Amsterdam

When I was there, we stayed at a place called the Hotel Nadia, which was just a short walk from Dam Square. It was a decent place, and very centrally located.

Have a great trip, Amsterdam is a really fun city! 

I've been to Amsterdam at least 10 times. My favorite hotel is the Sofitel Amsterdam, about a 5 minute walk from Centraal Station if you're coming by train, ferry or the Schipol airport train.  Very convenient to everything. The Red Light District is a few blocks away, but far enough that it's not noisy or dodgy. 

Other hotels I've stayed at the NH Barbizan next to the train station (If you've got the cash, splurge and stay here!), the Victoria (ok, used to be nicer), a few of the Tulip hotels and the Ramada (Small rooms but great value).

For a great cheap meal, try Chinatown, not far from the train station.  You can't go wrong at any of the little family-run restaurants!

By the way, on June 10 the new high-speed train line from Brussels to Amsterdam will begin service. That will cut the London-Amsterdam travel time from 7 hours to just 4 hours, 30 minutes, including change from Eurostar to Thalys trains in Brussels.  It costs a bit more than the RyanAir and Easyjets of the world, but it's a heck of a lot more civilized than flying these days!

We decided we're staying at the rembrandt square hotel.  We managed to get good tickets on flybe out of southampton. all and all we got a pretty good deal.

I can't wait to go! Please keep the suggestions coming!!!

Maureen

By the way, on June 10 the new high-speed train line from Brussels to Amsterdam will begin service. That will cut the London-Amsterdam travel time from 7 hours to just 4 hours, 30 minutes, including change from Eurostar to Thalys trains in Brussels.  It costs a bit more than the RyanAir and Easyjets of the world, but it's a heck of a lot more civilized than flying these days!

wow, that's fantastic.