A cheerful welcome from Alex, information about getting around the city and quick tour of the dos and don'ts. The room and ensuite are great and the traffic noise no problem.
Don't be put off by an apartment close to the centre; Amsterdam is a wonderfully compact, clean and friendly city with millions of clean, quiet bicycles. Pretty much everyone speaks English (and they aren't offended if you don't speak Dutch) and are incredibly helpful.
You can hire a bike, but the combination of : millions of others, other side of the road, an unfamiliar bike and maybe a beer or two is not likely to be relaxing. The city is small enough to explore on foot or buy a day ticket for the brilliant public transport system.
Have fun, Nigel