day, return to swim in their saltwater pool and go to dinner at one of their choice recommendations. The bedrooms were gorgeous with wonderful beds & walk-in showers. It was truly a magical experience - still seems too good to be true - for our special family trip. Their website is: maspomona.com.
Janice F.
Chicago suburb, IL USA Sat 07/15/2006
small and cosy B&B in Amsterdam
I do recommend Nestorsplace in Amsterdam. It is a small and cosy B&B, clean and comfy rooms,close to the canal area. The price was good and breakfast delicious! The emailaddress is: nestorsplace@yahoo.com
John Darmouth
Dublin, Ireland Sat 07/15/2006
Cortecampana
Venice - Corte Campana
Riccardo is an absolutely wonderful host! He truly enjoys sharing his beautiful Venetian home with guests from all over the world. Our bedroom was large, with a ceiling mural, private bath with thick, large fluffy towels. Location was ideal - minutes away from St.Marks's Square and easy walking distance to Riaolto Bridge. Riccardo's recommendations for eating, such as Planet Restaurant and others were right on the money. Go and enjoy - you will love the experience.
Janice Van Trieste
Quakertown, PA USA Sat 07/15/2006
Marco ,Maddie and Sam rooms in Rome
Great place with great staff. Rooms were immaculate, and very comfortable. Breakfast was good. Great air conditioning. Only downside is there is only one key per room which is problematic if you are with a few other people and you get split up.check them web at : www.samrooms.com
Michael Allender
USA Sat 07/15/2006
Rome - Roman and Italian B&B
Going by other posts on the site, we have to say ditto to a wonderful place to stay, even though we only stayed a night. It was quiet, had a large beautiful courtyard and was handy to the Metro and bus stops. Marco was running the place singled handed due to Maddy being in the hospital and still took care of us wonderfully. They also offer a service to take you to the airport so you don't have to depend on the undependable taxi services!
Marcy Halterman
College Station, TX USA Fri 07/14/2006
Hotel Paba - Roma
Hotel Paba on Via Cavour in Rome - We found this in the 2006 Rome guide. Alberta Castelli's little piece of heaven. Great location, lovely, near post office, pizza, market. Highly recommend - We stayed a week and loved it. People watching at 3am from our balcony the night Italy won the World Cup - deluxe memories
The Cullisons
Pasadena, TX USA Fri 07/14/2006
Nicolas Inn
We stayed at the Nicolas Inn in Rome for three days in June 2006. Melissa, Francois and Maria were most helpful. The location was ideal. They also gave us helpful suggestions for places to eat. Would highly recommend the Nicolas Inn.
Carol Thomson
Orlando, Florid USA Thu 07/13/2006
Rothenburg bed and breakfast
We stayed at Karin Weiss' b&b in Rothenburg, Germany. It was a great value and very clean. She offered to pick us up/drop us off at the train station. Her home is only a short walk from the walled city. Recommend highly!!
Mary
Minneapolis, MN USA Thu 07/13/2006
Moyness House - Exceptional B and B in Inverness
We wanted to share with others this wonderful B and B in Inverness. It's a beautiful Victorian house, in a quiet street just a few minutes walk from the city centre (unlike other places we stayed in - which were often much further away than claimed!) Our room was freshly and charmingly decorated and had many excellent touches - flat screen TV, coffee, tea and cookies, fresh flowers, lots of tourist information, waffle robes, nice Botanics toiletries. Dining room and sitting room both very gracious, and there's a beautiful mature garden to sit in. Best of all were our hosts, Richard and Jenny, who have created a lovely, friendly atmosphere, and who were so helpful and obliging, Richard even driving us to the station when our taxi was late. Moyness House is our favorite of all the places we've stayed in during our UK trip.
Michelle K
Spring, Texas USA Thu 07/13/2006
The Perfect Place to stay in Edinburgh
Straven Guest House in Edinburgh, Scotland is a perfect spot. Mac was outstanding, with his delicious, generous, freshly served breakfast. The rooms are very clean and the most comfortable bed we had in our two week visit around Scotland. A very short walk to the beachfront (a must!) and a beautiful quiet neighborhood. The bus is only a few minutes away and has excellent service around the city. We would return to this treasure again.
Sue
Madison, WI USA Tue 07/11/2006
Gabriele's B & B
I recently stayed at Gabriele's B & B in Amsterdam and had a great time. Her apartment is on the third floor in the culturally booming neighbourhood of Westerpark. If you travel light like I do, the absence of an elevator should not be a problem. Actually, now I know why Dutch women have such great legs! And with those legs it really is only 10 minutes into the centre, the canal area. One should not believe everything an Amsterdam taxi driver says. Gabriele is very helpful in showing you around. She knows Amsterdam very well, as well as interesting sites outside of town. A comfortable and affordable stay.
You can contact her at yellowroses@gmx.net
Cintha La Croix
Bruxelles, Belgium Tue 07/11/2006
Cumberland House, Horley
After a stressful drive from Luton to Horley in the rain, Carmel graciously welcomed us for our night's stay. Once we were situated in our comfortable room, she willingly guided us to the rental car drop-off (which would have been absolutely impossible for us to locate!) and ferried us back in the comfort of her own car. She refused compensation for this extra service. We enjoyed an early breakfast, and Clive shuttled us to the airport. Great food and a good sleep. No worries. Highly recommended!
Steven and Sheila Robbins
Springville, Utah USA Mon 07/10/2006
Aero B & B
Aero Bed and Breakfast. – We just returned from a visit to Aero Island. We had our car with us so we chose a B&B in the country, Kimberlys Minde just outside Marstal. It was absolutely delightful! Aslaug and Mogens were wonderful host and their home was so comfortable. I almost wished it was cold and rainy so we had an excuse to curl up by fire with a cat and a book. Instead we had perfect weather and were able to enjoy their beautiful garden with a bench perfectly placed to view the sea, enjoy the just picked fruits and veggies from the garden and have a cozy place to retreat to after a day of exploring and bicycling (with tips from Rick, Aslung and Mogens) http://www.aeroe.dk/kimberleysminde/default_uk.htm
Mary Thompson
Schroon Lake, NY USA Sun 07/09/2006
Cumberland House, Gatwick Airport
I had an overnight in London with a red-eye flight out the next morning. I booked Cumberland House at the recommendations of other people on the Graffiti Wall. As others have said, Clive and Carmel were warm and gracious, arranging my 4:30am taxi, too! (If you travel between 7am and 9pm, they'll provide transportation in their minivan at no charge. They even set out a do-it-yourself breakfast for those of us who leave before they serve breakfast at the regular time.)
Kristin
Ypsilanti, MI USA Sat 07/08/2006
Lygon Arms Chipping Campden
We had a glorious four day stay at the Lygon Arms in Chipping Campden. The room was a comfy double up two flights of stairs with a sparkling clean bathroom en suite, and windows facing the High Street. The rate was very reasonable at 65 pounds, and the breakfast was varied and delicious. The owner and staff were friendly and very helpful.
Diane Knowles Naishtat
Austin, TX USA Fri 07/07/2006
B&B, Ireland
While visiting Dingle in Ireland, we stayed at the Milestone House, operated by Michael and Barbara Carroll. Of all the wonderful B&B's we stayed at, this was our favorite--a warm welcome, wonderful breakfasts, lots of help in planning our days.
Eric and Deborah
Arvada, CO USA Thu 07/06/2006
Bruges BansB aspasia
We stayed at aspasia bed and breakfast in Bruges for a couple of days. They help us out to plan our trips to the great war battlefields in Ypres and to antwerp Rubens House.
The room is '30 style with own privat bathroom and breakfast corner. They only rent one room so you feel at home; the great brekfast is served on your room so still you keep your privacy.
To have a good idea of a visite in bruges; you can have a look on this site: James and Jacqui in Bruges.
http://www.jamesmgregg.com/europe/belgium/be_intro.htm
Marc and Ann
NY, NY USA Thu 07/06/2006
Wonderful B & B in Tuscany!
My husband and I just returned from two weeks in Northern Italy. We stayed at some great places but our favorite was a B&B in Tuscany, right outside Castiglione Fiorentino... "Casa Portagioia" (www.tuscanbreaks.com). We truly enjoyed every minute of our stay at this wonderful place. The grounds and villa's are beautiful, the breakfast every morning served on the terrace is wonderful and the owners, Terry and Marcello, are so kind and helpful. Terry would spend time with us every morning planning our day, writing out directions and making reservations for us. Easy day trips from this location are...Cortona, Arezzo, Assisi, Siena, Florence and a host of great little towns/villages in the wine country. We so enjoyed our time at the Casa Portagioia and hope to return someday soon! Highly Recommended!!
*** Steve, you really need to include this place in your Italy 2007 book.
D. Pedde
St. Paul, MN USA Thu 07/06/2006
Maison Bliss B&B in Brussels
Maison Bliss B&B in Brussels was one of the best B&Bs we ever stayed. Benjamin was one of the best hosts not to forget Rebecca - his wife. We got a room with a terrace on the 3rd floor. The rooms were clean and elegant and the kitchenette was stocked with groceries and beer all the time. 5 min walk from the Pannenhuis Metro Station. You won't regret staying with these people.
Karthik Vugane
Campbell, CA USA Wed 07/05/2006
Chris Deloof's B&B in Brugge
Chris Deloof's B&B in Brugge was one of the most pleasant experiences for us during our trip with our 17 month old son.
While Chris served us sumptous breakfast every morning, she also entertained our 17 month son in her kitchen very patiently.
We stayed in the A-shaped room recommended by Rick Steves which came with a refrigerator and a microwave. A sure recommend for anyone visiting Brugge.
Karthik Vugane
Campbell, CA USA Wed 07/05/2006
Karin Weiss in Rothenburg
I recently spent 2 nights at Karin's B & B in Rothenburg. Karin's rooms are spacious & clean. She is very helpful & will pick you up & take you to the train station if travelling by train. Great breakfast also. Just a short walk to the center of town. Highly recommend!
Doug
Kent, WA USA Tue 07/04/2006
hospitality
While on our way to Burg Eltz me and my daughter needed to use a bathroom. We noticed a sign on the Gastehaus Grolig for a bathroom and thought we would stop and ask. They very kindly let us use there spotlessly clean bathroom and then chatted with us for a bit.
If we hadn't had previous arrangments for the night we would of definately of stayed here. I know that the next time we are in the mosel river valley that is where we will stay. Please consider this B&B for your next stay too. Thanks!!
Jane
Hudson, Il USA Tue 07/04/2006
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil - A Truly French Country Experience
My father and I stayed at Le Moulin du Fief Gentil (in Blere) for 4 nights during our trip through France. Florence, the hostess, welcomed us every morning with fresh croissants and homemade jams and was always so helpful in planning our day's sightseeing. I also highly recommend joining Florence and her husband for at least one dinner during your stay - we couldn't have found a better meal at any restaurant!
(On a side note: Florence recommended that we make a day trip to Loches, which we had not even planned on visiting and are very happy we took her advice - a beautiful little village with a market in the center and plenty of historic sights to visit!)
Bella Freytsis
Boston, MA USA Tue 07/04/2006
Ironbridge Gorge - Fantastic hopsitality
What a fantastic find ! Hilltop House B&B, right by Ironbridge Gorge, England. The owners, the Dorntons, were so helpful right from the moment we arrived, really hot and confused from our drive. The house is over 300 years old, full of character and for a change in England, the rooms are large ! They booked us our restaurants and help with everything, including what to see at the theatre in London (our next stop). We definitely recommend Hilltop to anyone going to the Gorge, we found them on the internet - I think its www.hilltop-house.co.uk
Ed and Lesley
Memphis, USA Tue 07/04/2006
Bruges B&B and Paris Hotel
We stayed in March of this year at the Absoluut Verhulst in Bruges with Benno and Frieda. This was our 2nd stay with them, and while we were there we were trying to figure out when we could come again! The breakfast is so filling, you do not need to eat lunch (well, you can still eat a couple pieces of chocolate!) They are so friendly and welcoming. Truly a highlight of our trip.
In Paris we stayed at Hotel Muget. This is a great location, in the 7th district, and close to many restaurants. My husband had some chest pain while we there and when we communicated this to the hotel, they had gotten a doctor appt for us within 30 minutes, and right in the area. Luckily it turned out to be nothing. Our room was very updated--even a flat panel screen TV. We would definitely stay there again.
Kathy
Santa Clara, CA USA Mon 07/03/2006
Scotholm B&B in Connel, near Oban Scotland
We just returned from Scotland and we stayed in the wonderful Scotholm B&B in the village of Connel, in Argyll, Scotland (near Oban- just about a 7-10 minute drive). It is a very comfortable farmhouse, which is very up to date, and extremely cozy, and relatively quiet, even though it is near a busier road. The beds were so comfortable! It is very near to Dunstaffnage castle, on Loch Etive. The propietors, Fran and Graham were wonderful, and helped us with great tips for sightseeing. Two of our party had lost luggage, and Fran and Graham were tireless in helping to track it down! They were also wonderful about making reservations for outings on the ferry. Check it out at http://www.scotholm.co.uk/index.shtml
We had a wonderful time, and I'd heartily recommend it.
Brittany
West Lafayette, IN USA Mon 07/03/2006
Belle's B&B in Bruges
After reading raves about Belle's friendly helpfulness, I booked a triple room at her B&B. She exceeded my expectations with her genuine graciousness, and provided important help in arranging for us a van to the airport. When our alarm clock failed, she lent us her own. Original art throughout the B&B, a bright, clean & quiet room (with lots of towels and washmits!), and a 24 hour fruitbowl, tea & coffee also contributed to a fine stay. (Travelers very sensitive to cigarette smoke should be aware that the hosts smoke, which is evident in the breakfast room but not the bedroom.)
Jocelyn
Shoreline, WA USA Mon 07/03/2006
B+B in Bacharach
My husband and I had a marvelous stay in a large, ground-floor room with a private bath at Orth Zimmer. Ursula ORth was so incredibly cheery and genuine. Fine breakfasts, quiet room, privacy, all in the quaintest town, in the B+B that was not so far from the train station (we hate hauling our luggage).
Stephanie
Paris, TN USA Sun 07/02/2006
Bruges B&B
Chris Deloof's B&B in Brussels should NOT be missed under any circumstances! The hospitality and helpfulness was beyond my best expectations! We stayed for 4 nights in the A-Frame upstairs room and it was wonderful. Don't worry about the steps. My wife and I are 57 and they were no problem even with the luggage. This place is so centrally located that it immediately became "home" and were welcomed each moring and met wonderful people. The recommendations for dinner were the best anywhere. Chris's openness and kindness almost made us want to move to Bruges! (She was born and raised there!) Please feel free to email us with any questions if you are even remotely planning or considering a trip to Bruges. You will find no better place for the money. You can pay much more but I cannot believe the hospitality can be exceeded. thanks Chris for the memories!
Ray Hinkelman
Hilliard, OHIO USA Sat 07/01/2006
Frennich House B&B Callander, Scotland
Located in the Trossachs near Loch Katrine. This is one of the best B&B's i've ever stayed in. Friendly hosts, nice facilites and the best cooked breakfast in Scotland. Like staying with friends. We were sorry to leave.
Marco Streller
Zurich, Switzerland Thu 06/29/2006
Royal Stewart B and B
Royal Stewart at Bruges was a delightful bed and breakfast. It has large rooms that are decorated with antiques. Maggie is wonderful; she is most welcoming and helpful. Staying there was one of the highlights of being in Bruges. I would recommend this b and b to everyone. Carie Cole
Carie Cole
Springfield , Va. USA Wed 06/28/2006
Cinque Terre guest house
I was supposed to stay with Cristiana Ricci in Corniglia but apon arrival she told us that she was having an overbooking issue.
She asked if we wouldn't mind staying with her friend Carlo.
Carlo's place was right on the town square and the rooms were recently refurbished. They were spotless. Plus, his splace had a rooftop terrace with a view of half the town, the terreced country side and the ocean.
He appeared to have 3 or 4 rooms.
The place was wonderful.
Danny
Louisville, KY USA Wed 06/28/2006
B and B Setola, Brugge
I cannot say enough nice words about the B and B Setola. First, they are located a few minutes walk from the main square in town. Second, the place is beautiful! We have traveled extensively in Europe and this is by far one of the nicest and cleanest places I have stayed. Third, breakfast was amazing - a wonderful buffet with too much to be able to eat! Fourth, and for me most important, Lut made my children welcome! She gave them stuffed animals, pens to color with, and set special plates for them at breakfast. Europe is not the easiest place to travel with young children (mine are ages 1 and 3) but Lut made it so easy! This B and B is four stars if you are NOT traveling with kids but if you ARE - there is no better place to stay!
Amy
Reichenbah - Steegen, Germany Wed 06/28/2006
Best Cochem Pension (Germany)
I lived in Germany with the Air Force for three years and loved the Mosel Valley. When we visit Germany now, we stay in Cochem at the mid-point of the Mosel between Trier and Koblenz. On my first trip back to Germany after living there, I left Frankfurt headed for Bitburg and pulled over in Cochem to find a Pension. I wandered up the Fussgangerzone to the home of Ingrid Bamberg. I rang the bell, looked at the room, and hauled up my luggage. You can't find a better bargain than Frau Bamberg's in Cochem and most of the surrounding Mosel towns. On our last trip in April 2006, my wife and I traveled with my oldest daughter, a first grade teacher. Frau Bamberg gave us two rooms, each with private baths and linked by a comfortable sitting room with chairs, a table, and TV. Both bathrooms were sparkling clean and modern. Ours was huge. For a terrific breakfast including a soft-boiled egg, cheese, meat, jam, yogurt, and strong coffee and three rooms and two baths, we paid only 20 Euros per person per night. Within 100 meters you'll find shops, restaurants, and wineries galore. The train station is a 10 minute walk and if you drive, Frau Bamberg will give you a special pass to drive onto the pedestrian area and park for free at her other house up the hill. Burg Eltz is 20 minutes away and you'll need a month to visit all the terrific little Mosel towns and wineries.
Peter Charest
Canton, GA USA Tue 06/27/2006
Best B&B in Edinburgh, Scotland
We found the most charming B&B in Edinburgh. It's called Blacket Garden Flat, and your hosts are Jas and Isobel. Only 2 rooms, but located a few steps from bus stop and drive to center of town is a few short minutes. Very quiet at night and wonderful breakfast in the morning. Isobel gives great advice on what to see and do and where to eat. Don't pass this one up!
Davis Family
Florence, KY USA Tue 06/27/2006
Italy - Cinqueterra B&B
My wife and I spent a most pleasant few days at Villa Pietra Fiore, a small B&B nestled in the family's olive trees and fruit orchards over Monterossa. Our room was clean, comfortable, and reasonably priced, and the view to the sea was magnificent. Marie, her husband, and her extended family made us feel right at home. We will certainly pay a return visit.
Justin
Scottsdale, AZ USA Tue 06/27/2006
Camere Annalisa Martini, Assisi
This little bed and breakfast was quite cozy and near the heart of Assisi. Annalisa was helpful and quite enthusiatic about our stay at her bed and breakfast. It was recommended by Rick Steves and I can see why. Our bedroom had a private bathroom and it still would have been worth it if we had a shared bathroom. The room had a perfect view of Assisi and was a one minute walk to the Piazza del Commune. I loved it!
Natalie
Mt. Juliet, TN USA Tue 06/27/2006
Cortona area
Near Cortona, Great B&B high on a hill overlooking a beautiful valley surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The guest house is really charming and cozy and very quiet and private. Pierre and Martina took really good care of us, from good breadfasts to information about the area sites. They are really sweet and caring. Our best week in Italy! I would highly recommend staying there! Their web site is www.tuscanyheaven.net.
Sidney Braquet
Houston, Texas USA Mon 06/26/2006
La Paggeria - outside Florence
La Paggeria is a comfortable B&B outside Florence if you are looking for accommodations outside the city; and as a bonus the views from the rooms and the terrace are breathtaking. The host, Paolo, was kind and made an effort; but gave us several sets of bad directions (including those to get to the B&B) - if you stay here just be sure to confirm your own directions and have your own maps. There are several bedrooms inside the main house as well as a separate chalet which was built recently - it is a beautiful, free-standing "efficiency" with a small kitchen, 2 baths, tv, etc. I think they call it the "honeymoon chalet" - we didn't stay in it but Paolo showed it to us and it was really nice. If you are in this area, I also highly recommend dining at PERSEUS in Fiesole. We had 2 wonderful dinners here (make sure to ask to sit in the back terrace area); and one night we were so lost getting back to the B&B that we returned to the restaurant for help and seeing how flustered I was, a kind waiter, Ali, got in his car and escorted us back to the B&B at midnight. We were truly touched by their kindness. Enjoy!
Michelle
NH USA Sun 06/25/2006
Forus inn, Rome
We had a wonderful stay at The Forus Inn on Via Cavour in Rome. This is a city style B&B (6 rooms) set in a brownstone-type townhouse. The staff was very helpful; they serve breakfast in your room which was nice; and the accommodations were very comfortable. It is also a convenient location, about a 10 minute walk from the colliseum area. The B&B has a/c and is very quiet inside - I don't think we heard the street at all unless we opened the windows! www.forusinn.com
Michelle
NH USA Sun 06/25/2006
Il Sole de Sodo - Cortona, Tuscany
We just returned from several days in Tuscany and absolutley loved Il Sole de Sodo B&B in Cortona. The B&B was comfortable, authentic Tuscany and the family who owns it was friendly and helpful (thank you, Anna!). It was also a great location for visiting not only Cortona (which was lovely) but other hill towns such as Montepulciano and Pienza (both were wonderful day trips). If you are looking for a B&B in Tuscany, you will love Il Sole de Sodo! I'd be happy to share any other information about our 10 days in Italy (Rome, Tuscany, Florence)- feel free to email me. We followed many of Rick's tips and found them all very helpful.
Michelle
NH USA Sun 06/25/2006
Dolce Toscana
My friend and I had a wonderfull experience in a beautiful apartement on top of the hils of Toscany.Being welcomed by finest wines,olive oil and spices while staring at breathtaking scenery.The host is a very intelligent art oriented lady fun to engage in conversatoins.This place takes you away from your thoughts and puts you in an amazing state of mind which you don't want to miss.Totally meditated and heavenly.........
Afi
Toronto, ontario Canada Sat 06/24/2006
B&B France
Stayed earlier this month at B&B"Lou Felibre" in village Aignes-Vives between Nimes and Montpelier in South of France Less than 30 min drive to Nimes ,Pont du Gard,Uzes(FABULOUS Saturday market)sea coast and easy drive to Arles,Provence etc Very nice 3 bed room75E evening meal17 E good also! Hosts Marie-Odile andJean-Pierre speak excellent English,the house is on the edge of town in a huge walled grounds so very quiet but village has bakery, grocery etc.Jean-Pierre's hobby is "virtual flying"on the internet but he and Marie-Odile also do traditional horse riding. A very good value and friedly hosts! mobile 33 0 681 650 85
Kathy
Cincinnati , OH USA Sat 06/24/2006
La Barde - Wonderful B&B near Sarlat
Steve and Bronwen Houghton run a delightful inn in Montfort. From our spacious room, we had a view of the Chateau de Montfort within walking distance. We spent our days canoeing on the Dordogne River or exploring Sarlat and the many archelogical sites. Our hosts fed us generously at breakfast and provided insider information on the local sites. Very reasonably priced. We highly recommend it!
Sue Gannon
Walnut Creek, CA USA Sat 06/24/2006
Sardenia ( Alghero) Italy B&B -GREAT!
Catalan B&B was really a pleasant stay The rooms themselves were spacious, clean, and EXCELLENT Air Conditioning.
We had a 17 mths old baby, and for 5 Euro a night, they had a nice baby cot in the room for her, which worked out great.
Loredena, the host, was very friendly, has local maps in the Breakfast area, and is very willing to answer any questions.
The breakfast was a typical Italian breakfast, and we loved the fresh breads..
The cost was reasonable (60 EURO) per person.
Location was excellent for us. We had taken the bus from the airport to the Piazza de Mercedes ( which was the main stop to/fro the airport) so we were more than thrilled that we had transportation for 70 cent EACH WAY per person to/from the airport and then only had about a 4 min. walk to the bus stop.
Just out of town center, we enjoyed the lovely walks..and it is less than a 2 min walk to the nearby SISA grocery which was quite convenient buying water, milk,juice, etc. for our baby.
Also, there is a very nice wash basin/mirror/hairdryer in the room, and although I wasn't thrilled about showering/toilet in the bathroom in the hall, it was no problem. No one else was ever home when we were and it was VERY CLEAN.
http://www.bed-and-breakfast-alghero.com/b&b.html
Heather Heuman
Wiesbaden, Germany Fri 06/23/2006
Dingle, Cill Bhreac House B&B
We flew into the Kerry Airport and rented a car and headed to Dingle, about an hour of drive along AMAZING scenery/coast. We were thrilled to arrive at Cill Bhreac House. Angela, the host, was amazingly friendly, and our room was quite nice. We enjoyed the sitting room in the evenings while our 17 mth old slept, and the breakfast. FANTASTIC and made to order. Wonderful location in Dingle and a great find!!
Heather Heuman
Wiesbaden, Germany Fri 06/23/2006
Hill House, Cashel, Ireland
My husband and I just got back from spending two weeks in west and southwest Ireland (May 2006) and while most of our B & B's were satisfactory, one that deserves mentioning, because it was far above and beyond satisfactory, is Hill House in Cashel. I had booked our room online before arriving in Ireland, so I didn't know exactly what to expect, but it turned out to be a terrific place and it's become a memorable part of our entire trip to Ireland. Hill House is a Georgian home, which has been lovingly cared for and maintained by the owner, Carmel. It is filled with period antiques, is impecably clean, quiet, surrounded by beautiful gardens, which overlook the town of Cashel and sits on an opposite hill from the Rock of Cashel. When we arrived at Hill House in the late afternooon, we were cold and tired from driving and slopping around in the rain and wind all day (Ireland was experiecing a freakish spell of cold and rain for May) and our charming hostess, Carmel welcomed us in by showing us to a stately bedroom, then suggested that we warm ourselves by a fire in the fireplace of the library. With a cup of hot tea, deep over-stuffed chairs and the warmth of the fire, we soon felt restored. After dinner that evening, we took a little walk around the guest house garden and went back into the library, where Carmel kept the fire burning late into the evening for us, while we read and relaxed; we felt absolutley pampered. Our bedroom was wonderfully roomy, tastefully decorated, clean and the linens crisp. The next morning, in the high ceiling dining room, over a lavish and delicious breakfast, we briefly visited with an Australian couple who said they had intended to spend a night in Cashel, but after finding Hill House, had extended their stay for a week. I wished we had the time to do the same.
Memories such as our time at Hill House really make a trip special and we are grateful to have found this little treasure. I found Hill House on the internet through http://www.ireland-guide.com/establishment/hill_house.4469.html#contact
Jynon
Oklahoma City, OK USA Fri 06/23/2006
B&B in Sarlat France
La Tour da Cause near Sarlat France was an incredible B&B The Woodburys are a delightful couple that provide so much assistance to making sure we saw so much in this historic area of France and all their recommendations were right on!.. And the old inn was so beautiful and well appointed... and we even learned out to play petanque!
Adele and Tom Barnett
Healdsburg, CA USA Fri 06/23/2006
Guesthouse Lida in Prague
I have to praise the friendly staff of the Guesthouse Lida in Prague, CZ. Jen was extremely helpful in everything from recomending interesting places to see, to providing us with transportation passes, arranging a river cruise for our parents and even finding us some cardboard to wrap up our valuables in for safter transportation. All the tickets he sold us were for the exact price listed in the guidebook, so he was very honest to deal with. In our 6 weeks of backpacking around Europe, he was the most friendly host we stayed with. While it's out of the center, the public transportation stops are a short walk away and the price was well worth it.
Lauren
Oregon USA Thu 06/22/2006
Karin's Haus - Four Thumbs Up!!
Four thumbs up for Karin's Haus in Rothenburg! She is fantastic. Not only was the room immaculate,breakfast filling, but she also met us in town to direct us to her home when we arrived via car. Her recommendations for food and activities are spot on! If you're heading to Rothenburg, you can't go wrong!!
Heather
Anchorage, Alaska USA Thu 06/22/2006
Dingle B&B
Just returned from Ireland and Dingle town, the best part of Ireland we feel! We found a great B&B through the Tourist Info office in Galway, necessary since we were last minute travelers on a holiday weekend. "Bolands Guesthouse" on Goat Street is just a short walk up the hill from town center. Breda Boland went out of her way to make our stay welcoming and enjoyable. Clean, larger sized rooms, Irish breakfast in a sun room and transport not only to and from the bus but also to walking sites. We loved this part of our trip the most and plan to return. Bolands website: homepage.eircom.net/~bolanddingle
Connie & Dennis
Grand Junction, CO USA Thu 06/22/2006
Cherry Court Hotel London
I travel frequently to London for stays of a week or more, as a tourist and for work, and I must recommend the Cherry Court Hotel! Since 2003, I have stayed with the Patels at the Cherry Court, and it cannot be beaten for value, location, and helpful, accomodating hosts. Just a few minutes walk from Victoria Station, the 12-room Cherry Court is ideal for travellers who arrive from Gatwick Airport and who are taking the convenient Gatwick Express into town. The rooms are small, but very clean and well equipped (and I know, having stayed in most of them over the years!) The Cherry Court has rooms to accommodate single travellers, couples and families. All rooms have brand new bathroom facilities (small sink, toilet, and shower), and this is a great treat for budget travellers used to sharing. Also, there is air conditioning in each room. While there is no indoor lounge, the Cherry Court has a beautiful mews garden out the back. Great in the fine weather!
An added bonus for travellers who wish to keep costs down while contacting family and friends at home: The Cherry Court has an internet accessible computer station which guests may use free of charge (a great help if you don't want to spend 2 pounds an hour at internet cafes!), and if you're travelling with your laptop, wireless access is available.
The breakfast basket included with each night's stay is very convenient--fresh fruit, juice, cereal bars and cookies provide a great start in the morning and often last as healthy snacks into the day, saving time and money.
The Patels are very helpful with new travellers to the city--if asked, they are happy provide information about good restaurants in the area to suit a variety of tastes, and can often advise on transportation and scheduling to many local sites and destinations.
All in all, it's a quality establishment, more like a B and B than a hotel, that won't break the bank!
Kristin Campbell
Kingston, Ontario Canada Thu 06/22/2006
B&B in Lucca
We stayed in a very nice B&B in Lucca, Italy. The Lucca in Villa. Just outside the Porta S. Ana. English speaking, breakfast, private bathroom, free parking. They let us leave our car parked, after checking out, while we toured the walled city. Highly recommended.
Ken Chase
Wales, WI USA Wed 06/21/2006
Great Bologna B&B - Ca Fosca
My family spent one night in Bologna at the beginning of June 2006 at this excellent B&B. Energetic proprietor Patrizia Ramponi pulls out all stops: welcoming you with nice hors d'oeuvres, giving you information about her city (restaurants, sights), and serving up a delicious breakfast (featuring chocolate sauces sold by monks at the nearby abbey--needless to say a big hit with my kids). Clean, big rooms on the 4th floor, and a rooftop fruit and flower garden overlooking the roofs of neighbors from this central location one block from the two towers, two blocks from Bologna's fantastic food markets, and three blocks from the Piazza Maggiore (which had a live ballet marathon the night we were there). A great place to spend two or three days while visiting Bologna and/or nearby Ferrara, Ravenna, etc.
An Italian friend who stopped by was also impressed!
Telephone: +39 051 261221
Web: www.cafoscaduetorri.com
Peter Zingg
Kentfield, CA USA Wed 06/21/2006
Roman Italian B & B - Rome
Within walking distance to the Colossium and the metro right outside the door. Maddy and Marco couldn't have been nicer. Very homey feeling. We highly recommend it.
Penne Cosgrove
Lincoln, CA USA Tue 06/20/2006
Ca del Dose
Picked Ca del Dose from Rick's book. It was a gem. Close to San Marco Square, reasonable, and friendly owners Anna & Marco. What more could we ask ?
Penne Cosgrove
Lincoln, Ca USA Tue 06/20/2006
Zermatt Gem - Hotel Tannenhof
Last month in Zermatt, My wife and I stayed at the Hotel Tannenhof, a Rick Steves recommendation, and can only rave about the hotel. It is a great place to stay. The rooms appear to have been recently remodeled and are very nice. The proprietor is very helpful and has good local recommendations.
Phil Jasien
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 06/19/2006
L'Ecole Buisoniere
As others have posted, I heartily recommend L'Ecole Buisoniere, in the countryside north of Vaison La Romaine, Provence. Former cowboy, model, bike racer, and chef, John is an engaging host. He gives great advice on car tours of the surrounding area, restaurants, wines, and life.
His charm is only surpassed by that of Monique. It's a lovely place all around, but the hosts make it extraordinary.
Phillip Wetzel
Spokane, WA USA Mon 06/19/2006
Rome, Italy: Nicolas Inn
Had a great stay at Nicolas Inn in Rome. Great location right by the Colisseum with lots of friendly shops & restaurants nearby. Extremely helpful hosts that made the city a breeze. We will be forever grateful for the excellent a/c! www.nicolasinn.com
Frank Colbraro
near Austin, TX USA Mon 06/19/2006
Dieltiens B&B in Bruges
Three friends and I stayed with the Dieltiens this weekend. Wasn't sure what to expect but we were all very pleasantly surprised by the B&B. Shared a large breakfast table with and chatted to travellers from different countries; very warm welcome from Annemie and Koen; spotless rooms with unique paintings and good-quality mattresses (very important to me) as well as good water pressure in the showers (also important).
We'd travelled on Eurostar from London to Brussels on Friday and by the time we got to the B&B it was after midnight. Annemie had thoughtfully provided us with door codes to get in. Furthermore on Saturday our Australian friend, who'd been staying at a dodgy hostel in Bruges and is backpacking through Europe, came to meet us and Annemie was happy for her to stay Saturday night in one of our rooms for a nominal charge. I felt that she was really accommodating of our group.
All in all I thought it was a very well-run B&B with lovely, attentive hosts. Also I was glad to be staying on a quiet side street - very peaceful.
May Chiu
London / Taipei / Perth, UK, Taiwan, Australia Mon 06/19/2006
Bay Tree House B&B London
We cannot say enough good things about our experience at the Bay Tree House B&B in north London. Our hosts, James and Janice, not only made you feel welcome and like an old friend from the moment you arrive, but they also were incredibly knowledgeable and helpful with everything we need from transportation, to sights and restaurant selection. I cannot say enough about the positive experience we had there and at a very affordable price.
Melissa Haskell
Dartmouth, MA USA Sun 06/18/2006
Great B&Bs in Loire Valley and Provence
My husband and I have just returned from a 10-day trip to France. In Loire Valley, just outside of Amboise, we stayed at Chateau de Nazelles Chambres (recommended in France 2006 book). The owners were friendly and helpful. The room and amenities of the facility were also a great value. We had a great view of the region - you could actually see the Chateau d'Amboise from our window.
We'd also highly recommend L'Ecole Buissonniere (also recommended in France 2006 book) in Provence, very near Vaision la Romaine. John was wonderful with his advice on the region, e.g. which market is the best on what day of the week, where to go see lavender. As we were both animal lovers, his dog was an added delight!
Connie Chan
Los Angeles, CA USA Sun 06/18/2006
B&B in Interlaken Switzerland
If you go to Interlaken Switzerland you have to stay at the Rugenpark B&B. Chris and Ursula are the nicest hosts that I have ever come across. My luggage was lost in London by United airlines and Chris and Ursula let me use their phone to call United in London for free, plus they know everything about the area, the best place I stayed on my trip.
Colorado SPrings, CO USA Sun 06/18/2006
B&B BRUGES BELGIUM
We highly recommend www.bb-speelmansrei-brugge.be . everything in bruges is walking distance from this beautifully renovated home that is immaculate, nicely furnished and very comfortable. the owner is very kind and helpful and speaks english. the breakfast was the best ever.
cindy hart
charlotte, NC USA Sat 06/17/2006
Roman and Italian bed and breakfast
Absolutely lovely. Marco and Maddy are friendly, accomodating and bring so much character to their b & b. What an amazing find. Highly recommended!!
Sarah Fleming
Ottawa, Ontario Canada Fri 06/16/2006
B&B Rothenburg
We stayed at a wonderful B&B for 5 nights in Rothenburg back in May this year. Our host Frau Weiss is most gracious and helpful. The place is kept immaculately clean and the breakfast is very good. It's about 5 minutes walk to the center of Rothenburg as well. We used Rothenburg as the base to visit surrounding cities like Wurzburg, Bamberg, Nurnberg and some other smaller cities (of course including Rothenburg. All these places are about an hours drive away, so instead of packing and unpacking, we decided to stay at this B&B and travel around. Saved lots of money because we paid only about 23E/night. Simply google "haus karin rothenburg" to find her information online. She's very good at responding emails and speaks great English also.
Y Tham
Toronto, Ontario Canada Fri 06/16/2006
b & b
Rome: Hotel Monte Carlo on the Via Palestro gave good value and is located within walking distance of both the A and B lines of the Metro and is reasonably close to the Termini. Decent breakfast, helpful staff, several good local restaurants.
Charles Faulkner
Brentwood , TN USA Thu 06/15/2006
The Best in Inverness
As far as I am concerned, there is no better place to stay in the Highlands than the Ardconnel House. John and Elizabeth are truly the "hosts with the most". Not only did they give you great tips on where to visit and how to get there, they were waiting with an eager ear to hear about your adventures. I felt as though I had Scottish parents who cared about me and my enjoyment. One never leaves the breakfast table hungry unless one chooses to leave that way. The rooms were clean and perfect. And there was the added bonus of Shadow. He is a wonderfully friendly black lab who really completes the home like feel of the Ardconnel House. Please, don't pass him by without giving him a little love. When I get back to Scotland, I will only stay with John, Elizabeth and Shadow. I wouldn't want to stay anywhere else.
Laura
Palmyra, NJ USA Wed 06/14/2006
New Attractively-Priced Bed&Breakfast in Rome!
Hi, my sister has just opened a new B&B in Rome, Italy (12 June 2006). She has three pretty rooms in a four-room apartment and the environment is 100% non-smoking.
Two of the rooms have their own private balcony and they all have private bathrooms.
The prices are very competitive.
The location is on a quiet street in the EUR neighbourhood, a 5-min walk from the EUR Magliana metro station. There is also free parking available on the street.
Check it out at www.first-floor.it
Gabriella
Rome, Italy Wed 06/14/2006
Montecatini Terme (21 miles W Florence)
La-Tartaruga, and its gracious hostess, Sylve Leder, are a refreshing alternative to staying in Florence. Sylve offers three rooms in her immaculately clean home, adorned with her own artwork. Her yard was beautiful, with rhododendrons in full bloom in May. She is a wealth of travel information and so willing to share and accomodate, as well as make reservations in advance for major attractions in Florence. Her home is most easily reached by car, but if coming by train she will meet you at the station. Her breakfast area is cozy, the table beautifully set, and a variety of delicious food choices. She is even so kind to send leftovers with you for a picnic lunch. Her husband is a butcher so nothing but the best in meats for her guests. She speaks perfect English and is very reponsive to e-mail requests for travel information. Much of the European travel experience is the wonderful people you meet along the way. www.la-tartaruga.com
Susan Dixon
Tulsa, OK USA Tue 06/13/2006
Smart B&B - Rome
For my first solo holiday to Rome, I contacted Isa at Smart B&B, & I'm so glad I did! Affordable, clean, charming & within walking distance to all of the attractions & the metro - it was a bargain, & Isa (& her family) were so kind & showed warm hospitality. 5 stars in my book!
Jennifer
La Habra, CA USA Mon 06/12/2006
A real find near Paris!
This is our 2nd stay at Dormouse House (email: lisa.dormousehouse@gmail.com) after a year and it just keeps getting better - not easy to do when it's already such a lovely place! The garden looks like a mini Giverny (which is not far) and the suites are SO comfortable and charming. There is room to spread out, there is absolute calm and fresh air, yet Paris is about 23 min. away by direct train (every 1/2 hr until after midnight). Lisa is so warm and kind; she gives her guests privacy yet is there if they need her. There are almost no 'rules' there (except no smoking, thank God) except the happiness of the guests - breakfast when you want, what you want, etc. She also offers great family style dinners, fun cooking classes, and an informal, cheerful manner that makes you feel at home. Well-behaved, supervised, kids and pets are also welcome (our kids cried when they had to leave her little poodle behind, who loves EVERYBODY!!!) Don't miss this special place...if you can get a reservation. Leslie and family
Leslie Harper
Seattle, WA USA Sat 06/10/2006
Amalfi Coast - Sorrento
Do not attempt to drive - very dangerous, impossible. Found a great B&B in the same bldg as Residenza Maresca in Rick's book. Lovely owner who has pride in her home. Modern, clean rooms with a full Italian breakfast. B&B Casa Iaccarino 0039 081 878 1191. Highly recommend.
CAthy
So Cal, ca USA Fri 06/09/2006
Rome - Hotel Pensione Italia
Well located, close to the train station. Staff is very helpful and fluent in English. Sabrina helped me translate with an Italian store owner on a glass bowl I wanted to buy. Wonderful customer service!
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Orvieta
Hotel Posta is well located and very nice. Mgmt speaks English. At sunset go to the bar directly in front of the Duomo and have a drink. The shades of light on the Duomo are spectacular.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Seminario Vescovile San Andrea - Volterra
Clean, small rooms, no frills. Fairly handy hotel if you have a car. You can park in their lot and not have to hassle with parking within the wall. Easy 5 minute walk into town.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Hotel Enza - Florence
Good location, very helpful staff. Don't stay in room #1 or any rooms on that corridor -- doorbell to front door located in hallway; very, very loud. They made all my museum reservations. Free use of their internet.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
La Torretta B&B
La Torretta B&B I would not recommend. The mgmt was not friendly or helpful. More interested in me paying for my room. Hotel du Lac staff was very friendly. They have a wonderful deck overlooking the water.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Cinque Terre
Vernazza is the best spot to set up camp. Do not show up in the Cinque Terre w/o a room reservation. No need for a car; the trains run every 30 minutes. Very easy to get around. Trattoria del Capitano very good. Good advice to make dinner reservations.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Albergo Torre - Castelrotto
Centrally located, modern, very clean rooms. Central family room with tv or just to read/relax. Breakfast buffet will definitely fill you up for a long hike.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Hotel Torcolo - Verona
Hotel Torcolo is well located, the rooms are small but clean. The mgmt was very friendly and helpful. Verona is worth a day/night visit.
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
Venice - Albergo Doni
Albergo Doni is well located and well run. They speak English so they can help you. Call the day of your arrival to ensure that the vaprettos are running (they go on strike a lot)
Cathy
So Cal, CA USA Fri 06/09/2006
La Poesia - Monterosso - Cinque Terre - Italy
My wife and I stayed at La Poesia in Monterosso, Italy and it was the best stay of our entire trip. I can't express enough the kindness and hospitality shown to us by Nicoletta there. If you're planning to visit Cinque Terre there is simply no other place to stay. We had wonderful and delicious breakfasts every morning on a beautiful terrace garden. There was always more than we could eat.. prosciutto, cheese, foccacia, pastries, fresh fruit, juice, coffee and more. It's located in the midst of old town Monterosso and an easy 12 minute walk to the train station in the new town. The rooms are beautiful, clean and comfortable. The kindness we were shown made it so very hard to leave this place, we will definately go back and stay at La Poesia again.
Andrew Frahm
Wauwatosa, WI USA Fri 06/09/2006
Dutch Countryside
Spent 3 nights at a wonderful B&B, Attema Sate in Gastemeer, Friesland part of the Netherlands. The owners have lived in the U.S. and made us feel like family. Its wonderful to get out in the countryside, and local towns will help with family research of Dutch heritage.
Deb B
USA Thu 06/08/2006
B&B Recommendation
Chateau de Taulignan - Vaison la Romaines - Provence France
Looking for romance? A quiet place to relax and/or re-invigorate yourself? This is it!
I cannot say enough good things about Chateau de Taulignan.
Rick Steves has accurately described the surroundings and the owners. The countryside was so serene -- you would swear you were miles from anything. (Instead, Vaison la Romaines is virtually just around the corner.) Our footsteps, the only ones we heard echoing through the rooms whilst passing through, led us to believe we were the only guests. To our pleasant surprise, we were not. Many of the guests were American (nice break for thus of us who are bilingually challenged) and, per our count, most every room must have been occupied.
There were beautiful woods to meander through or pastures to romp. The rambling building was exquisite in itself. I could easily envision the Chateau being the setting for a romance novel.
The owners, Michel and Helen, were delightful to visit with and very helpful. I say helpful because our stay at Chateau de Taulignan coincided with our most challenging experience whilst overseas!
Lynda
Katy, TX USA Thu 06/08/2006
Great B & B in Brugges
We stayed at Paul and Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde B & B in Brugges. It was fabulous, very reasonable. The breakfasts were huge: croissants, five different kinds of breaks, coffee, tea, fresh squeezed juice, cereals, yougurt and on and on.There is a computer in a small room that you are free to use. The rooms were very spacious, small frig in bathroom under sink, toiletries, nice towels. Roos even fixed us a breakfast tray and had it in our room the evening before we left because she knew we had an early train to Paris. She even made a taxi reservation for us that morning as well. Perfect location, quiet street, about 3-5 min. from the square. This should be added to Rick's book!
Joyce
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 06/08/2006
Bed and Breakfast in Montecatini Therme
We stayed in Montecatini Therme in Tuscany the first week on May of this year. We stayed at a bed and breakfast that we wanted to share with you. It was called La-Tartaruga. Sylvie was the owner. What a wonderful place. She was like a built in tour guide. She even make all of reservations in Florence at the Museums etc. She was great. She even gave us maps to all the outlining areas including sending us to fantastic restaurants everynight. Her husband is a butcher so each day we were able at breakfast time to taste meats and chesse from a varitey of area in the Tuscany Region. She explained to us about all the foods she was serving. What a great place.
Michael de la Pena
USA Wed 06/07/2006
Ireland B&Bs
Three nice B&Bs with personable (and funny) proprietors include Auburn House in Lahinch, Four Seasons in Galway, and Avondale in Nenagh. If you get the right room (we did) at the Auburn House, you are provided a view of the ocean at no extra charge.
Mike B.
Seattle, WA USA Wed 06/07/2006
Royal Stewart B&B in Bruges
What a wonderful,reasonably priced B&B! Maggie was so helpful and made us feel so welcomed.Breakfasts were delicious . The B&B is centrally located and very cozy and quaint. We felt like we were in our own home.Staying there made our visit so much more enjoyable!
Priscilla and Steve
Cape Cod, MA USA Wed 06/07/2006
Copenhagen
We will be in Copenhagen on Aug. 10 - 13 and we are looking for a nice B&B. If not maybe a small hotel. Really want somthing with our own bathroom.
Char
Plant City, FL USA Tue 06/06/2006
Hotel Basilea in Florence
My friends and I traveled to Florence in May, and, with the advice of Rick Steves' Italy 2006 book, we chose the Hotel Basilea for our lodging. The staff took care of our museum reservations and then, due to some poor planning on our part, they took care of making certain we had a way to get from Florence to Paris, the second stop during our 10-day visit---long story short, the trains were booked, and they assisted us in getting plane reservations and getting back to Pisa to catch the plane. The staff is wonderful, and there are four ladies from Texas who will always remember them (and be indebted to them) for being so helpful and friendly. Thank you for your excellent recommendation!
Marjann Morrow
Snyder, TX USA Tue 06/06/2006
Bell's B&B
My fiance and I spent 3 nights at Bell's B&B in Brugge in May and enjoyed the close location to the town center, her friendliness, useful information about restaurants, and great breakfasts. The room was comfortable with a few special touches. She even packed us a nice breakfast to go for an early morning departure. A good value and recommended.
Claire Dolske
Champaign, IL USA Tue 06/06/2006
Update on Winchester Hotel
My wife and I just returned (5/10/06) from our latest excursion overseas. We stayed at the Winchester in Belgravia for the fourth time. However, it will probably be the last time. Jimmy and Juanita have sold the place and it is just not the same. While the accommodations were the same (even with some upgrades - phones in room, internet access - the ambiance brought to the place by Jimmy and Juanita is gone.
As far as eating, we found Jenny Lo's Tea Room (which seemed to have carried some hype) was only barely adequate in our view.
We ate (and drank) several nights at Chimes, a wine and hard cider pub. We were welcomed and the food was, in our view, very good with reasonable prices.
Rich & Joyce Owen
Panama City Beach, Florida USA Tue 06/06/2006
Central London friendly hotel
Travelling through Europe without any Rick Steves guide books is crazy. The information is so 'real' it has saved us hard earned dollars and valuable time. Not listed, as far as we could see, was the Blades Hotel in central London. The hotel location is excellent and in a mixed residential and tourist area - plenty of small local stores and traditional English pubs with great food. Hotel is small, only about 16 varied sized rooms, but very clean and the staff are truly helpful. American tourists to Europe must get used to smaller bathrooms etc. as many of these building are 100 plus years old! We found booking direct with the hotel easier and they were very helpful in replying to our e-mails seeking advice before the trip. See: www.blades-hotel.co.uk
Patrick Finlay
Winter Haven, FL USA Mon 06/05/2006
Great B&B in Venice
Just returned from Venice where we stayed at B&B Sandra. What a great find. The home is beautiful , immaculate, the owners friendly, the breakfast outstanding (meat, cheese, fresh fruit, juices, cereal, fresh baked sweets etc.)
Just a few minutes walk to Ca' D'oro vaporetto stop. At 100 Euros a night for Venice this is a gem.
The only drawback may be the climb up the stairs but well worth it.
pat
pa USA Sun 06/04/2006
Superb Inverness B & B
We found the best B & B in Inverness...Ardconnel House. Hosts John and Elizabeth are truly two of a kind! A warm welcome awaited us as we rang the doorbell, thinking to stay one night. We enjoyed the house and hosts so much, we stayed four. Breakfasts were way beyond the norm...fresh fruits, warm pastries and warm attention started each morning delightfully. We were warmly welcomed "home" each evening and were allowed to eat a late dinner at the dining room table. Liz even fixed us a warm tea, which was very welcome after a cold day out and about. We found our room to be immaculate and more than comfortable. Many extra touches and kindnesses were evident and offered to all guests. Cleanliness and tidiness are exceptional. A large and comfortable shared living space with phone, TV and relaxing couches and chairs were also there. Tea and coffee service was the best we had the month we were in Great Britain. We found Americans, New Zealanders, local Scots and English guests were there, so it was a nice mix of the world. These folks are in the business because they enjoy other people and actually like the people who stay with them. We will return!
Carole
Colorado Springs, CO USA Sat 06/03/2006
Mas Shamrock in Saint Remy-de-Provence
We loved our one week stay at Mas Shamrock (http://masshamrock.com/). The house, the grounds and rooms are so well decorated and beautiful. Our host John was most gracious, helpful and with a great sense of humor, not to mention his own baked bread and croissants in the morning. We are already fantasizing about our return there.
Irene & Boris Naydichev
Los Angeles, Ca USA Thu 06/01/2006
Inverness B&Bs
If you ever want a great place to stay in Inverness, may I recommend Ardconnel B&B. John and Elizabeth are the warmest people you will ever meet, I felt like I was leaving my Scottish Mum and Dad behind. Give a good pet to Shadow as well, he is the most welcoming black lab a girl could ever ask for. We miss John, Elizabeth and Shadow, and will stay no where else when in Inverness.
http://www.ardconnel-inverness.co.uk/
Tara
Philadelphia, PA USA Thu 06/01/2006
B&B Friendliness
We heartily recommend cross-pollinate.com, mentioned in Rick's Italy guide. We stayed in all three cities they cover and got excellent value and location each time. Michele (http://www.alcolosseo.it/, e-mail: michele_mariano@fastwebnet.it) at Al Colosseo in Rome was especially helpful in giving us tips about tourism, his favorite restaurant, and safety. His English is excellent, and we enjoyed visiting on a variety of topics from politics to practicalities. You should book early; we started in February for April dates, and that's not high season!
Tom & Sara Neyer
Gillette, WY USA Thu 06/01/2006
Bath B&B
I highly recommend 30 Crescent Gardens In Bath. Your hosts, David and Caroline, are very helpful and informative about Bath and surroundings areas. Their gourmet breakfasts include locally grown fresh produce. The rooms are exceptionally clean and comfortable. Sure would like to see this B&B included in Rick's books.
Donna Mackay
Bishop, CA USA Thu 06/01/2006
L'Ecole Buissoniere- Great B&B in heart of Provence
I know there are other great comments about this B&B, but this one is worth even more. John and Monique (owners) will make you wish you stayed in Provence longer than planned... providing excellent travel advice and making you feel at home. John will join you for an aperitif to discuss dinner plans and join you for a sip of schnapps to disuss how it tasted after. Wished we would have based all of Provence travels from here!
Gary Shultz
Portland, OR USA Wed 05/31/2006
Cill Bhreac House, Dingle, Ireland
I arrived at the Cill Bhreac house after taking a rather nasty tumble down a cliff on the way to Dingle (And just FYI, be careful when climbing rocks at the Connor Pass, they are slippery), and I was covered in mud. Angela was very kind, and looked after me for the next couple of days, on top of the wonderful service and excellent breakfasts. She drove me to town in the evenings and was a true gem. I will stay at her B&B every time I travel to Dingle from here out, and highly recommend her to anyone heading in that direction.
Austin Britt
Austin, TX USA Wed 05/31/2006
B&B in NW Wales
We were very happy and very well cared for at the Hotel Plas Dinorwic in Y Felinheli Wales. The hotel is on a spectacular setting looking out over the Menai Straight. It's convenient to all of Rick's suggested sights in the area (as long as you have a car). Isabel and Jour Jones will take great care of you.
Fred Brunson
London, England UK Wed 05/31/2006
Edinburgh - Priestville Guest House
We just wanted to say how wonderful Trina and Collin Warwick have been to work with in planning our 2007 trip. We haven't even met them yet and already feel welcome. They have been happy to email, send information and even email about what they did for the holidays, etc. After having such a great long distance experience we have changed our itnerary. We are now starting, instead of ending, in Edinburgh. Why not start among friends? We will report back in after the trip...with rave reviews we're sure!
Cyndi & Kirk
Sheridan, OR USA Tue 05/30/2006
II Sole Del Sodo
II Sole del Sodo is the best Bed and Breakfast we have ever been to. The room was large and very clean! The breakfast and Claudia's cappuccino's were to die for!!! We could not have been treated better and we recommend II Sole del Sodo to anyone! Thanks Claudia.
Sarah and Roger Coulson
Olympia WA (U.S.)
Sarah and Roger Coulson
Olympia, WA USA Tue 05/30/2006
Staying in the Cotswolds
If you are looking for a place to use as a base for touring the Cotswolds I highly recommend Chipping Campden.It is very centrally located. We stayed at the Cornerways for 5 days in May( listed in Rick's book). Spacious room and bathroom as B&Bs go and the owners were wonderful.
Wayne Schwartz
Los Angeles, CA USA Mon 05/29/2006
scotland and wales on our own!
just returned from scotland and wales - 5 senior ladies, no organized tour; used trains, local buses and taxi!!! stayed with Amazing Grace at Colquhounhouse. no wonder rick calls her amazing. we wanted her to travel with us. thanks, grace.
we used rick's recommendations in wales also. Castlebank Hotel in Conwy - perfect setting, wonderful hosts.
also glan heulog guesthouse in conwy. we left feeling we have new friends!
thank you all so much for making our holiday so memorable!
lee grey
grand rapids, mi USA Mon 05/29/2006
Ballyogan, Kilkenny Ireland
For an exceptional value in Ireland, I highly recommend the Ballyogan B&B, 2 hours southwest of Dublin. We stayed here 3 wonderful nights in May, 2006. This B&B is run by a hostess named Fran who goes above and beyond the call-of-duty. Her breakfast includes home-made granola and yogurt, as well as an assortment of fresh fruits, and fresh squeezed orange juice. She follows this cold-fare with the complete, hot,Irish Breakfast. The house itself is a completely renovated farm house from (I think) the 19th century, with each room named (we stayed in the lovely Lilac room). Finally, it is located in a beautiful pastoral setting across the River Barrow from the intriguing St. Mullins Monastery. Check out www.ballyoganhouse.com for more info.
Michael McCall
Spring Valley, Ca USA Mon 05/29/2006
Duh!
The B&B in Ghent is B&B Delbaere: email is s.deravet@worldonline.be.
Rebecca McCullough
Portland, TX USA Mon 05/29/2006
Ghent, Belgium
Hosts Michaela and Steven put on a large breakfast (meats, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, bread, fruit)in their home furnished with knicks and knacks from their worldly travels (our headboard was from Pakistan). They help you enjoy their city, Ghent, to the fullest. Great value on the B&B.
Rebecca McCullough
Portland, TX USA Mon 05/29/2006
Hotel il Bargellino Florence
We just returned from a great trip thanks to the guidebook. In Florence we stayed at Hotel il Bargellino. Carmel was friendly, the terrace is beautiful, the location was good .... Thanks RS for the recommendation!
Liz
Dearborn Hts, Mi USA Sun 05/28/2006
The Best B&B in Inverness, Scotland
By far the best B&B I stayed in while traveling England, Ireland and Scotland was found in the highlands of Scotland in the town of Inverness. The Ardconnel House was beautiful, the rooms very comfortable, but the owners, John and Elizabeth, were the best B&B hosts I have ever experienced-this trip or my last.. They were so helpful, gracious, and took the extra time to accomodate us with directions. They even let us come back and spend some time in the living area while we waited for our late afternoon train. If you ever go to Inverness, Scotland--this Ardconnel House is a must! (Really great breakfasts too!)
Patti Eder
Medford, Oregon USA Sun 05/28/2006
Straven Guest House
We recently spent time in Edinburgh, Scotland and stayed at the Straven Guest House, owners Mac & Marian. What a pleasant stay and so well located to the bus and beach. Breakfast outstanding and accomodations excellent. We recommend this B & B.
Gene & Linda Best
Liberty, TX USA Sat 05/27/2006
Kilpatrick House B&B
We arrived here to find they were not expecting us even though I had reconfirmed shortly before leaving home. The owners, Shirley and Ken were most embarassed and asked us to wait while they got things ready. It was a beautiful day and we were tired from our flight from Boston so we didn't mind sitting out in the sunshine at all. The grounds were beautiful and the trees and flowers gorgeous! The next thing we know Shirley was bringing out tea, scones, cakes, etc. She felt so badly about the fact that she didn't know we were coming that she apologized over and over. Our rooms were ready shortly and they were lovely. The bathrooms appeared to be new and were spotless. Breakfast the next AM was delicious with many choices. The best part of our stay however, was the warm welcome and genuine manner of our hosts.
Patricia Adrian
Townshend, Vermont USA Sat 05/27/2006
Rome B&B bargain!
My wife and I recently had a delightful stay at the Chaplin Bed-and-Breakfast in Rome. If you're traveling on a budget and want clean, comfortable, conveniently located accommodations that won't bankrupt you, check out the Chaplin. (rate info, photos and map at www.romanhostels.com or e-mail info@romanhostels.com) It's on the top floor(there's an elevator), above the street noise, and is heated in winter. You get extremely comfortable beds, fresh towels daily, a separate fridge for guests, and a hearty breakfast.
The proprietor, Rene', a friendly Dutch guy with a great sense of humor, is fluent in seven languages, including English. He knows Rome well and is happy to help you plan your itinerary.
We found the Chaplin's location perfect--a 5-minute walk from the rail station and easy walking distance from most of the major sites. Nearby are shops where you can buy fresh food, as well as a small street market most mornings. There are also a number of decent, inexpensive restaurants.
We both thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Chaplin and consider it one of the best bargains in Rome. We'll be back!
Dick Molitor
Syracuse, NY USA Sat 05/27/2006
Old Farmhouse B&B, Wells, Somerset, England
Of the many memorable places we visited on our recent trip to southern England, Wells stands out. We stayed at the Old Farmhouse B&B and would highly recommend it. It is quiet, our room had a view of the cathedral and the breakfasts were the best we had in England. Our only regret was that we couldn't spend more time with our hosts, Felecity and Christopher Wilkes, but we hope to remedy that on our next visit.
Bruce and Patricia Overman
Des Moines, WA USA Sat 05/27/2006
Tulips in Amsterdam
If you're looking for a B & B that feels like you're sharing someone's home, then Tulips B & B in Amsterdam may disappoint. Its lovely, well-appointed rooms on a canal in a nice neighborhood near the Vondelpark seem more like a small hotel, which was fine with us. More important was the good value, thoughtful details, and total comfort. Our charming host Paul's hotel background was evident. Definitely a good choice.
Sandra Kruger
Hobe Sound, FL USA Sat 05/27/2006
Great B&B in Provence
We just returned from a 2 week trip to France. We used Rick's guidebook to book some hotels/b&b's ahead of the trip. But at the end of the trip we had 4 days not booked. We happened to run into an inn owner in Isle Sur La Sorgue & she told us about her place. Well it was fabulous! It's in the small town of Saint-Didier. The owners are Myriam & Gerard Bouscarat & the inn is La Gavaniole. They were such gracious hosts--we even had a swimming pool right outside our room, & you could see Mt. Ventoux from the breakfast room! Their web-site is: www.lagavaniole.com St. Didier is close to Carpentras.
Kerry & Sharon Roach
Wichita Falls , USA Thu 05/25/2006
Holly Villa B & B, Bath, England
We just returned from England, and took Rick's advice on the choice of B & B. Jill and Keith at Holly Villa were the most wonderful of hosts, the breakfasts were superb, and spoiled us for the rest of England! Jill even took an email from my house sitter, gave it to me, and made a return email to her! Keith made restaurant suggestions that were perfect. I would go back to Holly Villa (and Bath), in a heartbeat.
Jennifer Walker
Tucson, AZ USA Wed 05/24/2006
ROMAN and ITALIAN B&B Roma, Italy (www.italianbandb.com)
A fantastic B&B! Very conveniently positioned in Rome, very comfy inside, as far as I can remember it was a really good price, and you are made to feel very welome (more like you're staying over at a friends house than in a B&B!). Definately made our holiday more special and memorable.
Paul
Ware, Herts UK Wed 05/24/2006
Casa Portgioia, Castiglion Fiorentino
Casa Portagioia was a most inviting and picturesque place. Terry and Marcello were wonderful hosts. Terry's sense of humor and light banter made each encounter enjoyable. One day he wore a T-shirt with the inscription "I make stuff up". It was a most appropriate slogan for him. However, he was also most helpful in providing suggestions and directions for our touring in the area. Marcello, was more serious, but also pleasant to be around.
The two did all the cooking and serving for breakfast. Each morning there was a vast selection of fruit (pears, apricots, melon, prunes, pineapple, strawberries, oranges, bananas, peaches) and freshly baked croissants and pastries. Eggs, ham and broiled tomatoes were optional. All of this with an unlimited supply of cappuccino, caffee latte or American coffee.
Our accommodations were equipped with all the modern conveniences, but constructed in traditional Italian fashion and very tastefully appointed. The doors and windows were exquisitely fashioned woodwork with elegantly styled hardware. The landscaping was pleasing and meticulously groomed. Shrubbery and flower beds lined all the walks, and plants and flowers enhanced every view.
All of this in set in a rural location about seven kilometers outside of Castiglione Fiorentino. There are olive orchards on the property and also scattered on all the surrounding hillsides. The property overlooks a valley where small plots of ground are cultivated, many of them by hand. Several mornings we saw an elderly couple working the small field adjacent to the Villa.
Exquisite vacation place.
Bruno Schroeder
Ocean Springs, MS USA Wed 05/24/2006
B+B Belgravia, London
B+B Belgravia, London. If you need to stay in London, this is a little gem! Quite "designer," comfortable beds, nice linens, minimalist decor, light and airy, wonderful fresh breakfast, laptop for emailing, best "fresh coffee machine" EVER! Fantastic gastro pubs in what seems to be a safe, quite posh residential area of London. Great for business or pleasure. I've stayed there for both now and they remembered me as a return guest. So welcoming! If you are not fit, ask for a lower level room. There are no lifts; that is the only thing missing! Julia, Edinburgh
www.bb-belgravia.com
Julia
Edinburgh, UK Tue 05/23/2006
Dolce Tuscana
This last July we stayed at Dolce Tuscana in Cecina nestled the Tuscany hills. We stayed in the Nespola apartment which had just been adorably renovated. (as was the entire property) It was a wonderful change to stay in a newly remodelled B&B and have everything working fantastically. By far the best bathroom we came across in our Italian travels. Charles and Silvia, the owners were more than accommodating with restaurant suggestions and places to see in the area. It helped quite a bit that they both speak English. We sat in the morning enjoying the beautiful view from the outdoor patio and ate apricots from their trees. It was a wonderful treat on our way from Florence to San Gimigniano. I only wished we had stayed longer...next time we will.
Lori Susi
Sunnyvale, CA USA Mon 05/22/2006
Edinburgh B&B
Stayed at the Airlie Guest House in Edinburgh last week. Wonderful hosts, always someone there to answer your questions, and went above and beyond, giving us a ride to Arthur's Seat. Short bus ride to Royal Mile and train station. They've got a website.
Vie
Houston, TX USA Sat 05/20/2006
Hillview Cottage in Stirling Scotland
Just come back from a great hholiday in Scotland.....if you have never been you must. Whoever says it always rains has never been. We had bright warm sunshine for most days and this was May!
We stayed B&B and the one that stood out for us was Hillview Cottage in Stirling. Not cramped like a lot, and a real family home...the children were so helpful and the best place we ate was recommended by Mr Darbys son Andrew.
Mr Darby was so helpful with directions, and the discussions with other travellers at breakfast was what I will always remenber.
Martha Tutt
New York, NY USA Wed 05/17/2006
Alba ( Piedmonte) B and B
I live in Naples and wanted to explore Piedmonte and go wine tasting. However it is very difficult to get good tourism information. If you do want to go to piedmonte go to www.villalafavorita.it it is run by Roberta and it is truly fabulous with her food, cooking classes and beautiful home, hot shower and her assistance went above and beyond the call of duty. She ran me to the market one day as well as met me at a wine exposition to give fax directions to a winery. Please tell Roberta hello from Carolyn. She speaks excellent English.
Carolyn Martin
Naples, Italy, USA Tue 05/16/2006
Brugge B&B and Rothenburg Guest House
Royal Stewart in Brugge far exceeded my expectations and was one of Rick's recommendations for lodging in Brugge. Maggie was so sweet when she packed some sandwiches for myself and two other guests departing very early our last day in Brugge. Very charming and quaint. Location was very convenient.
I would also highly recommend Karin Weis' Guest House in Rothenburg. I arrived completely distressed and her sincere reception and exceptional accommodations were by far the best of my trip. She is not listed in Rick Steve's book, but was recommended by another guest on this graffiti board. I can't say enough about her so please email for any questions you may have.
Vanessa Tilley
League City, Texas USA Tue 05/16/2006
Dolce Tuscana Inn
I had a wonderful experience at the Dolce Tuscana Inn, where I just spent a week with 2 friends and my daughter. Our hosts, Charles and Silvia Harris and their son Sebastian, welcomed us like family.
Our first night there when we inquired about a good restaurant, Silvia not only told us the best places to go, she took us to a seafood restaurant in a nearby seaside town. On Sunday, she recommended and made reservations for us at a wonderful agritourismo just down the road from the Dolce Tuscana Inn.
Our hosts were always available to make recommendations on the best large and small towns to visit and the best times to visit (Market Day!) as well as the best routes to travel.
The Dolce Tuscana Inn is located with a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside - it's hard to believe you are just minutes from the major highways linking you to Pisa, Florence and other destinations.
We stayed in the villa, which had two large bedrooms, a huge eat-in kitchen with modern appliances, two bathrooms, a separate living room, and a private patio overlooking olive groves and Tuscan hills.
When I first looked at the reasonable rates on their website, I thought this place sounded too good to be true, but it met and exceeded all expectations. This is the perfect place to stay to explore Tuscany! www.dolce-toscana.com
Deborah Denton
Brandenburg, KY USA Mon 05/15/2006
heroic b&b service
Romantica Pucci, one of Rick's recommendations in Civita di Bagnoregio, was truly a gem. Pucci and Lamberto are the ultimate hosts! Pucci speaks beautiful english and makes delicious lemoncino. Lamberto speaks little enlish but is an awesome cook! We ate dinner there one evening because it was Holy Week and most restaurants were closed. I was so glad I asked Pucci if she possibly had room for us for dinner. It was one of the best meals on our 10 day adventure through the hilltowns. It was also one of the least expensive! I so wish I had asked for Lamberto's Tagliatelle Bolognese recipe...unforgettable!!!
Peggy Burch
River Ridge, LA USA Sun 05/14/2006
Paimpont, France B & B/Gite
Paimpont, France...
This is a wonderful place owned by Bruno and Sylvie Gautier. the following is a link to it. I cant tell you enough how nice the people were and what a beautiful place it is. I wish I could live there.
http://perso.wanadoo.fr/bruno.gautier3/
Camille
Porterville, California USA Sat 05/13/2006
B&B In Salthill, Co. Galway, Ireland
Great B&B in County Galway, Ireland.
We've just returned (5/2006) from 5 wonderful days at the Marless House B&B in Salthill (Galway City) Ireland. Mary Geraghty cooks the included breakfasts for all palates and diets, knows by heart (though she denies it) the bus schedule, local sights of real interest, and could work for the Irish tourist board with her knowledge of Ireland.
Clean, warmly appointed rooms with orthopaedic beds. Charming furniture, beautiful sitting room where afternoon tea is served in a lovely tea service. About a 2 mile walk to Galway city along a great seaside promenade.
Value is incredible, service is 5 star, but the charm factor is priceless!
We look forward to next years trip for more exploration and the Marless House.
Steve LaBounty
Sacramento, CA USA Tue 05/09/2006
Brugge Belgium B and B
Brugge Belgium:We enjoyed our stay with Maggie at the Royal Stewart...best room (and cheapest) of the whole trip. Maggie was very helpful.
Sara
Redwood Falls , MN USA Tue 05/09/2006
A Wonderfully Peaceful B&B in Normandy
My wife and I have been backpacking all over Europe for three months. While planning our adventure, we came across a bed and breakfast in a little village in the Normandy area right in between Mont St. Michel and the Normandy Invasion Beaches. It is run by a extremely friendly and accomodating English couple, who, because we didn't have a car, picked us up from the train station and drove us all over Normandy for a tour of the beaches. My wife and I both agreed that they were the British aunt and uncle that we had never had but had alway wanted. Although the Bed and Breakfast itself is in a thousand-year-old house, it is beautifully furnished and very comfortable; our room was very, very nice with an ensuite bathroom. The garden out back is quite beautiful and a very relaxing place to read or nap. We would return in a heart beat. The B&B's website is www.lemesnil.com and the couple's names are Gordon and Valerie.
Cody Bema
Tehachapi, CA USA Tue 05/09/2006
Thank you Marco and Maddy !!!
Excellent place to stay in Rome. Very clean and safe. Fantastic location. A bit of noise from the street, but if you keep windows shut you will hardly hear a thing. Maddy and Marco (Owners) are extremely helpfull, kind and protective of their guests. The map they gave me served well throughout my whole stay in Rome. Their recommedations of food places proved very helpfull as well. Overall, we had a fantastic holiday and would happily go back this B&B in the future. Maddy and Marco - big hug and thanks for everything!!! Jolanta & Daniela
Jolanta & Daniela
London, UK Sun 05/07/2006
Cosy B&B in Rome
What a great find! If you are looking for a warm welcoming (Patty & Rudy picked us up at the airport) and a place to call home this is it: www.pattysrooms.com . They have been so helpful (gave us tips on nice restaurants & so much more) and are such a lovely couple that we would go back in a heart beat if they wouldn't be leaving Rome! If you still want to enjoy Rome in their company...taste their nice Italian breakfast with fresh pastries and their lovely cappuccino then we would warmly recommend them! We stayed with them mid-April.
Julie Stack
San Francisco, USA Sun 05/07/2006
B&B Althea in Florence
My husband and I were in Florence in late September 2005. Like true vagabonds, we arrived with no room reservations. We went to the tourist service office in the train station and were stunned by the prices for B&Bs (upwards of 140 Euros per night). We were about to try the cities outskirts when we were stopped by Antonio, who had been standing in line behind us at the office. He told us that he was about to list his new B&B with them and said that he had a room available for us for 55 Euros/night. With no other details and a leap of faith, we agreed. It turns out that Antonio is very familiar with Rick and credited him with much of his business in other areas of Italy. B&B Althea could not be more charming!! Antonio and Maura were fabulous and the room included delicious coffee and pastries every morning. Situated in the Oltrarno, it's a true find, just minutes from the Ponte Vecchio, Boboli Gardens and Palazzo Pitti, to name a few. You can easily walk everywhere! Thank you to Antonio and Maura for a truly spectacular find in Florence! Ciao!
Deana M.
Ottawa, Ontario Canada Sat 05/06/2006
THE BEST B&B IN DORDOGNE
Your recommendation for the Chateau Nineyrol never disappoints. We have just left Anne and Phil after visiting their lovely home for the second time. We highly recomend a stay here not only for the accommodations and location but for the wonderful welcome you will receive from your gracious host. Anne and Phil speak English and have more energy and laughter to share than we have ever experienced before. If you are fortunate to have dinner here you will be delighted with the food and company. Our only advise is: stay for as long as you can! This area of France is so unspoiled and there is so much to see and do here. We heard other guests saying they wish they had aloud more time here.
Dave and Cathy
Santa Barbara, Ca USA Wed 05/03/2006
Two excellent B&Bs
On a recent tour of Italy, my wife and I found excellent B&B accommodations and exceptional service at the Locando Al Leon in Venice, and at the Forus Inn in Rome.
The Al Leon (www.hotelalleon.com) sits on a quiet campo less than 100 yards behind the San Marco Cathedral. Our spacious room overlooked the campo. The bathroom had modern plumbing and copious amounts of hot water in the shower. The very friendly innkeepers - Marcella & Giuliano - were attentive to our needs, and very patient with my fumbling Italian.
The Forus Inn (www.forusinn.com) in Rome is a new 7-room B&B on the first floor of an multi-story building on Via Cavour (8 blocks from the train station and five blocks from the Coloseum). The Manager - Natalie - spent 24 years as a luxury hotel concierge, so he knows what travelers like, and provides it. The high-ceiling King-bed room we had was larger than others I've had in the same price range. The modern bathroom, complete with luxury soaps and amenities, was larger than what I've had in more expensive hotels. Natalie and his manager, Emy, were gracious and very helpful with tour, tickets and information. The Forus Inn isn't in Rick's book, but it should be.
Jim McDonald
LOS ANGELES, CA USA Mon 05/01/2006
Loire Valley La Maréchalerie B&B
If you are visiting the Loire Valley and have a car, check out La Maréchalerie. We recently stayed 5 fabulous nights there. Danny and Patricia will give you a very warm welcome and lots of great travel advice including maps routing you through the most scenic of areas. They are especially good at helping you choose what you will enjoy most in this area full of possibilities.
The rooms are nicely decorated and have a toilet and shower. There is a common room where you can meet with other guests from around the world. In our 5 days we met people from Africa, Italy, and Belgium as well as from several areas of France. That room is also used for breakfast and also has everything you need to prepare a snack or light meal except the food. One night, when we were too tired to go back out for dinner, Danny even provided that with fresh eggs from his chickens.
It is a great place for kids and we hope to take our grandkids with us next year. It is in a tiny town with little traffic and there is room to roam behind the B&B.
Their web site is very comprehensive and what you see on it is what you get. Email gets answered quickly, too.
http://www.lamarechalerie.fr/
Janet Solomon
Riverview, FL USA Mon 05/01/2006
Nicholas Inn-Roma
We just got back for a wonderful month tour of Italy. One of the highlights of course was Roma, it was everything and more we thought it would be. If you are going to Roma and need a really nice place to stay try the Nicholas Inn. You can not beat the location, 5 minutes away from the Colosseum, right down the street from the Forum and just 10 minutes from the train station. Melissa greeted us with a wonderful smile and very valuable information. She is from Chicago so her hotel has some of the touches we were used to at home. She delivers a GREAT breakfast to your room every morning. The Nicholas Inn is not in Ricks book but it is well worth taking a look at www.nicholasinn.com
Rhonda Richeson
Fort Worth, Texas USA Sun 04/30/2006
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil in the Loire Valley was one of our favorites while visiting France and Italy this month. The old mill is a lovely backdrop for a bed and breakfast with rooms that are comfortable and well appointed.
Florence is an especially gracious and charming host, helping us each morning at breakfast with information and directions for the day's sightseeing.
Don't miss having dinner at the mill. Florence is a fabulous cook and it was a truly memorable experience!
Leslie Ross
Tualatin, Oregon USA Thu 04/27/2006
B & B in Tuscany
In October 2005 my wife and I stayed 10 days at a wonderful B & B in Tuscany. Dolce Toscana, the name of the inn, is located in the hills east of Cecina, and is about 40 minutes south of Pisa. We made Dolce Toscana our home base and made day trips by rental car to different Tuscan hill towns including Volterra, San Gimignano, and Massa Marittima. We also visited large Tuscan cities like Pisa, Siena and Lucca.
Our stay at Dolce Toscana was thoroughly enjoyable. Our hosts, Silvia and Charles Harris, who bought the 18th century manor house a few years ago and spent two years expanding and remodeling the property to convert it to a B & B., were friendly, hospitable, and helpful in making our visit a memorable and enjoyable experience. Silvia made reservations for our rental car and helped plan our day trips. Silvia and Charles moved permanently to Tuscany in 2005 from California. There are two apartments, one that is two bedrooms and one bath and the other is two bedrooms and two baths. We stayed in a third unit, which is a separate building with two bedrooms and two baths and is described as a "villetta." Our home was complete with a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and a living room. We thought the cost for our stay was very reasonable. Please check the Dolce Toscana web site for current rates and much more information. The web site is www.dolce-toscana.com. All units are newly remodeled and beautifully decorated. Silvia did a wonderful job in decorating and overseeing the design of the gorgeous kitchens and bathrooms. First class materials and fixtures were used throughout.
We enjoyed our best Italian dinner in Montescudaio at a restaurant recommended to us by our hosts. Montescuadaio is located about 5 minutes from Dolce Toscana. There are other excellent and reasonably priced restaurants nearby.
For one of our day trips we accompanied Charles and Silvia to the island of Elba. Charles is an avid kayaker, and he went to Elba to get certified as a kayak instructor in Italy. We toured the island with Silvia while Charles was doing his kayak certification. Charles has extra kayaks and arranges kayak excursions for guests. We had a grand time on Elba and resolved to return in the future.
Charles and Silvia are both fluent in Italian as well as speaking English. Silvia is Italian, but lived many years in the States as well as other parts of the world.
Dolce Toscana can be reached at 39-0586-65-04-95, 39-333-527-7608 (Silvia's cell phone), and 39-338-522-4910 (Charles' cell phone). The email address is info@dolce-tocana.com.
Bjorn Solberg
Tiburon, CA USA Tue 04/25/2006
Haarlem - B&B Koning
We are American expatriots living in the Heidelberg area for 3 years now. My husband, 5 yr. old son and I just got back from Haarlem, where we stayed at the B&B Koning. I'm afraid I don't remember the owner's name, but the lady and her husband were very nice. My son was charged 1/2 price and we all had a good breakfast with bread, jelly, butter, chocolate sprinkles, cheese, meat, egg, tea, coffee and even hot chocolate for the little man. Parking on the street was easy and there is a supermarket closeby. The flower parade was neat to see (April 23). They even checked the weather news for us yesterday morning, so we could decide whether or not to go to Keukenhof. We went and the rain held out until we had our fill of the flowers. Oh yeah, we had a cup of coffee at La Place and the view was great.
Susan
Heidelberg, Germany Mon 04/24/2006
Outstanding B&B
B&B Al Moretto in beautiful Paderno del Grappa (NW of Venice, Italy)was a highlight of our recent trip. Kind and gracious Anna will provide a scrumptious breakfast from her mother's bakery in nearby Asolo; the clean, immaculate 700-yr-old building is very characteristic, furnished with period antiques. If you want to experience rural Italy and its beauty, I suggest a sidetrip from Venice to the Paderno area, nestled in by the nearby beautiful Dolomites. Anna at the B&B Al Moretto will treat you well! Contact her at bebalmoretto@yahoo.it
Sandy
St. Olaf, IA USA Mon 04/24/2006
Wonderful B&B in Lucca!
We recently had a wonderful stay at the Lucca in Centro B&B. The place is very pleasant and comfortable, and each room has a private bath and shower. The proprietors were very nice, helpful and friendly, and spoke English very well. Breakfast is served in your room. The location is very convenient. Our stay here was one of our favorites of our entire trip!
Carolyn
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/22/2006
carol spencer's
i highly recommend carol's "doolin cottage". i agree that this charming home does indeed have a spiritual feel to it. i was the only guest for two days in the house on a blustery rainy night and i could have sworn i was the only person on the planet as i had no tele or cell phone. those were two of the most introspective, serene nights i'd experienced in my life. that little cottage seems to care about one with every nail and wooden plank it's built with and seems to reach around one and hug them tight. carol is a wonderful cook and keeps a spotless home. the lush lovely yard with the wooden benches and wildflowers never cease to invite one out to play. the price is so right and as carol becomes busy with work in ennis frequently she trusts her guests to mosey around at will. for anyone who truley desires to "get away from it all" or focus on writing, do take a breather at carol's doolin cottage.
therese gonzales
san diego, ca USA Sat 04/22/2006
GREAT Venice & Siena B&Bs
We used Rick's recommendations for our B&Bs in Venice and Siena and he did not lead us wrong!
In Venice we stayed at Albergo Doni. The location was awesome - in the backyard of St Mark's Square. We requested a double room, and ended up with a bigger room. There was a beautiful fresco on our ceiling too! The bathroom was nice and the room was clean. Nikos was so kind.
In Siena we stayed at Palazzo Brucchi. It had an amazing view of the countryside. The courtyard area was gorgeous too - picture perfect. The location was very close to Il Campo, where all the "action" was. Maria Christina also was so kind, and wanted to make sure our stay was pleasant. She offered us plenty of brochures of things to see and do.
Both places were easy to find, and we felt safe. When we return, we will stay here again!
J and M
PA USA Fri 04/21/2006
Sorrento Italy B&B - IL Nido
An incredible B&B! Dino and Gianni treat everyone like family. The food is incredible, the views of Naples Bay and Mt. Vesuvius are beyond belief, and the prices are very reasonable. If you ever go to Sorrento, plan to stay here. They have a free shuttle into town, to make everything convenient.
Karen and Mike Danks
Corinth, Texas USA Fri 04/21/2006
Ardconnel House, Inverness, Scotland
If you are looking for a B&B in Inverness, Scotland that offers warmth, comfort, gracious, friendly and helpful host and hostess, close to all city attractions and events, and offers an unbelievable breakfast, Ardconnel House is the place to be. Your host and hostess, John and Liz, not only make you feel welcome but also assure that your visit is a memorable one. On a scale of 1 to 10, for me the rating is beyond 10, and as I commented in the Ardconnel House guestbook, "beyond awesome."
Joy Alexander
Canon City, CO USA Thu 04/20/2006
Bed & Breakfast in Carlucet (Perigord Noir/Dordogne Region)
If you happen to be in the Perigord Noir / Dordogne region of France to savor the famous French foie gras and plan to stay at a nice B&B, we would highly recommend staying at Les Charmes de Carlucet B&B. The rooms are clean, at good value, and the hosts are very warm, welcoming, and friendly. It's truly a family-oriented atmosphere. The hosts, Eric and Helen, speak both French and English and do go out of their way to make you feel at home.
During our stay, my husband had really bad allergies (Spring pollens), and Eric offerred him some medication to ensure that he gets better.
You can rent the Gites or chambres d'hotes at: http://www.carlucet.com. This B&B in Carlucet is located between Sarlat and Salignac -- a very small and quiet town of roughly 400 people.
Breakfast includes a variety of croissants, breads, fresh fruits from local farms and bakeries. Cheese, fresh jams, yogurt, cereals etc. are also offerred.
PS: Don't forget to visit the Sarlat market on Saturday morning, sight-seeing at Rocamadour (1 hour drive away) and its famous grottes. An afternooon visit / stroll throught "Les Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac" - http://www.eyrignac.com (8 - 10 minute drive from the Charmes of Carlucet B&B)
Tram An
Houston, TX USA Thu 04/20/2006
B&B Marisa Cinque terre
We really liked this place. In between the train station and the promenade to the beaches (one minute walk). Very quite and in a lemon three garden. They also have parking. Write them from the site
Kathryn
Texas USA Thu 04/20/2006
The Olde Bakery B&B, Kinsale
Kinsale and the B&B Olde Bakery was the greatest part of our Ireland trip. Chris and Tom made us feel that we had truly come home and the popularity of their B&B was evident in conversation at the morning table by return visitors! The most reasonably priced and the best accomodations.
Sandi Dahl
Fargo, ND USA Wed 04/19/2006
Soggiorno Pezzati in Florence
We really liked this place. In between the train station and the Accademia (five minute walk). Run by Daniela who is warm and charming. Since it is near the train station it is a good place to stay if you plan on taking day trips from Florence too! Only thing to note is that there are three flights of stairs to make it up but if you can handle that, it is reasonably priced and clean and convenient. www.soggiornopezzati.it
LeAnn Yee
New York, NY USA Wed 04/19/2006
Raves for Luna & Simone B& B - London
Luna & Simone - Belgrave Rd. London
I want to put it a pitch for Luna & Simone B& B near Victoria Station. It is owned and operated by a family. My 16 yr old daughter and I just came back from traveling alone (without my husband) and we were a bit nervous. The brothers, son and wives who ran this place were SO kind and friendly and supportive. It felt like family (family you actually like and get along with). When my daughter felt sick on Easter, they helped me find a drugstore that was open. No easy task.! They also stored 2 bags of our dirty laundry when we went to Paris for 4 days (and returned for another night).
The place is reasonably priced, not fancy, but clean, airy, nice beds, closets, bathrooms, closets, t.v. good breakfast.- free internet.- some rooms with balcony. The location can't be beat - safe and ultra-convenient. THe 24 bus stops at the door. It goes to most major attractions in London. Plus it's 5 minutes from Victoria Station and Buckingham Palace, and many yummy restaurants.
This family is just wonderful. I miss them already! Lisa
Lisa Frankel
Los Angeles, Ca USA Tue 04/18/2006
Great B&B near Chinon France
Just back from France and had great stay at beautiful B&B in Sammarcolles near Chinon and not very far from Loire valley Chateau area. The Saint-Mardfamily are exceptionally friendly and Jo speaks excellent English(and Chinese ,French and Flemish!) The house looks like a movie set and the welcome tea, dinner and breakfast were really exceptinal!(All for 49E +20E each for dinner with them . We were given excellent directions for our drive to CDG and Jo even gave us a snall Picnic to take with us! The house is completely quiet on the edge of a village,has a pool and would be very safe for a family with small children (Her son Gaspar is 4 so they enjoy families) Their email is saintmard@club-internet.fr. We loved the house food area and family and would certainly return !
Katherine
Indiana USA Tue 04/18/2006
English B & B near Stansted Airport
George Green Farm - B & B owned by Doug & Marie Barlow offered a warm welcome starting with airport reception at Stansted (good Ryan Air connection). The hosts were gracious, informative and entertaining. Their B & B a thing of beauty & of pride. Take a look for yourself at www.georgegreenfarm.com.When they learned that my husband is a veterinarian they rang up some famer friends and then took my husband out to visit two different farms, one that evening and one the next morning so as to have a look around and see how the Brits care for their animals. The pub/restaurant next door was convenient, had great food and a super honest staff. My mother-in-law left her purse there, the next morning they delivered it to her, contents intact.
Becky
Normal, IL USA Tue 04/18/2006
L'Ecole Buissoniere- charming B&B in heart of Provence
My family's 4 night stay at L'Ecole Buissoniere couldnt have been better. John and Monique (the owners) couldnt be more helpful and kind, always full of suggestions and directions. The location is 1 kilometre to the nearest town, so you really are in the country, but it is less than 10 minutes to 3 nearby towns (Vaison la Romaine, Buisson, Villedieu). The house is surrounded by vineyards and has walking paths all around, and is also walking distance from a beautiful river.
This B&B is great for people that want to feel like they are at home in the french countryside. Hands down the best B&B i've ever stayed at.
Cynthia Power
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/17/2006
Absoluut Verhulst Bruges, Belgium
B&B Absoluut Verhulst Bruges, Belgium
Staying at Absoluut Verhulst was one of the most memorable experiences in many years of traveling to over 20 countries. Benno and Frieda are perfect hosts who create a genuinely warm, homey, and comfortable atmosphere. They love people and pride themselves on providing the best possible experience for their guests. Frieda was a professional chef who dreamed of having her own B & B. Benno designed and did most of the work remodeling the 400 year old building. The loft was a huge two level suite, and the "made to order" breakfasts were incredible and beautifully prepared. We would definitely return to Brugge just to stay at Absoluut Verhulst again - one of the best values in Europe!
Richard and Yoko Miyagawa, Los Angeles, CA USA 4/15/06
richard and yoko miyagawa
los angeles, CA USA Sun 04/16/2006
The best Studio Apartment in Rome
TERRAZZA SAN PIETRO THE BEST STUDIO APARTMENT IN ROME
THE BEST PLACE TO SEE ROME
ENJOI THE UNIQUE AND SPECTACULAR 360° VIEW OF ROME FROM TERRAZZA SAN PIETRO
DON'T MISS THIS UNFORTEGETTABLE EXPERIENCE
http://www.romabedandbreakfast.info/eng/sanpietro.php
uriarte
madrid , Spain USA Sat 04/15/2006
Two terrific BB in western Ireland.
Two terrific BB in western Ireland.
Great & helpful hosts, clean rooms, good central locations, & nice breakfast. What else do you want?
Alpine in Dingle & Seaview in Doolin.
Phil Carey
Wading River, NY USA Sat 04/15/2006
Il Vecchio Frantoia in Scillato,Sicily
Il Vecchio Frantoia in Scillato,Sicily
I should have done this months ago, but better late than never. We stayed at Il Vecchio Frantoia in Sicily. It is a gem. The food was spectacular with local specialities like wild boar,local wine, and, course, their own olive oil. The fresh antipasto and lunch were also fabulous, but it was almost impossible to eat lunch & dinner - there was so much great food to eat.
The owner was great and shared much about the place with us with a friendly after dinner drink. He said that he wants his guests to experience the real Sicily. The location is also great not far from Palermo & Cefalu with good access to many Sicilian hill towns.
Rooms were nice and the whole atmosphere felt like we were really experiencing Sicily, not just tourists. The mountain-side location is spectacular.
Phil Carey
Wading River, NY USA Sat 04/15/2006
Bruges & Bacharach, Gemany
Wonderful stay in Bruges at the Royal Stewart. Maggie was a wonderful host, and her home is beautiful. One of my friends happened to celebrate her birthday while we were there. Maggie invited us for wine and cheese to celebrate her day. She directed us to De Clerks choc. shop and many other of her favorite places to go. I highly recommend the Royal Stewart, it is listed in Rick's book. We also stayed in Bacharach (Rhine River) at the Pension IM Malerwinkel. Wonderful Rhine town, however we went in March and sadly found out most of the towns in the Rhine and Mosel fully open after Easter. Only a few restaurants and shops were open. The Malerwinkel was very nice and had wonderful breakfasts.
Terri Dearing
Edmond, Oklahoma USA Thu 04/13/2006
Amsterdam caution
I just want to repost a warning about a place run by Gabriele after seeing someone rave about how "cozy"the home is. It is a small 4th floor apt with no elevator in a bare concrete apt housing complex. There are 2 bedrooms but Gabriele gives up hers and she takes the smaller. You share the one bathroom and the rest of the small apt. with her. The taxi driver said it is more like a 20 -30 min. walk to attactions and the area is so far out it's not on 3 of the walking maps I had of the city. For not much more we had a charming hotel on the canal and actually ran into Rick Steves who was staying there. Truly, stay near the canals so you can walk everywhere. You won't regret it.
Deb
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 04/12/2006
Ireland Shannon Valley B&B's
Here are two great B&B's if you are going to be touring in the Shannon Valley.
Kajon House, near Clonmacniose, e-mail kajonhouse@eircom.net. Kate and John have a wonderful home, and Kate is one of the true "mad Irishwomen". Just a couple of k from the monastic site at Clonmacnoise and the Bog Railway. A great place to break the drive from Dublin to Galway.
Scapaflow, Obrien's Bridge, e-mail scapaflow@inflowing.ie. We have stayed with Mrs. Fitzgerald twice now, and will certainly do so again. Wonderful house, good food, congenial hostess. O'brien's Bridge is a pretty village, and a pub with very good food is two minute walk from the front door.
Gary Mosier
Indianapolis, IN USA Wed 04/12/2006
Sorrento, Italy B&B
I want to wholly and enthusiastically recommend a wonderful B&B in Sorrento, Italy. The web site is http://www.villaoriana.it/en/index.htm; the local address is: Villa Oriana Relais, Via Rubinacci, 1, Sorrento, Italy 80067. This bed and breakfast sits near the top of a mountain overlooking the heart of Sorrento with a view of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. Named after their daughter Oriana, this citrus farmer and his wife Maria welcomed us into their home in such a way, I truly felt as if I'd been recommended by their best friend to stay in their home. My husband, not usually a fan of B&B's, felt separated from the other guests and completely cared for. I, on the other hand, completely in love with the history and quirkiness of a B&B, felt right at home. Our room had a separate entrance, balconies overlooking the bay, and a private bath. While there, Terry and I had quite dinners, lounged on the decks at ocean-side, took a day trip to Pompeii and another to ABBEY OF MONTE CASSINO. (Incidentally, this is the setting for Princess Padme's castle in Star Wars, Episode 1.) Maria and her son, Pasquale, run an inviting, warm and rich experience at Villa Oriana. If you visit the Amafli Coast and need overnight accommodations, you're missing out if you don't stay here! For more info, feel free to contact me. Bon Voyage!
Natalie
Topeka, KS USA Wed 04/12/2006
London B&B - Cumberland House
The owners, Carmel & Clive, are so very kind! I ran into problems trying to get back to Houston from Gatwick & Carmel came to my rescue with a quick pick-up from the airport, a cozy room, great hospitality & a warm welcome. I highly recommend them and will be going back myself!
Brandon
Houston, TX USA Tue 04/11/2006
Ireland -- near Galway -- B&B
Tuar Beag B&B Spiddal. Great location on Galway Bay. The best, tasty-wise and hearty-wise B&B breakfasts we had in Ireland. Hosts Siobhan and Eamon will make you feel right at home, right away. Clean comfortable rooms, some can sleep four. Excellent location for trips to Galway, Connemara, and the Aran Islands. Enjoy!
Jim and Jeanne
Lawrenceville, NJ USA Tue 04/11/2006
Holly Villa B&B Bath England
When in Bath, stay at the Holly Villa B&B run by the wonderful Jill & Keith! They are excellent hosts with a fantastic English breakfast! Our double room was beautiful, clean and comfortable. The location is perfect just over a bridge in a residential neighborhood. We were so happy to hear that they would pick us up and drop us off at the train station for 3 pounds per ride! If you go to Bath (and do - it is wonderful), you must stay at the Holly Villa!
Maureen
Edina, MN USA Tue 04/11/2006
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil (Loire Valley)
Le Moulin du Fief Gentil: Loire Valley Bed & Breakfast (http://www.fiefgentil.com/) The highlight of our most recent trip to the Loire Valley was our stay in the 500 year old former water mill, "Le Moulin du Fief Gentil". Our hosts, Florence and Francois-Xavier, were very welcoming, outgoing, and fluent in English. The atmosphere was really as if we were invited guests in their home. We all met for drinks in the two story high living room with its exposed beams and rafters each evening and enjoyed local Vouvray wines. The breakfasts and four course dinners were delicious and served in the amazing dining room, one wall of which is glass and allows a view of the remnants of the old mill wheel and waterfall as the stream from the pond outside runs directly under the house. Unlike some other B & B's which are miles from anything, this magical place is within easy walking distance of Blere's village center. We also loved the convenience of having the chateaux of Chenonceaux and Amboise only minutes away by car. "Un grand merci" to Florence for her great advice on day trips, local restaurants, etc. and many thanks to Rick Steves and Steve Smith for finding this gem of a B & B.
Dean
Bellevue, WA USA Mon 04/10/2006
Roman and Italian B&B
I really enjoyed my stay at the Roman and Italian B&B. Maddie and Marco were amazing, the rooms were great, and the location was perfect. Maddie and Marco really made my Roman experience unforgettable!
Tina Logan
Minneapolis, MN USA Mon 04/10/2006
B&B southeast of Vienna
We have been to Austria several times in the last few years and have found an excellant B&b just about 90 minutes south of Vienna in a town called Rust ( Roost ) The stocks travel here from South Africa and the townspeople allow nesting on their roof tops while they give bith to their young. We have found a great place to stay there; It is a Gastezimmer run by the Prieler Family, Doris, Pepi, Berta, and Daughters-all but Berta speak fluent English They have seperated cottages plus several rooms in the main house. From there you are located on Neusiedler See a large lake and just minutes from a walk into Hungry Food is great and acommadations are well worth the price www.tiscover.com/privatzimmer.prieler or www.members.aon.at/prieler.rust
Dick Peischl
Duluth, Ga USA Mon 04/10/2006
Italy B & B's
My niece and I took advantage of two of Rick's suggestions while in Florence and Rome. In Florence we stayed at "Soggiorno Battistero", three floors up and bare bones accomodations, but clean and what a view!! We could practically touch the Baptistery and Duomo. But BEWARE! If you are one who wants quiet, this is not the place! The Campinile (bell tower) is right out your window and there are serious evening revelers during high season in the square below! We enjoyed every bit of it as it added to the ambience of our trip! As for Roma - we stayed with Armando and Stefano in "Hotel Oceania". We were literally guests in their meticulously clean, and fairly quiet home. Armando can make some delicious morning coffee (I miss him!) and he and ROberto tease Anna as though they were all family members - and we were right there in on it! Also, there are opera singers on the main floor and what a joy to hear those sounds throughout the courtyard during the day!
Karyn Custer-Jankowski
Valparaiso, IN USA Sun 04/09/2006
Best Bed and Breakfast in Rothenburg
We stayed at Karin Weiss {www.haus-karin.de} on April 1st. It was unbelievable, she picked us up at the train station and recommended a fantastic restaurant for dinner. The rooms where spotless and the best part of the stay was Karin's breakfast. It is the best
Cal
Sioux Falls, SD USA Thu 04/06/2006
irish b&bs
Just back from Western Ireland and can happily endorse Rick's choice of Mary Walsh's B&B in Kinvara and the Grey Gables in Ennis (a very underrated little town by the way) Great stays at each place.
peter javoroski
kingsford, mi USA Thu 04/06/2006
perfect Ireland B&B
If you want to stay in the most beautiful, quaint, and friendly B&B in Ireland, try Derrynaflan B&B outside of Cashel. The owners Sheila and Ned treated us like family. There are the remains of a castle in the back of the house, and the house itself is beautiful stone with a bright red door and ivy growing up its sides.
Mary Jo
Denver, CO USA Wed 04/05/2006
Great stay in Bruges at Absolut Verhulst!
I recently spent a few days in Bruges and stayed at Absolut Verhulst B&B. Just loved it! The hosts were very warm and helpful, their home inviting and nicely furnished, my room was comfy and huge (!), and the breakfast was huge. Much better than staying at a hotel! I liked the location also. Centrally located and very close to a canal, but away from the hubub and boats. Perfect.
Vicki Hain
Chapel Hill, NC USA Mon 04/03/2006
Correction - Irish B&B Recommendations
A coorection to my entry on 4/1/06....the correct name for the B&B in Waterford is Foxmount Country House. Mrs. Kent runs a fabulous B&B, sure to meet and exceed your expectations.
Roy Leonard
Fredericksburg, VA USA Sun 04/02/2006
Ireland & Scotland
We did the B & B plus car plan with Town & Country Association. Our favorite B & B was St.Judes in Galway,Ireland. It was a terrific experience and we could walk to the city for dinner. We very much enjoyed the Cill Bhreac House in Milltown,Dingle. Our hosts gave us a ride into Dingle to celebrate St. Paddys Day there. We also enjoyed the Coonagh Lodge B & B, about 10 minutes from Bunratty Castle. And finally, we liked our last B & B, near Nenagh, Maryville B & B. The Irish welcome is overwhelming everywhere one travels there.
In Scotland, we stayed at one of Rick's recommendations, The Ceilidh-Donia. We enjoyed Max and Annette, liked the small bar, internet access, loved their golden retrievers and ate in their restuarant one evening. We had a great view from Room 12, it was about a block from the bus stop (great bus system in Edinburgh) and was on a quiet street. We would definitely stay there again. They were great hosts and very helpful.
Rick, I wish you would do an entire guide book on Scotland. Your Heart of Scotland Tour recommendation, and your sights to see in Edinburgh were terrific, as well
Susan Williams
Granger, IN USA Sun 04/02/2006
Recommended B&B's in Ireland
Just returned from our second trip to Ireland in three years and would like to recommend several B&B's as exceptional:
(1) Berry Lodge, Miltown Malbay, County Clare. The best of the best! This B&B is renowned for its cooking school and restaurant, but its host (Rita Meade) was unexpectedly called away. Nevertheless, her surrogate, Marguerite, made our stay memorable in every respect. She gave us our choice of the five rooms, and each was large, beautifully appointed, and provided great views of the ocean and the countryside. As expected, the breakfast was wonderful. What we didn't expect was a great reception with tea and snacks served before a roaring peat fire, Marguerite making our dinner reservations at an excellent restaurant nearby, etc. The house itself is a wonderfully restored 1700's farmhouse that is as cozy as your grandmother's place. A great place to unwind and get away from the ratrace of Limerick, Killarney, or Dublin. We're already planning our next visit!
(2) Murphy's Farmhouse, Castlemaine, County Kerry. Ideally located between Dingle and Killarney, this sixth generation working farmhouse is also notable for the warm hospitality of its hostess, Mary Murphy. We arrived late and hungry and Mary prepared tea for us before a cozy fire. Murphy's Bar (yes, her family) is only 200 yards away and is a great pub providing Irish music. The night we were there we became part of "Sean's" 60th birthday party. We felt like locals! The B&B is welcoming and warm, with outstanding breakfasts and comfort throughout.
(3) Foxcroft House, Waterford, County Waterford. We stayed here three years ago and still talk about it. Just 10 minutes from the crystal factory, this B&B is a grand country manor home that offers oversized rooms with sumptuous furnishings. Although this B&B does not accept vouchers (the others do), this would be a great place to spoil yourself. Exceptional breakfasts are served in an elegant setting. The grounds of Foxcroft are beautiful and worth walking around.
(4) Hillgrove B&B, Kilkenny, County Kilkenny. Margaret Drennan and her husband Tony have been doing the B&B thing for over 20 years and it shows...warm hospitality, extremely comfortable rooms, beautiful grounds, etc. Make sure you try their porridge with Irish Mist in the morning - great! Kilkenny is worth a visit...it has a medieval feel to it that we didn't experience elsewhere.
(5) Crannmor B&B, Trim, County Trim. An excellent last-night stay if you're leaving out of Dublin. Anne and Marc O'Regan are wonderful hosts...we enjoyed their hospitality and playing with their two Brittany Spaniels. The house dates to the 1800's and is located in a quiet location. They recommended an out-of-the-way restaurant that proved to be a real find.
You would do well to book any of these B&B's for your trip to Ireland, depending upon what you plan to see. Each is quite close to major Irish attractions and offers a quiet, comfortable stay with charming hosts.
Roy Leonard
Fredericksburg, VA USA Sat 04/01/2006
Heroic B&B friendliness
En-route to Poland recently we had an occasion to stop overnight at London Gatwick. Where to stay? A quick search on Google revealed the very attractive looking Cumberland House, Horley - around 3 miles from the airport, but offering very reasonable terms, including free transport to & from the airport. All we had to do was contact hosts Carmel & Clive on our arrival at the airport, and sure enough Clive was there in no time, to transport us to their elegant & comfortable Guesthouse. After a very peaceful night, superb shower and sumptious breakfast,courtesy of Carmel, Clive was ready once again to whisk us back to the airport. Carmel & Clive are a very special couple with a very special guesthouse. The service they offer is second to none - They genuinely care about the comfort of their guests.Check out their website : www.cumberlandhs.com
John Reid
Inverness, Scotland UK Sat 04/01/2006
Trip to Tuscany
My wife and I stayed at Casa Portagoia, near Castiglione Fiorentina and our hosts went above and beyond in ascertaining our trip to be a lifetime experience. Just complete overall attentiveness to our needs and helpful suggestions that paid off handsomely.
Charles Angelo Saia
Hampstead, NC USA Sat 04/01/2006
Delightful in Dingle
The Milestone House in Dingle made my visit to Ireland. The accomodations were comfortable and immaculate, the breakfast the best, and the location beautiful. Michael and Barbara Carroll's hospitality is why I'm glad we stayed there. If you like a place where they anticipate what you want to do and explain everything you need to know then this is the place for you. If you want to feel perfectly comfortable in a foreign land then this is for you.
If you're going to Ireland, a visit to Dingle will be the highlight. The Milestone House was a great guide to the scenery, pubs, shops, and local flavor that make it special.
Mark Rogan
Fairfield, CT USA Fri 03/31/2006
Home away from home in Rome!!!
Me, my wife and our twin daughters really felt welcome at Patty's Rooms. The place is cozy, clean and we were really looked after! Patty and Rudy took care of the kids so that we could enjoy our breakfasts...and that was priceless! Here is their web address: www.pattysroms.com for all of you who are looking for a place where the hosts have time for you!!!
Jonathan Heublein
Washington, USA Fri 03/31/2006
Hotel Fasce, Sta. Margherita, Italy
We believe Rick's comments on Jane Fasce of Hotel Fasce, Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy, in ITALY 2006 are very unfair. She is professional, thorough, and protective of both her guests and her hotel. To call her "intense" is grossly unfair. She is a gracious, helpful hostess. Our daughter, 46, has been staying at Fasce for 15 years and loves it. She took us there this month; we stayed for 6 nights and could not have been more pleased. I can only guess that those who complained are accustomed to sloppy, casual service at B&B's in this price range. Here they get solid, reliable and considerate service at a reasonable price. This is as good an experience as we've had in 30 years of travel in Europe.
Irl and Sharon Carter
White Bear Lake, MN USA Wed 03/29/2006
Cotswolds B&B
My husband and I just returned from a trip to the UK and while in the Cotswolds we stayed at Badgers Hall in Chipping Campden. This is mentioned in Rick Steve's guidebook as a tea room (which it is), but they also have B&B. The owners, Paul and Karen, are really fantastic and are great cooks too. The rooms are really lovely and cozy.
Siobhan Brown
Seattle, WA USA Tue 03/28/2006
B&B in Bruges
Going to Bruges?? We have to recomend the B&B run by the very helpful, caring, and friendly Paul and Roos Gheeraert. A 5 minute walk from Market Square. Our room had a fridge, tea and coffee and of course little chocolates. It was very clean, large and bright, overlooking a very peaceful and quiet courtyard. Free internet. The breakfasts are very delicious. Fresh baked pastries and bread, fruit, cheese, cured deli meats, and hearty cereals. The room was the best value on our trip at 60 euros for a king bed.
www.bb-bruges.be
Graham and Lisa Barnes
Victoria, BC Canada Mon 03/27/2006
Hotel Weinbauer, Schwangau
We spent 2 nights at the Hotel Weinbauer in Schwangau, Germany (the town closest to Neuschwanstein castle) recently. The hotel was very clean and comfortable. We had our kids with us, so we were glad to be offered an "apartment" - 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. The staff was very friendly. The only problem we ran into was caused by our arriving late back to the hotel one night, around 10:30pm. The hotel was locked and dark, and we had left our room key at the front desk. There were no hours posted at the front desk that would have let us know to expect this. After some badgering, they did let us in and retrieve our key for us. So, a warning - if you might be back late, ask how late the desk is open, and if your room key will open outside doors to the building. And if it's OK to take the key with you. Some places I've stayed did not allow this.
Dana Howell
Midland City, AL USA Sun 03/26/2006
Hotel Monaco, Munich
Four thumbs for the Hotel Monaco in Munich. Fastidiously clean, friendly and courteous attention from Christine, the innkeeper, and a wonderful breakfast spread. Only steps away (two short blocks) from the Hauptbahnhof, the Monaco is a gem.
Tom P.
Stillwater, MN USA Sun 03/26/2006
Corte Compana
We, too, were very pleased with the accommodations, breakfast, and warm reception we received at the Corte Compana in Venice last week. Ricardo is a joyful individual, and eager to help in any way. His B&B is beautiful, and homey at the same time. Very convenient to St. Mark's. I heartily recommend Corte Compana.
Tom P.
Stillwater, MN USA Sun 03/26/2006
Holly Villa, Bath, U.K. B&B
We stayed three nights at this delightful B&B in the wonderful city of Bath. Owners Jill and Keith were friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable hosts. Breakfast was delicious,and plentiful, served in a pretty dining room. The bedroom and bath (ensuite)were very clean, comfortable and spacious. The location was within walking distance of many of Bath's sights. We would definitely stay at Holly Villa again.
C. McFalls
Audubon, PA USA Sat 03/25/2006
Wonderful stay at this B&B!!!
A rare find and much better than some 4* hotels I have stayed in. You are made to feel so welcome by Max and Lavinia and they will give you a whole host of information about getting the best out of Rome and all thier tips work. There are a couple of really great local restaurants which are half the price of the turistic onece and they offer a great local atmosphere and great food/wine. The metro and local buses are only 2 minutes walk away as is the Vatican. Rooms are spotlessly clean and large. Breakfast is good. Staying here is like staying with friends, I would most definately stay here again and will be recommending it to anyone who says they are visiting Rome. A truly great place to stay. Have a look at www.romabandb.it and enjoy Rome!
J. Gallagher
Madison, Wisconsin USA Sat 03/25/2006
Mas des Tourterelles, St. Remy de Provence, France
This is a wonderful, lovely, recently renovated farmhouse just 5 minutes walk from the center of town. Great hosts and fabulous value for the money. www.masdestourterelles.com
L Ross
Philadelphia, PA USA Thu 03/23/2006
Charlotte Guest House, London BnB
Just returned, stayed 3/3-3/6/06. In West Hampstead (zone 2), two block walk to W. Hampstead tube, excellent facilities nearby- 24 hour grocery, Italian take-out, Costa (like Starbucks), cleaners within one block, just off West End Lane, a busy street. Close to Thameslink and Britrail stations (Pass them on way to tube) with direct link to Gatwick, Luton and City airports, bus direct into town ending at Waterloo (London Eye) for tube avoidance. Very reasonable (S40/D50 pounds shared bath,S50/D60 ensuite), great breakfast (menu!) in sunny room. No parking but great transport connections (bus to Picadilly 24 hours). Web is www.charlotteguesthouse.co.uk. Free travelcard with 7 night stays.
Diane Y
Pottstown, PA USA Sat 03/18/2006
corte compana
Riccardo, from the Corte Compana B&B in Venice, Italy is a host for but not limited to high maintenance individuals! Riccardo is a young entreprenuer with the helpful attitude and excitement one would expect from someone who has a real passion for their business. Riccardo is most helpful with suggestions for where to go and what to do, makes sure his guests are comfortable, and provides free internet and a good breakfast. Located very close to St. Marks square and the grand canal, sights are close and/or easy to get to from here.
Nick Leone
Memphis , TN USA Fri 03/17/2006
York, Horley (outside London) and Edinburgh
York - Crook Lodge
Brian was an excellent host. The B&B is in a convenient location with easy access to the train station. Breakfast was delicious and our room was perfect. Should I visit York again in the future, I will not hesitate to contact Brian again.
Horley - Gatwick Belmont In the few times I've been to London, I have never stayed IN London. I've stayed near Gatwick and taken the train into the city. The Gatwick Belmont in Horley is a convenient 5 minute drive from Gatwick Airport. Its staff will pick you up from the airport upon arrival and bring you back for depature. Staff will also transport you to the South Terminal for train/coach service, although the Horley train station is a convenient 3-5 minute walk from the Belmont. You can purchase an all day travel card for 10 pounds which includes transport on the Southern railway line and unlimited use on the tube and bus services in London. You can choose to take the train into the London Bridge station or to London Victoria and start you day from there. Depending on your departure time, the train into London can take up to 40 minutes, but that didn't bother me as most sites don't open until after 9:30am anyway. We had 2.5 days to explore London and we saw/did everything we wanted to do and then some.
Edinburgh - Priestville Guest House
Lovely Victorian home with helpful and warm proprietors, Colin and Trina. The room was large with a large bathroom. Really convenient to the bus stop and Colin was very thorough in helping us figure out the bus system. He also provided us with a sample of haggis to try which was thoughtful.
Kim
Durham, NC USA Tue 03/14/2006
Greenmount House-Best B&B- Dingle Town, Ireland!
We've lived in Germany for about 1.5 yrs and have gotten to travel to 12 countries and this B&B is by FAR the best we've stayed at! We tell all of our friends to go there. Mary and John were very professional and welcoming and Mary's breakfast was THE BEST, especially her french toast!! The other B&Bs we stayed at in Ireland, the host looked like she had just rolled out of bed to serve us a less than mediocre breakfast. Their home is very cozy and the fire is very inviting after a long day outside. I totally disagree with anyone who says that they would skip over Dingle. If you're looking for big fancy hotels and clubs, then yes, skip Dingle; but if you're looking for some local pubs with Irish food and music and beautiful scenery, then go to Dingle! We can't wait to go back! Rick didn't disappoint us with his recommendation! www.greenmount-house.com
Kristie & Kyle Larson
Oberarnbach, Germany Mon 03/13/2006
Italy B & B's
We returned from Italy last week. We took advantage of booking places that were recommended on this site and were NOT disappointed. The Roma B & B in Rome was very comfortable and so close to the Vatican, Metro and Bus lines. Lavinia was so helpful! In Florence we stayed at the Novecento B & B. You were right - Franco & Sawako were awesome and yes - he made the BEST cappuccino!! He is amazing! It was in a wonderful location...then we stayed at the Cretatiole near Pienze....it was unbelievable. Isabella and family are wonderful. One night there was a wrap @ our door and the "grandfather" bought us walnuts and grappo!!! We had a wonderful time in Tuscany. The best food was in Pienze. Lastly we stayed at the Ca' Centopietre in Venice. Carlo is extremely professional...the rooms were very large with a whirlpool...great location and a huge breakfast buffet! We had a wonderful trip and appreciated the feedback that so many of you provided to help us plan our trip. We were LEAST impressed with Thrifty rent a car....and yes..be careful..my husband's I-Pod and Bose headphones were stolen before we even left the airport! -
Patti
Ann Arbor, MI USA Sun 03/12/2006
Mainstay Guesthouse, Dingle Ireland
We had a great time in Dingle, Co. Kerry Ireland! Our stay at the Mainstay Guesthouse made our holiday perfect.Our room was clean, bright and lovely. The owners Ruth and Gus are super helpful at answering all questions about what to do in town and what to see on the beautiful Dingle peninsula. The breakfast at the Mainstay was the best I had in all of Ireland. It's hard to decide what was better- the French toast or the frittata. I wish I was back there now!
Mary McKee
Bronx, NY USA Thu 03/09/2006
Haus Oberkassel in Bonn
When I went to Bonn, Germany, for Karneval, I had planned to stay at the Haus Oberkassel, a local bed and breakfast in Bonn's Oberkassel district, south of Beuel and north of the independent town of Königswinter. They have two houses, one near the train station on Kalkuhlstrasse, and the other at Jakobstrasse right across the street from the REWE supermarket + post office. I was asked at checkin what time I wanted to eat breakfast the next morning, and I said 9:30 AM, which was fine with them (they do not have a breakfast buffet as everything is freshly prepared). After that I was provided my own key, which is for the outer door and inner door. This cost only € 39 per night for a single. The woman who managed the B & B agreed that the second day I could pay for my accomodations rather than upfront.
My room was at the Jakobstrasse location so I had to take my luggage over there. Luckily I was only in the second floor. The room I had was very nice, like a suite with couches and sattelite TV, and a separate bedroom and an ensuite shower and bathroom. In the living room was an empty minibar but I did not mind that it was empty, because I could put my bottles of Kölsch in there. The only real problem I had with the room was my own doing, changing the water heater setting from "2" to "1", which does not allow the shower to provide hot water, but rather warm water.
After going out partying, I managed to wake up about 9 AM and make it downstairs for breakfast. For breakfast they had a hard boiled egg in a cup, wrapped whole-grain bread slices, bread rolls, cherry jam, chocolate spread, ham, salami and cheese, and to drink I had coffee. In the breakfast room there was also a vending machine which you could wager € 2.00 for a nice watch or a cigarette lighter. In the halls were other vending machines. But that is a nice touch for a B & B in case the stores including REWE across the street are closed.
Transportation to the city center is possible either by the tram line 62 along the Jakobstrasse and Adrianstrasse, which passes by the Beethoven House or transfer at Ramersdorf and pass by the Deutsche Telekom and go under the "Museum Mile".
Upon leaving Haus Oberkassel, if you have paid for your stay, just leave the key in the provided mail drop.
If you do go to the Oberkassel part of Bonn, I highly recommend to stay at Haus Oberkassel. They can be found online at http://www.hausoberkassel.de.
Josh Hanz
Frisco, TX USA Sun 03/05/2006
Great Tuscan B&B!
My wife and I had a fabulous stay at Dolce Toscana, http://www.dolce-toscana.com, an intimate, private Tuscan bed and breakfast inn about five minutes from the villages of Montescudaio and Guardistallo, and only fifteen minutes from the Mediterranean Sea and 40 minutes south of Pisa.
Charles & Silvia are gracious hosts, and offer a choice of unique accommodations, from newly renovated apartments to a thoroughly modern villeta. The spacious 5 acre site is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, woods and farmlands extending as far as the eye can see.
Charles is very familiar with the area, and helped us plan relaxing day trips to local villages and Elba Island. He also directed us to local family eateries, where the food was scrumptious and many times we were the only tourists in the restaurant.
The Dolce Toscana is Tuscany at it'??s finest! Phone: tel. (country code 39)0586-65-04-95
U.S. Agent tel. 571-451-4851
Dan Mauk
Benicia, CA USA Mon 02/27/2006
Hallstatt and Rothenburg
We just returned from a 12 day stay in Austria. We returned to Pension Hallburg www.pension-hallberg.at for our second stay. We have stayed in rooms 2,4 and 5 and have loved all of them (especially room 5). The lake views are the best, the rooms are immaculate and the breakfast is wonderful too! We cannot say enough about Gerda & Eckbert. They are so friendly and the best hosts ever! We will return again! Rates here are cheaper in winter :)
We also would like to mention Karins B&B www.haus-karin.de in Rothenburg, Germany. We stayed with her for 2 nights in September. She was the sweetest and best hostess we have had in Rothenburg. She serves the best breakfast we have ever had in Europe. We went out of her way to make us welcome. We will be going back there too!
The Neals
Memphis, TN USA Mon 02/27/2006
Veggie B&B in Bretagne
This was the best B&B! I had my own little cottage, the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in, and the owners, Arthur and Linda, went beyond the call of duty, being both friendly, and more than helpful, without being in any way intrusive. I would highly recommend the L'Arc En Ciel to anyone, especially to vegetarians looking for a good bite to eat! You can email them at arthur.cutler@tiscali.fr.
Barbara
Santa Rosa, Ca USA Wed 02/22/2006
Can anyone recommend a b&b in munich? thank, denise
Denise
Iowa USA Wed 02/22/2006
Brugges
Stay with Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde when you are in Brugge. They are wonderful and their home is perfect. Roos puts on a great breakfast and will give you great tips about the city. You will not be disappointed!!
Rhonda Richeson
Fort Worth, TX USA Wed 02/22/2006
Luna Simone on Belgrave Road
My husband and I had a very good stay this weekend at the Luna Simone at 47-49 Belgrave Road in London. The property is very clean; the rooms are well lit, compact but configured nicely; and the bathrooms are spotless.
The Desira family, who owns & operates the Luna Simone, are very friendly and willing to give advice. They serve breakfast in an efficient and polite manner.
It is within a 5 minute walk to Victoria Station, and is near shops, restaurants & grocery stores.
T:020 7834 5897; F:020 7828 2474
www.lunasimonehotel.com
47/49 Belgrave Road, London, SW1V 2BB
Jenny Richardson
Baltimore, MD USA Wed 02/22/2006
More Praise for Nicolas Inn
We stayed recently at the Nicolas Inn during our honeymoon in Rome and have to agree with everyone else....spectacular! Melissa and Francois were the best hosts we could ask for. It was clean, comfortable, a true European experience. Location can't be beat - right near the forum and walkable to much more. www.nicolasinn@romeby.com
Courtney Rodriguez
Miami, FL USA Tue 02/21/2006
Brugge Belgium Oct. 2005
Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde provide a lovely B&B which we enjoyed so very much. Their place is filled with artwork and sculptures hidden in crevices you wouldn't expect and all done by Roos. Tasteful and warm, this B&B is thoroughly enjoyable, clean, and thoughtfully decorated. The breakfast is enjoyable and good. We met others there who were interesting and fun. It is close to restaurants and telephone kiosks and we walked everywhere. Roos is quietly unassuming but helpful and very nice. Paul stays in the kitchen, helping with breakfast.
Give this place a try and you won't be disappointed! We loved it.
George & Deanna Elsom
Brookings , OR USA Fri 02/17/2006
B&B Brugges
Three nights in the Royal Stewart B&B was a true delight. Maggie is so thoughtful and she provides wonderful morning conversations with her breakfast. She and her husband, Gilbert, go a long way to make your stay truly memorable. The location is perfect and the rooms are very nice.
Don Nelson
Winona, MN USA Thu 02/16/2006
Istrian agrotourism B&B near Pula
On the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia my wife and I stayed on a farm 20 minutes north of Pula in a very central location to see the most popular sights in Istria. Denis and Vesna and their two year old son, and her parents were very gracious hosts. Vesna prepared an excellent meal for my wife and I to eat at our outside stone table shaded by a grape arbor one evening. Another evening, we ate with Denis and Vesna. They and her parents shared the two-story house, and the other building had an apt. for great-grandma, and two apartments to rent. We had the 1-bedroom one for 25 euro per night! Denis Cekada can be reached at denis.cekada@pu.t-com.hr I will be glad to send pictures to anyone interested! Mention to him where you heard about his place.
Jeff
Seattle, WA USA Wed 02/15/2006
Dubrovnik apartment
Last summer my wife and I and some friends stayed in the new upstairs apartment of a delightful family in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Highly recommended. If you arrive by boat, it's very easy to get to. By car? The same. It's about a 20 min. walk from the old walled city. Remember, that there is NO parking in the old city and you may have to park a long way from there. But we had a garage to park the car in! This apartment is near shops, the bay where the ships come in, cafés,etc. Grandma made us a soup for our first night, and then brought us tomatoes and cucumbers from the garden and motioned for us to pick anything we wanted. On the last night, the sage liquor was brought out! Katja, the daughter, speaks English. Here is the email and web address: marija.jovic2@du.t-com.hr http://www.diving-croatia.com/jovic/english/index.htm
Jeff
Seattle, WA USA Wed 02/15/2006
Venice - Hotel American
I am adding this second comment separately because Hotel American could easily become my favorite place to stay in Venice. It is within walking distance of the Accademia, the Peggy Gugghenheim galleries, the zattere and many wonderful shops and restaurants. The rooms are beautifully decorated and very comfortable; the staff is attentive, the breakfast plentiful and the extras – free internet service and boat transfers to Murano glass factories – are a nice touch. I wound not hesitate to recommend this hotel.
M. Simpson
Baltimore, MD USA Sun 02/12/2006
Positano - Casa Albertina
We had read many positive reviews of this inn, and Casa Albertina did not disappoint us. Positano is perched high on the cliffs overlooking the sea so it involved a climb to reach this charming house, but we felt rewarded in every way. All twenty rooms face the sea – ours was decorated in shades of blue, seeming to reflect the blueness of the sky and sea as seen from our private little terrace. The Cinque family who own and operate this guesthouse made every effort to make us feel at home, adding to the special memories of Positano that my husband and I hold dear. Dinners at the hotel were particularly good and worth staying "home" for. A very special holiday.
M. Simpson
Baltimore, MD USA Sun 02/12/2006
Great B&B's in England
I have three GREAT B&B's in England to add.
LONDON: THE ALHAMBRA HOTEL (King's Cross, Argyle Street). Paid 45 pounds per night for a twin. All prices are listed on-line. Others have said it before, but you would be hard-pressed to find such an affordable, clean, and tourist-friendly B&B in London elsewhere. They also feed you a huge, authentic British cooked breakfast each day. Run by a very hospitable family. Right across the street from King's Cross/St Pancras/Euston. Markets, fast food, banks, bus stops within a minute's walk. With all this nearby, it's still quiet enough to sleep. The building's walls are thin and the rooms smallish, but for everything else you receive, I wouldn't complain. Spent a week there and would do it again.
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON: THE CARLTON GUEST HOUSE, 22 Evesham Place. 35 pounds per night twin/en-suite, full breakfast, TV, hairdryer, etc. (low season). Run by wonderful couple, Sylvia and Jeff. The kind of people who will take your bags and sit you down with a full tea service even before you've booked a room! 3-5 min walk down residential street to town center and all Shakespeare sights. Parking available. Bravo!
TORQUAY: WESTBROOK HOTEL, 15 Scarborough Road, off Belgrave Road. Run by Maureen Tanner. Absolutely wonderful B&B. Only cost 40 pounds (twin/ensuite, low-season) for a room and service that would cost you a 100 pounds in London for same. Includes full breakfast. Kind and friendly, professional service. We even had Agatha Christie books in our room to read to get in the mood of the place. Also, all Agatha Christie sights within a few minutes walk of B&B. Parking available. LOVED this place!
Jennifer
Seattle, WA USA Sat 02/11/2006
Saint Riccardo
Riccardo at Corte Compana is trying for sainthood. My friend Jeff went to Rome and was to meet me in Venice. He arrived after 10;30 pm and then got lost in the alleys off of Saint Mark's. He only had Riccardo's cell #. I had given up on Jeff when there is a knock on the door. It was Riccardo saying "here is your friend!" He would not take a single euro even though he had gone out and found Jeff in the bitter cold. This guy enjoys people and isn't just in this for the money.
Craig
Dallas, Tx USA Mon 02/06/2006
Wonderful B&B in the Luberon
My DH and I spent 5 days at a lovely chambre d'hotes during our visit to Provence in October. It's called Mas Perreal and it is just outside the village of St. Saturnin. Rick's decription of the village is spot on. Very authentic. We had a great time just sitting in the local cafe and people watching.
The B&B itself is fantastic. Very friendly hosts - Kevin, who is American, and his French wife Elisabeth. Ask for the room with the bath tub - soaking in the lavendar-scented water was heavenly.
Jenny Simington
Houston, TX USA Sat 02/04/2006
Corte Campana B&B
My friends and I just got back from back-packing through Italy. We stayed in an awesome B&B just behind St. Mark's Square in Venice. It was nice, clean, and had an great location. Ricardo was also really helpful! I really recommend it! There are more details in the 2005 book.
Amanda
Little Rock, AR USA Sun 01/29/2006
Tuscany travels, perfect for touring
Tuscany has too many things to see and do in one trip so finding a good base was important for us. Having trawled through dozens of options (including here), we eventually came across this place and cannot thank other visitors enough.
Casa Portagioia is not a hotel (or so the owners say), but it is much more than a B&B. Here we experienced incredible service, cleanliness, attention to detail, friendly help and advice and excellent food all within a stunningly beautiful natural setting.
We had one of our best meals in Tuscany here. The menus are even personalized so it made the evening more special. Mind you it was no hurried affair, but with five courses, it's not something to hurry.
During our stay here, the owners Terry and Marcello helped us with our day trips (Assisi, Montalcino and Siena, Montepulciano and Pienza), and for us to get ahead of the queues in Florence and a day trip to two wineries with breathtaking scenery. They printed easy to read maps for us to get to our chosen towns - and back.
We paid around $160 per night for a room which we thought excellent value. The huge beds (by Italian standards) were incredibly comfortable; the extra touches of robes and a welcome drink were shadowed by the views of the garden and the countryside.
Overall I would say this is probably the best 'hotel' we stayed in during our trip to Italy and my wife is extremely fussy! www.tuscanbreaks.com
All in all, this is a bed and breakfast that will make you relaxed the moment you enter their cypress tree-lined driveway - and one of the happy memories to take home along with all the Tuscan treasures you'll have seen.
Mike and Susan Branst
New York, NY USA Sat 01/28/2006
Excellent B&B in Rome !!!
We had a very pleasant stay at the excellent B&B „Finestre sul Vaticano". The B&B is perfect in term of comfort and location. Max and Lavinia are great host. They both are always ready to help for arrangements and transportation. They demonstrated a great hospitality. (few meters from the Subway station and nice Italian restaurants). We will strongly recommend friends to stay there. It was a real pleasure! Visit www.romabandb.it
Kris F.
Bridgeport, CT USA Tue 01/24/2006
Delightful friendly B&B in Amsterdam
We just returned from a wonderful trip to Holland where one of the highlights was the friendliness of our hostes,Gabriele, while staying in Amsterdam in her cosy home. Gabriele's place is located near the Jordaan area, walking distance from beautiful Amsterdam downtown. She insisted on picking us up from the airport, which saved us a lot of hassle searching for public transport and made us feel very welcome and safe on our first trip to Europe. The room we stayed in was cosy & comfortable, with a private bathroom and a delightful breakfast in the morning. On or last day in Amsterdam she took us for a trip in the rural area around town, to one of the old fishing villages, where one can realy get a feel on the old Dutch atmosphere, overseeing the IJselmeer. We receaved a lot of attention and care and will definitely be staying at Gabriele's again in the future. To contact Gabriele: yellowroses@gmx.net
Susan Oakes
Portland, Oregon USA Sun 01/22/2006
Smart B&B Rome, Italy
I travelled to Rome from Milan without much of a travel plan, the night before I left I got online and searched for hostels/B&B, luckily I got a prompt response from Isa at the Smart B&B and booked on a whim. To my suprise the accomodations were perfect, located steps away from the train station beside St. Maggiore. The rooms were spacious and extremely clean, I was within a 10 minute walk from the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps. The price was one of the cheapest I could find and in total was perfect for a mature traveller looking for a good nights rest in the heart of the city. If you are planning to travel to Rome feel free to contact them at www.bandbromeitaly.com
J.Johnston
Montrose, CO USA Sun 01/22/2006
B&B in Cognac Region, France
We stayed at a fabulous B&B in Segonzac (near towns of Jarnac, Cognac & Angouleme). Tommy & Theresa Kyne have converted an old farmhouse into a lovely B&B. Lovely ambiance, fabulous breakfasts, bicycles to use and daily cycle itineraries provided. Stayed for 1 week and hated to leave! Our visit in September only cost CAD$300/p.p. per week. Don't miss this jewel! www.chezthomasfrance.com & email: kynetcanada@yahoo.com
Elizabeth
Delta, B.C. Canada Sat 01/21/2006
Limegrove Hotel
I am visting london for the third time and I am staying at the LIMEGROVE HOTEL and I thought that I would recomend to our fellow travellers on a shoe sting budget.Manageress Joyce is and her two ladies are ever so helpful and keep the place spotless and breakfast is served in the room.Her web site is http;//www.limegrovehotel.co.uk and tel 00442078280458.her hotel needs a reccomedation. Kevin(COL.USA)
Kevin Hall
colarado Springs, Col USA Fri 01/20/2006
House de Kiefte B&B, Haarlem
My 19 year old son recently spent three nights with Hans and Marjet at their B&B in Haarlem. Although we have traveled in Europe as a family this was his first solo adventure. As a slightly worried mother I immediately consulted Rick's Guidebook and found this gem of a B&B. It was a wonderful choice for all of us: I had the peace of mind knowing that he was not just another anonymous guest in a big hotel; he felt well welcomed to the Netherlands. Hans and Marjet lent him touring maps, packed him breakfast for an early start and provided stimulating breakfast conversation.
Anne Jane
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 01/20/2006
Bruges B&B
Thank you, Rick, for pointing me to Dieltiens B&B, Annemie and Koen's charming home in Bruges. Quietly elegant, centrally located, lovely atmosphere. The owners, classical musicians, have thoughtfully added many nice touches: tea & coffee in your room, control-your-own-heat, even bathroom hooks. Breakfasts are a changing array of treats; the breads alone are worth a visit. And all starting at 55 euros a night! (bedandbreakfastbruges.be)
Joan Tuchman
Washington, DC USA Wed 01/18/2006
Bayview House B&B in Tralee, Kerry, Ireland
Want to share a GREAT B&B in Tralee, Co. Kerry Ireland. We have been to Ireland before and always stay at B&Bs recommended by Rick's books but this time every place was full up! Seems EVERYONE now wants to stay in Tralee as a jump off place to Dingle Peninsula. Anyway--ended up finding Bayview House--Jerry and Theresa Kennedy have only opened it a year ago--and they are fantastic hosts! The house overlooks the bay and actual Peninsula and Jerry and Teresa actually drove ahead of us out the next morning to make sure we found the right highway! The breakfast was wonderful and Jerry made lots of local phone calls for us to see if museums were open and such. We LOVED these people! They said they have had very few guests from the US--mostly other countries. I think they have just not been discovered.
Their B&B is out of the town centre of Tralee a few Kms but in a rural setting almost on the water--very quiet and beautiful! We loved it!
Telephone:006 7129974
Beth Lambright
Corvallis, OR USA Tue 01/17/2006
Les Charmes de Carlucet
We were in France for the entire month of September 2005. Started our "tour" in the Riviera and worked our way around the country in a clockwise direction to Paris. During our month we stayed in small hotels and bed and breakfasts. Using only internet listings for advice (we were unaware of this website!) we had the good fortune to stumble upon Les Charmes. We were there for six nights.
Les Charmes is a beautiful,old,stone house which has been lovingly restored and is very comfortable. Our room was very large and pretty. Our hosts, Eric and Helen, greeted us with a warm welcome and a glass of wine--very charming, indeed! Both speak perfect English and Eric also speaks French.
Breakfast was a delight with local breads, cheeses, fruits, and lots of strong black coffee. The breakfast area is very inviting with a large table set with provincal earthenware. There is a view of the swimming pool and the back yard from the table.
Eric is well-versed in all that the area has to offer and makes a fantastic concierege. He was able to recommend various restaurants in the area and made reservations for us as needed. Helen, also was very helpful. When we needed to do laundry she got us to a washing machine and then hung our clothing on drying racks in our room while we were out during the day (it was raining and we could not use the clothes line--we had clothing hanging from anything in our room that would accomodate a hanger).
Of the entire month we spent in France, Les Charmes is a place to which we wish we could return. We loved the Dodorgne valley and the slower pace of the area. Helen and Eric really have a perfect place and we hope they never change a thing.
Sharon and Steve Winship
Wheaton, il USA Tue 01/17/2006
Nestor's place in Amsterdam
We stayed at Nestor's place.It was recommended to us by friends and we loved it. It is situated in a typical Dutch neighbourhood in the west of Amsterdam, walking distance from the centre. We where given a lovely welcome with a great smile and a miauw from Nestor the red cat! We could choose our breakfast, it was very good. The room was comfortable with a big double bed, clean and cosy. A friendly and simple place to stay for a good price.
nestorsplace@yahoo.com
Lindsay Vinati
Honolulu, Hawai USA Sun 01/15/2006
Chambre d'hote, Lourmarin, Provence
Cordiereluberon@aol.com
is the email contact for a very nice B & B where we spent most of last week. I'm sending this in the day after arriving home in case anyone else is seeking a Provence B & B open in January (and the rest of the year). This is an exceptionally nice one. Hosts Francoise and Serge are very friendly, willing and able to talk sightseeing, politics or whatever in both French and fluent English, and their rooms are wonderful. We had a very large heated bed/sitting room, kitchen and bath, with breakfast for only 55 euros a night. Built in 1582, the Cordiere is the second oldest house in the village of Lourmarin and one of those interesting old houses with passageways and little hops up and down stairs in odd places. You enter it through an archway and tunnel into a small inner courtyard, and it forms part of the whole Provence/hilltown experience you're probably seeking. Lourmarin itself is a pretty old town, with castle and Protestant and Catholic churches, great to walk around. We especially enjoyed the walk just inside the wall, sometimes under arches, then twisting back through the streets. Serge filled us in on the town's interesting history and how it had been completely razed during religious wars, which is why a house from the 1500's can claim the title of second oldest. You eat breakfast in the family's cozy kitchen with kids leaving for school, cats in and out and Serge there to offer food and conversation. They also have a great santon nativity tucked into a niche in their wall.
Nearby towns include Bonnieux, Gordes,Joucasse, Menerbes, Oppede-le-Vieux, Lacoste, Goult and Rousillon, all well worth seeing. When we mentioned having watched Jean de Florette, Serge also directed us to very nearby Vaugines, for the church which had appeared in the movie. Francoise added a recommendation of Chateau Ansouis, occupied by the same family for many centuries and perched in another lovely little town. I'd be happy to answer any questions or offer sightseeing advice.
Laurel Strassberger
Baltimore, MD USA Mon 01/09/2006
Novecento B & B Florence
Our family spent a delightful week in Florence just before Christmas. Our home away from home was the Novecento B&B. We enjoyed our stay thoroughly due in no small part to the Novecento B & B. Hosts Franco Presta and Sawako Yamano were wonderful and helpful. They host breakfast in a cozy room. Franco makes the cappucino himself. The rooms were spotless and quiet. The B and B is in an excellent location about one block from the Duomo. We look forward to staying here again on our next visit to Florence. P.S. try Zio Gigi's resturant. It is short walk away and the food was great. Franco can direct you.
Mario and Kris Forte
Longview, WA USA Sun 01/08/2006
Casa Portagioia, Tuscanny, Italy
Casa Portagioia - You want THE best place to stay? This is it! One of my best friends (America) & I (Australia) met up in Italy for our 'holiday every 3 years adventure'. After I had spent 3 weeks around the south of Italy, we met up in Milan and hired a car to drive around through the north - Lake Como/Bellagio, Venice, Tuscanny and Rome.
Exquisite manicured gardens is what you will first see on arrival to this delightful B&B. The rooms were THE best (having travelled extensively throughout Italy staying in a mix of Hotels & other B&B's) - Spotlessly squeeky clean throughout, not even a speck of dust in the corner behind the dresser cabinet! Rooms are spacious enough, all windows have fly/bug screens, a/c, comfortable furniture settings, you'll never have a better nights sleep than on these orthopaedic beds under the crisp clean bed linen. The whole area including other guests are quiet, peaceful & relaxing.
The hosts Terry & Marcello were second to none. Both speak Italian & English, so there is absolutely no communication barrier. We only had breakfast on site - Marcello would make us great scrambled eggs, while Terry would pour us bottomless glasses of freshly squeezed OJ. They have a great variety of cereals, fruits, breads, pastries, yoghurts and condiments. There is no way you can go hungry. Every suggestion of activity or restaurant was spot on. The advice or information you receive is honest and practical. Even weeks before we arrived, they offered their services ie. to pre-book tickets to some of the Florence galleries. Terry went out of his way one morning to book us in last minute to a wine tasting at Montelcino, and also printed maps from the internet for an itinerary of our day trip driving to San Gimignano, Sienna to Montelcino. They both have an extensive knowledge of the surrounding areas. Anything you want can and will be done. One thing to note, leave your stress and bad attitude at home, but be sure to pack a few jokes & your happy hat and prepare for some side splitting laughter - these guys are not only warm, caring and diligent to your every need, they have fantastic witty sense of humours. I would go back through the Door of Joy each and every time I visit Italy, without hesitation.
Cherene
Southport, Gold Coast, Queensland Australia Sat 01/07/2006
a great place to stay in Verona, Italy
My daughter, sister, nephew and I just returned from a terrific 10 day trip around Italy, including Verona. While in Verona, we stayed with the very kind, helpful, and all around great hostess Federica di Rossi at L'Ospite (found in Rick Steves Italy). I cannot recommned her place enough. It is clean, quiet, near to everything you want to see (and the train station for those day trips), and most importantly, Federica is always happy to help with your questions.
If planning time in Verona, check L'Ospite first, you will not be disappointed!
jeanette fregulia
reno/milano, NV USA/Italy Sat 01/07/2006
Bruges B and B
The B and B of Paul & Roos Gheeraert-Vandevelde (in Rick's book)was terrific - great location in a wonderful town, Roos has a list of recommended restaurants (organized by price range), the whole house was lovely, and breakfast was great. Also, when a Belgian general strike was called, Roos informed us and helped us make arrangements to leave for our next country a day early, cheefully refunding our last night's payment. Stairs are very steep, but Paul took our bags upstairs for us. This was really a delightful place and I recommend it highly.
Vickie Shea
Chapel Hill , NC USA Fri 01/06/2006
Great place in Amboise
Rick's recommended "Le Petit Clos" in Amboise (Loire Valley) was wonderful for many reasons. 3 bedrooms surrounding a large garden (perfect for picnics and travel scrabble). Mme is a baker's daughter and made wonderful breakfast breads (served in a candlelit breakfast room with 60s rock and roll playing softly in the background). Warning: breakfast was low on protein - we brought our own cheese after the 1st day (she did not want to keep it in the refrigerator because it affects the butter). She arranged reservations for a great mini-bus tour to chateaux, and had lots of other tourist information. Also had her husband pick us up at the train station. She does not speak much English (nor have fax or a website) but said she does fine with reservation requests using the fax form in Rick's book, or with an old-fashioned letter in simple English. Amboise was wonderful too - especially Leonardo's last home. Also the Shaker's bar Rick recommends - we drank wine, played cards, and watched the Loire out the bar door. Whole place is a 10.
Vickie Shea
Chapel Hill, NC USA Fri 01/06/2006
B&B in Rome-Nicolas Inn
We just returned from a stay at the Nicolas Inn in Rome. We chose this B&B because of the recommendations at this website and we were not disappointed. Melissa and Francois were excellent hosts and could not have been more helpful. Melissa knows Rome like the back of her hand and directed us to everything from busses and excellent restaurants to shoe stores. We enjoyed the breakfast in bed every morning and especially liked the gourmet deli on the ground floor. Our room was spotless, warm, comfortable and the bed was great. We will definitely return to this B&B on our next trip to Rome.
Elaine Piper
Warsaw, Indiana USA Thu 01/05/2006
B&B Dormouse
Villennes, a pittoresque and quite village near Paris (just 25 minutes away by train). Everyday you have the choice to search for the mondain and great Paris or to look out for the calmness of 'la campagne'. Dormouse, beautifully decorated and designed, nice, spacious and welcoming rooms. Lisa is a great cook and helpfull. We were there in winter, but I imagine that it must be great to sit in summer with a view to the Seine valley and all the flowers in the garden. Ideal place for when you are by car (parking), but because the train station is near (20 minutes walk) you can move easily when you don't have a car.
Wendy de Vrede
Utrecht, Netherlands Mon 01/02/2006
B&B Shannon Airport
If you are leaving Ireland from Shannon Airport, Park House B&B in Bunratty is a great place to spend your last night. Mairead is an excellent hostess and serves a great breakfast in a beautiful updated home. Park House is a 10 minute ride to the airport. Bunratty Castle and Durty Nelly's music pub and restaurant(great place for the last night dinner) are a 10 minute walk. I have stayed here five times and highly recommend it. It fills up fast so get in touch early. If she is booked the B&B next door, Dunaree, is also very good. Info can be found at: www.townandcountry.ie
Brian
Pompano Beach, FL USA Sun 01/01/2006
Best B&B in Rome
My Wife and I stayed in 5 different B&B/hotels during our recent trip to Italy in different cities. I can *Easily* say that our stay with Max was by far the most enjoyable and pleasant. The rooms really were clean and spacious and Max was the perfect host. The location of the B&B was very convenient to the Vatican of course and with the metro only a couple of minutes away you can get to virtually anywhere else you might want to vist. Max was more than happy to answer all our questions. We will definitely try and stay there again when we are in Rome. As for negative points ... I can't really list anything of significance. ( I know that sounds a bit unbelievable but it true...) It is a great place to stay, at a reasonable price( for Rome) Keep it up Max. www.romabandb.it
William C.
Chicago, IL USA Sun 01/01/2006