Amsterdam isn't hard to come to grips with even if you arrive there cold (in the preparedness sense). The local tourist organization, VVV Amsterdam, prides itself on being able to answer any conceivable travel question any conceivable traveler might have, excepting only those who are illegal or of doubtful moral worth (this being Amsterdam, both of these concepts have a lot of wiggle room). The city is foreign, of course, but not impossibly so; many Dutch speak English.
To really put your best foot forward, you'll want to know how much the essentials will cost; how you're going to get there; what documents, clothing, and other travel necessities you should bring; and when you should go to best take advantage of special events.
Destination Amsterdam: Pre-Departure Checklist
- Do you have the address and phone number of your country's embassy or consulate with you?
- Did you find out your daily ATM withdrawal limit?
- Do you have your credit card PIN numbers? If you have a 5- or 6-digit PIN number, did you obtain a 4-digit number from your bank? Some cards with 5- or 6-digit PIN numbers do seem to work, but this is not consistent, so the advice is still to get a 4-digit number from your bank.
- Do you have the credit card with which you bought your ticket or a frequent-flier card? You'll need either to check in at the e-ticket kiosk.
- If you purchased traveler's checks, have you recorded the check numbers and stored the documentation separately from the checks?
- Did you bring ID cards, such as AAA and AARP cards, student IDs, and so forth, that could entitle you to discounts?
- Have you booked your tickets for classical music at the Concertgebouw, and opera and dance at the Muziektheater?
- Did you pack that umbrella? You might not need it, but you likely will.
