As I was putting together this list of Romantic Hotels in Amsterdam, I realized that all of them are located in canal houses. That's no surprise, as one of the most romantic things about Amsterdam is its ethereal, watery scenery. Create some heat during the cold months in one of these cozy spots for couples.

^{Photo © Hotel Toren}

If you're an American visiting Amsterdam over Thanksgiving and find yourself with a hankering for a holiday meal, there are two places to quell your craving.

• Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam -- The American-born cafe serves up a festive feast of traditional Thanksgiving dishes including corn chowder, turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, homemade stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Prices range from € 17.95 to € 24.95, depending on how many courses you choose. Meals start at 12 noon.
• American Book Center -- The long-established bookstore on the Spui square hosts a turkey day gathering at their "Treehouse" space just down the street. Expect turkey and all the trimmings (including a vegetarian main dish); they encourage guests to bring a starter or dessert to share. Cost is € 20, (€ 5 for children under 10),including coffee and tea (soft drinks, wine and beer available for purchase). Dinner served 6 - 8 p.m. Be sure to make reservations!

So you've been walking around Amsterdam's western canals all day and just don't feel like traditional Dutch fare tonight. If you're craving Thai food, stay in the neighborhood, because nearby Rakang Thai Restaurant serves some of the city's best.

Not quite your typical Thai place, Rakang prides itself on excellent (if not showy) service and unique ambiance. Prices reflect the quality of the food, so mark this one down as a special dinner, order one the € 36-39 fixed-price menu dishes and enjoy the splurge.

Be sure to make reservations at Rakang, as it fills up fast. If you score a seat on the sidewalk patio, you can watch as Jordaan neighborhood locals and visitors pass by.

Visitors to Amsterdam are always intrigued by the tolerant attitude the Dutch have toward "soft drugs" (e.g., cannabis products). I couldn't escape talking about it forever. I used to think that there's already enough information about it online. But with these Amsterdam Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts I hope to help your tolerant cultural experience be a better one!