Amsterdam August Bank Holiday Weekend 2017
I have to say my first impression was very good. We arrived by local bus from the town centre taking 15 minutes and costing £2.50 for a single journey. Once we arrived at the airport, we were straight through to security as we only had hand luggage. Security was fast, not like Gatwick or Heathrow where there are long lines. Once we cleared security we were waiting to board which was a quick process. Flying time to Amsterdam was 40 minutes with EasyJet.
When we arrived at Amsterdam we took a train to Amsterdam Central station costing €4.10 per person and a journey time of 15 minutes. When you arrive at Central Station you are greeted by lots of bikes and trams. I have been to Amsterdam several times before. I love this city as it has a great culture and history. Also, I feel very safe even with their liberal views.
We stayed at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam for two nights on bed and breakfast basis. Great location - only 5 minutes away from restaurants and bars. Nearby is the flower market which is a must-see, plus other museum including Van Gough. The service was amazing at this hotel - the best I have ever received for a city hotel experience. When we checked in we were given a hot towel plus ice tea, then we were given a choice of perfume for our bed pillow which would be in our room and on our pillow for during our stay. I thought this was a nice touch. The receptionist was very friendly when we checked in giving us a map and all the places we should see whilst in Amsterdam. At night time we had bottled water and a full turn down service. The bathroom was amazing as was the room overlooking the gardens and the beehive. We were given a free upgrade when we checked in. The hotel is in a nice location with beautiful gardens. We had breakfast both days with a great choice from the buffet or from the menu. The hotel has a lovely indoor pool plus gym and two bars. The hotel offers afternoon tea, but I didn’t get a chance to experience it as I was sightseeing around Amsterdam. Every time we went out we were greeted to complimentary cold bottle of water due to the hot weather. I thought this was a lovely touch as some hotels would charge for this service or not even provide it. This hotel would suit upmarket customers, and those wanting to celebrate a special occasion.
Amsterdam is a great city to explore by foot, but you can also use the good tram service that Amsterdam offers or by bike. I love the fries with sauce. I feel at home with this city, and always love going back. It has plenty of restaurants to suit everyone's tastes and budgets. A must is to take a canal boat trip plus sample Dutch cheese at the shops. Dam square can be very busy as most tourist venture here. My next visit to Amsterdam is to see Anne Frank’s house as I have never been, but you need to book well in advance for this tour. I would also like to go to Chinese floating restaurant.
Amsterdam has something for everyone including families, couples, and stag and hen parties. I think prices are cheaper than London even with the weak Pound against the Euro. I would like to thank Waldorf Astoria for arranging this wonderful trip for me. I will be back to Amsterdam again soon.