My friends were envious when I sent them pics of the view from Cidos apt. Overlooking the canal.the Dutch are smart and helpful and tolerant! The only thing they don't tolerate is intolerance! And just walk or ride a bike! Around every corner or canal is something wonderful, beyond the coffee shops and red light district (wink wink) there is so much more! there are great museums and world class cuisines,I believe 180 different cultures there!? Sitting in the corner pub and watching the ballet outside of bikes ,cars n walkers and no honking ,yelling , cursing it's no wonder they are happy n healthy. Plus all ages of neighbors come and go with a smile and will engage you if that is what you'd like!
Between Cido keeping in touch while traveling on the other side of the globe and the greeting and terrific help from Gabriela they made me feel beyond welcome and like a part of the community, offering invites to local events! I felt like an insider! And as much or as little attention as I desired! Like goldilocks it was all 'just right'!
So go there and stay at Cidos! I've stayed at 2 of her apts and one is just as good as the other! It's a great home base for you to stay and experience all Amsterdam has to offer!
Happy trails
Craig