Amsterdam; city of sin

• May
• 28

10:15 am Uncategorized

What a nutty place Amsterdam is. I can only assume there is nowhere else like it in the world because it is so crazy. Amsterdam has a split personality. During the day it is a serene, quiet and small city with some picturesque streets by the canals. At night, this small city transforms into an action packed party paradise. You cannot move for the bright lights, bars and open late cafes.

It might be a bit harsh, but forgivable, to say that the nightlife is Amsterdam’s only attraction, even though it isn’t. However, it is the main reason that people go, and why wouldn’t it be? For the party-goer, this city has everything. Beer seems to run from the taps, and there is also, as I’m sure the world knows, no law against smoking marijuana. During the day and especially at night, whether you be in a cafe, a small restaurant or just walking down the streets, you will become accustomed to the smell of marijuana. Is it a bad thing or isn’t it? The debate will go on forever, but Amsterdam doesn’t seem to care.

Also on the cards, if it takes your fancy, is a little bit of prostitution. I say little when there is, in fact, an entire street dedicated to it. This street and surrounding area is known as the red light district and it really does have to be seen to be believed. The street is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week it seems. People come in and out of doors all day long as if it is the most normal thing in the world. It looks the most seedy at night of course, and if you go, that is when you should visit the district, it is actually quite hilarious. Although after you leave you really want to drown yourself in cleaning supplies because you do feel obscenely filthy.

I went to Amsterdam during a trek through Europe a few years ago and I can honestly say, it was my least favourite place. Aside from the fact that there is a booming drug culture and naked women in nearly every window, the city was also full of English lager louts eager to take in everything Amsterdam has to offer, and those are not the people I want to share my holiday with.