Young couples set against a colorful wall mural smoke their joints and watch all types of people pass by. Here is the world famous Bulldog coffeeshop, now an institution in Amsterdam. Say what you will about large commercial coffeeshop enterprises, but keep in mind their notoriety has not been achieved easily. Efforts by early marijuana pioneers including those of the Bulldog paved the way for the coffeeshop scene as it exists today. This particular Bulldog coffeeshop is located in the heart of the "Red Light District" along a scenic canal, which affords its customers a view not only of the activities along the street but on the water as well.

Nothing is better than going out to have a great time in Amsterdam and where it happens after all may surprise you. -aw

(pastel with under painting 50 x 65 cm)