Lets face it, whether you're in Amsterdam or NYC, as the years go by laws and regulations related to drugs, alcohol, and assorted fun are getting tougher. In Amsterdam I'd emphasize the drug part.

Haven't you heard? Yes some important people in Dutch politics, including the mayor of Amsterdam, are pushing for a ban on magic mushrooms. Why? Because a French tourist jumped off a building some time ago and her family says she had taken mushrooms. This sparked alot of talk about how regulated mushrooms aren't in our fair city. Rather than talk about quality control or public education, the talk seems to be all about banning them. Yes... it is the story of the world we live in these days.. when in doubt.. ban the thing.

If you'd like a critical blog post to go along with the article linked above, I recommend one of Amsterdam's finest political bloggers Progressive Gold.

My advice to everyone out there who is plotting a visit to the Netherlands and thought they might legally purchase some 'shrooms along the way... hurry up and get over here. Before you know it.. the infamous smart shops will be long banned just like the segway. (banned from the streets of Amsterdam.. sadly)