Ester is an amazing host and their flat was the perfect location for the type of stay we were looking for.

Ester welcomed us when we arrived and walked us through the space, showing us the basic ins and outs of how everything worked (tv, wifi, washer, etc.). We also enjoyed the complimentary snacks and groceries she provided to get a great start on our vacation.

The neighborhood is exactly what we were looking for. Not too touristy, relatively quiet and yet lots of places to eat, several types of markets, and within short walking distance of the Museumplein, Vondelpark, canals, and tram stops. We didn't use the bikes, as so many places were walkable, or better accessed by the convenient trams (Dam Square and the Flower Market are about 25-30 minute walk or a 10 minute tram ride). Ester provided a helpful printed guide with information and directions to restaurants and services as well as major attractions.

The highlight of our trip though was taking up Ester's offer of a private canal tour. They took us and some friends along for an incredible tour of Amsterdam by boat with a stop at a windmill that is a working brewery for some delicious microbrewed beers. We returned during magic hour and got many wonderful photos as the sun set.

We'd highly recommend this for anyone who wants to live in a fantastic neighborhood with all the amenities you need to have a great vacation in Amsterdam.

Tips:
- If you plan to visit more than one museum or visit the same museum multiple times, get a Museum card (plus you get to enter through the 'fast lanes').

- There is an ING ATM around the corner on Albert Cuypstraat

- Get groceries at the Dirk grocery store two blocks away

- Drink coffee at De Wasserette

- If you get a tram card, you need a chip and pin credit card to load it at kiosks; we'd recommend that you simply pay as you go with 1 hour or 24 hour passes, either can be purchased from the tram operator

- Look for bicyclists, cars, motorbikes, scooters, and trams before crossing any street and look in *both* directions even if it's a one way street and whether or not you have a green crossing light