As a center for fine art, Amsterdam has few peers. After all, it's the home of Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, who defined 17th century European art and still exert a powerful draw. Once you've seen the masterpieces in the local museums, you might have the urge to upgrade your personal art collection, or pick up a painting as a souvenir. Fortunately, there are two excellent art markets in the city center where local artists peddle their wares and are happy to chat with visitors about their technique, training, and inspiration. Organized by the Amsterdam International Artists Foundation, the Spui Art Market (pictured) is a fine spot to find traditional artwork, with the recent work of 60 Dutch and international professional artists. You can browse their wares every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in picturesque open-air surroundings as the harp/guitar duo ''Sunflower'' plays live music in the background. Meanwhile, the Thorbeckeplein Art Market is the place to go for modern art. About 25 Dutch artists converge on the Thorbeckeplein every Sunday to display cutting edge works that will soon make their way to galleries and museums. Who knows, you might just end up with a painting by a future Dutch master hanging on your wall. Starwood has two hotels in Amsterdam: the Hotel Pulitzer, Amsterdam and the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center.

[image via artplein-spui.nl]