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-   -   Amsterdam over Thanksgiving (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/amsterdam-over-thanksgiving-909670/)

TravelRibbon Oct 19th, 2011 07:26 AM

Amsterdam over Thanksgiving
 
Hi:

Am thinking about purchasing a ticket to Amsterdam over Thanksgiving. I need a break.

There is a special airfare from Boston to London (I know, it's not AMS) on expedia for $671.05.

Any thoughts on traveling to Amsterdam for a female solo traveler in November (safety concerns,etc.)? And, any suggestions for flying from London to Amsterdam. I've looked at easyJet and will look at other airline carriers.

Thanks,
TR

P_M Oct 19th, 2011 08:00 AM

Why not stay in London? There is so much to do, the possibilities are unlimited. I think that purchasing a seperate ticket to AMS would be more of a hassle than it's worth. If you don't want to stay in London then look at a ticket to AMS, preferably on KLM for a non-stop.

In either city I wouldn't be too concerned for safety, as long as you use the same common sense you use at home. I am a female who frequently travels alone and I feel safe in both London and Amsterdam.

TravelRibbon Oct 19th, 2011 11:38 AM

Hi P_M:

I just purchased my ticket on Aer Lingus to Amsterdam via Dublin.

I was in London earlier this year so that's why I didn't choose to visit just London on this trip.

Thank you for the encouraging words regarding safety in Amsterdam.

TR

PalenQ Oct 19th, 2011 12:16 PM

Amsterdam's annual Cannabis Cup is held the first three days on Thanksgiving week and draws many Americans so if you really need a break...

mr_go Oct 19th, 2011 12:49 PM

TravelRibbon: We did it about 5 years ago, and it was a pretty enjoyable long weekend.

Here's our trip report:
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...om-mrms-go.cfm

And here are the photos:
http://travel.webshots.com/album/556041688oRprzx

dfourh Oct 19th, 2011 07:03 PM

You have to be careful with your London transfers. The budget carriers have no responsibility, nor compunction, if you arrive late and miss your connection. Allow way, way lots of time if you are transferring airports - - and if you have any kind of major delay, you are simply out of luck. If you can do it all for close to the same price on a major airline to AMS on one single through-ticket, you will be protected and have no worries.

You will be perfectly save in Amsterdam (Europe is specifically designed for young people following their dreams) though wearing a money belt is always worthwhile.

P_M Oct 20th, 2011 09:01 AM

TR, I'm glad you were able to book it all as one ticket. If by chance you are delayed and miss your connection then Aer Lingus will rebook you at no charge, unlike Easy Jet. Have a great trip.

PalenQ Oct 20th, 2011 10:39 AM

safety of a female traveler in Amsterdam? No different than most of Europe - yes there are the ubiquitous pickpockets and scammers as in Paris, Rome, etc. Some years ago Amsterdam IME was rather dicier but things seem to have been cleaned up with not nearly as many drug addicts hanging around.

TravelRibbon Oct 20th, 2011 03:04 PM

Hi all - thanks for the responses. My next challenge is trying to find a place to stay. I looked at Maes and they're booked for the time I'll be there.

Let the fun begin!

TR


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