This was our second visit to Barangay. Last time we were in one of the patio rooms, complete with the very wonderful breakfast in bed. When we came to book this time, the patio rooms were already booked (as we should have expected), and we ended up in Mems studio just round the corner. It was a surprise and a delight. Although it didn't have the wonderful eclectic tropical feel of Barangay's own rooms, it was very stylish and comfortable, with absolutely everything we needed. The bathroom is beautiful and sumptuous - a huge bath and separate big shower. Being on the ground floor meant we didn't have to drag cases up and down stairs, although it did mean that the studio opens straight onto the street, and with the blinds down for privacy it could feel a little confined.
The studio is in a very quiet street, just around the corner from Barangay itself, but still close to everything. The location is just one of the excellent things about Barangay. It is a short walk from Central Station, an easy stroll to most of the best parts of the city, and close to the tram lines for everything else. There are lots of good places to eat nearby, and a supermarket just down the street for when you want to do your own thing.
The absolute best bit of Barangay is the people. We met Wimmo and Godwin for the first time last year and were overwhelmed by their hospitality, and all their help to make our visit to Amsterdam special. This time it was great to see them again, and also to meet Ron, who works with them now. Ron gave us a wonderfully warm welcome, reoriented us to the city, and got us settled in to our apartment.
Through Wimmo and God we organised a boat trip around the canals with their friend Chrystal, who runs private trips on her boat. It was great. We've done the standard tourist boat rides before, but they're always frustrating - so crowded and somehow so limited. This time we travelled in comfort, drinks in hand, with our own private guide who could take us wherever we wanted, and answer all our questions. Her boat is small enough to get into the smaller canals and backwaters. It was very reasonably priced too - extremely good value for money.
We will be back (again).







