Why stay in Amsterdam?
photo: joiseyshowaa
It should be no surprise that since Amsterdam is high on every young backpackers must-visit list, it is also chock-full of fun and funky hostels. Hostels are no longer just for the young, however - nowadays they are popular with anyone who is looking for cheap accommodations and a chance to meet other travelers. Many of the Amsterdam hostels are thoughtfully located close to the city's attractions, allowing you to set your bags down and explore the city without needing more than your own two feet and possibly a bicycle (everyone else is doing it).
Some of Amsterdam's most popular hostels are the two branches of the Flying Pig. The Flying Pig Downtown is close to the Red Light District and the party area that surrounds it. Heck, there are even DJs spinning at the Pig a few nights a week. The Flying Pig Uptown prides itself on being close to the party atmosphere but also close to the lovely Vondelpark so you can explore another side of Amsterdam, too. For something even more funky, there's the Lucky Lake Hostel, in which every room is a separate caravan (otherwise known as a camping trailer). It's a short trip by bus and metro to the city, but the Lucky Lake is (as the name implies) on a lake where you can swim, kayak, windsurf or just relax. To get even more of a feel of life on a canal, there's the Hostelboat Anna Maria II - yes, that says boat. There are ten cabins on the ship, which sits in the center of Amsterdam near Waterloo Square. The best news is that if none of these is what you're looking for, there are plenty of other Amsterdam hostels to choose from.
Amsterdam, that lovely canal-filled city in the Netherlands (or Holland, depending on who you are talking to) that is famous for life on all sides of the artistic spectrum, is almost always full of tourists. Some visit for the treasure-trove of art that's found in the city's fine museums. Some visit for what is arguably the most famous Red Light District on earth. Some visit for the singular cafe culture and easy access to marijuana. Whatever draws you to Amsterdam, you are sure to find plenty to keep you occupied and leave you exhausted at the end of the day.
If you haven't already booked your flight, search for international airfare to Amsterdam and get on your way. And don't forget to read more about the city before you go in the Amsterdam Travel Guide.
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