Sander Hotel

The best way to learn the city is to walk everywhere. I had a little fear on learning my way by getting on a tram and not being able to get off where I saw I needed to go. That, however weird it sounds, forced me to walk. It took a couple of days, but once you tune in the internal compass you'll have no problem getting to where you need to go. There are helpful "you are here" maps all around. The key trick is to orientate yourself from where you are to where you need to go. Remember the streets run on the canal system that is in a horseshoe configuration, Central Station being at the top if looking from overhead. On this you can't just walk a few extra blocks one way and think you have a short cut. You'll wind up lost. Streets are not on a rectangular system that some might be use too. The street signs are on the corner of the buildings not on poles on the corners. If conscious of looking like a lost tourist just use a restroom somewhere and pull out your handy map out of sight of others.I can't really say there is anything I miss more than the uniqueness of the city. I love the energy of the people and difference in the culture. Amsterdam is one of a kind city. The canals and leaning buildings with such awesome architecture. Dodging and negotiating the bicycle traffic is a learning experience. I loved it there and was there during November. I can't wait to visit in spring or summer when it is nice and can ride a bike around in shorts checking out windmills in the countryside.