What to expect: As part of a Japanese luxury hotel chain, the Okura is popular with Japanese business and leisure travelers, as well as other international guests who appreciate the extraordinary service and amenities. The 23-story hotel is in a quiet, safe neighborhood two blocks from the RAI Congress Center and a short tram ride from the museum district. The Okura’s private jetty for water taxis and canal cruises is right outside.

Amenity highlights: Dining options include a 23rd-floor French haute-cuisine restaurant, a conservatory lounge with canal views, and a Michelin-starred sushi bar with tatami room.

The hotel’s professionally staffed health club, built around an atrium, includes a 60-foot pool with jet stream, coed and women’s saunas, a spa tub, steam baths, and Nautilus fitness equipment. The on-site Tachibana Massage Clinic offers Shiatsu and other Japanese massage treatments.

Insider tip: Amsterdam has been an important city in the international diamond trade since the 16th century. Most factories and diamond shops offer complimentary demonstrations of the intricate diamond-polishing techniques. The hotel concierge has information about nearby opportunities.