We have just returned from an absolutely wonderful weekend in Amsterdam, staying at Eric's Room with a View.

The location, on the corner of imposing Prinsengracht and gracious Leidsegracht, would be hard to beat. We walked all over the city, but never felt far from 'home'. But although so central, the house is very quiet; there was virtually no noise at night - certainly nothing loud enough to disturb our sleep (though possibly a wet weekend in December isn't the ultimate test!). The room (or, more accurately, apartment - it occupies the top two floors of the house) is clean, comfortable, and very well equipped. Had we wanted to, we could have entertained fairly large numbers in style (and let the dishwasher take the strain afterwards!), but for us the wealth of excellent eateries in the area proved a far more attractive proposition than self-catering. But we certainly did use and appreciate the excellent espresso machine. The bed is gloriously comfortable, and the view from it truly stunning.

Eric is, as many others have said, a most considerate and helpful host. He lives downstairs, which is very useful if you need anything, and I loved returning to the house in the evening and looking up to see him reading peacefully in the bay window above. (I also loved the envious looks of various passers-by as we let ourselves into this archetypally pretty canal house; I hope they thought it was ours!).

Amsterdam was, as ever, a joy, and the Amsterdammers we met were without exception friendly and helpful. We hope to return very soon - though exactly when will depend on when the Room with a View is available!

What a great location! I loved it! Situated on the Princengracht canal it was perfect. I didn't feel like a tourist at all.

Eric was great and there with the keys when I arrived.

The stairs weren't a problem.

Tip - best to bring a bar of soap.

We stayed for three night in the Govert Flinckstraat 319. Easy to access by the tram, nice neighbourhood, with little restaurants around for different taste and budgets. The loft is well furnished for everything that you may need.

My fiance and I stayed at the Govert Flinckstraat ground floor apartment in late September 2011, and really enjoyed our stay in the area. We felt like we were locals because the location is outside the tourist zones, but there were still plenty of things to explore. Transportation was a snap when you ventured "into" the city.

The apartment is furnished well, and the bed was comfortable. The "breakfast" portion was basic by other B&B's standard that we have experienced. But the Albert Cuyp market just down the street had plenty of grab/walk/eat breakfast foods that we frequented. The room/loft itself wasn't overly romantic, but it was a nice place to rest one's feet at the end of a long day exploring. Plenty of hot water and there also was even a washer/dryer in the back room. Eric gave us a few ideas in terms of restaurants that he liked at check in, but after seeing him on arrival we didn't get to speak with him again as he was traveling.

We dined at three of the local restaurants, and all were extremely friendly and gracious at seating us without reservations. Roots, ALaferme, and Angelotto were all very near and very friendly. (Even Angelotto who has a reputation for being grouchy). Roots even served us after their kitchen was closed, that was extremely nice!

Overall, we loved our experience in Amsterdam, and we wouldn't hesitate to return.