Marieke's flat was perfect. It's modern, very comfortable, convenient, and in a beautiful and quiet residential neighborhood. The place is big, and is stocked with all the amenities one could need. It is about a 10 minute bicycle ride from central Amsterdam, and very close to Vondel Park and the museum district. We rented bikes on our first day at a bicycle shop right around the corner from the flat, and used those to get around the entire time we stayed in Amsterdam. There is public transportation, really good restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and everything one would need within a 5 minute walk. The coffee maker in Marieke's place is incredible, and I started each morning with a coffee sitting in the nice outdoor seating area. Staying here was an infinitely better experience than a crowded hotel in central Amsterdam.