I had a few close encounters with bikes. It's not always obvious which directions they will come from. They seem to like something practical rather than fancy racing or mountain bikes.
I'm glad I stayed at the Volkshotel as it was handy for some of the events. After the final drinks I could just go downstairs to my room. It seems only a few stayed at the Student over the road.
Yeah, it's not just the driving (riding) on the 'other' side of the road, they come from all around regardless, and mesh as one with pedestrians. You need your wits about you at all times, which troubles me a little considering that a lot of people wandering around may not be in the best state! And yes, it's more of a classic city bike than anything fancy.
Always better to stay at the main hotel I think (although I did get plenty of exercise in). There was still a chance I might change where I was staying but the nearer it got, the less options and higher the prices, so stuck with what I had. I'm only really aware of Slobberchops staying at the Student Hotel… although the main thing was being there!