Cheap Flights to Amsterdam  

The Netherland’s capital – it shares that title with nearby The Hague – is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its collection of masterpiece art museums – the Rijksmuseum is the biggest but the Van Gogh Museum is our favorite – has no equals and now that its ancient canal system is recognized as a World Heritage Site, you can bet the Dutch city will be more popular than ever. We highly recommend you take a canal cruise when you first arrive to get your bearings. But the best way to see Amsterdam is on foot - its narrow streets, historic sites, markets and canal side cafes are bunched together so you never walk too far. Amsterdam is the enfant terrible of Europe – it boasts a legalized red light district and marijuana is also legal and served up in hash cafes around the city. Just don’t take any souvenir marijuana joke products home with you – the customs folks in your country may not see the humor in the gift.

Currency: The Euro - 1 Euro equals $1.5 Canadian dollars

Best time to visit: Spring and Fall – avoid the summer tourist crowds.

Getting around: The main form of transportation in this water-logged city is the water taxi and flat-bottomed tour boats. However, the city also has a wonderful tram system which is efficient and very cheap.

Our favorite hotel: Sofitel The Grand (www.sofitel.com/Amsterdam) – This hotel is the epitome of historic elegance and luxury in the heart of Holland’s capital. It’s in walking distance of most major landmarks, including the Van Gogh Museum, Royal Palace, Anne Franks House, and the new Hermitage Amsterdam.

Our favorite restaurant: Haesje Claes restaurant - located at 320 Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal (+31 0 20 6249998). It serves up traditional Dutch fare in authentic surroundings. Reservations are a must. Prices are very reasonable.