Three Things to Know Before You Go
Amsterdam has something of a reputation, so to speak. Just uttering the name of the city evokes reactions from either side of the spectrum: horror at its free-wheeling, liberal policies or conversely, a big thumbs-up for a government that seems both tolerant and realistic about human nature.
Whatever your stance on Amsterdam, the largest city as well as the financial, cultural and artistic capitol of the Netherlands, it’s an intriguing and historic place which still draws millions of enthusiastic tourists every year to its canal-lined streets (it’s not called “The Venice of the North” for nothing).
Yet, many of those tourists come believing the popular misconceptions about the city, myths that have over time become so deeply-rooted in outsiders’ impressions that they might as well be hard fact. Those who actually live in the city will tell you, though: Amsterdam is not at all what you might think it is!
Myth No 1: Amsterdam is a drug free-for-all
It can be argued whether Amsterdam is more famous for its red light district or the tolerant stance on cannabis use that runs all throughout the Netherlands. But while prostitution is indeed legal (and regulated) in Amsterdam, cannabis technically isn’t. Technically. It’s actually illegal, in compliance with different international treaties, but the Ministry of Justice practices what’s known as “gedogen,” which literally translates to “accept” or “tolerate.” In everyday life, that means that no one will be prosecuted for using cannabis- as long as they are following the strict governmental controls put in place precisely to make sure the population doesn’t turn to drug-crazed chaos (buyers are limited to five grams of cannabis per day). In fact, in recent years, the government has become even stricter with their cannabis policies, closing down coffee shops (the easily recognized English term given to places allowed to sell) too close to schools or which try to sell hallucinogenic mushrooms. Which brings up another point that might escape would-be tourists: cannabis is the only substance in Amsterdam which is permitted by authorities for use. Hard drugs are illegal and anyone caught using or possessing them will be in serious trouble, as they would be any other country.
Myth No 2: Getting Around By Bike Is Best
Getting around by bike is best – if you live in Amsterdam. It’s a fact that the roads in Amsterdam are virtually car-free, as most citizens get around on two wheels. The city offers its bicycling population huge parking structures and special lanes; for someone just visiting however, it might cramp the trip rather than enhance it. For one, the lanes are almost always packed, meaning you have to pay attention to where you’re going; no looking off over your shoulder for a long glance at one of Amsterdam’s bounty of historic buildings. In fact, the bike lanes are already so busy with Amsterdammers just living their everyday lives, having inexperienced tourists further clogging the arteries might bring out less than friendly attitudes from the locals. If you’re dead set on experiencing the bike culture of Amsterdam, rent one for a day and don’t spend it all in the city. There’s plenty to see in the outlying areas as well.
Myth No 3: There Is No Reason to Visit the Red Light District
Even if you can get past the legalization of cannabis consumption, it might still be difficult for you to wrap your mind around the legalization and government regulation of prostitution. Of course, you can easily avoid Amsterdam’s Red Light District altogether. But if nothing else, it’s a culturally interesting experience, especially in the evening. What strikes most visitors about the area is how diverse the crowds are: male and female, old and young, the Red Light District has become something less like a seedy street of ill-repute and more of a tourist destination, albeit strictly for adults. If you want to just go and walk around, take in the “scenery” and people-watch, go for it – you certainly won’t be alone. What’s more, safe daytime tours are offered in the Red Light District, which actually constitutes one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of Amsterdam.
Dispel these old myths about this vibrant city and your holiday in Amsterdam will be one truly unique experience, in every aspect possible.
Samantha Jansen is a contributing writer who works as a personal assistant to a small business owner and travels as much as possible with her husband. She has extended family still living in the Netherlands.