449544 Wed Oct 10 12:20:39 -0700 2007 1 26 International 0 3022252 I have booked a trip to Amsterdam in January for my husband for his 40th Birthday. We are staying at the Estherea, on the Singel Canal - can anyone suggest a romantic intimate restaurant with fabulous food within that area (or an easy to get to location from Singel)? I look forward to hearing from you all soon. Jo Wed Oct 10 12:20:39 -0700 2007 133655 joannebwc 1 3027216 Joanne, I haven't any splendid ideas to match your present and its location, but looking at google maps will help us narrow in - the Singel is a very long ring of a canal that encercles the very centre of Amsterdam. You are very close to the Spui, to the Magna Plaza, a big Albert Heijn (supermarket - very useful, even for wine, surprisingly good chocoalte and cheese etc) and a short, romantic walk from the interesting eating places in Jordaan (a gentrified, boho, former working-class area) and the so-called Nine Streets. I hope that will help you hone in on places. I've spent a lot of time in Amsterdam in recent years, but it was doing work for a non-profit with a very limited budget. I'll try to think of that wonderful splurge, but with the address of your hotel: SINGEL 305, 1012 WJ, Amsterdam I think other posters can chip in as well. You are on the safer-feeling side of the Singel. Part of the other side is in the red-light district - there are enough police there at all hours that it isn't really dangerous, but it can feel dodgy, and not as pleasant and romantic as the side you have chosen. http://www.theninestreets.com/ http://www.21stcenturyamsterdam.com/jordaan-guide.html Have a wonderful, and romantic time! Thu Oct 11 19:45:38 -0700 2007 3022252 84119 lagatta