I want to visit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

Question

I plan on going this Spring so I'm starting to save now... I plan to stay a week and wanted to know if anyone has recomendations on where to stay that isn't so pricey? I found this site lovingamsterdam.com that has apartments. I'm thinking that's my best shot. Any advice? Also do all Europeans hate Americans like I hear? I want to party and have fun while I'm there. :)

I plan on going with 1 or 2 of my closest friends and the reason I ask about European's not liking Americans is because well I'm ashamed of my country's view on certain things, I don't like where our "leader" leading us, and I know how hostile other countries can be towards Americans. I just want to vacation somewhere that is scenic and laid back so that I can have fun. Sight-seeing is a must for me. :)

Answer 1

There are plenty of hotels, pensions and youth hostels to choose from. One hostel is located right in the middle of the Red Light District. A lot of useful info can be found here:
http://www.ignatzmice.com/
A few suggestions if I may as a Dutchman; For myself I would stay away from Amsterdam (Emsterdem as you pronounce it) as far as possible. This city has abSOlutely nothing to do with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and what this country stands for. It's a big tourist trap, a beer, a meal, yes even a 'short time' in the RLD are more expensive than in other cities.
If your sole objective is to get boozed up and smoke pot (like many Anglo-Saxons seem to to in A'dam) feel free to go ahead. One suggestion; Europeans tend to dress according to fashion. Try to fit in, please do not wear sneakers. Sorry if I seem a bit sour.
As for your other question: I cannot imagine that Europeans hate Americans. Fox News does not show all the news. I for one know very well what your country has done for Europe in two World Wars. Most people have not forgotten this. Look here: http://www.adoptiegraven-margraten.nl/

Answer 2

Look in the books:
Let's Go Europe and
The Rough Guide to europe
Lonely Planet Guide to Eu

Look in the Amsterdam section. The cheapest places are dormitory style, and you should lock up your valuables.
They aren't overly impressed with Americans, in general, but they don't hate us. The Dutch are fair and kind people and they are naturally more fond of Americans who know about the rest of the world, try to fit in somewhat with their manners and try to speak their language. If you're a sweet little sorority girl chewing gum openmouthed and saying "Oh m'god" at everything, they won't think you're as cute as the boys back home do. Party boys have fun regardless and they are sometimes customers, so treated friendly; they forget where they are anyway. Even they won't feel hated.
Amsterdam is great fun and it's even more fun if you don't travel with a gang. Take at least a few walks by yourself. If you really stand out, though, like you're a 59 year old solo female with a polyknit pantsuit, a ritzy bag and fluffy hair, don't go walking alone at night in the red light district. You'll attract only thieves. It's not 100% safe after dark, so ride a bike is the best way. But still it's a lot safer than a big US city.

Answer 3

No, we don`t hate americans.

We have a bit of trouble with the (intentional?) falsehoods that are spread in the US though.
Such as "all dutch use drugs" and "all drugs are legal". It is a bit strange that, when i tell them it isn`t so, being a native of this country, they say "yeah, but so and so said it is, so it must be true" - at that point i roll my eyes and go "americans".

As to your lodging. A youth hostel or backpackers hotel is most likely to be cheaper to stay. An alternative is to rent a vacation home. However, what is your budget? Do you plan to come alone or with a (group of) friend(s) ?
That would determine also what would be required.

Answer 4

You can find hotel availability and prices for up to a year in advance at: http://www.hotels.nl/ I frequently book hotels through the site and have never had any problems. Prices can vary quite a bit depending on exactly when you go.

The Prins Hendrik has rooms for up to five people. It's very close to the train station and relatively inexpensive. I have stayed there and would again, but usually stay at the Roode Leeuw or the Barbizon Palace. The City Hotel Utrechtsestraat has rooms for up to 8 people. The reviews are favorable, but I've never stayed there myself. There are a range of other options. It's often cheaper to stay in one of the hotels near the airport, in Haarlem, or in Zaandam and take the train to the city.

Answer 5

Maybe you should check out the youth hostel, it is in a very nice neighborhood, close to the big museums. No: people in the Netherlands do not hate the Americans. Some Americans have a tendency to show off a little and exaggerate what they have, just do not do that, be modest and enjoy yourself.