Go to Harlem (Haarlem) most of my creative friends moved to this citry instead of Amsterdam better vibe & Atmosphere or Utrecht (same canals less touristic, better shopping) both cities (Central station) are -30 minutes by train from Amsterdam (Central station) will be cheaper and most important more freindly people, if you want my advise 4 a hotel or anything, just ask, if you want and myb girlfriend doesnt mind you can stay in my guestroom to, i live in the Zaanstreek (Wormerveer is the closest railwail station) by car Amsterdam (central station) is 20 minutes! Enjoy!!!