I've been to Europe and I learned a few things on even my little trip.
In expensive cities, save money by buying food from sidewalk stalls, markets and grocery stores. In Paris this was far cheaper than any other option we came across. A good loaf of bread and good cheese shouldn't set you back too much.
You have to accept you will be a) walking most everywhere and b) eating simply.
The Netherlands is a great place to visit, but there isn't a Dutchman left in Amsterdam. To really get a feel for the country stay in Haarlem, outside of Amsterdam. It's a fifteen minute train ride to central Amsterdam, things are definitely more pleasant and Haarlem is a happening place in its own right. People fail to realize that things available in Amsterdam are quite often available in other Dutch cities
and there are much nicer places than Amsterdam to visit. Haarlem is also close to the beach!
I'm looking to go back this summer, so all of this advice has certainly been helpful.