Basically I have two categories of visitor, parents or friends. When it comes to the parent category, or anyone above the age of 50 for that matter, I always want them to be extra comfortable, centrally located, and yet.. to be in a quiet neighborhood.

So back when my parents first came to visit me in Amsterdam, I aimed for somewhere far enough away from the red light district, yet close enough to all the beauty the center of town offers. Therefore I put them in the Hotel Rembrandt, located in the lovely and quiet area near the Artis zoo and a stones throw away from the Portuguese-Jewish synogogue. No, it isnt the cheapest, but my parents are at an age where they deserve a small and charming hotel, where they can get a good nights rest, and in fact - they could afford the midrange prices.

But what of that other category, the friends? Well friends don't require much, except maybe excitement and some human contact. And although my couch is decent option, one place Ive often sent my friends is the StayOK Hostel in Vondelpark. While most people talk about the fun hostels located under the red lights, or the flying pigs, my experiences at StayOk have been hilarious, and my friends enjoyed as well. I don't remember every detail, but the place is always jumping. I can remember people everywhere, playing chess against some Brazilians, and chatting up some Swedish ladies while waiting in the lobby for a friend to arrive. I also love the effect of having the hostel right next to vondelpark, yet hidden away from the noise and madness of leidseplein which is just down the road.

There you go... book your rooms early, so your special people can be well housed.