Amazon.com Review
Most people don't know it, but they're attracted to Amsterdam because it is gezellig. As the author of Lonely Planet's first guide to this human-scaled city explains, "The phrase 'cosmopolitan melting-pot' is often used carelessly for cities around the world but it is particularly appropriate for Amsterdam, which has traditionally enticed migrants and nonconformists. Despite (or because of) this transient mix, people accept each other as they are and strive to be gezellig, a nigh-untranslatable term that means something like 'companionable,' 'chummy' or 'convivial,' a mood often experienced by people warmly chatting over a drink or two in a cozy 'brown' café."

This book offers concise and useful history and art notes, an insider's view of entertainment options (what is a brown café* anyway?), detailed walking tours, accommodation options for all traveling styles, where to eat (from Assyrian to "Za"--as in pizza), the best ways to get around, day tripping (and otherwise tripping), plus 18 full-color maps. With this guide, you won't get lost, and you will not be at a loss for something to do.

*A brown café is "stained by smoke, has sand on the wooden floor, and provides an atmosphere conducive to deep and meaningful conversation. There might be Persian rugs on the tables to soak up spilled beer."