subject: The Dutch Spirit [print this page] What is a Dutch spirit? How to understand this phenomenon?
Huge amount of people from all over the world visit Holland each year. The country is known for being extremely beautiful thanks to its streets, canals and tulips. But what is so special about it? It seems to be free from prejudices. And it is awesome! It is well-known that the more it is prohibited the more desirable it becomes. The government was smart enough to realize it early enough and took measures. Their policy probably was Allow it so you can control it. Since then prostitution and soft drugs were tolerated in this country.
The first place were the soft drugs were tolerated became the Paradiso. At that time it was a church but thanks to hippies it turned into an entertainment center simply because hippies decided to invade it. Since then the place has been associated with huge clouds of smoke. The local authorities being unable to change the situation decided not to intrude. Years later Paradiso became a well-known music venue as well as Heineken Music Hall. Many famous musicians performed there including Pink Floyd and Red Hot Chili Peppers. After the strict ban of smoking in public places the situation has changed. But the place is still associated with hippies and their culture.
Smoking weed is however allowed in coffeeshops. Here you may try anything you want. There a huge number of coffeeshops scattered throughout the city and all of them are decorated in different styles to satisfy any tastes. You will undoubtedly find something for yourself.
As for prostitution the Red Light District is a place for which Holland is famous all over the world. When you come to Amsterdam dont just go directly to the Red Light District as you will get the wrong impression of the city. Explore the city at first: enjoy its beauty, take a bout tour on the canal, and ride a bike as a true Dutch and only in the evening go to the Red Light District. The place is more beautiful when its getting darker and the red light from the windows add even more charm to the whole atmosphere.
While enjoying Amsterdams and Hollands top attractions, there are some things you need to know. Do not take pictures on the Red Light District never! Even hiding your camera! You can easily be noticed be pimps and after that either you or your camera will be thrown into the canal.
