Customs
In Holland, the use of cannabis is tolerated in designated
'coffee shops' in major cities. This policy exists to prevent the
marginalisation of soft drug users thereby exposing them to more
harmful drugs. However the trafficking in hard or soft drugs
outside licensed premises is illegal and the possession of soft
drugs in public places will incur a prison sentence. Everybody from
the age of 14 is required to show a valid identity document to law
enforcement officers on request. Tobacco smoking in cafés, bars and
restaurants is prohibited.
