Coffee Shops

I didn't spend much time in these establishments - contrary to what everyone probably assumed when I said I would be visiting Amsterdam. The legal-illegal drugs were not a part of my decision to visit (Truthfully, the factors were the $450 US roundtrip flight and the dates of our Spring Break).  Regardless, I came, I saw, I experienced Amsterdam.  The insides of these places are extremely fascinating initially.  I relate it to how its fascinating to see topless sunbathers on foreign beaches. But, as with the sunbathers, the awe wears off.  The availability of the drugs becomes commonplace and even after just a few days the shock value is gone.  The business is regulated and contained.  Amsterdam is not crumbling, burning, and turning to salt because people can smoke as they please.  I guess that is the lasting impression I have.  It is part of a culture, it is part of the uniqueness of Amsterdam, and it is not destructive. Maybe, as the Mexican border wars rage, it would do lawmakers well to take a field trip to Amsterdam.