Atlantica - 01.09.2002, Page 20

18 A T L A N T I C A
Amsterdam has long been known for its liberal stand
on drugs and prostitution. But thankfully the city has
so much else to offer. You could hardly find a more
friendly or beautiful place in which to stroll around
aimlessly, take in the atmosphere of the past, do some
shopping and visit outstanding art museums. Jón
Kaldal enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.
Photos by Páll Stefánsson
THE NAME AMSTERDAM CONJURES up many different pictures in peo-
ple’s minds: a picture of bicycles, canals and bridges, of Rembrandt
and excellent art museums, a lively flower industry and, of course,
not forgetting the acclaimed “total football” of the home team, Ajax.
But when Amsterdam is mentioned, the first thing that probably goes
through most people’s minds is a picture of scantily clad women
behind glass panes, under a red light bulb, followed closely by smoke
swirling by from the city’s lawful hash coffeshops. Amsterdam has
long been known for its liberal stand on drugs and prostitution.
These two factors draw scores of tourists to the city, some of whom
totally lose themselves in a red cloud of smoke. But Amsterdam has
so much else to offer. You could hardly find a more friendly or beau-
tiful city in which to stroll around aimlessly, take in the atmosphere
of the past, do some shopping, enjoy outstanding art museums and
then drop into one of the city’s countless restaurants. Amsterdam is
one of those cities which are difficult to leave behind, and make you
want to come back again soon.
CITY
FEELGOOD
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