Long term smoker....Complete Dam Virgin

[Strictlysilvers]

we were worried about getting lost at first. Just make sure you have a good map (unfortunately the ACD map is not the best for navigating canals). I think they had maps on offer when we picked the boat up, not 100% though because we had our own. A smartphone would be handy for if you get very lost!

Hmmm yeah google maps cost me a fortune last time I was there!!!

[ed the head]

There is already plenty of good advice for your first visit. My only two cents is regarding your hotel. Like many people here, I have a favorite. 6 trips now, same hotel, never a complaint and each visit is more enjoyable. Bulldog Hotel and Hostel, a very nice (IMHO) 5 star in the RLD

[Uncle Ron]

What can I do to utilise and maximise my 4 days ensuring that I have a great holiday?

Learn how to spell. Just kidding.
Seriously, there is plenty to do, just depends on what you like.
Check this for the latest. http://www.iamsterdam.com/

Also, what is the best area/hotel to stay in? Somwhere reasonably priced and close to some great CS's and some great food joints. Would you advise staying somewhere located near the red light district or somwehere further away?

http://www.amsterdamby.com/
http://www.houseboat-rental-amsterdam.com/
IMO, the best area to stay in is the Jordaan. Excellent restaurants as well.
The RLD? I suppose for the "been there, done that, bought the t-shirt" mentality, sure. Could be entertaining to watch the daily/nightly freak show from the hotel.
What do you consider reasonably priced? What do you want for your money? This is Amsterdam don't forget.
No problems being close to some great C/S's because the majority of C/S's in Amsterdam are located within a two mile radius of Dam Square.

Lastly, my partner is non smoker and I was hoping to get some feedback from any non-smokers: did you have a good time and have fun or do you feel like you would have had a better time if you were smoking? I know that I am going to be in smokers heaven and I don't want him to feel left out.

I've been to C/S's with friends who don't smoke and they wouldn't say they had the time of their lives, but they were comfortable and enjoyed themselves. How much fun does a non drinker have in a bar? Depends.

P.S I've never uaed to a bong or pipe, but would really like to try it in Dam. Would it better to get some from home (Camden) or to buy them over there.

Bring with or to take back? Could be problematic. Which airport(s) in the US are you flying in/out of? Are there laws against drug paraphernalia in the State(s) where the airport(s) are located? Something to think about.

Have a great holiday.

[JonnyBags]

I agree about buying any pipes and bringing them home. Just asking for trouble. I spent a week in Jamaica and got searched twice on my way home. Even if it is perfectly clean..... you will definitely get hassled or worse.

Try things in Amsterdam and figure out what you like. Then buy something online when you get home, or better yet, find a good local glass shop.

[Uncle Ron]

In ref. to traveling with paraphernalia.
Caligurl from Camden, NJ correct? Read and heed, or not.
New Jersey = http://www.nj-statute-info.com/getStatu ... te_id=1876
New York = http://www.courts.state.ny.us/cji/2-pen ... 283%29.pdf
Pennsylvania = http://www.norml.org/index.cfm?wtm_view=&Group_ID=4560
State by State = http://www.norml.org/index.cfm?Group_ID=4516

[StonedSince67]

welcome to the forum

Second of all, I know nothing about what delights the lovely city of Amsterdam has to offer a tourist like myself, I mean I am aware that it has has some great museums and cultural aspects. But what else is there to do? What can I do to utilise and maximise my 4 days ensuring that I have a great holiday?

i suggest that both of you list 3 things that you really like doing ... maybe gardening or history or art or architecture or music or ambling about ... amsterdam will most likely cater for all those interests and cater well so just choose those things that you really enjoy doing and go there ... so just ask yourself what do you really enjoy doing ???

Lastly, my partner is non smoker and I was hoping to get some feedback from any non-smokers: did you have a good time and have fun or do you feel like you would have had a better time if you were smoking? I know that I am going to be in smokers heaven and I don't want him to feel left out.

i have been to basjoe, paradox, la tertulia and yo-yo with a non-smoker and they enjoyed the space and general vibe of each of those coffeeshops

Long term smoker .... Complete Dam Virgin

Oh yeah..... Watch out for them bikes!!!

i just want to double-check that you have read the document How not to get hit by a bike from the excellent S G Collins website recommended by FlyByNite

if you have already read the document, then thanks, but if not, then please please read before you arrive to ensure your safety in the crazy amsterdam traffic, and thanks

have a great trip ...

[Uncle Ron]

Wholeheartedly agree with SS'67, esp. How Not To Get Hit By A Bike. If all else fails, remember this - LOOK BOTH WAYS.

[sirphobose]

plenty of good advice in this thread...I wouldn't bother taking bringing a bong from Blighty there are plenty of shops selling every concievable smoking accessory for budgets large and small. I'm taking my girlfriend (complete non smoker) so am hoping to do more non dope related things when we go at the end of feb.

For accomodation i've found these sites really helpful to see whats on offer

http://www.hotels.nl

and for appartments (which i think are the best way to do it)

http://www.amsterdamstay.com
http://amsterdam.citymundo.com

I reckon if you're relaxed about it and go with the flow it is impossible not to enjoy Amsterdam"