[ultimate]

I stayed in the red light area once, and was robbed by a junkie asking for my mobile and cash while pointing a knife at me. It is lively area but also clusters the city's drug addicts and dealers.
Afterwards i have been back in amsterdam on a regular basis, as i love the free spirit the city emits.
My prefered area by far is around leidseplein (bars, clubs and restaurants) with the main musea and vondelpark right there as well.
I can recommand a stay at Hans amsterdam apartment, which has a great bohemian atmosphere