John, Steve and I spent a couple days in Amsterdam in February/March 2003. That certainly isn't the best time of year, weather-wise, to visit, but we had a great time. Highlights included the canals (of course) and the leaning old homes that line them, Anne Frank House, Hoegaarden beer (refreshing and intoxicating!), Casablanca Jazz Bar (real jazz and cool patrons), and the incredible Rijksmuseum.

Best of all were the people. Everyone we encountered was very laid-back and welcoming. Naturally, they all spoke perfect English; it almost seems like English is the first language in Amsterdam. Culturally, that's sad, but it was very helpful to us, because Dutch is rather difficult. As always, I learned at least how to say "please" (phonetically, it's "allstewbleeft," or something like that) and "thank you" ("donk u vell"). I'm sure I said these words badly, but just trying goes a long way, and generally draws a smile from the locals.