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Netherlands coffeeshops reopen seating

Dutch Coffeeshops To Reopen Smoking Areas On 1 July

As of 1 July, the Netherland’s famous coffeeshops will reopen their seating areas to guests after several months of takeaway-only service. Last night’s Corona Press Conference called for the relaxation of measures which have been in effect since March of this year, with the exception of the 1.5 meter social distancing policy, which remains enforced.

Empty Coffeeshop Relax, Amsterdam

The changes in Corona Virus policy will effect many industries. Events can now take place under certain conditions. All seats are now open on public transit. Gyms are set to reopen and recreational and competitive sports may resume. Sex workers can now also return to work.

Prime Minister, Mark Rutte calls for residents and guests alike to practice “self discipline” to help the nation avoid further outbreaks of COVID-19. “If we relax in this or in checking basic rules, then there is a real chance that we will have to implement restrictions. We see many examples of this internationally,” Rutte urged those listening to his Wednesday evening address.

“As of 1 July, inside, reservations and a health check (if you have a cold or have a fever) are compulsory if there is room for more than 100 people per room (excluding staff).”

General Rules For Indoor Activities:
  • Keep 1.5 meters away from others.
  • Maximum 100 people per room with fixed seats (excluding staff).
  • No maximum number of people under the following conditions: fixed seats, reservation and health check in advance.
  • In shops, museums, libraries and other locations with flow of visitors, 1.5 meters away is the rule (locations themselves ensure compliance with this rule). There is no maximum number of people.

General Rules For Outdoor Activities:
  • Keep 1.5 meters away from others.
  • Maximum 250 persons (excluding staff).
  • The catering industry always works with a fixed seat.
    • No maximum number of people under the following conditions: fixed seats, a reservation and a health check in advance.
  • In zoos, amusement parks and other outdoor locations with flow of visitors, 1.5 meters away is the rule (locations themselves ensure compliance with this rule). There is no maximum number of people.
Guests lined up at Amsterdam coffeeshops the night before they expected to close due to COVID-19.

On June 15, the Netherlands began to allow tourists from countries where the health risks surrounding COVID-19 are similar to or lower than that of the Netherlands back into the country.

Guests will soon be able to sit down and enjoy a smoke and cup of coffee at their favorite shop. Prior to July 1, guests at Dutch coffeeshops will need to wait in socially distanced lines and up until now have only been allowed in shops 2 to 3 people at a time. This was after after an initial panic that the shops would close altogether at the start of the outbreak.

A major aspect of these legendary coffeeshops is the culture surrounding them. The atmosphere compares to none and the shops are viewed by many as the place to go to meet some incredibly interesting and inspiring individuals. This is lost when guests may only enter quickly for takeaway purchases. We encourage everyone visiting the shops to follow safe practices, so that we can stay healthy and continue to enjoy our coffeeshops.

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