Monday, August 11, 2008

The Other Side of Amsterdam, The Netherlands (July 17-20, 2008)

The Dutch have long been known for their religious and intellectual tolerance; during the 16th century, Amsterdam became a haven for Jews and Huguenots from Spain and France, as well as merchants and printers from Flanders. Today, the city's tolerant attitude manifests itself most visibly in the notorious Red Light district and ubiquitous cannabis coffee shops, which together attract a great deal of visitors.
A "coffee shop" in the Red Light district; coffee shops sell cannabis, while cafes sell coffee – an important distinction!
A creative window display in the Condomerie
A Red Light district window, the morning after
The sign is pretty self-explanatory. Permanent urinals are stationed throughout the city on many street corners, while additional temporary plastic urinals are brought in for weekend or holiday nights.
Public art in the Red Light district, ironically located adjacent to the defunct Oude Kerk (Old Church), which now serves as an exhibition hall
Sensi seeds, not suitable for export

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