Holland

The hotels which we recommend have been selected for their excellent locations, their standards of accommodation and conference facilities, their experience and skill in hosting all manner of events and for the high levels of warmth, hospitality and service extended to all guests.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands' capital, is one of the world's best hangouts, a place where you can immerse yourself in history, in art or in the head of a beer. The city is a blend of old and new and combines a huge case of big city exuberance with small-town manageability. Amsterdam is often referred to as one of the most colourful cities in the world.

Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan cauldron that has been enticing migrants and non-conformists for decades. It's a thriving city, and one of the hardest for travellers to leave. Amsterdam seems to thrive on its funky mix, and there's very little of the tourist-fatigue. Perhaps this is because Amsterdam's quintessential Dutchness shines through: the 17th- and 18th-century architecture, the fleets of bicycles, the tree-lined canals and scattered parks all contribute to the mood of the city.

Amsterdam's centre is enjoyably small-scale, though finding your way around the canal belt can be confusing. The old city is contained within the ring of concentric canals dating from the 17th century that form the crescent-shaped canal belt bordered by the Singelgracht. The medieval city around Centraal Station is the hub, and several main roads, minor canals and the Amstel River function as spokes. Dam Square, five minutes' walk south of the station, is the centre of town, but there are several other happening 'centres', all within walking distance: Leidseplein, with much of the city's cultural life and nightlife, Rembrandtplein (nightlife), Spui ('intellectual' life) and Museumplein (culture) are just some of the focal points that make the city a joy to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Centraal Station, the central train and bus station, lies on the south bank and the airport at Schiphol is 18km southwest of the city centre.