Hotel Heemskerk - Amsterdam, Netherlands 

I stayed in twin room on the top floor for 2 nights. The room itself was a bit larger than expected but it was apparent that it had not been refurnished for quite some time. It was however clean and had everything that can be expected from a 3-star hotel (TV (with cable), mini-bar, free coffee/tea). The beds were reasonably comfortable but a bit small (perhaps to be expected in a twin room). The bathroom was nice with a small bath tub and it seemed to have been renovated at a later date than the rest of the room. I liked the fact that there was a skylight that let in some extra light. As in many hotels in Amsterdam the stairs are very steep and narrow and as far as I could see there was no elevator. This was not a problem for me but it may make the hotel less suitable for people travelling with children and/or travelers who have trouble walking/moving around. The hotel is set on a quiet street in the museum district of Amsterdam (behind the concert hall). It can be a bit tricky to find since the street it is on does not seem to be a very well known street. Most people do however know the concert hall so if asking for directions it is better to ask for the concert hall. Buses as well as trams (number 5 and 16) from the central station stop very close to the hotel. The location is great if you plan on spending some time going to museums. If you plan on partying in closer proximity to the central station there may, if merely looking at the location, be better options. The staff was very friendly and had a lot of good advice on things to see and do in Amsterdam. Breakfast was also served in the mornings (from 8-10) but I never managed to get up in time for that. Other guests did however seem to enjoy it.

This is a very comfortable and quiet little hotel in a lovely location. We walked across the city from Centraal Station upon arrival - a leisurely day, taking in Dam Square, the flower market etc - and, in our opinion, the scenery and atmosphere improved as we got nearer the museum quarter. This area suited us well as a family for a short break. We used the canal bus on the next day to reach the Anne Frank museum and to see the city from the water, which was very pleasant. We also liked the Jordaan area. But best of all, we enjoyed the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh museum on the hotel's doorstep, and lazing in the sunshine in nearby Vondel Park. There was an ample choice of suitable places to eat, and the staff at the hotel were very willing to point us in the right direction. We had a very relaxing week-end, and the Heemskerk (right behind the Concertgebouw) provided us with a cosy and peaceful base.