What is(are) your name(s)?
Paul de Bruin and Sean Maguire
For how long have you been running a B&B?
Since April 2001
Please share something about the history of your present bed and breakfast.
We have been running the bed and breakfast since April 2001. We came back from working in Scotland and decided to open our antique shop, which is a hobby, and the rooms above it. The building has been used as an art and thriller book gallery. So we have been the owners as from the start of the business. Both of us have a catering and hotel background so the guesthouse is a second nature for us. The antique shop is like our reception desk where people check in and out.
What are the unique characteristics of your B&B?
We are located in the historic centre called Jordaan. Close to the central station and just minutes walk to the centre of town where the royal palace is. Local street markets are twice a week and just 200 meters away from the guesthouse. Further more the street is packed with local shop and cafes with terraces all year round.
Based on your guests' opinions, what feature of your B&B has made their stay special?
The fact that it feels that you are a local in the city and not a tourist; good value for money; all individual rooms no standardized; local but so close to all tourist attractions.
How many rooms are offered at your B&B and what is its maximum capacity?
We have 5 rooms and they are all doubles. In one of the rooms we have an extra bed in the lounge area.
Please describe the in-room facilities for each type of room in your B&B.
All rooms have private bathrooms and toilets, free coffee and tea, TV set and radio, Wi-Fi, fridge, hairdryers, some antique pieces.
Which room is your personal favorite?
It is difficult as each room is different and individual.
What do the room rates include?
Rates include coffee and tea in the room, and use of Wi-Fi.
Do you offer any special packages?
We have packages at the festive periods of the year and often some last minute deals so always ask what specials are on.
What may guests expect from a typical breakfast at your property?
No breakfast is served at the guesthouse as there are so many breakfast bars on the street and the local area that provide a wide choice. Naturally coffee and tea are provided in all rooms, so you can also go to the bakery across the road and get some fresh croissants and have breakfast in your room.
Is your bed and breakfast suitable for children?
Yes
Do you accept pets?
No
What is your smoking policy?
No smoking in the entire property.
Is there a parking facility on premises or nearby?
No parking available but there is on street parking and underground car parks close by.
Is your B&B suitable for disabled guests?
We are not easily accessible for wheel chairs but we have ground floor rooms.
What safety precautions are provided at your B&B?
Smoke alarms in all the rooms.
What is your check-in/check-out policy?
Check out is at 11:00 AM. Check in is from 14:00 h but if the room is ready earlier than this you can check in. You can always drop the luggage with us, should you arrive early and the room is not ready.
Are there a minimum number of nights for staying at your B&B?
No.
How can guests check availability and make a reservation?
Reservations can be made through the reservation site but if there is no availability there, than just drop us a line via email.
What is you cancellation policy?
Changes to the reservation can be made up to 7 days before arrival. After this time deposits are not refunded.
What types of payment do you accept?
We take Visa and MasterCard.
Is there a special etiquette that guests should know about and comply with?
No.
Please tell us what things guests might enjoy visiting, seeing, doing, etc. in your area.
Well, Amsterdam is a historic city. Being located in the centre as soon as you step out of the door you are surrounded by 16th century buildings and may enjoy all the wonders of the city.
Where is your B&B located and how it may be reached?
We are located in the historic centre called Jordaan. From the railway station: Go out of the station to your right and walk till you see the 1st canal on your left which is the Singel Canal. Go onto this one and walk till you see the 1st small canal called Blauwburgwal on your right (it is just a narrow one), go into this one and walk straight on into the Herenstraat and than Prinsenstraat. Will take only 7 minutes.
What would you say to people who have never stayed in a bed and breakfast?
All our rooms have private en-suite bathrooms and toilets and you have your own keys so you can go and do what you want to do.