OK - the honest answer....

Right now there is some bad feeling towards Americans in Holland - but just remember, its not focused at you but at Mr Bush.... I have seen a few occasions over the last few months where in a few coffee shops I have watched Americans be given "not such good" deals.... for the most part tho there is nothing to worry about....

I can recommend the following places as being very friendly and non-judgemental ...

Barney's Breakfast Bar - Great for hash
The Greenhouse - about the best weed in town
Sheeba - ask for Tom, tell him Mark from Italy sent you and try the skuff
De Oude Kirke (The Old Church) - in the Red Light District, nice people watching place.

There are lots good coffee shops - my advice is tip when you buy your first drink... the Dutch are a very friendly people for the most part.

Amsterdam is a wonderful city - enjoy it - do what we all do - don't be American (British, Italian or any other nationality), just be human!


OH - and if you want, let me know when you are gonna be there - might coincide with me being there - would be glad to give you a 2 cent tour one evening...