How important is it to have air conditioning in late August. Also we are considering a boathouse, but wonder about bugs then.
Thanks so much,
Judie

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This message has been edited. Last edited by: Shannon,

Sorry should have said in Amsterdam

Judie, I don't think it gets super hot in Amsterdam, but hopefully that someone who has been to Amsterdam in August can be a little more help.

I can tell you that in June a few years back, it was mild - even a bit on the chilly side.

I bet it will be a great time to be there - those long days!

Who can say for sure, but for our 2005 and 2007 visits in August, air conditioning was not needed at all.

Check www.weatherbase.com to get an idea of what risk you might be taking, based on historical averages.

I have been in Amsterdam in July and hit 40 degree weather (100 farenheit). I have been there in June and needed a winter coat. Such is summer in Northern Europe (which is why I live in Italy now).

By late August, there will probably be a fall breeze in the air, the evenings will be cool. The northern European summers are short,if they take place at all, and summer really is pretty much in the bag by the end of August.

If you are the kind of person who really needs air conditioning to sleep (my husband is such a person), make sure your accommodations have it -- because the truth is that climate change is producing unexpected heat waves throughout Europe. All predictions are subject to being overturned -- and if that is your week to be in Amsterdam, you won't want your trip ruined.

The cost of air conditioning if you need it is not likely to raise your overall travel costs.

If you're like me and can sleep no matter how hot it gets, skip it. But one problem is that if you don't have air conditioning and need it, you will have to open your windows. If noise bothers you, make sure you have a quiet location if you are foregoing air conditioning.

London is not Amsterdam but my August London experience was terrible. The hotel was miserably hot and it was a 4-star!! I am one who needs to be 'cool' at night to sleep decently. If a/c is an option, take it.

We are in Amsterdam in August almost every year for the Grachtenfestival (canal festival). Last year we were in a townhouse w/o air, and did not miss it a bit. In hotels, we've usually needed it. I think on a houseboat you would have a good breeze - but yes, mosquitoes can be a problem, so do check to see if the windows have screens.
Anne

Thanks everyone! Based on Trip Advisor reviews (http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g188590-d547386-Reviews-The_Collector_Bed_Breakfast-Amsterdam_Noord_Holland.html) and emails with the owner about coolness of the room/no air-conditioning we have booked The Collector (http://www.the-collector.nl/). The owner has promised us the room at the back of the house which is cooler and he also has a fan. I think we will be fine.
Judie