Amsterdam-Festival of Lights

Amsterdam is an enchanting city to visit during the holiday season. City squares like Leidseplein are bustling with shoppers, local musicians, outdoor craft markets, and food vendors selling warm, delicious Dutch treats. Locals and tourists alike ice skate around beautifully decorated Christmas trees placed in the middle of the square. And thanks to the AmsterdamLight Festival, illuminated sculptures, buildings and bridges keep the city glowing until the sun comes up. A highlight of the holiday season is the Christmas canal parade. Children of all ages come out to see the beautifully decorated boats and of course Sinterklaas!

Greg and I stayed at the St. Christophers Inn at the Winston. We were not happy with this hostel. Although the room was clean and security seemed tight, the live music on the first floor kept playing into the early hours of the morning. We knew ahead of time there was a nightclub, but we didn’t think we were going to hear the music in our guest room-it was so loud, our bed vibrated. We would never stay here again or recommend it.

I must note that-the location of this hostel is very convenient. Those working at the front desk were always friendly, and there is an elevator (if you have visited Amsterdam, you know an elevator can be rare).