You can also see Holland in Miniature.

If shouldn’t also miss the cathedrals, there’s one in Alkmaar, so if you go there to see the cheese market, just pass and see the Cathedral and you should visit Utrecht the city of Cathedrals.

You can visit Van Gogh Museum which is located in Amsterdam.

I have downloaded last week an application on my iphone for holland. It would help, if you have internet connection, it’s called Amsterdam Mobile Guide (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=308723874&mt=8). Another good resource is holland.com. I know you’ll really enjoy your stay there, I can’t wait to go visit it again. There are some streets that is advised you avaoid at nights, holland.com would give you a good information on that.

Hope you guys are OK Mark.
Be safe.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8026807.stm

Do not miss the Heineken Brewery on the Leidestraat, it isn’t very far and tram 17 will take you there from the CS, and you should also make sure to visit the Anne Frank House, in the Jordaan district .. you should’nt miss this one trust me .. especially if you read her diary.

As for the coffeeshops, The Dampkring has the best atmosphere, its where Ocean’s 12 was shot .. remember the scene with clooney and pitt? yep that’s where it is .. behind the palace of the Dam Square, also, The Grey area has the best bud (and I mean the best) it’s owned by two americans who bring the best out of Marijuana , try the L.A Confidential and the Chocolope for that exquisite uprising high. Also, make sure to go to Barney’s for the nice Royal Jelly, good choice to wander around the city on;p .. you’ll also love their selection.

Checking the city out? Walk down the Damrak for starters, dont buy anything here .. usual tourist traps, Check out the Warmoestraat for the Red Light District feel .. and then decide if you want to go further;p , You also have to hit the Spuistraat from Dam Square, until you hit Leidesplein, check the nightlife scene over there, and then head to Rembrantplein for the real party, there’s also a Coffeeshop across the road from there called “Old Amsterdam” owned by a cool Lebanese dude, you should holler there for quick J ;p

Oh yeah, and don’t forget to WOK TO WALK :P try their coconut curry … Aaah Delicious ..

You’ll love it .. trust me :)

Other snacks that you should try:
kibbeling (fried fish)
Lekkerbek (fried fish)
poffertjes (dessert) pronounced “poferches”
patat oorlog (fries) pronounced “patat orlo5″
kroket

I recommend all of them no exceptions, it is really the Dutch way
normally you can find them at kiosks (outdoor)

There is also a meal you should try, its called “Kapsalon” this one you can find it in most of the Turkish restaurants (my favorite), google them if you want to check the pictures.

good luck with your trip.

Enjoy it for all of us.
Gert

i don’t care if you waste the whole trip trying to find them .. but once you do .. believe me it will be worth it