Amsterdam
has more affordable sleeping establishments than any other city in Europe.
Most of the best small hotels are located in old canal houses and former residences.
Amsterdam hotels can vary from small simple and private run, to large "American
style" chain hotels. Most hotels come with good showers, televisions
and hair dryers. Some amenities may not be available in every hotel so if
they are important to you, I recommend contacting the hotel or visiting its
websight for more details. Here are some details to consider;
Elevators - Canal houses hotels within the canal ring are built tall and narrow. Small canal house style hotels barely have room for stairs and make efficient use of every square inch of space. These small hotels usually are no more than 3 stories and have no elevator. Stairways in canal houses were built to assume as little space as possible, so this may mean you have to carry your heavy luggage up very steep and narrow steps.
Air Conditioning - Some hotels in Amsterdam do not have air conditioning. The climate in Amsterdam is not very hot and the nights are cool. Usually sleeping with a window open is sufficient. If you are a light sleeper and staying in a hotel on a busy street or tram line, ask for a room in the back of the building, other wise you will be awakened by the ringing of trams and traffic on the street.
Bathrooms
- If your travel plans include soaking in a hot tub with aromatic salts,
FORGET ABOUT IT! Tubs are usually half the size of their American cousins
and come equipped with hand held or wall mounted showers. Plumbing is usually
modern and bathrooms are usually tiled and sparkling clean. For some reason,
which I could never figure out, some hotels don't have shower curtains. This
means you have to take a shower without splashing about like a bird in a birdbath.
Assume water will get on the floor! Simply mop it up with the towels when
you are finished. Also, wash cloths are not available in some European hotels.
I recommend that you bring one or two of your own. If you want a full size
bathroom and all its amenities, stay in one of the big chain hotels, but expect
to pay for every little soap and extra towel!
Size - Rooms in Amsterdam hotels can be compact, but most are very efficiently decorated with comfortable beds and smart furniture. This leaves little room for mounds of luggage and bags full of shopping. Rooms are often sized just big enough to fit the furniture, people and a suitcase. If your room seems small remember how inexpensive it is! You are in Amsterdam to see the tulips, visit the cafes and tour the museums. Get up, get out and see the city!
Breakfast
- Most rooms in small private run hotels include a Dutch style breakfast in
the hotel's breakfast room. This can include a variety of Dutch cheeses, cold
meats, breads, rusks (a round dry crunchy toast), cereal, yogurt, juices,
coffee, tea and Dutch cocoa. Its a great way to start the day and adds value
to you room rate.
Decor - Most rooms in small hotels are furnished with modern "IKEA" style furniture. Many hotels on the main canals have antique furniture and a more romantic atmosphere. For the romantic styling, expect to pay more.
For what Dutch hotels lack in size they make up for with good locations, great breakfast and friendly service. Expect to get a good room for a good value and plan to spend a lot of time exploring this once great center of the Dutch empire.
All hotels listed are located in the central canal ring in the general vicinity of the landmark above each column. The information column includes some helpful tips and considerations.
SINCE
JANUARY 2001
