Hotel de Jonge - Assen, Netherlands     

The Hotel de Jonge is only 5 min walk from the station. And is in the heart of Assen. Near all the shops, pubs and restaurants. Assen is a nice city with as much going on as you would like to find. It can be a quiet place, or on TT weekend, a very lively city indeed! This hotel has very comfortable rooms with ensuite bathrooms, TV, clock radio and wifi internet (T-mobile additional cost.). It is now a Best Western Hotel. Nothing too fancy, but very clean and comfy. I read a comment about the noise on weekends. The rooms facing the alley can be noisy on Fri and Sat. So ask for a quiet room. But they usually place earplugs on your pillow on the weekend! Not a problem if your window is closed really. I've stayed there for over a year and only have been disturbed twice with noise. The restaurant has fantastic food with daily specials (3 course €15). Market day on wed and Sat right outside the hotel. Lots of interesting things there. Smoking is still allowed in Hollands pubs and restaurants so sitting outside in the summer is nice. Can get a bit smokey inside in winter but they do have a non-smoking section. The staff are professional and courteous. But in true Dutch custom, they are not working for tips, so if you want another beer or a bill..you might have to stand up and wave. Or do as I did...learn to relax and sit and enjoy people watching. They will get to you eventually. Life is pretty relaxed in Holland. And it is nice when you get used to it. While in Assen also check out Pandius Pub, Cheers Pub, Pizzeria Isabella, Bojangles Restaurant and de Kroon restaurant (try the Gambas!). Also drop into Noya Grillhouse for a Turkish Pizza Kebab - fantastic!