Depending on your perspective, Amsterdam is either a beacon of free expression or a sin city. For us, it’s probably a bit of both. With an uncommonly liberal approach to sex and drugs, the Dutch capital draws many seeking the kind of experimentation they daren’t consider at home.
Over recent years the Netherlands has a lot of questions about itself. Values have swung from left to right and back again as the nation searched its soul. While at heart the Dutch remain open, they have begun to overhaul the tolerance for which they are famous.
The knock effects have already been felt in Amsterdam. There have been long-standing plans to cut the number of brothels in the city by half. And late last month, new regulations were finalised that will prevent foreigners from buying cannabis.
Affecting Amsterdam from the beginning of 2013, the city’s coffee shops will only be able to issue “weed passes” to residents over the age of 18, effectively barring tourists from taking advantage of the decriminalised soft drugs possession laws they have enjoyed for more than 35 years.
So, it appears the clock is ticking on Amsterdam’s famous coffee shops – at least for those of us who don’t live in the Netherlands. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys the liberal pursuits they proffer, be sure to drop by these five establishments while you still can.
Dampkring
Made famous for the visit of George Clooney and Brad Pitt in the movie Ocean’s 12, Dampkring is renowned more locally for the quality of its marijuana and its orange-glow décor.
Abraxas
One of the most tourist-friendly coffeeshops in the city, the three storeys of Abraxas offer a fantasy environment comprised of many small rooms that suit a plethora of moods.
Barney’s
Along a stretch of Haarlemmerstraat lies a small empire built on cannabis. Barney’s, Barney’s Farm and Barney’s Uptown are all within spitting distance of one another – a chain whose popularity comes from a being multiple winner of the High Times Cup.
The Greenhouse
The flagship of this company’s three locations is situated in the Red Light District, making it one of the most famous coffeeshops in the city – a fact underscored by the many photos of celebrities that adorn its walls
Hunter’s Coffeeshop
On the edge of the red light district, Hunter’s draws tourists and regular punters in equal measure with its great product, friendly service and lounge atmosphere.
It’s easy to get confused in Amsterdam with the amount of coffee shops and cafes, which don’t have interchangeable licenses for selling alcohol and more alternative treats. Read more about the best Amsterdam bars and pubs.
(Image: dottò)
