Coffee Shops
Dutch coffee shops (written as one word, “coffeeshop”, in Dutch) have been a part of Amsterdam culture since the 1970s. Under Dutch law, there is a distinct difference between hard and soft drugs; the role of the coffee shop is to serve soft drugs, specifically marijuana, keeping then separate from harder varieties. Dutch drug and licensing laws often contributed (and still do, to an extent) to grey areas within coffee shop culture. What exactly is permissible in these establishments is still a source of debate.
When looking for holiday accommodation in Amsterdam, holiday rentals provide all the comfort and freedom needed to leisurely explore this fascinating city. Many curious visitors to the Dutch capital will want to explore the coffee shops dotted around the city. Even if sampling the natural products on offer is not on your agenda, visiting one of these establishments is certainly an interesting cultural experience.
For visitors staying in Amsterdam holiday rentals, a trip to one of Amsterdam’s many coffee shops is an interesting experience. Today’s officially licensed coffee shops (look out for the green and white sticker in the window) have to stay within current Dutch drug laws. No hard drugs are allowed to be sold on the establishment and no individual sale of marijuana can exceed 5 grams. More recently, coffee shops have been banned from selling alcohol.
If looking to stay in Amsterdam holiday rentals at the peak of coffee shop culture, consider visiting during late November in order to experience the High Times Cannabis Cup. Here, prominent players in the cannabis industry mix with seasoned smokers to celebrate and expound upon the ins and outs of the industry.
There are plenty of well established coffee shops to choose from in Amsterdam. “Coffeeshop Mellow Yellow” was the first in Amsterdam and is well worth a visit. Both “Coffeeshop The Rookies” and “Jolly Joker” are popular establishments frequented by backpackers and locals alike. Most Amsterdam holiday rentals will have a coffee shop nearby, or head for the centre of the city and you’ll soon come across one.
For exploring the numerous coffee shops in Amsterdam, holiday rentals provide the perfect solution. If wanting to sample any coffee shop wares, be sure to approach with caution! Even if familiar with marijuana, the Dutch product has a reputation for being a potent blend.
