Amsterdam - Short Term Accommodation?

[Kaelaroo]

We're being relocated to the Netherlands but my husband's company isn't paying for short term accommodation prior to us finding a place to live. The kids will be 4.5 months and 4 years old when we arrive. We're looking at staying in Amsterdam (I've never been to the Netherlands and with 2 small kids (eek!) want to be central initially) but from my husband's research all the serviced apartments are really, really expensive. Does anyone have any suggestions on places to stay? He said it might be an option to find a short term rental, say 2 months, and then pay 1 month of agency fees. Any advice would be great thanks. :)

There are many houseboats in Amsterdam for tourist rent. Maybe you can find one who is willing to do a deal ona longer period.

With 2 kids? Near the water? And on the actual water?? Thanks but I don't think that's suitable for us. We need a proper space to stay in.

Are you on FB? If yes look for the Amsterdam Mamas group, it's a closed one but if you sign up you can post there and ask, it's a helpful group of mainly expat parents. Posts looking for flats etc show up all the time, and in any case if you are moving here it's a great group for help with schools and all the resources you will need. I'm in NL but not Amsterdam so not much direct help.

You want Amsterdam Zuid, south of Vondelpark, basically anywhere with 1075, 1077 or 1076 postcode. Central, really central Amsterdam might be too busy and noisy plus it is not really that close to parks and international schools.

How long is the secondment? Most private rentals will be for 12 to 36 months but for a cost you can get out of them. Look for a diplomatic clause in your contract.

I hadn't been to the Netherlands either when we went to live there. I was very happy there (back in UK 2 years now) the climate, culture, parks, cycling all make for easy family living.

Good luck.

Amsterdam mamas has a website too.

Also, google expatica.nl for all kinds of info for expats, including housing.

Thanks very much for the tips everyone - much appreciated. Katiepoes, yes, I am with Amsterdam Mamas on FB so I'll ask. Pinkje, we're actually there indefinitely as my husband will be on a dutch contract but as we think our little boy will go to the international school in Hilversum, we're guessing that's where we'll live. Amsterdam is just a temporary base while we find permanent accommodation. :)