Amsterdam and Weed

[McHopsky]

I didnt exactly know where to put this, so I put it in this forum.

I have a few questions regarding weed in Amsterdam. I know it is legal to buy and sell Weed, but can you easily buy it in a store? Whenever I've been to Europe, mostly Switzerland, you constantly smell weed, and just this Winter, I sat in a trainstation while the kid next to me rolled his joint and kids on the other side of the room smoked it casually. My cousins who are cow farmers have a nice little piece of land that grows weed. When I asked them if it was illegal, they said its ok as long as you dont sell it. Is this the general concensus around Europe? If so, would it be a bad idea to carry a bag when I travel between countries?

Thanks,

[agriadam]

Yes I belive that it would probably be a bad idea to carry a bag of weed with you as you travel.

Some of the countries are more lax about it than others and it also depends on the area of the country.

[omisan]

Amsterdam: Buying weed is only legal at "coffeeshops" which genereally don't sell coffee, just weed. Ok, some have coffee and tea, but most are smart and know to supplement their weed sales with baked goods. Mmmmmm.... munchies!

Trains and borders: While many people have chimed in time and again about how it's not a big deal to cross borders on trains with a baggie on you, it doesn't change the fact that it generally IS illegal. Sure, 9 times out of 10 nothing will happen. But it's that 1/10 where there happens to be a dog going through the car, starts barking, and next thing you know they decide not to be easy on you and you're at the embassy explaining to your consul why you were daft enough to carry a bag of weed with you.

Other countries: Marijuana is technically illegal in most countries in Europe, but possession and use are "tolerated," and you'll be ok. Then there are places like Greece that have zero-tolerance policies. Check local ordinances before trying to go out and score.

The biggest caution, once again: don't try to cross borders with stuff. Your travel privileges are worth far more than an eighth of bud. Besides, if you're a sociable, friendly, smart traveler, you can hook up weed just about anywhere you go. Just don't take it with you.

There are a load of other threads on this topic with more detailed information and a few stories here or there. Just remember that more often than not drugs often fall on the wrong side of the law, and just because someone here says "don't worry, it's no problem" your wisest bet is to know the law.

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=8993&hl=

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=6478&hl=

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=3907&hl=

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=5146&hl=

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=4805&hl=

http://www.travelpunk.com/boards/index.php...wtopic=1839&hl=

[LostFarmboy]

Weed is very easy to buy in amsterdam, just go up to the counter of a coffee shop and look at their menu, it has nothin but different types of weed in it.

As far as carrying weed around EU, i wouldn't bother. While the chances of being cought are pretty slim, i would hate to have to cut a trip short or worse because i couldn't be frigged just buying it at the different cities i was going to.

[McHopsky]

Sounds great. Thanks for the help. Those links were super helpful!

[MeTurk]

It's only legal to smoke weed in the coffie shops aswell (technically). Go for the vapourisers when your there it's the healthy option and gives the best high. In most countrys they'll let you off with an 1/8th, and if you have hash keep it in one lump or your a dealer.


Never ever buy off the street you'll get sold tar and it'll go on fire when you try to burn it into a spliff (those fuckers!) just ask at your hostels reception. I never had any trouble crossing borders on the train but I'm a European citizen and they only give a brief look at the passport.

Outside Amsterdam hash is more popular than weed so get acustomed to the smell and keep your nose peeled when out and about.