How Do I Get To AMSTERDAM???

This is actually my first time blogging. EVER!!! I wonder if anyone is going to read this? Well, if you do happen to stop by my blog. Please leave comments on helpful tips on moving to Amsterdam. I am 25 years old and currently engaged. I hope to make the move in about 1 to 1 and a half years from know and stay for least a year while working there. I plan to rent an apartment long term which I've currently been checking "craigslist" for openings as we don't want to pay the broker fees. We know it's easier using a broker and they help you out a great deal but we need to save everywhere we can. I've taken researching to another level for this trip. (at least by my standards) I feel pretty good as far as knowing what paperwork is needed but what I'm really looking for is some advise from people who has lived in Amsterdam or are further in the process. I'm especially looking for tips on best places to live, average cost of groceries for 2 people, average monthly rent for long term, is a separate bathroom what I think it is, average wages, (I plan to work in a restaurant as I aspire to be a chef, someday), is there a U.S. agency that I can go to for advise, etc?

Well, I think that's the just of it. Thank you in advance for whoever comments.