This was our first time in Amsterdam and my wife and I were celebrating our 50th birthdays. We were hoping to find a hotel in a quiet area where we could relax in between sightseeing but also be near to the centre so not too far to travel. The Hotel Estherea met the requirements perfectly. A reasonably sized family run hotel with very helpful and friendly staff, decorated to high standards, very clean and very peaceful. Situated on the banks of the quiet Singel canal and yet only 5 minutes walk from Dam Square.
The hotel comes highly recommended. An excellent buffet breakfast is served in the cosy dining room to set you up for the day. No other meals are served other than a small selection by room service. However, with so many local restuarants, bars and cafes to go at locally then it's no problem.
There are no tea or coffee making facilities in the room but this is far outweighed in our opinion by the freely available fresh tea and coffee in the lobby/lounge area - even more so because there is always a plate of cake, fruit, strawberries or something else to accompany your drink.
We had a room with a canal view - something I think well worth paying that little extra for. If I was ever back in Amsterdam I would definitely stay there again. So, please don't tell anyone else about this very nice, tranquil haven in the midst of this wonderful city - let's just keep it a secret between you an me, then there will be room for me next time I want to book in.