My husband and I have just returned from five days in Minneapolis, and I cannot recommend the Wales House highly enough.

Located in one of the city's best neighborhoods -- a college area directly adjacent to the University of Minnesota -- the Wales House is convenient to public transit and a great selection of restaurants, cafes, and bookstores.

The B&B itself is spotless and beautifully restored from its former incarnation as a run-down frat house. The owners, Kelly and Julie Carver, are friendly and accessible while at the same time sensitive to their guests' independence and privacy. There's free wifi and tons of cozy places to hang out. And then there's Skye (oh, Skye!), the owners' gorgeous, mellow dog who loves to greet guests.

This is not a Holiday Inn. You won't find big-screen TVs in each room. But if you're looking for a rope swing outside, character in each and every room, and a unique and wonderful Minneapolis stay, you won't get any better. We'll be back!

Okay if you like taking your shoes off at the front door and climbing in your stocking feet several sets of stairs with all of your luggage to your room. Don't count on anyone making your bed for you the next morning--let alone change your bedding. They don't. You can, however, eat cold cereal and store-brand bagels in the basement for the "breakfast" part of your B&B stay. There is nothing quaint about this place. It's a home that someone thought might be able to make it as a bed & breakfast. There are certainly better, cheaper, and cleaner alternatives to this place. You can stay in a modern room at the airport and ride the mass transit in to the city for far more comfort and cleanliness--and less money.

Wales House is a fantastic place to stay, conveniently located for the University, public transport and Dinkytown (which has second hand bookshops, bars, a cinema and great restaurants - including the world's best breakfast at Al's). The atmosphere is homely and the communal areas are comfortable, with plenty of books, information about the local area and a couple of televisions. A large kitchen is shared between all 10 rooms with plenty of fridge and cupboard space. There are washing machines available to use for $3. There is high-speed wireless internet throughout the house and garden.

Kelly and Julie are perfect hosts and interesting people to talk to. The standard of cleanliness is very good. My room was large and comfortable with en-suite bathroom.

If you are looking for room service and a huge TV in every room, you may prefer elsewhere. However if you are looking for a comfortable, quirky and interesting place to stay in a great part of Minneapolis for a few days to a few months I would recommend Wales House very highly.

Extremely comfortable lodging. Free wi-fi available throughout the house. Large common areas for hanging out and meeting others. The Carvers are very friendly and considerate proprietors. Their dog, Sky, is beautiful and sweet.

Conveniently located to Dinkytown (a quick walk to Al's Breakfast), and about a 40 minute walk from downtown across the Stone Arch bridge (and a 5 minute drive).

At these rates, why stay anywhere else?