First let me say that Joanne, the proprietor, is the Gold Standard for her trade. Her joie de vivre is contagious, she is an excellent conversationalist and her cheerful, helpful manner was consistent through our week-long stay. It's no wonder she receives such praise in other reviews I have read about the Eastwood.

THE ROOM: When I travel on vacation, the room to me is not that important since most of the time I'll be out and about. However, a good room certainly adds to the trip and the room we stayed in - I believe it's called the "Garden Room," on the first floor - was very cozy and convenient. The gas fireplace made the room cozy on the cold nights we were there and we enjoyed the convenience of just walking out of the door to the garden in the front. Included in the room were the following items: TV, phone, closet, hair dryer, a really convenient and FAST coffee machine (go to http://www.myflavia.com to see what I'm talking about) that had good-tasting coffee and tea, a small bathroom and an electronic room safe (very handy for securing passports, cameras...even my 17" Dell laptop fit inside). We occasionally heard running water in the pipes from the other rooms but that is to be expected and it was not objectionable - the room was quiet. Hot water took a little while to get there at the sink and the shower was average. The king bed was comfortable and maid service came each day.

If the room is more important to you, definitely get the room at the top of the Eastwood. I forget the name but Joanne showed it to us when we were leaving. Fabulous. We'll get that one next time. Private rooftop balcony, view of the river...nice.

THE BREAKFAST: I like a good breakfast in the morning and Joanne offered the usual fare, like coffee cake, fresh fruit, juice, milk, coffee, tea, bacon, eggs, sausage, etc., and it was very good. The breakfast room was sunny and comfortable and I felt like I was eating in someone's dining room. Joanne attended our breakfasts each time, without leaving, offering refills and asking if we needed anything. If you're a morning talker, she'll keep right up with you and if you're not, she'll pick up on that and give you peace. She is extremely knowledgeable of the area and we picked her brain constantly for ideas on where to hike and see the wildlife. We thoroughly enjoyed our breakfasts.

THE LOCATION: Location is important and the Eastwood is only about a 1/3-mile walk from the falls and the heart of the town. No need to drive (good luck parking in town anyway, unless you don't care about parking fees). If you walk out the front door of the Eastwood, you'll go about 40 feet to the road. Cross that road and you're at the gorge, looking down at the Niagara River - that's how close you are.

MISCELLANEOUS: There is a local restaurant called Casa Mia (http://www.casamiaristorante.com). Go eat there. It's expensive, but if you're looking for an elegant night out, it's perfect. Ask Joanne about the deal they have set up with a local cab company - the restaurant will pick up the cab fare to and from the restaurant so you can enjoy yourself (they have a wonderful wine list) and not have to worry about driving. Excellent food, plating and service.

If you like standard fare, there's a Hard Rock, Planet Hollywood, etc., and they're fine I suppose but we enjoy finding interesting places to eat. Speaking of which, check out the Flying Saucer Restaurant (http://www.fallscasino.com/saucer/). Very cool.

We like birding and seeing different animals wherever we go, so check out the Dufferin Islands Nature Area, Bruce trail and Feather on the Glen.

Without hesitation I encourage you to stay at the Eastwood. When we return to Niagara Falls we WILL stay here again! Joanne, if you read this, thanks again for the wonderful stay!