What is the difference between a coffeeshop and a CBD store?

What is the difference between a coffeeshop and a CBD store ?

Every year, a quarter of tourists visiting the city of Amsterdam visit a coffeeshop at least once. These places where you are allowed to buy and consume cannabis are often different from CBD stores in several ways. Find out the differences between these two types of establishments.

Legislation and operation of a coffeeshop

Coffeeshop refers to Dutch establishments where the sale and consumption of cannabis is allowed. They have a reputation for providing a cozy setting for hemp lovers, with varying styles of atmosphere. But even while the Netherlands' laws regarding cannabis consumption are particularly flexible, the operation of these places is still subject to very strict rules.

What can be purchased

The customers of a coffeeshop in the Netherlands are mainly attracted by the cannabis that is sold there. These places, by the way, should not be confused with the classic cafes that are referred to as "coffee shops". In a Dutch cannabis establishment, there is usually a shelf with several boxes. These contain the different varieties of hemp available. The selection of weed offered by coffeeshops in the Netherlands varies greatly from one establishment to another.

But all these variants can be classified into two broad categories. The first corresponds to the Indica family whose plants are known for their relaxing effects. The second category, the Sativa family, includes hemp varieties known for their ability to boost energy levels and stimulate adrenaline. You also have the option of getting hybrid species that combine the effects of both major hemp families. Coffeeshops sell cannabis in the form of weed, hash or pre-rolled joints.

A friendly place

Coffeeshops are iconic places in Dutch culture that are highly regarded for their friendly surroundings. Some of these establishments feature a relaxed and relaxed atmosphere with soft music playing in the background. If you prefer to consume cannabis in a rowdy atmosphere, there are also coffeshops with a more rock'n'roll style. Coffeshops usually have a bar where you can indulge in non-alcoholic drinks. In fact, alcohol has been known to enhance the effects of cannabis, increasing the risk of suffering a full-blown panic attack, hallucinations and other complications.

This is a good thing.

This measure is therefore one of the golden rules that govern coffeeshops in the Netherlands. It is in addition to the requirement to respect public order, the prohibition of selling hard drugs, advertising, selling to minors or selling more than 5g per transaction per person. Violation of any of these laws is punishable by very severe penalties. All of these provisions help maintain a healthy environment in coffeeshops, making them a great alternative to traditional bars and cafes for a good time.

3 coffeeshops to try

There are many coffeeshops in Amsterdam that stand out from each other in terms of the quality and diversity of their products, and the friendliness of their setting. Prices are also not uniform and increase with the popularity of the establishment. With the ban on advertising, it can be difficult to compare all of the available offerings without trying them out or without the opinion of a fan of these places. So here are three coffeshops you can try in the Netherlands:

• The Bulldog Palace: known as the oldest coffeeshop in Amsterdam, the establishment has modernized over time and has a Caribbean theme.
• The Amsterdam Coffeeshop: formerly known as Dampkring, it stands out for its quality customer service and good-natured atmosphere.
• The Tweede Kamer: considered by many to be the best coffeeshop in Amsterdam, it stands out for its quality product selection, friendly staff and vintage decor.

What is a CBD store ?

CBD stores are places where legal cannabis products are marketed. The items sold contain very little psychoactive substances, but are on the other hand very rich in cannabidiol. This is a molecule with multiple therapeutic virtues. Since the consumption of hemp is illegal in most European countries, these stores are very much framed by the legislation.

In France, many physical stores offer cannabidiol-based products. But it is also possible to get CBD online in a few clicks. This last option allows you to have access to an impressive selection of quality products without having to move.

Legislation and operation of a CBD shop

CBD stores offer a wide variety of products. However, they are subject to strict laws that limit the type of items they are allowed to offer as well as the customers allowed to purchase them.

What can be purchased ?

In a CBD shop, you can get CBD flowers, known both for their intoxicating aromas and their therapeutic effects. Some stores also offer resins, herbal teas, oils or candies made with cannabidiol. Sometimes you can find beauty products such as shampoos, creams, soaps, etc.

Only parts of the hemp plant with a THC content of less than 0.3% are allowed by law. Processed products such as creams and candies must absolutely not contain it. This molecule is actually the psychoactive compound responsible for the euphoric sensation caused by hemp. As for CBD, its content varies freely depending on the type of product and the manufacturing technique. It should also be noted that for safety reasons, the law prohibits the sale of cannabidiol products to minors.

3 CBD flowers to test on our shop

The CBD flower is a part of the hemp plant, highly concentrated in cannabidiol. It is usually covered with a layer of resin concentrating aromas and flavors that differ depending on the variety. Here is a selection of three flowers to discover on our store.

Gorilla Queen CBD Flower

Gorilla Queen CBD Flower is recognizable by its light, fresh pine aroma and sweet coffee notes. It has a woody, earthy and slightly sweet taste. It is an indoor grown strain with a CBD content of 21.7%. It's the perfect choice to relieve stress and fight sleep disorders. Also note that Gorilla Queen complies with current legislation.

The CBD Ice Rock Blue Ice flower

As the name suggests, the Ice Rock Blue Ice comes in the form of a small blue rock. Its appearance also evokes that of a piece of ice. But if this flower surprises, it is not only because of its appearance. With a CBD content of 82.5% it is an extremely rich product. It is used in particular to reduce anxiety and relieve physical pain.

MoonRock CBD Flower

The MoonRock is for high-potency CBD flower lovers. It contains 35% CBD and releases a delicious blueberry and lavender aroma. It is a trichome-enriched flower infused with highly concentrated oil. This has the effect of increasing its therapeutic properties tenfold. Like most CBD flowers, it can be vaporized, consumed as an herbal tea or incorporated into meals.

In short, coffeeshops are Dutch establishments where the purchase and consumption of cannabis is allowed, but subject to very specific rules. CBD stores, on the other hand, are more common in other European countries. They are intended for the purchase of CBD-based products with a THC content of less than 0.3%.