The Dam!

I'm open to anything really, I did read a guide to all those who suggested it but theres nothing better than experience first hand from people who have been there and enjoyed what they did. I'm not really into art so anything like that would be a bit poor, just interesting/exciting things really. I read on the guide on here about a market of some sort, I forget what its called though, near the vondelpark.

One thing you might like to try.... Heading out the back of Central station (Amsterdam Centraal, or Amsterdam CS), instead of out the front like everyone else!

This is basically where all the canals in the city converge, and crossing the river can lead to a few hidden gems. There's a free shuttle-boat, and although most of what you find is dock-type nothingness, there are a couple of bars and things where you might find some good chat.

It's also a little bit of the city that not everyone sees.

I read on the guide on here about a market of some sort, I forget what its called though, near the vondelpark.

I understand you forgot, difficult name but it's probably the Albert Cuyp markt, you'll find it by taking the tramline 16, 24 or 25 for you the easiest route from the Dam, I suppose....

Get out at Ferdinand Bolstraat.

But its drawback: it's world famous.

#11 interesting that you mention going to the north side of CS - I never had a reason to go that way until yesterday, when I took the Fast Flying Ferry to IJmuiden. I must say that I found the liveliness surprisingly appealing, and the overall energy reminded me a bit of Rotterdam.

On a sidenote, the fast ferry was quite a nice way to travel, and if you turn left from the pier after arrival in Velsen/IJmuiden you'll eventually get to the charming little village of Velsen-Zuid. If, however, you have to turn right towards IJmuiden, like I had to, you'll end up in what must be one of the ugliest town centers in the world - with the sort of post-war architecture that would make even Stalin spin in his grave.
On the plus side, when I got back to Amsterdam, the Damrak looked much more appealing to me than it ever had done before.

I assume it's not meant as an example of group-discount

That's for sure! Plus, I pay a little extra to get whipered the occasional, "That's right baby, you are Sterdam." But maybe that's just me.

I called it the dam as i saw it plastered all over the place when i was there

maybe you had been smoking something, but nobody in the Netherlands uses 'The Dam' except for when referring to the central square which is indeed called 'de Dam'.

Give that the Albert Cuyp market is mostly boring fruit and vegetables, as well as other household goods, i wouldn't classify it as 'exciting'. Most people find the flea market at Waterlooplein much more interesting.

Thats it, the Albert Cuypt market. Thanks for the tips

And I only had a quick look on the guide on here, it said something about being able to get all sorts. I'll have to check out the flea market.

My bad on the Dam, it won't happen again!

IAmsterdam
you are Sterdam
etc.

#shaun1h, I think you missed the hidden hint of poster cgbleak. Maybe you didn't know but...

he isterdam.

A bit cryptic (but I like that: breaking serious communicating) but there's a useful website:

http://www.iamsterdam.nl

Ok - lets get down to basics. The OP was there as a schoolie and wants to let their hair down this time - I'm guessing.
I love Amsterdam. I've been going there for years - and still can't get enough of the place.
Sure, its changed a lot since I started visiting - but it's still a great city.
The 'Red Light' is still my favourite area and I really like staying at the hostels there. You meet so many interesting people doing their RTW trips. So much to talk about - and everyone's so open. There's great music, food and lots more - all within 10-15 minutes walking, maximum. I won't go on about the coffee shops - cos I'm sure you're fully aware of what's happening within.
Get a daily bus and tram pass too. Great value for money and so much to see out of the city centre.