Amsterdam?

HELP! Hello out there! I need advice. I've been designated as the researcher for a trip some friends and I are planning to Amsterdam. A few details; I've never been, we really don't have an area in mind to visit, I've seen the movie "Hostel" and we're not exactly going to see only museums and art. I'm thinking that an agency may be a good route to go due to the high airfare and the whole Euro v. the American $ thing. W/an agency @ least we can do a deposit. Basically, we're looking to go have a great time; shop, ride the trains, view the sights, try the local foods,"herbs and spices"! I'm willing to try a hostel. What I'm looking for is insider information. Where to go, where NOT to go. We want to do the whole adventure thing. Nothing too serious or luxurious. I need sites, suggestions, something to guide my whole take on the planning. I don't want to get duped by the travel wolves and I want to impress my friends as well. (smile) By the way, the trip's in the 2nd wk in July.

Public Comments

1. gr8.. really such a beautiful city to visit.. i visited Amsterdam last year for my honeymoon :) i use the services from the http://www.myamsterdam.co.uk/ including ,.. Air tickets, hotel accommodation in Amsterdam with a affordable budget... i am sure you will enjoy your tour to city....

2. I have been to Amsterdam twice and it was really great! People are friendly there and there are a lot interesting places to see. It's not to large so most places are in a walking distance or you can take a tram. Most places arte safe to...you and your friends can even go to the 'Red light district'...very interesting;-) But you just should go on the main streets and not go into small dark alleyways. You also should avoid this guys standing on the pavements offering drugs...but there's no need to worry!
Here are some useful websites:
http://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/Amsterdam?source=googleadwordstopcitiesamsterdam&gclid=COWb2Onc35ICFSNpaAoduUgW-w
http://www.amsterdam.info/
http://www.holland.com/amsterdam/gb/