When people hear you've been to Amsterdam, I've found that most react with a raised eyebrow and slight grin that says "Amsterdam, eh?" And to this day, I can't figure out if this silent acknowledgement of Amsterdam's well-known tolerance is one step forward for mankind or one giant leap backward.
To clarify, let me ensure you that in no way do I feel Amsterdam's "policy" on drugs and prostitution is a step backward. More specifically, the point I'm making addresses the question, "Do the common beliefs and first impressions about Amsterdam overshadow or cheapen everything else the city has to offer?"
To be honest, I don't think it does. Amsterdam is not a one-dimensional city, and anyone who has been there knows this to be true. If anything, an afternoon in one of Amsterdam's many coffee shops just makes the already mystical city that much more surreal. Tall narrow structures and streets, endless canals, countless museums and shops, and the Anne Frank house are every bit a part of the Amsterdam experience as the spacey cakes, magic milkshakes and Red Light District.
The above picture is of Dam Square. My wife and I stayed near here, so we spent a lot of time in the area just walking and eating.
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