I'm in Amsterdam now (staying in slightly spartan but not unpleasant accomodation for researchers) and came across this nearby hotel that looks utterly yummy, and not terribly expensive for the exclusive neighbourhood: Atlas Hotel Vondelpark

It is on a VERY chic, upscale and quiet street, right next to the lovely Vondelpark!

Amsterdam is a beautiful city, but I don't always like dead centre, as it is a bit dodgy with all the semi street people etc. This is a nice location for those who like more calm and quiet, though you can walk many places and there is a tram on the next street that goes to the Central Station.