Amsterdam: Cannabis or Coffee?

Dutch coffeeshops sell dope in the same way as cafés sell coffee and bars sell beer. Visitors from abroad flock in their thousands to the coffeeshops in the Red Light District. It’s not only toursits who visit coffeeshops, locals do as well. The only difference is that the Dutch go the ones away from the centre because they are quieter, more atmospheric and less neon lit. Neither do they pump out reggae, rock or house at ear-splitting level.

RASTABABY, Prins Hendrikkade 7, Daily 09:00 – 01:00
Excellent location, right outside Centraal Station. Wicker chairs in the conservatory and tables on the pavement in summer make this place a pleasant hang-out. Perfect combination of reggae and herbs.

SIBERIË, Brouwersgracht 11, Sun-Thu 11:00-23:00, Fri & Sat 11:00-00:00
Be sure to stroll along photogenic Brouwersgracht, before you indulge in smoking mind-enhancing stuff. Spacious benches and tables accommodate groups and individiuals. Push the button near the front of the counter to illuminate the menu. Play a few rounds of pinball in between smokes.

AMNESIA,  Herengracht 133, Daily 09:00 – 01:00
Buy Amnesia Haze sink back into the plush pillowy bench and smoke. Elegant chandeliers and dim lighting make the atmosphere mellow and cosy. Pipes and bongs are available to borrow, but a pre-rolled joint will make you feel like a king in a castle. Like to play chess while stoned? Here is your chance; a chess table with large pieces awaits you to beat your opponent.

GREY AREA, Oude Leliestraat 2, Daily 12:00-20:00
Much sought after by Americans who queue up and wait for the coffee shop to open at 12 noon. It was created by two Americans who seem to have moved on. Try Chocolope, Grey Diesel, Bubbleloope, Sourloupe, Grey Haze or Double Bubble. This funky place is always packed with tourists and locals alike.

RUSLAND, Rusland 16, Daily 10:00-01:00
Multi-levelled place with great outside terrace. Marihuana counter is at street level in an Arab-themed room with couches and cushions, tables with candles and a big window to watch the world go round. Upstairs cappuccinos and an amazing selection of teas. Favourite haunt of dope and tea addicts.

DAMPKRING, Handboogstraat 29, Daily 10:00-01:00
Small place, dim lights and soft music. Opened in 1993 as a bar-coffeeshop, but was forced to choose between alcohol and cannabis in 2007 when the law changed and continued as coffee shop. Always packed out. Weed of high quality.

photo credit: personal collection