Drugs.
Still highly illegal, the attitude is more tolerant in La Paz where 'Cocaine Bars' are set up for tourists to sample the famous marching powder. If you're interested in making some bad decisions, the names Eddies Place and Route 36 are the most notorious options. The rumor is that the police general of La Paz is the owner of Route 36 and that's how they get away with everything.
One of the latest buildings to host Route 36.
“With lots of young (often drunk) backpackers this looks like an accident waiting to happen. Don’t be an idiot and carry the stuff around with you (and certainly not across international borders) and be careful when taking a taxi home when leaving late.”
How To Get There.
Simply jump in a cab. Every driver knows where Route 36 is, and i’m pretty sure it is probably on their license test. It is actually walking distance from both Loki and Wild Rover Hostels but each night its probably easier (and safer) to get a cab.
No Locals.
It is purely a Gringo affair as no locals are allowed inside, which is kind of awkward although we've been assured that the owners have paid off "all the right people" to keep the bar out of trouble.
Prices & Quality.
Prices at Route 36 are 200 Bolivianos per gram, which equates to about USD35. Eddies Place is supposed to be considerably cheaper, but no-one we talked to could give us a firm price, so perhaps it changes as their supply does.
We were also told that the quality at Route 36 is not amazing, and many people commented that it was probably cut with speed/methamphetamine... but the bottled water is free!
Atmosphere & What To Expect.
Both places are very laid back apparently. Music is playing, but not extremely loud, and anyone with an iPod or smart phone can go up and dj for a bit if they want.
Generally it is just a few different group of people all sitting round and chatting, and passing around plates and straws to use the cocaine. Very little dancing as everyone seems happy chatting to each other and meeting new people. This changes later in the evening once everyone is sufficiently geeked out.
Additional Reading.
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/aug/19/bolivia-cocaine-bar-route-36