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How to Get There: You can take a train directly to the center of Amsterdam. If you're flying you can fly directly to Amsterdam then take a train to the center from the airport or if you're flying Ryan Air, from the Brussels Charleroi station take a Ryan Air shuttle to the central Brussels train station, $10, then a train to Amsterdam.

Where to Stay: A great place to stay is the Flying Pig youth hostel ( www.flyingpig.nl ). There are two hostels, one in downtown Amsterdam and one in the museum district. The One downtown is a bit livelier and near the train station and the other is quieter and near most of the tourist sites. Either one has a laid-back atmosphere and is constantly full of young travelers. Make reservations in advance during high tourist seasons and show up early morning any other time. The prices are pretty good but vary depending on what size dorm room you stay in. It won't be the most spotless hostel you've ever stayed in but it's worth it.

The Famous bicycles that line the streets all over Amsterdam.

Front view of the Anne Frank museum.

Where to Eat: There are countless restaurants all over Amsterdam of every type(for good reason) but most are pretty expensive. Generally the best thing to do is to find a good falafel and French-fries place. They are all over Amsterdam. You'll get a good, cheap, and quick meal.
What to Do: Sure, you're in Amsterdam. You could sit around in the cafes all day long and do nothing else but you would be missing out on some great sites. The Ryck's museum is the city's historical art museum. It's rumored to be interesting but is pretty big and overwhelming. For an easier museum experience check out the Van Gogh museum. It's just behind the Ryck's museum and is much more rewarding if you're a fan of impressionist art.The Anne Frank museum is also worth seeing. Show up somewhat early because lines form fast. The tour of the museum will take you through the actual house where Anne Frank and her family hid during the holocaust. You'll see the stairway behind the bookcase and read pieces of Anne's journal. It is incredibly moving to see the tiny space where two families lived and to hear interviews with Anne's father from after the war(he was the only survivor of the family.)

A ticket from the Heineken Brewery.

For a more light-hearted afternoon check out the Heineken brewery. The brewery is actually a museum recounting the history of Heineken beer. You'll learn a little bit about the life of a beer but most people go for the free beer and beer glass. Along the tour you'll stop at two bars and have a total of three free beers. At the end of the tour you get your very own Heineken glass.

Us taking a pit stop at one of the bars along the Heineken Tour.

The red light district is also an interesting place to visit during the day. Walk along the canal and try to imagine the craziness that goes on at night. If you're the more adventurous type visit the district at night and see the place in action. If you're a girl find a group to go with. The place is pretty safe but you'll feel uncomfortable walking around the area alone.
Amsterdam is a beautiful city and it is definitely worth it to spend a day just walking. If you want a more structured tour of Amsterdam and the surrounding countryside check out Mike's bike tours (www.Mikesbiketours.com ). The company is famous for its fun but laid-back tours of the city.

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