By Guest Author Yuli Linssen-Kaminitz

Amsterdam’s Gay Parade has always been one of the most spectacular events in Europe. What makes this parade so special and popular among gay and straight people from all over the world, is the fact that the entire event takes place in Amsterdam’s stunning canals. The parade starts on the 5^th of August and last until the 8^th. Not only the canals will be packed with more than 100 extravagant decorated boats which will play pumping dance and house music, the whole city will transfer itself into a gigantic street party!

Amsterdam is known to be an extremely open minded city which accepts and embraces gay people and that is why the city offers plenty of gay friendly hotels. Here are the top 5:

1. Hotel the Golden Bear- Address: Kerkstraat 37, 1017 GB Amsterdam

This super cozy hotel is located just few steps away from the beautiful flower market and next to Amsterdam’s lively gay area which includes quite a few bars and some trendy clubs. Because the Golden Bear Hotel is situated in a historic building from 1737, the general feeling is very unique and warm. An additional benefit to this lovely hotel is the fact that breakfast is being served between 8:30- 12:00 which allow you to sleep late- for sure you will need a lot rest during the parade weekend!

Some guest reviews:

1. “Good location to various activities. The atmosphere felt more like home than a hotel. Was pleased with having my own shower and toilet. Breakfast service was very tasty and filling!”
2. “The staff was very professional and friendly. The room was private, quiet, and clean. You could not ask for a better location.”

2. ITC hotel- Address: Prinsengracht 1051, 1017JE Amsterdam

This hotel will surly make you feel quickly like you are at home. The building is basically an old monumental canal house- extremely authentic and with a lot of personality. For those of you who arrive mainly for the gay parade this location is more than perfect: exactly on one of the most central canal: the famous Prinsengracht. The room prices are relatively low and you can be certain you will get great value for money.

Some guest reviews:

1. “ITC is well-situated, quiet + a perfect base. Most of the staff is very helpful (5 gold stars to Michel). Our room was small + simple but we loved it as our pod. Luxury shops around the corner + many good restaurants + corner coffee houses.”
2. “Nice location, friendly staff, beautiful view on the channel”

3. Freeland hotel- Address: Marnixstraat 386, 1017 PL Amsterdam

This lovely little hotel is owned and managed by Pascale and Rick- open minded and welcoming couple. Located in the centre of the old city makes it very easy to get to the:”Jordaan” area- maybe the nicest area in Amsterdam. The “Jordaan” district has plenty of small cozy cafes, unique restaurants with extraordinary dishes, designer’s shops and vintage boutiques.

Some guest reviews:

1. “Wonderful and helpful staff and nice breakfast. I chose this place based on my desire to have a non commercial, family type place and this was just that.”
2. “The owners welcomed my partner and I on our 16h anniversary with open arms. We couldn’t have been more comfortable with our stay.”

4. Mauro Mansion- Address: Geldersekade 16, 1012 BH Amsterdam

One of the nicest looking hotels in the city- a boutique style accommodation with extra attention to the little details. The property is located in a traditional 16^th century canal house and it is owned by Berry and Marcel, an unbelievable pleasant duo.  Each one of the hotel rooms has its own modern decoration and striking interior.

Some guest reviews:

1. “Excellent location, hosts are extremely hospitable and helpful. Breakfast each morning was excellent with fresh breads, cold cuts, cheese, yogurts, cereal and special treats.”

5. Hotel Orfeo- Address: Leidsekruisstraat 12-14, 1017 RH Amsterdam

This is another brilliant located hotel; short walking distant from the: Leidseplein, Vondelpark and Amsterdam museums square. Whenever you get too tired from all the partying you can easily find a chilled out restaurant where you will be able to enjoy a good meal in a relaxed, quiet atmosphere.

Some guest reviews:

1. ” Cheap and cheerful *sports bar round the corner which was quality” 
2. “Staff is helpful”

The above list indicates all the top hotels in Amsterdam for gay people. We have gathered this information from review exports we collected in the year May 2009 until May 2010. The famous gay parade is approaching quickly; make sure to book your hotel in advance.