Image: RAMON VAN FLYMEN (APA/AFP/ANP/RAMON VAN FLYMEN)
Cannabis can no longer be smoked on the streets, squares and canals around the red light district. Smoking weed is still allowed in the rest of the city.
It is another measure against the consequences of mass tourism. More than 20 million visitors come to the city with almost 800,000 inhabitants every year. The city says that the red-light district in particular should become safer and more livable for residents. “The atmosphere can get very grim, especially at night.” For years, residents have been complaining about people drinking, bawling and smoking pot on the streets, and British bachelor parties are particularly notorious.
The sale of alcohol is already prohibited on weekends from 4 p.m. – outside of the restaurants. You are also not allowed to drink alcohol on the street. Pubs and bars have to close earlier in the red light district, and this also applies to the sex trade. Amsterdam even plans to close the world’s famous red-lit windows and house prostitution in an “erotic center” outside the center.
end of an era
Especially the party tourists should be warded off. The city launched a ‘Stay Away’ campaign on social media in the UK to discourage those who only come to drink, smoke pot and have sex.
An era ends with the smoking ban. For a good 50 years, smoking a joint was a symbol of Amsterdam’s tolerant image. In the early 1970s, not only the consumption but also the sale of hashish and marijuana was officially tolerated. No wonder tourists don’t want to believe the ban. The sale of the soft drugs in the coffee shops is still allowed.
Many Amsterdammers doubt that the ban will do much. The city admits there aren’t enough inspectors – but hopes Amsterdam’s image will change.
Source: Nachrichten
