Hotel Brouwer

January 14 2008: I stayed at the Hotel Brouwer on my last night in Europe and was pleased with the room and the location.  It's just a short walk from the central train station.  It's also on a canal in what I'm told is the Garden District, which is very quiet.  All of the rooms face the canal.  We had the attic room which was huge, with a bathroom the size of a budget hotel room in most of Europe.  Breakfast was included and was served at your table and included eggs, etc.  Sort of like an American breakfast, but not so heavy.  Walking to dinner, museums, and night life took about ten minutes or so.  The owners are very nice and accomodating, which included some last minute requests on our part and loaning my friend and adapter and converter to charge his computer.  They also have a computer available for people staying at the hotel.  I really enjoyed this hotel and found the atmosphere very relaxing and friendly.

Date of stay: November 2007
Purpose of stay: Leisure (With Friends/Group)

April 12 2008: This is the only place I will ever stay whilst in Amsterdam. I have been to the hotel many times and would happily recommend it to anyone.

The location is perfect as it's on the cities innermost canal and within 10 minutes of Centraal Station and the nearest tram stop is a two minute walk away. Many of the top tourist attractions are within easy reach and yet so are things that some tourists don't find such as the Jordaan area, the many Hofjes in the area and the markets on Monday and Saturday over on the Noorderkerk.

The hotel is tiny having only 8 rooms: 6 doubles and 2 singles. So you have to book really early or risk disappointment. Each room has a view over the Singel canal and the top of the Westerkerk tower. The rooms are simply furnished but comfortable. There is a good bathroom and pleanty of heating should you require it. There is, it has to be said, a definate list to the flooring in each room which could be a little disconcerting if you've had a jenever too many!

 The breakfast, served in the large room downstairs, is very good indeed. An assortment of breads, excellent cheese, eggs and jams with plenty of good Dutch coffee.

There is Internet access provided if you require it and if you should arrive early or not leave until late in the day the staff are happy to keep your luggage there for you.

The staff are very helpful and there is a small lift if you need to use it or a spiral staircase if you prefer.

There are some red light windows both adjacent to and behind the hotel and this can cause a little noise sometimes but otherwise the neighbours are not a problem.

Yes, it's the Brouwer for me every time!

Date of stay: April 2008
Purpose of stay: Leisure (With Friends/Group)