The Intercontinental Amsterdam is conveniently located for both Tram and Metro lines. It is positioned on the river and river view rooms have a very nice view over the Amstel. It will be better when the adjacent bridge construction is complete. But this only intrudes on a small part of the view and we heard no construction noise at all.
The hotel is 'Grand' in every sense of the word, high ceilings tall windows and period furnishings. But the technology is all there as well. Wireless access throughout, slow speed free (Good), high speed you pay for (not so good). Flat screen TV, surround sound and DVD player included as well. The bed was extremely comfortable, and the bathroom large with a big bath, separate toilet (this IS Europe), and a walk-in shower. The rooms are also large by European standards.
The bar is intimate and friendly with exceptional bar staff, courteous, and seemingly anticipating our every request. The food here is very good, coming from the same kitchen as the main restaurant, but at a significantly lower price. Still not cheap but certainly better value.
I found breakfast a puzzle. As others have commented there is a buffet, and no menu. The waiting staff will ask for your beverage choice but if you want anything else then you must ask them. Whatever you request will be freshly cooked to a very high standard (the Eggs Benedict was delicious, with fresh Hollandaise) and served with the usual friendliness. But you DO have to ask, once you are used to this, it is quite liberating to decide what you actually want for Breakfast rather than picking from a list of the usual things. But I'm sure others will find this off-putting.
Overall the hotel was a fine haven to come back to after a hard days sight-seeing, we could relax and recharge ready for the next day. Would I stay here again? Absolutely after the convenience, tranquility, and opulence of the Amstel I could not stay anywhere else. Its not cheap but, in my opinion, is worth the money for the experience.