In Kerkrade as so many other cities and places in Limburg are targets of drugtraficing. Crime goes hand in hand with these practices. If you just want to smoke a joint go to one of the legalized "coffee shops".
Another problem in Kerkrade is the prostitution since the legalization of prostitution in the Netherlands you prostitutes can have sex with some one for a fee. There are some of these brothels in Kerkrade. Getting in bed with a prostitute on the street you have a very high risk of getting an STD. Stay safe and when going to a brothel use a condom the prostitutes in the Netherlands normally do not have sex without a condom a carry one with them.
Another hassle is meeting "junkies" and wanderers you might occasionally meet them at supermarkets and city centers asking for some money which most Dutch people find an anoyance since they allready have an income from the state to survive. Normally the begging is because the lack of drugs and they want to buy drugs with the money you give them. Giving these people money also encourages the crimes involved with the illigal drugs.So do not be temped to give these people money and which might also encourage other beggers to ask money from you. Normally these people do not pickpoket your wallet but as in any city in the world keep an eye on your personal items.
