Enjoy in Amsterdam

Experiencing Amsterdam is a bit like opening a big story book where the hand-drawn pictures draw you into a romantic world of fables and folklore. In Amsterdam, old world charm rubs shoulders with twenty-first century modernity as if they were never at odds. The old buildings dating back to the 17th century or earlier, the ring of canals, the houseboats where young Internet entrepreneurs strike deals with businesses across the world, the stag parties, the conference and business hubs, the museums which house some of the world’s oldest and finest art collections, all these make Amsterdam an experience to cherish all life long. Little wonder then that it is called the jewel in the Netherlands' crown.

If the art and the history of Amsterdam have left you all goggle-eyed, you can wind down with some great beer.

The famous canals are a great way to admire the Baroque architecture of the city’s old buildings and many other sights. The city’s waterways also see an increasing traffic of massive cruise ships and cargo vessels from the world over.

There are many tales woven round the city’s origins. The most popular legend says it was established by two fishermen and their seasick dog. The story goes that the seasick dog jumped overboard to throw up – the contents of his stomach are today what is known as Amsterdam city and the founder the two fishermen. Another story, this one drawn from history, says the city was founded after the River Amstel was dammed in the 13 century. The damming spawned a settlement which was then called Amsteldamme.

Because of the canals, Amsterdam is often compared to Venice. But Amsterdam is vastly different from Venice. One hears that young locals are always eager to leave Venice as, apart from museums, there is little there that allows them to make a decent living. Here in Amsterdam, everyone seems be at peace with their lives – the tolerant locals, the tourists, the visiting businessman. Its reputation for tolerance is largely untarnished except for an odd instance like the recent bad publicity surrounding the rise and murder in 2002, of far right politician Pim Fortuyn. However, the legendary tolerance does have its flipside. Amsterdam is regarded as a safe haven for many nationalities, various sexualities and different religious persuasions. Some hidden corners of the city even provide shelter to commercial sex workers and a trade in soft drugs. Regardless of these few exceptions, the city never fails to charm and impress with its live-and-let-live philosophy.

Ramada Hotel & Suites Amsterdam
Amsterdam, 1075,
The Netherlands - Amsterdam

This elegant hotel is comfortably located just a short tram-journey away from local attractions such as the Rijks Museum and the Damsquare. It a good blend of modern comforts and hospitality and provides a bar and a shop. The bedrooms are well appointed and include television, trouser-press and tea/coffee making facilities.

Victoria Hotel Amsterdam
Damrak 1-5
Amsterdam 1012 LG

15 minutes from Schipol Airport by train, the deluxe Victoria Hotel is very conveniently located in the city center. It is also one of the oldest hotels in Amsterdam, built in 1890 which is why it features contemporary as well as the stately monumental guest rooms. ADA approved and nonsmoking rooms are also offered. For your dining pleasure you have a choice: the Seasons Garden Restaurant, the Tasman Bar and Vic's Terrace & Brasserie.

Guests love it not just for its impeccable service, but also because the hotel houses beauty parlor, a souvenir shop, and 10 Fully Equipped Conference Rooms.

Best Western Eden Hotel
Amstel 144
Amsterdam 1017 AE

This hotel is regarded as among the best hotels of Amsterdam and located just 16 km from Schipol Airport, between River Amstel and the Rewmbrandt Square. Its enviable location, its aristocratic splendour, the elegantly appointed guestrooms, the multi-lingual staff who are eager to serve, all of these make the Best Western Eden indeed superior to the rest. The hotel is a mere 150 metres away from Reembrandt Square’s inviting restaurants cafes, bars and theaters.

Hotel Falcon Plaza Centre Amsterdam
1011 LZ,
The Netherlands - Amsterdam

Centrally located, the Hotel Falcon Plaza is very popular among visitors. It has 45 bedrooms, all equipped with television, telephone and en-suite shower room. It is a good base from which to explore nearby attractions such as Dam Square, Rembrandt Square, the fleamarket and the flower market.

Lancaster Hotel Amsterdam
1018 DH,
The Netherlands - Amsterdam

In the Guests’ Comments book of this hotel, the most common words are ‘tranquility’, ‘peace’, ‘truly relaxing holiday’, and the like. That should give a fair idea about the unique charms of this hotel, located as it is in a tranquil area of Amsterdam, opposite the city's zoo. It is also close to the many museums, shopping districts and sights, making it easy to guests to explore the surrounding areas of the city at their whim and convenience. Each bedroom is comfortably appointed and feature a television, safe, hairdryer and telephone.

Radisson SAS Hotel Amsterdam
1012 CK,
The Netherlands - Amsterdam

In place of this attractive hotel, there used to be several 18th century merchant houses, a paper factory and a vicarage. All these were integrated into this beautiful atrium that makes up today’s Radisson SAS Hotel. It is located right in the historic heart of Amsterdam and in close proximity to main tourist attractions such as museums, theatres and shopping areas. Each of the hotel’s 243 air conditioned bedrooms are well-appointed and decorated in four different styles. The hotel includes a restaurant, a bar and a fitness room with sauna.

NH Schiller Amsterdam
1017 CU,
The Netherlands - Amsterdam

In this elegant hotel you will find many wonderful examples of art nouveau, all preserved since 1912, the year it was built. Guest rooms at the NH Schiller are well-appointed with all the modern facilities. The hotel is located in the historic district of Amsterdam, minutes away from fine dining, shopping and entertainment.