If you're seeking thrills in the Netherlands, it's important to choose your adventures wisely. Follow our recommendations, and you'll ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip!
1. Understand the Distinction: It's essential to distinguish between a koffiehuis and a coffeeshop once and for all. In a koffiehuis, you visit for a snack and a delightful cup of flavored coffee. On the other hand, in a coffeeshop, the menu revolves around various types of marijuana and hashish, of course, alongside other offerings.
2. Be Cautious with Spacedakes: Spacedakes, those cannabis-infused wondercakes, should be consumed in moderation. When you ingest cannabinoids orally, the desired effects may take longer to kick in. It's advisable to wait at least an hour before indulging in another brownie to prevent overdoing it on the active ingredients.
3. Avoid Purchasing Drugs from Street Dealers: It's crucial never to purchase drugs from random street dealers. In the best-case scenario, you might end up with ordinary aspirin, but in the worst-case scenario, you could be exposed to a dangerous, clandestinely concocted substance.
4. Public Alcohol Consumption in the Netherlands: It's important to note that drinking alcohol in public is illegal in the Netherlands. The fines for this offense vary depending on the strength of the drink. You can expect a fine of approximately 18 EUR for a bottle of beer and at least 90 EUR for a shot of cognac. Keep in mind that this prohibition also applies to outdoor restaurant terraces. Additionally, if you consume alcohol in front of bystanders, the establishment owner may face penalties, with each unruly customer potentially costing them 500 EUR in fines to the treasury.
5. Respect Privacy in the Red Light District: It's crucial not to take photos of sex workers while exploring the Red Light District. Dutch law strongly protects the privacy rights of sex workers.
6. Make Advance Hotel and Hostel Reservations: It's advisable to book hotel and hostel rooms in advance. The Dutch tourism sector faces a significant shortage of hotels, making early reservations a wise choice.
7. Caution Regarding Tick Bites in Northeastern Natural Parks: When enjoying outdoor activities in natural parks and reserves in the northeastern part of the country, be vigilant about tick bites. It's advisable to wear closed clothing with snug cuffs treated with specific repellents for added protection.
8. Be Mindful of Animal Rights Activism: The Netherlands has a thriving animal protection movement. Avoid unnecessary conflicts with activists by refraining from flaunting items like your new leather jacket or fur coat.
9. Stay Clear of the Roads, Especially in Less Populated Areas at Dusk: To avoid potential theft, refrain from standing in the roadway, especially if you find yourself far from populated areas during dusk. Thieves on motorcycles can quickly appear and snatch your bag or camera.
10. Greet the Store Clerks When Entering: Make it a practice to say hello to the store clerks when you enter a shop.
