Alternative Accommodations
House swapping, convents and monasteries, college dorms... when it comes to beds, the less you spend, the more of Europe you experience. Others swear by renting a "flat" (apartment) or "villa" and becoming a temporary local. Any tips about fun, unique, or unusual accommodations?
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland... good time! Great golf! I had heard many mixed things about Belfast, but I am glad I did not listen to any of it. Belfast was really nice. Small city but nice. Great restaurants and pubs. The Giants Cauesway (Northern Coast)was really something as well as the rope brige, the Antrim coast and coastal route to Bushmills, Portrush, Portstewart, Londonderry was truley breath taking. Bushmills (not impressed, we did not want to walk around), the tour was really good though, had a nice tour guide. Portrush is where we stayed for our 2 nights. In itself Portrush is a very small sea side town, our time there was sunny and warm, people were on the greens and the fishing boats were in the harbour. It was lively. The Harour Bar and the Ramore was a absolutly a great place to eat, drink and dance. The buildings in Portrush do need alot of maitenance and restoration. However, "The Belvedere Town House" was better then expected and was comfortable & beautiful. The home was very very large, and the room we had was the Causeway Suite. Very BIG room, with high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows that you can lay in bed and watch the sea. Just great place and great great hosts. The Hotelier was an American named Scott from San Diego, California. He could not do enough for us. Portstewart is the seaside town that is pictured when coming to the Antrim Coast. It is very well maintained and you can walk along the sea with ice cream or sit outside with a cup of tea and people watch, it hass really nice little shops.
Londonderry is a beautiful drive from Portrush (about 30 minutes) very busy mini city.
SO there is a little of my trip. I hope it may help someone.
Donna
Cl., ohio USA 05/11/2008
Staying in Krakow Poland
We used one of Rick's alternative hotel recommendations and found the most perfect guest house in Krakow. It is 1 block from the main square. You can even walk to it from the train station. The rooms are huge and can hold a large family or two people. The staff is very friendly and helpful and speak English fluently. The location, cost and room were all above and beyond our expectations. Check it out when you travel to Krakow:
http://www.cracow-life.com/globtroter/
Natasha Moser
Dallas, TX USA 04/29/2008
If Budapest, then Marton
We had a wonderful time staying in Budapest on our Eastern Europe trip. We followed Rick Steve's recommendations and had a great time. In Budapest we booked a studio apartment from Marton, who is a young Hungarian guy, who rents out rooms in the flat where he lives and also he has 1 studio apartment to rent. We found out about him here and everyone was writing very positive things so we decided to stay with him too. The flat we had was clean and nicely done also we had a big and comfy bed, but the biggest plus were his recommendations and tips on what we shouldn't miss and also he bought us concert tickets and told us a lot of information, which we would never get staying at a hotel. We took him out for dinner the last night and so we left very satisfied. I can highly recommend it to anyone who is traveling there. He also rents out a house at the lake Balaton, but we never made it there, you can ask him about that.
His website:
www.superroom.fw.hu
Amanda
Bristol, UK 04/28/2008
Free Accommodation!
There are plenty of websites on the Net that put you in touch with fellow travellers who are willing to put you up for a night or three. This page includes a comprehensive list of them:
http://www.acarnos.com/accommodation/free_accommodation/free_accommodation.htm
Veronique
Montreal, QB Canada 04/23/2008
Alternative accommodation Santa Margherita Ligure
we stayed in a lovely apartment that we found by change as we were looking for a hotel. The owner's address is
italprof53@yahoo.com
Ask if they have space when you want to visit
Lia <email>
Astoria, NY USA 04/19/2008
Camping in Europe
Don't forget camping! There are tons of campgrounds, many appropriate for RV'ing (yes, you can RV in Europe) and some have trekker huts or cabins you can rent.
Some resources:
* ACSI (camping directory is free): http://www.campingcard.com
* Our blog: http://www.eurorv.blogspot.com
Makes it easy to enjoy some of the "off the beaten path" towns. Enjoy!
Sherry Scherer <email>
Woodinville, WA USA 04/18/2008
Wonderful Apartment in Vernazza - Cinque de Terre
My family of four stayed at a perfectly located apartment in Vernazza. The Orange Room at www.egirooms.com. This very modern space was all one room, but comfortably slept four of us and had a full kitchen. It is located right in the heart of Vernazza, only a few flights up from the main square, so not a lot of climbing. Egi and his wife, Sonia, made the stay extra special by meeting us at the train station and making sure that we had everything we needed. He gave us his cell number so we could contact him at any time with any questions or problems. He also rents two other rooms in the same building that share a bathroom - perfect for friends traveling together but that want some privacy. We were isolated from the noise outside the building, which was nice as the square can be very busy and loud.
Julie <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/14/2008
Paris apt.: good alternative to hotel
My family and I had a lovely 10-day stay in Paris in March and rented 2 apartments from parlerparisapartments.com. The prices are reasonable (always a priority for us!), the accommodations spotless, and the location was very convenient (we were in Le Marais). If you are staying in Paris for more than a few days, consider the apt. rental option for greater comfort and convenience. We also saved money by cooking dinner with the gorgeous food we bought at the Bastille marketplace--which, by the way, I would classify as a "must-see."
Mary <email>
NYC, NY USA 04/05/2008
Switzerland farm stays
Some of the farms on the "sleep in straw" list also have rooms you can rent.We stayed at 2 different farms on our trip last summer and had a great time.The Peter Schar farm,Langrickenbach, Canton Thurgau is a working farm in gently rolling farm country, would be a wonderful place to bicycle, best breakfasts of our trip. Their English isn't good,their son helped with conversing.The Kuenzi farm near Wattenwil,Canton Bern has a small cottage behind barn.In area of pastured hills,quite scenic,Mrs.Kuenzi speaks pretty good english. One warning, farms smell like farms and depending on the time of your visit they may really smell, if that sort of thing bothers you.Also,the bathroom/showers were in the barn.We enjoyed our stay at these 2,there are others,some more touristy.
Greg <email>
Mi. USA 04/03/2008
New wonderful B&B outside of Rome in the Etruscan Hills
This great B&B is called Il Sogno (the dream) and the website is www.bbilsogno.com. They have been open for just a few months but Sheryl is a great hostess. Il Sogno is so beautiful - out in the country with gorgeous views and so close to Rome. You can have breakfast on the terrace; cool off in the pool; and the artist's studio has a kitchen. It is very near Etruscan ruins, medieval towns, lakes and the sea. The train station to Rome is a 5 minute drive with free parking. The train comes every 15 minutes, takes about 30 minutes to the center of Rome and costs 1 euro! An amazing stay! Say hi to Sheryl from Cyd and Dave!
Cyd
Chicago, IL USA 04/02/2008
Castle View Apartments - Cesky Krumlov
Castle View Apartments in Cesky Krumlov, recommended by Rick Steves, was a hit with our family. We rented two of the castle view rooms, and Jiri, the proprietor, exceeded our expectations in every way. From the fruit basket & treats awaiting us in our room upon arrival, to the heated bathroom floors, our stay was a treat. The building is close to the city square & convenient to all restaurants & shops. Thanks for the recommendation, Rick!
Bill Speer <email>
Coronado, CA USA 04/01/2008
Hotel Gourmet In Chamonix
We recently stayed at the Hotel Gourmets et Italy in Chamonix France. It was recommened in the 2007 guide. The hotel was disappointing. There were major mix ups with our rooms (and from the yelling and screaming in the lobby, other guests rooms as well). The staff did not want to fix the mistakes. We had confirmed our reservation just a few days prior to arrival, but they still made a mistake with the booking and did not want to fix the problem until we pushed and pushed, even though they had promised us and provided confirmation with the expected rooms and people per room.
The hotel had a fire in fall 2007 that they are still repairing the top floor from. The rooms in the 3rd floor of the hotel smell strongly of smoke. The 1st and second floors are much better. The dogs that live in the hotel (we are huge animal lovers...so initailly were happy to see them)bite children and also urinate on the furniture in the dining room quite often, so beware. We witnessed this several times.
I will not stay there again and cannot recommed it. It is sad to post this because I thought the owner was quite charming, but his staff makes a lot of mistakes and do not try to help.
San Diego, CA USA 03/30/2008
Hotels in Italy
Last year in Italy, I stayed at:
Hotel Dante in Florence & Hotel Roma in Rome
I highly recommend both, clean, basic, nice staff. Hotel Roma was just wonderful.
Sue
CT USA 03/27/2008
apartment in Prague
My husband and I spent two wonderful weeks in Prague. We rented an apartment in Old Town from Lida at MagicPraha.cz. The apartment sleeps up to 6 and has everything you need and it is so central. As a plus, the apartment is charmingly furnished. We'll definitely return.
Patricia <email>
Ottawa, ON Canada 03/24/2008
Best bet for staying in Sorrento
We traveled in the South of Italy in Dec., 07. We stayed at Il Nido in the hills above Sorrento for three nights. This hotel was great. The owners were very helpful. The resturant had very good food. We learned alot about the area on rides to and from town in talking with the owners. The view was worth a million$. The price was great. I would strongly recommend. It is the kind of place that you really get a sense of the country, but it also serves as a base to explore the region.
BillH <email>
Moraga, CA USA 03/23/2008
Madrid Apartment
My family of three recently (Mar 08) stayed in a great one bedroom apartment in the Rastro neighborhood of Madrid.
I highly recommend the agency madridapart.com they were honest, helpful, and friendly and everything was exactly as billed.
John Larkin
Moscow , ID USA 03/20/2008
RentalsinRome.com
RentalinRome.com fails to deliver
DO NOT trust your reservation with Rental in Rome.com. We are about to embark on our long scheduled trip with a family of six tomorrow. We reserved an apartment near the Vatican (Mimosa apartment on their site) a few months ago. We made a deposit and have a confirmation voucher. We have just been informed that the owner requires the apartment in the midst of our visit. They offered to switch to other apartments but those offered were much less centrally located and unacceptable. This is no way to treat travelers and I can only encourage you to be skeptical of any "confirmations" you have from this firm.
John
Tampa, FL USA 03/10/2008
B&B agencies in London and Paris
Hello, fellow travelers!
I'm planning a trip to Great Britain with a several-day side trip to Paris. While investigating my overnight accommodation options, I ran across a couple of great agencies that set travelers up in B&Bs or chambres d'hotes:
www.londonBB.com www.goodmorningparis.fr (their rates are great!)
They're also partnered with agencies in Berlin and Rome. I found the links on the "reservations" page of the Paris site.
Happy traveling!
Erin
Chicago, USA 03/06/2008
South of France
We enjoyed a stay at a old farm in the south of France in 2006, and have reserved another week stay there this summer for a family gathering. It's called Mas de Puech (www.masdepuech.biz) and was recently converted into seven apartments that have all the amenities, with a swimming pool and surrounded by vineyards. It's located about 25 miles northwest of Nimes, with many options for day trips, bicycle rides (bikes provided) or just taking it easy in the countryside. The owners speak English and are happy to answer questions.
Tom
Kirkland, WA USA 03/02/2008
Recommended Hotels from our Europe Trip
Paris: Pavilion Villiers Etoile... We loved this place. It is in right beside Rue Levis, a great market street that feels totally Parisian. We were there in Jan Feb and hardly saw any other tourist but felt extremely safe. The metro is nearby and only a few stops to the Arc de Triomphe. David at the front desk was very helpful, plus it was only 79 euro for a double with bath and shower in the offseason. I highly recommend!!
Berlin: Pension Peters.. We absolutely loved this place. It is in the Savignyplatz and has huge huge rooms with great bathrooms for great prices. If im ever back in Berlin, im staying here no question about it.
Venice: Albergo Guerrato... this place is right near the Rialto bridge. We were there during Carnivale and it was the happening place to be with live music right out our window. The fish market is only steps away plus they have rick steves guidebooks in the lobby. Highly recommend.
Florence: Hotel Maxim... This place had an excellent location about a block down from the duomo. The bathroom sucked but they did have wi-fi.
Rome: Hotel Nardizzi Americana... This place was close to the plaza de Republica and was a good deal for the money. They also had wi-fi. Check there rates online because they are cheaper, once you get there then request the online rate and they will give it to you. Also ask for the wi-fi password and they will give it. It was 5432109876 when we were there.
Sorrento: Ulisse Deluxe Hostel... This place may say it is a hostel but it is definitely not. It is amazing. A huge lobby, huge rooms, cheap prices, wi-fi, & spa. We paid 46 euro total for a double with shower and bath in February!!! Get a massage at their spa with the extra money you save on the room, they are nice. Best place I stayed while in Europe hands down!!!
Nice: Hotel Massena... Great location just steps from place massena and where everyone hangs out. They have great Lasagna in the restaurant for 9 euro. Rooms are decent size and very clean. The people at the desk dress up funny for some reason but maybe that was because it was carnival.
Athens: Central Athens Hotel... Greta location in the Plaka close to Syntagma. We had a great view of the Acropolis from our window. The have internet, nice rooms and an awesome breakfast.
Mykonos: Harmony Boutique Hotel... Wonderful views looking out over the harbor and a nice room with big bathroom. Close to the old port.
Kaiser <email>
Macon, GA USA 03/01/2008
Romance in Riomaggiore
The best place we stayed in Europe during our 3+ week trip was here!
At La Baia Di Rio in Riomaggiore (Cinque Terre), we reserved the Honeymoon suite (more like an apartment) with 180-degree wrap around private balcony, and it was easily the hightlight accomodation of our trip. Each night we had pesto dinners on our balcony and each morning we awoke to views of the hillsides of Riomaggiore - oh yeah, did I mention huge wrap around windows. We even stopped in the town and stocked breakfast foods for mornings on our balcony. I know many of us don't go on vacation to stay in our rooms, but that is how nice this was. A year later, my wife and I still dream of being back at this place! The room was large and immaculate, and it came with a kitchen, nice bathroom, and washer/dryer. The owners are super nice (not around much as it is not a B&B) - it was just wonderful! You will not be disappointed with a stay here!
I've got pictures if you would like to see them!
Warning: Book early as they are very popular.
Robert Villigram <email>
St. Louis, MO USA 02/28/2008
Salema, Portugal
We stayed in a wonderful villa called Dame de Salema run by Xenia and Frido, the nicest people you'll ever meet. They have a 5-bedroom house with four rooms that open to the huge patio with a view of the water, a swimming pool, bbq and outdoor seating. The full kitchen, living room and dining room are yours to use...it feels like you're staying at a friend's house. You can rent individual rooms or the whole house for a big group or family. We're going back as soon as we can!
Lis <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/27/2008
accommodation in Budapest
Me and my husband just got back from a 12 days Hungary trip. I read so much here, when we were planning, that I felt I have to write some suggestions:
We were in Pecs, Szeged, Sopron, Debrezen and Budapest. The best city was Budapest of course, but I liked the smaller ones also, especially Pecs was a surprise and I heard it will be Europe Culture Capital in 2010. We stayed in small hotels, home-stays on our trip. We had 2 very good accommodation on our trip:
In Budapest we stayed at the www.superroom.fw.hu (also known as SuperChargedRoom) and it was also excellent. We paid very little and we had a beautyful and big double room with a balcony next to the DEKA FERENC TER, which is the main square of the city. It was facing to a silent street so it wasn't noisy, even though we were in the lively center of the capital. The owner /Marton/, who lives in the apartment studies economics and he was absolutely helpful, we were keep on asking our "stupid questions" , but he always took the time to answer. He made our stay perfect, recommended us concerts, restaurants, places to visit. If you stay there then listen to his recommendations, it's really useful!
In Szeged the Kanfalussy Family's small Pension (kanfallusytourism.hu) we stayed at and it was great, the food they made for us was so delicious and we had a real Fishsoup also...
Clara
SuperChargedRoom
Budapest, Hungary 02/24/2008
Accomodation in Antibes, France
I found this great apartment in Antibes, France on line - it is a great place and what a fun place it was to stay. Right in the heart of everything we had an amazing time. The funny thing is, it is owned by people right here in Seattle. www.tkrentals.com
Eileen
Seattle, WA USA 02/24/2008
apartment rental in Paris
Charming, clean, quiet studio in the heart of the Marais. An extraordinary experience to live as a Parisian. Close to major sights, restaurants, boutiques and more. Delightful! "There are no strangers in this world, only friends I haven't met yet." Don't be a stranger.
Steve <email>
Paris, France 02/24/2008
Florence Find
I have to recommend the Hotel David in Florence. They give you a discount if your name is David:) The rooms are huge. We had one on the lower level that was truly fantastic. There is a 'house' computer for internet use and it is nicely situated outside of the really dense part of town. Cost was excellent. Check out their website. www.davidhotel.com They also serve wine and nibbles at 4:00.
Christine
Vancouver, B.C. USA 02/19/2008
Wonderful country villa in Umbria
Our family had a wonderful stay at a lovely villa in Umbria, near the historic town of Orvieto in the center of Italy. The home was comfortably appointed, we prepared many meals (even pizza in the outdoor oven), but there were also great restaurants close by, took the train to Rome and Florence, and found the village and its long-time residents charming. There's even a private pool! A very non-touristy experience. It's called Villa Marielle and though the owners are Italian they live in California. Their number is 650 306 0244 (they fill up fast and I know they book early for the season.) Tell them Maria and Sam said "hello" and "thanks!"
Maria
San Francisco, Ca USA 02/13/2008
Amsterdam Stay
Stayed last weekend at Hotel Freeland, close to Muesuem Area. Found using website sugguestion venere.com from a fellow traveler. Paid around US $210 for 3 nights. Clean hotel, with separate shower and toliet for me.
Important - Most hotels and shops in Amsterdam have NO elevator and steep steps. Toliets and showers are small, so if your a big person watch out.
Mark
ohio USA 02/05/2008
PARISBESTLODGE apartment in le MARAIS
The Bourg Tibourg apartment from Parisbestlodge was delightful! It is a perfect location with convenient grocery store, fun Lizard Lounge, and delicious restaurants! And the perfumeria is a real treat. We were able to walk to the BHV department and the Hotel de Ville metro station. The entire Marais district is full of delightful discoveries!
Thierry, the owner, is a thoughtful host and made our visit one to remember!
Judi M. <email>
USA 02/02/2008
ItalyFarmStay
First off I would just like to say that this is an experience I will take with me for the rest of my life. Being welcomed into an Italian home by such a caring, warm family with a son who is so enthusiastic and passionate about what he does has been such a unique window into the beautiful Italian culture. Between helping to bottle-feed the baby lambs in the morning, an over-night hike in the tranquil Abruzzi National Park, and countless nights spent around the wood stove reading and receiving impromptu Italian lessons, I have truly been at peace during my time at Atonello”s farm (which is something one can rarely say when dealing with the commotion of travel-especially overseas).
Whether you are looking for a place to simply relax and enjoy nature or actively participate in the daily farm activities, there is something here for everyone from all walks of life. Speaking more languages than I can count and having been to the majority of the continents of the world, Antonello brings such a unique perspective to his job that I have learned so much about not only his life, but my own. I would recommend this place to anyone to can afford to make it to the little, sleepy town of Sora tucked between the beautiful mountains of the Italian countryside.
Ben <email>
Seattle, WA USA 01/30/2008
RE:Great place to stay in Florence-RE: Casa Spinelli
I would like to thank all of you who left such kind reviews of our apartment in Florence. The Euro is high against the dollar now and it is becoming a lot more expensive for us to maintain & run our apartment. However we will continue to try and offer reasonable prices to our fellow travellers. We just finished some renovations on our apartment, installed satelite TV, a new air ventilation system and repainting. We will continue to update our apartment throughout the year. Please see our website for updated photos and information. www.casaspinelli.com
Thanks again for your kind words.
Best regards,
Heather
casaspinelli@gmail.com
New York phone: 917-922-7186
www.casaspinelli.com
Heather Spinelli <email>
New York, NY USA 01/29/2008
A house in Tuscany (still affordable despite the dollar...)
We had a great time in Tuscany and we would like to recommend Casina di Rosa (http://www.casinadirosa.it) and its owners, Gloria and Marcel. They really made us feel at home! The area is fabulous and the house is really nice, well equipped, in a great spot. The village is neat, non-touristy at all and it has an excellent restaurant (we ate there 4 times!!). We are glad we found this house, and we are looking forward to going back next year: with this ugly dollar, it was really lucky to find such a great place at a relatively inexpensive price.
Joan
Chicago, IL USA 01/27/2008
Couchsurfing
I was surprised not to see CouchSurfing listed here. It's a community of travelers who open their homes to other travelers, and much like eBay or other online communities, feedback and ratings help you assess the fit and safety. See Couchsurfing.com. My daughter and I stayed with a couchsurfing family in Shaghai, and friends of ours from Austria stayed with a family in Germany. My daughter and her cousin stayed with two brothers in Paris, and they had a couch surfing get-together with a hundred or so couchsurfers from Paris. It's "low to the ground" as you're you're staying with locals, free (though we gave gifts to the family for opening their home to us) and an incredible experience. I hope this helps someone looking for the alternative place to stay.
Dave <email>
Grapevine, TX USA 01/27/2008
New B& B in Florence
A friend and I found a new fantastic find in Florence. We stayed at the San Frediano Bed and Breakfast. It was a great location, our room overlooked the Arno River and an easy 10 minute walk to the Pitti Palace and all the other great must sees in Florence. They have 11 rooms, very large in size, frescos on the 12 foot ceilings, clean and great service from the staff. We were surrounded by restaurants and grocery stores and a parking lot was just next door if you wanted to rent a car. Very inexpensive, a real find in Florence.
Tara Dickie
Warwick, Bermuda 01/26/2008
Aurelia Residence (Apartment/Hotel) in Rome near Vatican
We just got back from an 8-day stay at the Aurelia Residence in Rome (located next to the Vatican) and it was wonderful. The best of both worlds - a great apartment with a nice kitchen, living room and bedrooms to spread out in; PLUS a full breakfast and hotel level service during the day. The staff absolutely pampered us! Be sure to say hello to Paola and Diana from us and have Gennaro make you a delicious cappuccino in the morning. Gennaro will even take you on day trips if you like! http://www.aureliaresidence.it/english/aurelia_residence.html
Carol Shea <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/25/2008
apartments in Italy
I just wanted to tell fellow travellers about our accommodation in Florence and Venice. We booked our Florence apartment for one month through www.holidayhomestuscany.com.
It was called the Boboli Apartment and was located in the Oltrarno area, not far from the Pitti Palace. In fact, the back entrance to the palace gardens was just a few metres up the road. An excellent 2 bedroom apartment within 5 mins walk to the Ponte Vecchio and 10mins to central shopping.
Grocery store practically next door, also internet cafe. Loved the proximity and cost Euro 2000 for the month for 3 people. Really friendly owner who met us on arrival.
In Venice, we again rented for a month from www.holiday-velvet.com, another great company. Again a 2 bedroom just around the corner from Campo Santa Margherita. Excellent location, close to grocery, gelato, pizza places etc.
The only drawback would be that the Margherita apartment was on the ground floor and therefore at times could be a little dark, but location more than made up for that. About 10 min walk to San Marco.
Staying one month in each city, you really get the feel for the place and
we felt that we were living the "italian lifestyle".
Next time for me its Paris and Provence!!
Debbie
auckland, NZ 01/15/2008
Dubrovnik Apartment
Apartment Jovic. We stayed in a beautiful, modern apartment walking distance from the old town in Dubrovnik. There was a view of the water and city and the two bedrooms and bathroom were spacious. The friendly Jovic family lives downstairs and welcomed us warmly with umbrellas and fresh tomatoes from their garden. If you arrive by ferry, it's about a fifteen minute walk. We felt that we had the best of both worlds, old city and real neighborhood.I have great pictures. You can e-mail Katija (the daughter who speaks English) at marija.jovic2@du.t-com.hr
Peggy Gloth <email>
Seattle, WA USA 01/15/2008
Accomodtions
We have travelled extensively in Italy as a family and have discovered that the most economical and comfortable way to travel is to rent a house in the country or in a small village, then drive or take the train for daily excursions. It's wonderful to come home to a "home" and it works out so much cheaper than hotels!
Veronica Buxton <email>
Redwood City,, CA USA 01/14/2008
A Comfortable and Convenient Place to Take the Family in Switzerland!
We just returned from a week at a wonderful accommodation near Interlaken, Switzerland. It's a townhouse-type apartment which sleeps 6-8 comfortably. Check out www.swissholidayhouse.com.
The apartment, which was spotless, modern, and very well-outfitted, is located in Wilderswil, just outside Interlaken, making it a great jumping-off place for Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and all the areas accessible from those places. Wilderswil is a lovely small village, and the apartment is just a short walk to the bus, train station and shops, so a car isn't necessary. The owners couldn't have been more helpful and accommodating.
K & F
Oregon Coast, USA 01/05/2008
Easy and cheap studio in Rome
With my boyfriend i spent one week in rome and enjoy a nice and lovely studio with a relaxing terrace right in the city center.very easy access from the airport, and just 200mt from the main city station (train+metro+bus)...just perfect! We found the studio with the help of a dutch friend working in rome and yu can reach Luca (the owner) at www.lechianke.com
Manue Aknouche <email>
Lyon, France 01/05/2008
brighton apartment
For a cool condo near the sea we recommend Brighton Heights in Brighton, a great beach city on the south coast of the UK, an hour from London. It's clean, modern, sunny, central location in a cute little square. One bedroom, living room with table and chairs, bathroom (shower over bath) and separate kitchen.
We paid about $100 a night, good value compared to a hotel and we saved on restaurant bills too. It has an luxe feel.
www.brightonheights.co.uk
Enjoy.
jill wichern
nyc, ny USA 12/28/2007
Sleeping in Rome
I want to add another idea for sleeping in Rome. We stayed at Hotel Domus Tiberina www.gregorihotels.com in Trastevre area. It was very nice and had a remarkably big breakfast. The folks at the hotel were very helpful.
Anne
Dusseldorf, Germany 12/15/2007
month in London for $100
Home exchange is a great way to go if staying in one spot for a week or more. Imagine four weeks in a beautiful condo on the Thames, 10 minutes walk from Big Ben, all for $100 total (the cost of joining the exchange site). We could have never have spent that much time in London if paying for a hotel. Part of the fun is you never know when or where you will get an exchange offer from.
Bruce <email>
Vancouver, BC USA 12/12/2007
Budapest, 5 flats to rent for tourists
5 flats to rent in the main street of Budapest, Vaci utca, pedestrian zone.All the comforts, with prices according to the season.
we are 2 owners.
Enjoy Budapest www.budapest-house.com
marino <email>
budapest, hu hu 11/20/2007
Rome vacation
This apartment was home for my wife and I and our granddaughter in May, 2007, and provided a wonderful base to see Rome. Great location, and really roomy. The biggest plus, however, is Mauro. He picks you up at the airport, introduces you to the apartment, and delivers you to the train station/airport as you leave Rome. He made the visit so much better by being a personal contact on the ground. Great visit, enhanced by great support from Mauro at http://www.consult-italia.it
Jim Felder <email>
Houston, Tx USA 11/18/2007
Apartment rental in Amsterdam
My wife and I recently rented the St. Pieter Apartment in Amsterdam for a week, and we were very happy. The apartment is located about a block southeast of Dam Square off of a quiet alley, and about one or two blocks south of the Red Light District, right off of the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. The apartment was recently renovated and was very clean and modern. It has two bedrooms and a study, and three people, possibly four could stay there comfortably. The apartment had a nice living room with cable television and wireless, high-speed internet. We were able to enjoy the patio garden when the weather allowed. Despite Dam Square and RLD being so close, the apartment was very quiet. Most of the other tenants in the apartment building seemed to be families. There is a nice kitchen in the apartment. The nearby Albert Heijn supermarket allowed us to take advantage of the kitchen in the apartment and save some money on dinners. We paid €190 a night for the apartment. I'd highly recommend staying at the St. Pieter Apartment.
http://www.stpieterapartment.com/
Steve <email>
Raleigh, NC USA 11/14/2007
Hotel Paris Hotel
We stayed at Hotel Paris Hotel located in 23 Rue Henry Monnier. Our room was small but for the purpose to sleep only it was ok. Only downside was that the elevator was next to our room so we could hear it going up and down when we were awake, but we were so tired that we did sleep thru the night. Their people were very very helpful and nice. Hotel is well located in the middle between Pigalle and Saint Georges Metro stations. Breakfast was included.
Katia
Miami, FL USA 11/06/2007
Rome, Italy
Rome
We recently travelled to Italy to stay in Tuscany at a villa for a week and also a villa in Umbria. We had a wonderful time. The start of our trip was made so much easier because of Mauro from Underground Viaggi at website www.rome-apartments-for-rent.it. Our travel companions had contacted him regarding an apartment only to find out he also offers transportation to and from the airport. He also gives you a cell phone to contact him if needed. We stayed in the Pellegrino apartment for a few nights on our arrival. On our return to Rome we were picked up at the train station even though we were coming in earlier than expected. We stayed at the Malpasso for two nights before returning home. Both apartments were in excellent locations close to all the attractions and restaurants. I cannot imagine visiting Rome without the helpful service that Mauro provided. We would glady recommend his service to our friends.
Mike & Pat
Canada
11/06/2007
Hotel Nardizzi
Do NOT stay at Hotel Nardizzi in Rome. We made reservations back in May 2007 and received an emailed confirmation stating "Your reservation is confirmed. See you on Oct 8th" We arrived on Oct 8th to find out that they gave away our room!! This was after we had trekked from the train station through Rome with our luggage to find the hotel. They offered us a room at their sister hotel, but we had to take a cab to get there. We did not sleep at all at their sister hotel, as our room was right above a bar and there were people yelling all night. If we closed the window it was so hot that we felt like we would suffocate. The desk clerk at Hotel Nardizzi was also rude and really didn't care that our room had been given away. This was our only hotel problem in 2 weeks of traveling through Italy!!
Kim
Spokane, WA USA 11/04/2007
Apartment Prague
We stayed in a great apartment in the Mala Strana area of Prague a block from the American Embassy. The apartment is owned by Eva Vesela who owns the Eclectic Gallery downstairs. The apartment can be rented for short or long periods of time. The location can't be beat and the apartment is roomy with all the modern conveniences. Eva's phone is +(420)257 532 509 or (+420) 602 214 774. email is orsini@quick.cz
Elyce <email>
San Diego, CA USA 11/02/2007
Accommodation in Assisi
We had booked a week at the Carpe Diem time share in Assisi but when we arrived found it horribly rundown, dismal and exceptionally unpleasant. We refused to stay there and before we had a chance to determine our next step - we had a carload of groceries and it was late afternoon - we ran into Ann Robichaud http://annesitaly.com/ who helped us find accommodation at the Palazzo Miniciotti www.palazzominciottiassisi.com
We stayed in the San Rufino apartment - a luxuriously comfortable three bedroom apartment with two bathrooms and incredible views from any direction. We discovered their beautiful garden and outdoor kitchen to which each apartment has access. This was such a highlight for us and such a stroke of good fortune. We will most definitely be back again.
Bonnie White <email>
Calgary, Albert Canada 11/02/2007
Hotels in Budapest
I just returned from a 10 day trip to Budapest and Vienna. Since I planned to take the train to Vienna, I wanted a hotel near Keleti Rail station, and the Metro for my Budapest explorations. The Best Western Grand Hungarian was perfect. It is about 100 yards from both stations. It is large, newly remodeled, smallish rooms, but comfortable, with safe and minibar, and one of the best breakfast buffet I've seen in Europe. And, on Hotels.com, it was $95 a night!
Charles Powell <email>
bakersfield, CA USA 11/01/2007
Apartments in Paris-VIP
We had read about Vacation in Paris on the message board last year. We spent five days in Paris,(June 2007) staying in an apartment that we rented from VIP. We loved the location to the Eiffel Tower. We had a bakery next to the apartment building that had very convenient hours. Our teenage children were very impressed with the "apartment" approach to staying in Paris.
Vickie
Bend, OR USA 11/01/2007
Lodging, Hungary, Danube
We travel by bicycle, and just returned from Europe, cycling the Mosel, Rhine, Romantic Rd, Swithzerland,Danube and finished with train from Budapest to Prague. We used Rick Steves when possible for lodging and other travel tips. We followed the Danube from Regensburg, Germany to Budapest. Our best lodging was in Esztergom. Brand new pension "El Greco"(www.elgrecocafe.hu), E55 with breakfast. Located below the Basilica,rooms very comfortable,very good breakfast, and the friendly owner does not speak English but manages to be very helpful. He sent us to a resturant for dinner..best meal we had on our entire trip (2.5 months)
Dian
Anacortes, WA USA 10/27/2007
Vacation Rentals in Italy
We recently returned from a 2 week vacation in Italy/Tuscany. We spent one glorious week at a farmhouse that has 9 rental units (1-2 bedrooms) -- Le Torri Vacation Rentals in Montespetoli. It was a beautiful location and a very reasonable rate. The proprietors are very helpful in arranging cooking classes, wine tastings and obtaining museum reservations. But the best night was a Tuscan dinner (prepared by the Mother) which was fantastic. We paid an extra price (28 Euros), but it was one of the best meals we have ever had -- well worth every Euro and then some). I would heartily recommend this location -- the grounds are beautiful (olive and lemon trees), with a swimming pool. The units are neat and clean with a rustic appearance. And the location is perfect -- about 35 miles SW of Florence and perfect for day trips to Pisa, Chianti/Gravea, Siena, San Gimgnamo
Sherry Sieg <email>
Monument, CO USA 10/24/2007
British Volunteer Vacations
My friend and I just returned from a three week trip to England. We spent the second week volunteering for the British National Trust. We worked at the gorgeous manor house, Waddesdon Manor, putting in flower beds for spring bloom. For a week's hostel-like accomodation and all meals, we paid $150! Each evening we cooked large, delicious meals with other members of the group and then socialized and/or played fun trivia games. We really got to know and work with a fun group of 12 British people who had come to volunteer from all over England.
To check for National Trust Working Holidays, go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The 2008 listings should start to be posted around December or January.
Lynn Hudson <email>
Lopez Island, WA USA 10/22/2007
Agriturismo in Lazio/Abruzzo Italy
I stayed at a wonderful agriturismo on the Lazio/Abruzzo border in Italy a couple of weeks ago (just outside of Pescosolido, near Sora). It's called ITALYFARMSTAY (www.italyfarmstay.com). A working organic farm run by a wonderful, warm and very Italian family. Great homecooked dinners, wonderful walking tours around the mountains (and I'm no hiker!). Within 5 minutes of my arrival, I knew I'd made a great choice staying there. I'll definitely return. Feel free to ask questions or offer opinions. Thanks!
Paul Ascenzo <email>
New York, NY USA 10/17/2007
Hotel Touring in Chamonix
There is no way to contact Hotel Touring in Chamonix, France by email. The AOL address given in the 2007 Guidebook has bounced back 6 times. The web site is a loop of advertisers from Expedia to Hotels.com etc. No direct contact with the advertised British proprietors. AOL has always been a problem since its inception though - maybe we'll blame them instead of the hoteliers...
Jay Boyd
CA USA 10/15/2007
Great deal, and great comfort, in Rome
By chance, we came across a terrific bargain in Rome; a one-bedroom B&B-type apartment in the same building as the new Hotel Alimandi Vaticano, right across the street from the entrance to the Vatican Museum. We came across it after staying a night at the hotel (which we found through Rick's book and is fantastic, by the way) while our son was in the hospital with what, unfortunately, turned out to be a cancerous tumor.
When it became clear we would be staying a while, the amazingly gracious and helpful owners, the Alimandi family, told us of the apartment, which was a steal at 100 Euros a night (cash). We stayed three weeks, and the family could not have been more wonderful. We had full access to all services in both the Vaticano and the original hotel right behind the new property, including wonderful breakfasts and cheap wi-fi service in the older hotel. The Alimandis were truly angels, making their fantastic properties even more special.
We understand the family is developing more apartments, which are considered B&Bs, and assure you that on our next trip to Rome (to celebrate our son's recovery, since his prognosis is excellent), we will head straight for one of the Alimandi hotels or apartments. Bravo to this family for truly showing us what hospitality means.
Bill Silberg <email>
Maplewood, NJ USA 10/13/2007
parisbestlodge - furnished flat in le Marais
Just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our stay at the Studio Marais of PARISBESTLODGE. The apartment was very clean and the location was great. We hardly needed to take the Metro at all as many of the places we wanted to visit were just a short walk away. We also really appreciated that the apartment had everything we might need - i.e. iron, blow dryer, and a toaster, which you don't see often in France. It was also great to have a computer with internet access available to us.
Adelle & Rick Palmer <email>
USA 10/11/2007
Apartment rental in Nerja, Spain
We recently stayed for 3 weeks in an apartment known as Carabeo 2000 in Nerja, Spain. We were there with 2 small children. We enjoyed our apartment immensely - perfect location, great size, all the amenities. The property managers, Frans and Nuttee, go out of their way to ensure that you have everything you need. Our rental choice truly added to our enjoyment of our stay in Nerja. Highly recommended.
Veera
Toronto, Canada 10/10/2007
Apartment rental in Rome- Campo dei fiori
My parents and I rented an apartment in Rome the last few days of May and into the first week of June 2007. We stayed in the Malpasso Apt (ground floor) run by Mauro from Underground Viaggi http://www.rome-apartments-for-rent.it/default.asp
This is a great location! minutes from Campo dei fiori, short walk to Piazza Navona. Mauro (apt. manager) was wonderful, picked us up from the airport and took us to the train station on the last day. This apartment is as it looks on the website. The only surprise was the short ceiling up in the loft where the bed is. You definitely need to bend a little up there. The bed was very comfortable. There is a sofa bed down below in the living room. The only seating is the couch and two dining chairs. We used the grocery store across the little square almost everyday, they were very friendly and Mauro made sure we knew the hours they kept, etc.. Again you can't beat this location, we literally walked everywhere. Very local feel, not touristy (except for us!) I highly recommend this rental agency, hopefully my husband and I will be going together next time and I hope to rent from Mauro again.
Wendy
Richland, WA USA 10/03/2007
Venice apartment
We (two women in our fifties) enjoyed a great 5 days in Venice in Sept. We used Rick's Venice city guide book for EVERYTHING (and met lots of others who did also!)
The Locanda al Leon the guide book recommended was not only moderately-priced (we reserved 4 mos. ahead and mentioned Rick and got 10% off because we paid in EURO cash) but offered us a modern apartment in another building, for EU180 night for 5 nights. It was located off the Campo Santa Maria Formosa in the Castello "sestiere" (neighborhood), a few extra blocks to St.Marc's Square and a short walk of 5 blocks to La Leon's main hotel where the generous [included] breakfast was served. We ate hearty on American cereal, coffee/cappuccino/tea, croissants, rolls, and yogurt so we could skip the crowds at the cafes at lunchtime.
The apartment was immaculately cleaned every day, had a bathroom with full shower stall and 2 bedrooms and a kitchen. It allowed us to live "like natives", looking out the window each morning to check the weather and appreciate the church bells (OK, it had a TV also, but the window was more fun), sitting in the campo (a large town square of which Vencue has many) watching the local kids and dogs play after dinner, and buyng fruit at the open stands, yet being close enough to the vaporetti (water buses - fun and scenic) and main sites that we could walk almost everywhere.
Venice is a dream city and thanks to Rick's info, we had a dream trip!
Barbara Vacalopoulos <email>
New York, NY USA 10/02/2007
RE:cheaper than a hotel in Florence!
We stayed at Casa Spinelli as well, back in April 07. It was a great deal, we had 4 people in our party (2 couples). So we were estimating paying for 2 hotel rooms and realizing how expensive it would be. Then I saw the postings on this board for www.casaspinelli.com . So luckily we were able to book with them. the apartment was centrally located, very clean, cute, and the beds were comfy. One night I got into a fight with my wife and so i stayed upstairs in the living room (the sofa pulls out into a nice queen size bed)....hee hee..LOL... I'd like to thank the owners, Joe and Heather for a nice and affordable stay at their apartment. www.casaspinelli.com
Mark
Lincoln, NE USA 10/01/2007
Wonderful Apartment in Bellagio, Lake Como, Italy
My husband and I just returned from an amazing stay at Lake Como, Italy. Part of what made this trip very special was the apartment we rented in Bellagio. We stayed at Rick's recommended apartment Il Borgo Residence. It was right in the center of town and convenient to anything you might need. It was newly refurbished, very clean and comfortable. We loved being able to cook some of our own meals and found the local markets had everything we needed. Flavio was always available when we needed assistance and made booking our trip very easy. He even drove us to his other property which is out of town a bit, which is where we will stay next time we visit.
Allison Begley <email>
Tampa, FL USA 09/30/2007
Apartment in Florence
We rented a delightful apartment in Florence, Italy, in September 2007, through the Windows on Italy group represented by USA company www.rentvillas.com. It was pricey ($1800 for a week) but worth it. The unit was in a restored palazzo, beautiful wood-beamed ceilings, antiques, with a large living/dining room on the main floor, loft bedroom, bath, and laundry on the upper floor. Beautifully furnished, completely outfitted kitchen, great linens, but best of all, it was like stepping into the past with all the creature comforts of the present. Our Santo Spirito neighborhood in the Oltrarno was within minutes of the Ponte Vecchio and Pitti Palace, and 20-25 minutes by foot to Uffizi, Duomo, and Accademia. We felt safe and welcome in the S. Spirito neighborhood, great little stores, trattorias and wine bars. The staff both in the US and Italy were marvelous and professional. Exceptional experience.
Deb Kozak <email>
Redmond, WA USA 09/25/2007
Casa Via Beppina apartment in Lucca
The homeowners of this lovely home offer three apartments in the lower levels of their home. Both Cinzia and Aldo speak English and are very accomodating. The apartment we stayed in was the Magnolia. There were two of us traveling (friends) and Aldo added an extra bed for us. There was wifi internet in the home, and the apartment was a short walk into town. A fabulous bar (Via Viale) was on the way to town and offered both cafe and ensalatas at a fraction of the prices inside the city walls of Lucca. The apartment was immaculate, airly, light, private, and perfect! A nice sized refrigerator for the food from the local market (a block or 2 away), nice garden with table and chairs for relaxing or eating food we brought back. Price for one week in Sept 2007 was HALF the price of an apartment within city walls. Please email with questions, I happily recommend this place, location, price, and owners were ideal.
Tracie Dziagwa <email>
Streamwood, IL USA 09/23/2007
Great apartment in Rome
My family & I spent a week in Rome this August, and we chose to rent an apartment instead of getting 2 hotel rooms. The apartment we stayed in was amazing - I want to live there! It was beautiful, with 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms and a nice terrace full of plants. The woman who own the apartment is from New York, but has lived in Rome for decades, and she was very nice and helpful. She left a detailed list for us that included restaurant recommendations, directions to the market, and instructions for running the appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, etc.). The following week we went to Paris and also stayed in an apartment, and we wished we had such a list! The washing machine had all these crazy symbols that we couldn't decipher!
It was in a nice little neighborhood of Rome - quiet, but with plenty of small shops & restaurants within a few blocks. It was also within walking distance of the outdoor market, which was great since we had a kitchen and could therefore cook our own meals whenever we wanted. It was also close enough to the center of Rome that we could either take a long-ish walk to some of the attractions, or easily hop on a bus and get where we were going quickly.
We rented the apartment through realrome.com. The name of the apartment is "Flavia 2 bedroom" on their website, in the "Rome Centre" section. It is on Via Flavia in Rome.
If you're planning to rent an apartment in Rome, I would highly recommend this one!
Vanessa
Minneapolis, MN USA 09/21/2007
Limegrove in London
Sorry, but I would second the negative comment on the Limegrove Hotel in London. It was far from clean, the thin walls were not quiet, and general fixtures needed repair. It was 120 US per night and perhaps a bargain but in hindsight would have preferred spending a little extra for a comfortable bed. The breakfast was very disappointing and because we received the wrong order it had to be returned both mornings.
Searay
Seattle, WA USA 09/21/2007
Palazzo Minciotti Assisi
Staying in an apartment is a wonderful way to experience an Italian town, especially Assisi. In a hotel, you are always a tourist and you miss out on meeting the people that are the heart and soul of this special place.
AnnaMaria and Edoardo Minciotti are two of those people, wonderful hosts who excel at making their guests feel welcome. We stayed in the 2 bedroom San Lorenzo apartment which opens onto the walled garden, a place of peace and tranquility at the end of the day where you can watch the sun descend over Santa Maria degli Angeli, see the pink glow of the duomo, San Rufino, then turn around and watch the moon rise over the Rocca Maggiore, the large fort above the town.
AnnaMaria and Edoardo are very warm and welcoming. They include their guests in events in the town, meals in the garden, and for me, an incredible insider's view of the spring festival Calendimaggio.
I would highly recommend Palazzo Minciotti to anyone. I will never stay anywhere else when I am in Assisi.
M Courey
Lake Tahoe, NV USA 09/19/2007
Apartments in Barcelona
I am back from a nice trip in Barcelona and I would like to share this experience. The city is awesome...So many things to do night and day! I rented a great apartement ( http://www.top-barcelona-apartments.com/asp/apartament.asp?pCod=7 ) just 2 min walking from the Ramblas for only 65 euros per night. It's a good alternative to the hotels which are very expensive in the center (more than 150 euros per night for 2 people). Hope this comment can help you to prepare your future trip in Barcelona.
Alice
Pornichet, France 09/19/2007
Berlin apartment
I recently stayed in the Kreuzburg area in Berlin and it was a wonderful location to base yourself in. The street is full of funky shops and lovely restaurants. It is full of character and there was always something happening. I stayed in an apartment overlooking a garden in a really old building. It cost around 60 Euros a night and I would definitely recommend it. RentinBerlin.net
Rent in Berlin <email>
Berlin, USA 09/19/2007
Apartment vs. Room
• Although we are, by now, quite familiar with certain areas of Paris, we still follow Rick’s suggestion about staying in the Rue Cler area. However, this time we rented an apartment instead of a hotel room. This is also the first time we stayed more than one week. Regardless of how much one enjoys Paris, any “regular” hotel room feels cramped after seven days and nights. And you haven’t enjoyed Paris yet until you stay in an apartment. By the way, although hotel rooms/ apartments are supposed to be safe, we used the safe provided in the apartment for our money and documents, and we locked up anything bulky we bought in our suitcases, using TSA locks. Also very useful at airports. P.S. We bought ours from Sears (Master Lock) and the company has a website (www.combolocker.com) in which you can register up to 5 combinations and retrieve them online anywhere in the world in case you forget them. No charge. Rick Steves sells TSA also. P.P.S. One day before returning home, we asked for a printout of the hotel/apartment bill, so we could check in advance if all was well.
jean-frantz <email>
Staten Island, NY USA 09/18/2007
Per a reccommendation from a friend we stayed at Imperial College in London-Beiut Hall. It is dorm style-larger rooms, share a bath. It is in the South Kensington area, about 10 minute walk to the underground and to grocery/restaurants. Next door to Prince Albert Hall and near the Natural History Museum and Victoria and Albert. We had a family of 4, 2 rooms, 5 nights for under $900 US.
This included breakfast in the cafeteria. It was clean, safe, and on a quiet street.
Dawn
Portland, OR USA 09/09/2007
Florence Apartment
The “Clarice” apartment in Florence is an excellent value for the money and ideally located in the historical centre near the Ponte Vecchio. My wife and I were travelling with another couple and, with two double bedrooms and two bathrooms, the apartment provided plenty of space and privacy. The living room has original frescoes on the walls and we found the apartment to be very comfortable. I rented it through SPQR Travel, at spqrtravel.com. I highly recommend this apartment.
Micheal Papillio <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada 09/02/2007
London Accommodations
We learned of Coach Hous Rentals through the Frommers Guide 2007 to England and were delighted with the range of short term rentals available. Our family of four enjoyed staying in a bright, fully equipped private townhome in the Kensington area of London. We appreciated the quiet street and easy access to the tube. The home was lovely, comfortable and fully equipped. Coach House Rentals was responsive and helpful. We'd certainly look to them again if presented the opportunity to return to London (or Paris!)
D Reed
Charlotte, NC USA 08/23/2007
ACCOMMODATION IN OLTRARNO - FLORENCE, ITALY - HISTORICAL CENTER
My girlfriend and I were so lucky to find a very central, weekly rental accommodation in one of the most beautiful and popular quarters of Florence -- Santo Spirito -- where we rented an apartment for a whole week.
We saved so much money this way. We have been planning this trip for a while and thought we could never afford a room in one of the over-priced Florence hotels. Instead what we got was a real “Room with a View” -- the rooftop view from the apartment, overlooking a charming narrow street, with a glimpse of the Santo Spirito bell tower and the cupola of the Duomo, were just great. The Oltrarno area, where the apartment is situated, is Florence's Left Bank of sorts, and it has so much to offer in terms of art galleries, restaurants, cafes, bars and artisan shops. After a few days of exploring its streets and discovering so many great cafes, enotecas (wine bars), flea markets and antique stores, we felt like locals. What Florence hides behind its famously austere face, it more than makes up for with delightful, one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. It was a great alternative to a conventional tourist experience. It's like "living Florence" instead of just visiting it. - David, New York, NY. The apartment @ contact is: aptoltrarno@yahoo.com.
David
NEW YORK, NY USA 08/23/2007
Palazzo Minciotti Assisi
For a very special view of the mystical city of Assisi, we can recommend staying at the Palazzo Minciotti. Our family group of six people, ranging in age from teens to seniors, stayed there in July 2007 and all had a thoroughly good time.
It's a great location, as each age group can go its own way and meet up for meals, either at the well-equipped apartment or one of the fine restaurants within walking distance.
From the San Rufino apartment, we had great views of Piazza San Rufino (including several evening concerts!), and pastoral views of the valley. The gracious owners, Anna Maria and Edoardo, have done a lot of travelling themselves and have furnished the apartments with everything you will need for your stay plus their unique books and furniture collected as part of a traditional Assisi family home. If there is anything in addition, they are close-by, for advice and suggestions.
Annabelle Moore
Calgary, AB Canada 08/22/2007
Great stay in Sorrento!
We visited Sorrento, Italy in late June, and had scheduled two nights at the Hotel El Nido (the one up on the hill recommended in Rick's guide). Arriving in Naples mid-afternoon, we missed one boat and had to wait for the last one - BUT - they didn't tell us that it wasn't actually going to Sorrento, but to a little town North that was about 30 kilometers by car away for the night.
I won't go into the details of that nightmare, but want to thank the owner of the hotel for coming the distance at 1 in the morning to pick us up - WAY above and beyond the call of duty. What's more, he steadfastly refused any extra payment for time or gas!
As far as the hotel, it was awesome in every respect. Our spacious room had a balcony view of the Bay of Naples. A very substantial breakfast on the dining room balcony, overlooking the bay was very relaxed and enjoyable. And dinner.... ah, dinner. One of the best meals of our entire trip. Plus, the final bonus, the room rate was far below many of the less fancy places in Sorrento. Plus, they run a free shuttle down and back to town several times a day.
Do yourself a favor: when going to Sorrento, stay at the El Nido - you won't be disappointed.
Hal Sanguinetti
Glendale, AZ USA 08/15/2007
London - LSE Residence
Stayed at Carr-Saunders Hall in London. 60 GBP per night for double with full english breakfast. Very handy to Goodge Street tube station. Recommend.
USA 08/15/2007
Where Not to Stay in London, and Where To Stay in Dubrovnik
I have to disagree about the Limegrove Hotel in London. Perhaps it's changed owners, but it was far from clean, the stairs and landings were cluttered with furniture and railings were coming loose, and the proprietoress was anything but friendly. And breakfast was quite disappointing.
I happily and enthusiastically recommend, however, Soba Placa in Dubrovnik. Lidja is friendly, helpful, and generally a lot of fun. The apartaman and room are both clean and bright - very nice, and reasonably priced (with laundry facilities). Also very convenient - in Old Town, two minutes from the Pile Gate (with children and suitcases).
Agnes K <email>
Idaho USA 08/08/2007
Vichter Landhaus - Stolberg
Peaceful rest; comfortable, rooms and beds that are emaculately clean, all at reasonable prices. The Gogic family are the epitomy of hospitality.
The restaurant is fabulous as well.
http://www.vichter-landhaus.de/
JK & Family <email>
Anchorage, AK USA 08/08/2007
Hotel Bus, Aosta Italy
We recently stayed at the Hotel Bus in Aosta, Italy. Overly tired, I left my favorite sweater hanging in the closet but didn't realize it until the next day when we were many miles away. We called the hotel, explained the problem in fractured French, and were told that Roberto would send it COD to the French apartment where we were staying. Two weeks later the sweater arrived in the mail - the staff at Hotel Bus really went beyond the call to do this kind act for a past guest. If ever in Aosta, I would like to recommend Hotel Bus - it's comfortable, near the heart of the quiet town and the owner is a jewel.
karen morjig
portland, OR USA 08/08/2007
Private Accomodations in Croatia
We just got back from a trip to Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia and wanted to share some great experiences with private accomodations.
Plitvice - The hotels in the national park were very plain and relatively expensive (130 euros for a 3 person room), so we found private accomodation in Jezerce, just south of the park. We got a clean room for 3 people with a shared bathroom for 30 euros (no breakfast, no a/c)! The people were very, very nice. They also had a couple of rooms that were full board (dinner and breakfast) for 100 euros. The food looked incredible. Veggies from their garden etc. The address is Jezerce 18a, phone 00-385-53-774-113, Name - Milan Miric. I think they had 4 rooms like ours and 2 full board rooms.
Dubrovnik - We pulled into town at 9PM on a Friday night with no reservations. We tried a few hotels (Uvula, Adriatic, Komodor) and they were 200+ euros per night for 3 people. So, being appalled by the prices we started driving around and saw a man with a 'Camere' sign, so we stopped and he piled into our car to take us to see his private room. He was very, very nice and his room was great. It was 70 euros per night (less than 1/3 the price of the hotels) with a/c, an incredible view and lots of drinks of homemade plum and raisin schnapps with Nikola! It is located just up the hill (steep) from the Hotel Zagreb with easy access to the #6 bus to the Old Town. We really enjoyed staying here and talking with Nikola. My biggest problem was way too much schnapps with Nikola the night before driving back to Budapest! Name - Nikola and Marila Misita, Velebitska 6, 20000 Dubrovnik, Phone - 00385(0) 98 392 499, email - mmisita@acmt.hr. Great stuff. Nikola had 3 rooms.
Trogir - We stayed in the small walled sity just north of Split as Rick's Split hotel recommendations looked pretty unsavory. Anyway, we stayed here for 50 euros, again 3 people. Very nice provate accomodation just across the bridge and left of the old town of Trogir. Not much English spoken, but clean nice romm, but no a/c. Name - Zecic, Address - Put Gradine 4, Trogir, Phone - 021 884 630, email - tomislav.zecic@st.htnet.hr I think they had 8 rooms. We had good luck with these, but you cannot pass up the schnapps, view and conversation of Nikola in Dubrovnik! Thanks Nikola.
Mike
Mike <email>
Denver, CO USA 08/06/2007
Haarlem, Netherlands B&B
On our recent trip to Haarlem, the Netherlands, we tried to book at one of Rick's B&B's, but they were full. We found the Rosenhof, www.rosenhof.nl to be charming! Beautiful ensuite room, lovely garden, convenient location! Marion, our host, was very helpful. We were quite happy with this B & B. (Reserve ahead - just two guest rooms.)
Debbie
Covington, KY USA 08/05/2007
holiday houses
For the last fourteen years we have made several trips to Ireland and have stayed in holiday houses and b&b's. All have been wonderful, but, we find the holiday houses are more in line with our budget.
This past fall we stayed on a dairy farm a few miles from Cork City. We arrived late in the afternoon after nearly 24hours of travel. There was a peat fire burning in the fireplace, fresh flowers on the table and a homemade apple tart in the kitchen. Needless to say, we felt most welcomed. We stayed in these houses all over county cork, limerick, and clare and have come away from them all with the grestest memories.
mary ann worthen <email>
amarillo, texas USA 08/04/2007
Alternative Accommodations
military and retired military should seek out military accomadations.They are all at least 3 star accommodations and very inexpensive.I am in the Army and I travel alot and my first choice will always be the military places. I've stayed all over Germany to include Frankfurt, Vicenza,Naples,and Sicily,Italy, Spain and Greece.Prices vary from $45.00 - $100.00.Great places at great prices.
SSG Farinella <email>
Vicenza,Italy, USA 08/01/2007
Careful about renting ancient villas
We rented a very old villa in Tuscany called Villa Ott, through the rental agency Cuendet. The property was breathtaking, the landscaping was gorgeous, the pool was perfect, the villa was huge, spacious, palatial... but the villa was very old and smelled that way; plus the outside was falling apart. The parts of the estate that were unused should probably be condemned... it almost appeared unsafe to walk near them, and it gave parts of the property the feel of "slum".
The landlord, whom I believe was a decendant of the original owners, kept things kind of clean indoors but most stuff was in disrepair. The gas stove was difficult to light, and the gas flow was unsteady so we had a few incidents of flame going out and gas leaking into the room. Yikes! The dishwasher in the kitchen needed replacing... barely cleaned the dishes even when not fully loaded. The small washing machine leaked and was so gross (where the detergent goes in). They had a dinky water heater, that was supposed to heat the water for the entire villa (which sleeps 13) plus his part of the estate where he lived. At one point he and his girlfriend and her son took showers in a row followed by my sister-in-law then me; I had NO hot water at all. The showers were old and decrepid... shower heads were clogged and squirted water out of just a few holes. Mildew on the walls/wallpaper in the shower...gross. Many of the important light switches didn't work. All in all, this place needed about $500,000-$1,000,000 in upgrades/repairs, and it just appears as though the owner could care less and just wants his money.
At about $4500/week, I expected everything like water, faucets, kitchen appliances, and lights to be in perfect working order. I wish I had enough money to take this villa away from the owner and fix it up. I'd be a far more caring landlord than he is.
Laura Torresan <email>
La Honda, CA USA 07/29/2007
munich
we rented a attractively furnished apartment (vrbo) with a view of a colorful garden, located on a bike/walk trail in munich. the ubahn, restaurants and markets were 5 minutes walk. bicycles were available for visiting nearby beer gardens and exploring the english garden. gabi and joseph were gracious and helpful.
willi zilkey <email>
munich, germany 07/23/2007
Munich Apartment in Giesing
We stayed at the place mentioned in previous post, called, we think, Gasthof Hubman. It is in Giesing section of Munich, near a metro stop, on a tiny street. The location is terrific-- very near a walk/bike path, a park , the river and it is convenient by metro to downtown.
This was an excellent place (tho I kept hitting my head on a low doorway to the kitchen) and a good value. Munich is an excellent base for visiting Bavaria and Austria, w Bayern Tickets available to train around for less than €30 daily for up to 5 people.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA 07/23/2007
Casa di Subasio in Assisi
My husband & I stayed at an apartment right outside of the center called Casa di Subasio.We read about this place from a posting on this graffiti wall and Jackie was right, the hosts Jack & Helen were great. They named the flat after their son, Subasio, who's a real cutie pie. We stayed here for a week and it was like a home away from home. They supplied us with enough ingredients for our first night there and amazingly had a freezer full of ice, which was unexpected and we definitely needed it due to the heatwave they were having in Italy. They were very helpful with information about Assisi and surrounding hill towns that they thought we should visit. They even took us out to a Sagra in Bevagna (gratis). This was quite an experience, because we have never even heard about these events. We recommend anybody who visits Umbria to attend a sagra, it's fun and that's where all the locals go for great food and dance. www.assisiapartment.blogspot.com pretty much will have all the info you'd need on this place. We were able to see so many places in Umbria and Tuscany from taking day trips. It was so relaxing to stay in one place and be able to do so much. I'm surprised that Rick Steves have not noticed this place. We're so happy to have found such a place. A definite two thumbs up! It will now be "our" special vacation place.
Frances Gilbert
Denver, CO USA 07/22/2007
Spain
We went to Spain in June and this time we did not stray from Rick's suggestions for meals or hotels. I'd have to say all were right on the money. We loved Restaurant Puerto Rico in Madrid. In fact we ate there twice it was so good and cheap. The Pixto bar (tapas) in Barcelona was also outrageously good! Couldn't find the fabled street of tapas bars in Barcelona, but a restaurant nearby called Safra had great homey cuisine.
Deborah
Belleville, IL USA 07/20/2007
Paris Hotel & neighbor hood
We stayed at Grand Hotel LeVeque in the Rue Cler Neighborhood, we were very pleased.It was quite tree lined stree with wonderfull shops and street vendors -right outside was a versateller machine-this area was filled with regular parisan familys strolling hand in hand -parents walking there children to school-wonder cafes to grab a morning omellets or acapuchino before sigt seeing.we felt at home and people were very nice not rude as we had heard so much from other travlers-we did have one very cold night in our
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, Ca USA 07/18/2007
Hotel Piccolo
We had a hard time find rooms in Rome and were refered on by a Rick Steves recomendation to try the Hotel Piccolo,it was very nice and only a block from the Spanish steps, a great user friendly neighborhood,about a 15 euro cab ride from the station.Very nice stylish and clean great little deck and very helpful desk clerk it was located up on the forth floor. Wonderful tub and shower accomadtion right in the room -200 euros for 2 double beds w/a lift
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, Ca USA 07/17/2007
Casa San Martino
Wow-don't know where to start what a great find! Thank you Rick!We had such a wonderfull stay,great farm house wonderfull Hostest-Lois we felt we had just arrived home-great house mates to dine with,made my return trip to Cortona the best!What a gracious Hostess-she gave us fabulous locale food recomendationa and even drove us there is the directions were complecated.We wanted to cancel our trip in to Florence and just stay on with her.We will be back-She even took the trouble to have here local grocer bring in some whet free pasta ,both my daughter and another guest are gluten intolerent.She had a welcome drink and biscotti waiting for all the guest and a lovely bottle of wine in our rooms. Thank You,Lois
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, Ca USA 07/17/2007
Hotel Riva in Veneice
Another great Rick Steves find, very centrally located right behind Saint Marc's Square, very charming room and very clean, a gondola was parked right out side,great food and shopping right half a block away.
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, Ca USA 07/17/2007
Vatican hotels
We just got back from Rome and we stayed near the Vatican. I know Rick says that it is pretty far from most of Rome, but, we really enjoyed it and we loved our hotel. Hotel Grand Olympic is on Via Properzio, near Piazza Risorgimiento. It is a former papal apartment building, and it was wonderful. We booked it through www.hotels.com and received our third night free. Three nights there cost us about $375. It was clean, spacious, and comfortable. We had a nice bathroom with an excellent shower. The breakfast was included and was very tasty. The hotel staff was helpful. I strongly recommend this place to anyone interested in staying near the Vatican. We could walk there every night, and it took about 5-7 minutes. We also were close to the Metro (Ottaviano) and the buses that picked up in Piazza Risorgimiento. Plus we felt a bit safer in this area at night, even though, overall, I never felt unsafe in Italy. The area in the Vatican was a bit calmer and was nice to come home to.
Recent Rome Traveler <email>
Baltimore, MD USA 07/16/2007
Palazzo Minciotti in Assisi
We loved Palazzo Minciotti and we loved everything about Assisi. It was the best and most wonderful experience. Palazzo Minciotti Assisi is so beautiful and it is a very special place. We stayed on a top floor apartment with one bedroom having an exceptional view to San Rufino and all windows on one side facing the plain below the city. The memories will be in our hearts for ever!! You made our experience to be the best of Italia. We still talk about it and we are coming back in 2008!!!!
Don and Maggie Nelson
Stonington, CT USA 07/15/2007
Palazzo Minciotti Assisi
Staying at the Palazzo Minciotti is like visiting your second home, not renting an apartment in a foreign town. We found the Palazzo Minciotti Assisi through an internet search for apartments in Assisi and discovered ourselves in a place so special, so unusually welcoming, that we were not quite sure we were in the right place. The building is situated at the western end of the city in a lovely quiet neighborhood whose focus is Assisi's Duomo, the church of San Ruffino. The location is spectacular, within the walls of the old city and walking distance to everything, with the added advantage of being at the quiet end of town, opposite that of the Church of Saint Francis and the many tourists coming for their pilgrimage. The entrance is unassuming but once you climb the staircase (our apartment on the first floor is the largest) the charm emerges. We loved the large eat-in kitchen (with an ancient fireplace) that came stocked with pasta, olive oil and other essentials. There were three bedrooms with three modern baths (including hair dryers) and multiple sitting rooms, one with a spacious balcony overlooking the Piazza San Raffino and a beautiful view of the church façade. The meandering garden overlooks the rooftops of this hilltop city. And there is a hidden extra dining room that can only be described as medieval. The long table that could probably seat 20 people would be perfect for an extended family that rented all the apartments in the building and wanted to have meals together, something we are considering for a return visit. The many antiques and decorations (including a collection of sun-motif “chochkas” from all over the world) made the rooms look lived-in and welcoming. We had the added good fortune of being there during Easter Week, where we experienced the torch-lit procession on the evening of Good Friday. Your “front row”, unobstructed view of the procession from the balcony is amazing. To add to the experience, our hosts Anna Maria and Edoardo, who live in the building, invited us upstairs to join them and their guests to celebrate with a traditional Good Friday feast. We met their friends from all parts of the globe and feasted on traditional Italian delicacies. We look forward to retuning to our "home away from home".
Joan Colbert
Berwyn, PA USA 07/13/2007
Airport Hotel in Bergamo
we were forced to stay in a new town called Bergamo Italy so we could be close to lake como and the Milan-Bergamo Airport-what a lovely surprise very little town both the old and new area, outstand resturants-wew were very impressed. We had nice a Nice room at Airport Hotel-$100.euros 2night for double-clean comfortable and five minutes from airport/www.hoteltour.it or info@hoteltour.it-besure to book your cab the night before you leave as they often come from Varrena-perfect if you fly ryan iar out of milan
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, ca USA 07/13/2007
Hotel Pendini
great place to stay right in the heart of things-rooms are clean but outdated.
the service made up for that very -free computer use/great direction for road trips/helpfull staff!!! can't say enought great things about the staff-Very nice continetal every day-they even took care of a garage for us at a small fee while we were in Florence-we only had three short days and it was nice to just step out the door and be in the heart of evrything-Thanks Rick for your recomendation
Terry Wynne <email>
Richmond, Ca USA 07/13/2007
Palazzo Minciotti, Assisi
My husband and I spent four days in Assisi, at the Palazzo Minciotti. Our top-floor apartment was light and so spacious, with two bedrooms and a bathroom; a fully-equipped kitchen; an enormous living room with a dining area and a door to a large, lovely private garden; and a washing machine. Interior stone walls many hundreds of years old, skylights, and bookcases filled with guide- and art books in several languages, added interest and atmosphere, as did the wonderful view from the large windows. Assisi can be very noisy with revelers at night, but our apartment was absolutely quiet and peaceful. We slept soundly on our comfortable queen-size bed, fixed our own breakfast and (sometimes) dinner, and ate at a table under the wisteria arbor in our rose garden, while admiring the medieval church steeples visible over its walls. The owners of the Palazzo, Anna Maria and Edoardo, are friendly, extremely cultured, and helpful, but not intrusive in any way. When you let yourself into the The Palazzo Minciotti with your own key, climbing the hushed marble staircase to your own comfortable apartment, you'll feel as though you actually reside in Assisi. And the location on the historic Piazza San Rufino--convenient to everything, well within the city but away from the crowds--couldn't be better. We can't wait to go back.
Karen Klingon <email>
New York, NY USA 07/12/2007
Assisi Apartment
We wholeheartedly agree with the other positive comments regarding Palazzo Minciotti in Assisi. We have stayed with Anna Maria and Edoardo twice and certainly plan to again. The accommodations are first rate and Anna Maria is a welcoming host. The spacious top floor apartment (pack light, no elevator) worked great for our group and the other apartments she showed us were equally inviting. A great home base for exploring Umbria. We’ve been to Italy four times in the last five years, from Como to Sicily, and Palazzo Minciotti is definitely one of our favorite places.
Michael
Nashville, TN USA 07/12/2007
Apartment in Assisi
We loved Assisi of all the hill towns in Italy, in part because of the beautiful apartment we stay in at the Palazzo Minciotti Assisi. Anna Maria and Edoardo Minciotti, our gracious hosts, have opened their serene and lovely palazzo to guests. The home has been in the Minciotti family since the early 19th century, and includes several small and large apartments on three floors. Our one bedroom overlooked the hills of Assisi, was beautifully decorated, and centrally located across from the Piazza San Rufino. The Minciotti's welcomed us like family and our stay soon became the highlight of our Italy trip!
Beverly
USA 07/11/2007
Palazzo Minciotti in Assisi
We spent nine days in Assisi -- in Palazzo Minciotti. It was a perfect spot and the Minciotti family are delightful, elegant and helpful. The apartments in the Palazzo are beautifully and tastefully appointed. We loved it and would return in a heartbeat!
Pamela Michaelis <email>
Albuquerque, NM USA 07/11/2007
Palazzo Minciotti Assisi
We have wonderful friends on St. John who recommended Palazzo Minciotti Assisi for our group of four. The apartment on the top floor had three nice bedrooms two baths and a washing machine. Beautifully appointed and centrally located in Assisi it was also the perfect location for touring Umbria. The Minociottis could not have been nicer or more helpful. We loved it and would return again.
Eileen
St. John, Virgin USA 07/11/2007
www.italyfarmstay.com I recommend this family run establishment to anyone who is willing to take a detour from the well trodden tourist path to a wild nook of the Italian countryside. I felt very much at home during my four night stay due to the warm hospitality the family exudes. The accommodations are clean, spacious, and better yet affordable for the budget traveler. The farm offers land to be explored, where one can meander along the paths and stumble upon grapevines, and olive, walnut, cherry, plum, fig and pomegranate trees. The farm is nestled in the mountainside, where many outdoor activities are close at hand. The farm's host, Antonello, is generous, giving of his time and transportation, to be sure activities such as trail hiking, horse riding, paragliding, and a visit to the cheese-making shepherd are within the grasp of enjoyment. My favorite was the early a.m. cheese making. We watched as the shepherd milked the goats and sheep, while the wife build a fire for heating the milk. Trying to escape the bite of the morning air, we hovered close to the fire, sampling the freshly handmade cheese with bread and homemade olive oil, and the remaining delicious whey.
Amanda <email>
USA 07/10/2007
Alpenhof Stechelberg accomodation
Alpenhof Stechelberg. Quaint, peaceful and serene B&B at the end of the Lauterbrunen Valley. Excellent hiking from here. The place is also within the UNESCO World Heritage Reserve. Breakfast included freshly baked bread and local cheeses from the cows you can see out on the mountainside. They also have a kitchen so you can cook your own food. The owners are fantastic, they speak English and German. To get here, take the train from Interlaken to Lauterbrunen. When you get off the train in Lauterbrunen, take the bus to the end of the valley (last stop). Walk past the hotel and turn right over the bridge and there it is. We just wanted to share this place with others as we found it to be wonderful. They have a website but I cant remember the address
David Polmantuin <email>
Vancouver, Canada 07/04/2007
Near Siena – Chianti – Tuscany
Our family of four stayed at Casa Cernano in Castelnuovo Berardegna, southeast of Siena. The lovelingly restored 14th century Vatican farmhouse sits peacefully near the olive groves and vineyards. Eva was a gracious hostess and our two day stopover turned into four days of relaxing and soaking in the beautiful Tuscan landscape, and the wine. Located conveniently within walking distance to the village and restaurants.
We were so rested at Casa Cernano that we decided to turn Roma into a day trip and stay another night. We drove to Orvieto, took the train into Roma, toured our target spots in Roma via metro, cab, and foot. Then we returned to Catelnuovo Berardegna for a late dinner and a great nights rest!
As much as we wanted to keep this our own "Back Door" a secret, we just couldn't keep this gem to ourselves! We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
http://www.casa-cernano.com
JK <email>
Anchorage, Alaska USA 07/04/2007
Thon Hotel Stephan, Oslo
We were disappointed with the loudness of the clubs next to the Thon Hotel Stephan in Oslo-It was way too noisy and would not recommend staying there
John Dorsey <email>
ROCKFORD, Il USA 07/04/2007
apartment Paris
I wanted to rent an apartment in Paris for one week. I found tripseurope.com on an internet search. I was impressed with their immediate response during our initial email interaction, but i found them even more responsive upon our arrival in Paris. Nicholas personally met us as we came out of the metro station and escorted us to the apartment, which was right around the corner from Rue Cler (a street full of shops and cafes and NO cars). He made sure we were familiar with the features and idiosyncracies of the appliances, elevator and key system and gave us his cell phone number for any unforseen emergency. The apartment was roomy, comfortable and furnished tastefully. Having an apartment in Paris gave us the opportunity to be a resident rather than a tourist.
Carol Francoz <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 07/03/2007
Paris Rentals - Be Warned
Be warned that spending more in Paris doesn't mean you'll get more. We rented a "luxury" flat in Paris for the month of April from Paris Luxe. While their website was great and they made all sorts of promises about their "hand-selected" units and how they would fit the "most discriminating tastes" along with their "money back guarantee" we were sorely disappointed. If not defrauded. Our 1 BR in the Marais (3 Rue du Borg-Tiborg) was on the 1st floor, literally surrounded by restaurants. The bar below us had mounted their stereo speakers right below our bed. Seriously. We were woken up repeatedly after midnight by music so loud the floor shook. We contacted Parie Luxe within hours of getting there -but suddenly they didn't want to live up to their guarantee. The apartment was also worn and had mildew on the ceiling and in the shower. We feel snookered that we paid over $6,000 for 3 weeks. Not exactly the "luxe" experience we were promised...
Judy K
Denver, CO USA 07/02/2007
Paris Apartment Rental and parisbestlodge.com
We just spent a week in Paris in an apartment from parisbestlodge.com and cannot say enough good things about it. We rented "La Coupole" in the Montparnasse area just south of Luxembourg Gardens. It was such a wonderful area without much tourist traffic and alot of good restaurants and cafes and shops. You can easily walk or metro to all the big Paris sights. We found hotel rooms in this area to be twice the rent for the apartment. The owner of our apartment, Vicky, gave us a quick walking tour of the area when we arrived.
Just before we left for Paris I saw some posts on here that seemed rather "canned" about some rental sights. Well I assure you I am not a part of their company and I highly recommend parisbestlodge.com and "La Coupole" in particular.
Bjorn Anderson <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 06/30/2007
Rick Steves Believer !!
Just returned from three weeks in Italy. Stayed in five hotels recommended by Rick Steves guide. All clean, inexpensive and nice employees. Everywhere we went people discussing Rick Steves. Why pay more. Use the guide with great confidence.
Peter <email>
Mesa, AZ USA 06/29/2007
Black Forest Germany
Black Forest Germany
My wife and just returned from a three week trip to Germany, the Netherlands, and Brussels. If you are looking for a great, centrally located, storybook village in the Black Forest, we highly recommend the town of Gengenbach. Great scenery and very friendly people. http://www.stadt-gengenbach.de/en/tourism/ Gengenbach is located south of Offenburg between Freiburg and Baden Baden with easy acess to the Autobahn #5. We made side trips to the Alsace region of France and to Switzerland.
We stayed four nights at Haus Wussler, (http://www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/Germany/holiday-apartment-Black-Forest/p71256.htm#rental3) a modern, meticulously clean, well furnished apartment on a working farm just a few minutes by car from town. We stayed in the Swallows’s Nest and would recommend it without reservation. We enjoyed breakfast and evening drinks on the terrace overlooking the valleys, forest, and pastures with grazing horses and cattle. Barbara Wussler and her husband Irwin own the farm and work from morning to night. Barbara speaks excellent English and is a wealth of information about what to do and where to go. She gave us great suggestions for restaurants and sightseeing. Her web site is informative and Haus Wussler is as picture perfect as the web site depicts.
John
Texas 06/28/07
John Bodnar
Carrollton, TX USA 06/28/2007
WONDERFUL places we stayed in Italy
We just returned from a full two weeks in Italy. Venice, Florence, Volterra and Rome. We had very positive experiences in each place we stayed. In venice we stayed at the Pensione Guerrato and felt they had the best breakfasts of our entire trip. Wonderful homemade croissants every morning, and when I opened our bedroom door each morning the wonderful smell filled the hallways. Two cold cereal options, two juice options, great coffee with hot milk, fruit, yogart, and of course hard rolls. All of the people working there, Roberto and Pierro, Giorgio, Mirco and Monika were friendly and more than helpful and we felt right at home. They run a very classy place. In Volterra we stayed at the Seminario Vescoville, where they provided a simple but very nice breakfast upon request and an additional 3 Euros. We had a very nice room overlooking a beautiful courtyard below and everyone working there was very friendly and helpful. No English spoken, which we were happy about, since we were really trying to learn our Italian well. In Rome we stayed in the Suore di Elizabetta. We were more than pleased with our room with its own balcony. The breakfasts were so very simple and civilized and we just adored the whole experience. Having nuns wait on us for breakfast was quite an experience! In Florence we stayed at Casa Rabatti, where we just wanted to sit down and chat all afternoon with Marcella, a wonderful woman who opens up her home to travelers at a good price. My family stayed in a large room that had at one time been her daughter's room. No breakfast. We had a wonderful experience in each of these places. WONDERFUL.
Laura Lozano
Irving, TX USA 06/27/2007
Our two most memorable accomodations were with Christof in Bergerac and Hotel Breiterle in Rothenberg Germany. Excellent English, helpful, reasonable....don't miss out with them.
charles blumer <email>
ofallon, mo USA 06/23/2007
Vernazza-Cinque Terre
Hello Andy Grand Rapids
I just returned from Vernazza. We stayed in a loft studio apt. Private bath, queen bed. You could add a person to sleep on the futon below the loft. Refer, coffe maker, no stove. Fantastic hosts, right off the main square, 50 meters to the small sand beach. 70 eu.email contact tittileonardini@hotmail.com. cash only
Johnnie or Titti Leonardini 39 0187 812 059. It was so great, we gave the hosts a bottle Chaniti Classico as a thank you. Ciao, Mike Tucson, Az.
Don't miss fantastic Pesto meals here, and if you LOVE seafood, order the fish soup. Enough for two, but it was just for me. Fantstico. Two restaurants serve it, Beleforte and the one to the left of your steps as you exit. Jordie is the owners son, see him there. This is not on the Menu and is a special request at 22 euros.
Michael Burnett <email>
Tucson, Az USA 06/19/2007
Avoid Mike and Franca's in Vernazzo
There was plenty of negative reporting on the Internet about Franca of Mike and Franca’s in Vernazzo, Italy (in the Cinque Terra region). There are reports about how she would promise one type of room, in our case one with a private terrace, and try to switch it once you arrive. I thought that I would give her the benefit of the doubt, because she had recently been widowed. Note that under “Contact Us”, on her web site, she does not give an email address. So you will have nothing in writing to prove your telephone discussions with her.
I phoned in February, to reserve the room with the terrace for 3 days in April. A few days before our arrival, I phoned again to confirm. However, when we arrived, she showed us into a room without a terrace. When challenged about our agreement, she said that the people that were given the room with the terrace were staying 8 days. In effect she was admitting to taking the longer booking and switching ours. We left immediately & went to the tourist office and managed to get a lovely apartment that was one of the finest accommodations of our trip. So all’s well that ends well, but it was an inconvenience to us. So I add my voice to the warnings against Franca, who should certainly not be to allowed to get away with these type of false promises.
Marjorie Nielsen <email>
Dartmouth, NS Canada 06/19/2007
Two more to avoid
My husband & I traveled through Spain, Italy, Croatia & Greece for 3 months from mid March to June 2007. I booked all the accommodation on the Internet prior to leaving. We stayed in over 28 rented accommodations, including private apartments, pensions, B&Bs, and hotels. We encountered problems in only three of them, two of which I'm reporting here.
We booked a room with a terrace, at Palazzo Vingius in Minori, on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The web site states that, “All rooms are front sea view with terraces”. So in my email I asked for a top floor room, but did not ask for a terrace, as I believed them that every room had one.
When we arrived, we were indeed shown to the top floor, however, the room was much smaller than it appeared on the Internet site & it had no terrace. We asked to speak to the manager. After a few minutes the proprietor, Pisani Trofimena came with another lady. She said that the “porter ” had made a mistake & given our room to someone else. This lady and her friend confronted us and were very rude, using raised voices at us, telling us she’d given us a room on the top floor as we’d requested.
Despite our insistence, she refused to rectify the error, until 2 days later. Then she gave us a room with a terrace, on the bottom floor, for our remaining two days.
The second instance happened in Hania in Crete. It was at the El Greco Hotel.
Again we’d asked for a room with a terrace, in fact we’d asked for the room shown in the pictures on the Internet, on the top floor. We were given written confirmation that we would be given that room.
When we arrived the room we were assigned was not on the top floor. It was so small that we could not both walk around the ends of the twin beds at the same time. Again we asked to be provided with the room we had been promised. We pointed out that we had made the reservation in February (it was now June). The receptionist told us that we should have asked for the room we wanted by number. She told us that the woman who has sent us the emails had made a mistake and was no longer working at the hotel. We asked to see the manager and were told he was not available.
We left the hotel and found a lovely one across the street (The Palazzo, which we highly recommend).
Marjorie Nielsen <email>
Dartmouth, NS Canada 06/19/2007
Venice Rentals
My family recently returned from a visit to Venice where we had rented a lovely 2 bedroom apartment through Venice Rentals. While in Venice I got sick enough to require a doctor's visit and Denise (the rental agent) went way beyond the call of duty to see that one could be found for me. As I said, the Campo Santa Margherita apartment was among the nicest I have rented in Europe;and, the rental staff was outstanding.
Richard Sharp <email>
Monroe, NY USA 06/16/2007
Ireland Apt.
I just got back from Ireland and mostly stayed in B&B’s. They were all very nice and had there own little personality. My last three days in Ireland I stayed in a apt in Skerries. Skerries is a small town just a train ride from Dublin Center. The train was about a 15 min walk from the apt, but the owner Valerie took me too the train station when we were both on our way out. On my last day since my flight left in the morning she took me all the way to the airport for no charge.
The apt was upstairs from the main house and had a wonderful picturesque view of the Irish Sea out the living room and bedroom windows. In fact the entire sea side of the apt was all windows. It had a living room, kitchen with table and bathroom. It also came with everything you would need to cook with aside from the food. Dishwasher, iron and ironing board, and clothes drying rack.
It was bright and airy and can sleep 4 people. I was at the end of my trip and the apt was cheaper then staying in a B&B at a single rate or a hostel. The owner had milk, sugar, tea and coffee in the apt. when I arrived. I was even able to pay her upon arrival.
The market was about a 10 min walk from the apt but there was also a mini market store about 1 or 2 blocks away where you could pick up some items.
Skerries has a castle and the Skerries Mills that are on the way to the train station. The little boat town is about a 15 min walk along the sea shore.
I have included the Skerries website of the town as well as the email address for the owner.
www.skerrieshomepage.com/visitskerries.htm - Town website http://www.cottageguide.co.uk/sunsetcrag - Apt website and pictures.
I hope you will enjoy the apt as much as I did. It was nice to relax in peace on my last 3 days in Ireland.
Parker <email>
Newport Beach, Ca USA 06/12/2007
Best Villa in Tuscany!
I just got back from 2 weeks in Italy and spent one full week in Tuscany at a villa called La Fornella. It was incredible...perfectly located in Tuscany so that Florence and other cities were easily accesible. The accomodations were beautiful, lots to do and see on the property. The owners, Cassandra (American) and Giacamo, were so friendly and helpful. Tell them the Snyders sent you and have a great time!
Kristen
Phoenix, AZ USA 06/12/2007
Umbria-Assisi
Talk about bang for your buck. Renting an apt. is the way to go. My husband & I decided to check out Umbria,Italy after our 1st trip to Rome & Tuscany in 2000. Out of all the places to live in Italy, one of our close friend said it'd be Assisi. So, we decied to go there and explore for a week. It gets pricey staying in hotels, so we decided to look into renting an apt. A blogger had recommended a place where she'd stayed last year and mentioned " Casa di Subasio" in the heart of Assisi. It was amazingly convenient for our excursions throughout Umbria and even a day in the Marche area. You don't need a car to get there. Jack & Helen were great hosts, they offered a free pick up at the train station , which we did not need, because we rented a car.The Medieval vaulted ceiling was an extra perk. The bedroom was very cozy and has a full kitchen, even cold bottled water,coffee,tea,olive oil and the basics condiments were there for us. It's nice not have to scramble for drinks upon arrival. We normally get hit with a charge for drinks at hotals. All in all, it was very relaxing and economical for us. Check out their pics at www.assisiapartment.blogspot.com" We definitely will return to Casa di Subasio for our future vacations and continue to explore Umbria and more of the Marche region; which was breath taking also.
Jackie <email>
Orinda, ca USA 06/10/2007
Try the budget Fast Hotels if you're driving in France.
When we were driving in France this past month we occasionally looked for the cheap interchange motels outside of larger towns. Formule 1, Etap, etc. gather at major Autoroute interchanges and have bargain prices easily half of what a 1 star budget hotel in the town center would cost.
We found the Fast Hotel chain. They have very basic but fully equipped rooms and have full service restaurant and bars on the premises. They have a nice landscaped exterior decor with sunny patios.
We were traveling with our 4 year old daughter, so we asked for triple rooms at about E38-40. She got a bunk bed above our double bed on the floor but all beds and bathrooms were clean and comfortable, if quite close.
We met numbers of retired European couples who used these locations to make their driving vacations more affordable.
The tradeoff is having to drive into town for dinner or sightseeing at night, but when in transit from one region to another, staying at one of these trips is the value of a bonus night for your vacation.
Highly recommend the Fast Hotel chain.
Doug M.
Portland, OR USA 06/09/2007
Vernazza - Cinque Terre
We're trying to get a place in Vernazza (1st choice) in Cinque Terre for a few days end of June/early July...any suggestions? Is it really risky to go there without reservations this time of year?
Andy
Grand Rapids, MI USA 06/08/2007
Amsterdam-Frederic's Bike Rentals
I used Frederic's to get a room in Amsterdam. He rents various rooms all over the city. His website has a photo for each room. I was very clear in choosing a room as I am 7 months pregnant and have a few needs. Upon arrival I was not given the room I reserved and confirmed but rather a room in same building with a bath-only that had no privacy to it, a waterbed and a cat who is free to come and go at any time. I was told no other room was avaliable. I was very let down and I would encourage anyone to be very careful when renting from him.
Shannon
Louisville, KY USA 06/06/2007
Limegrove Hotel
I was nearly strandard in London witout a hotel,as I missed my flight,but wasb fortunate enough to be accommodated in the Limegrove hotel in Victoria,run by ever so busy Joyce.I must say that the friendly atmosphere in this tiny hotel made up for my bad day.It is rater cheap and clean and the location is one of the best places in London.I would reccomend this to those who need an inexpesive stay in London.
Sue Bangert
Sydney, Australia 06/05/2007
Lucca Apartment
We stayed at a wonderful apartment in the beautiful city of Lucca. The apartment is named Carlino Michele. It is a 3BR 2bth on a quiet street but in town. The web site is: http://www.knowital.com/tuscany/lucca/carlinomichele/rentals3.html.
Apartment was clean, well furnished, and spacious. We were seven (four teens and one pre-teen) and had enough space. Apartment is well managed and Lucca is a great town. A perfect jumping off point for other places in Tuscany or just to spend a long weekend as we did.
M.M.
Naples , Italy 06/02/2007
florence and venice accommodation
I would like to recommend two apartments I recently stayed in (a month in each apartment). Firstly, in Venice, just off Campo Santa Margherita we rented a two bedroom apt from www.holiday-velvet.com
The location was perfect - supermarket within 5 mins, and a ten min walk to San Marco. Holiday velvet were excellent in their communications prior to travel and as we arrived on a Sunday, they left the key with detailed
instructions to the apt in their security box outside their office door.
In Florence