We cannot recommend Melissa’s place more highly. The flat is very comfortable and is filled with light and fresh air from windows at both ends. The terrace at the back of the flat overlooks gardens and nearby houses. People should be aware that this flat is up three flights of the very steep stairs that are typical of Amsterdam.
The Oost district is a comfortable, safe and convenient neighborhood with very few tourists. The local business street (Linnaeusstraat) has many good and inexpensive restaurants (compared to the tourist areas in the center). We especially liked the take-out from Safak Turkish food and enjoyed the quality pub-style food at The Cottage. There are several large supermarkets within a few blocks.
The flat is only a seven minute walk from the Amsterdam Muiderpoort Station from which you can get trains anywhere in the Netherlands with no more than one easy change. Amsterdam Centraal Station is 10 minutes away and Utrecht is 30 minutes.