Talk Morgan Forums Talk Morgan Members Section Places to Stay Where to Stay? Staying in Basle and Amsterdam

Booked a Rhine cruise next April and want to spend a few days in Basle and Amsterdam. Anyone got ideas on reasonably priced($130-$170) hotels( with breakfast) in those cities. The cruise company books high end accommodations but just for one night.

I went to Basel watch world but stayed a few miles out of town. Cant remember the place name but the rail link to Basel was fantastic. I doubt that helps !

In Amsterdam we stayed here BARBIZON

Very close to the centre, a small walk away from the rail station and as I recall reasonably priced.

I have used these two hotels several times, mainly for business but they are good. The DoubleTree is closest to the town/station.
If you are coming into AMS airport then the train from below the main concourse goes directly to Centraal in 10 minutes.
Loads of good places to eat in Amsterdam just use tripadvisor (like yelp i think)

Amsterdam
Room Mate Aitana £90
Modern, clean fresh rooms, not in the most noisy area. 10-15 mins walk (without bags) from centraal railway station.
Service can be a bit slow but friendly, drinks are expensive.

DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station £120
Two minutes walk from the station. Modern, clean and well organised.
Directly opposite is a floating hull Chinese Restaurant Sea Palace. Excellent, large portions and good service.

If you come from the USA the service will seem very different. Service may appear aloof but it is just the relaxed manner. It is not done on the tips model and so a general level of service is found. Never push, always make an effort to be relaxed friendly and just be clear and ask in a nice manner. Tips are a benefit but not expected in the same way, 10% is normal gesture.

I don't have knowledge of Basel I am afraid other than the airport!. If you fly in there are two exits. France and Switzerland. If you go through the wrong one it will cost! Ordering a taxi on the French side to go to the Swiss town will ensure you never make the mistake again.