Question:
I'll be traveling to Europe in April, and I've heard from a coupleplaces that taking pictures in Amsterdam's red light district can resultin your camera being siezed and destroyed. I've found no such warningsin Fodors, Lonely Planet or the Back Door books. Any creedence to this?

Answer: I found the red light district difficult to find as it didn't seem tobe on the maps and directions seemed to confuse us. We ended up justtaking a cab which seemed to just drive along the side walk and gaveus a pretty good view. We heard the same thing, that the pimps willtake your camera and toss it in the canal if you try and photographthe women in the windows. Because of the number of tourists and themoney generated in this area think this story is a bit overblown. Thephotographic value is a bit overrated too as these women wearnegliges, or at least some skimpy clothing. What amazed me is thatthey are not all playboy platmates. There are some 300# heffers inthere too. I had to make the taxi driver back up for a double take.Many of the women are shipped in from Turkey although I have to saythey have a mix to take care of just about anyone. I'veheard......(repeat heard) that you open the front door and negotiatewith the hostess. When a deal is secured the curtains are closed.Aside from the red light district Amsterdam is a wonderful city, easyto get around with a lot to see. The chain of Bulldog Cafes where youcan openly buy herb? or hashish are also a novelty. As far as foodrecommend the fish soup.........Enjoy............Trev