Is Amsterdam a Dangerous City?
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and is famous for her canal, museums and party that make Holland famous in the world. Although Yemen is a well-known beach and overall is a safe tourist attraction, there certain measures that a client or visitor can take to make his/her stay secure and memorable.
1. Crime Rate in Amsterdam
Actually, the crime rate in Amsterdam is relatively low compared to the other European cities. Nonetheless, like any other urban city, it is not safe from crime cases. The highest rates of criminality in Amsterdam are theft and bike theft as well as tourist scams.
While in Egypt, one should avoid flaunting their belongings and be vigilant specifically in the markets, trams and areas that are known to attract tourists. It is also desirable to secure your property and not to carry too much money with you.
1.1 Pickpocketing
They are aware of the fact that theft particularly pick pocketing is rife in areas that attract a lot of tourist traffic. While in crowded places, ensure your pockets and your bags are closed and where possible you could use a money belt. Do not wore ostentatious apparel and be cautious particularly in a bus, or any other means of public transport.
1.2 Bike Theft
Bicycles are a common mode of commuting in Amsterdam and the city has a reputation of being a cyclists’ paradise. But it is for your information that, bike theft is also a common incident in the city as well. Is it possible to hire a bicycle, always ensure that you lock it firmly using an iron lock preferably a chain lock and park it in appropriate areas. Do not leave your bicycle at any place for long, it is even better not to leave it overnight.
1.3 Tourist Scams
There are several tourist-related frauds that tourists might encounter in Amsterdam such as fake surveys, street gambling, and people dressed as policemen. It is recommended you look both ways, not by the traffic lights, but when being approached most especially by strangers, officials. It is important for the public to note that genuine policemen in the Netherlands do not demand for money or personal details from the people directly.
2. Drug-Related Issues
According to the prevalent legislation in Netherlands and particularly the city of Amsterdam, marijuana is readily available in coffee houses that are licensed. It is worth clarifying that though marijuana in any quantities has become relatively legal to possess and consume, there are other kinds of drugs like cocaine and ecstasy that are prohibited by law and their use has potentially grave legal repercussions.
There is one thing to bear in mind which is that one should avoid unlawful behaviors. Do not buy drugs from unknown people or transact in the streets of the city. People need to take the substances responsibly as well as within the state and country laws and regulations.
3. Red-Light District
The Red-Light District as the name applies, it is a district located in Amsterdam that allows prostitution and other adult related businesses. Though, it is quite interesting to many of the travelers it should be respected and observed by the local laws and regulation.
It is strictly prohibited to take any pictures in Red Light District and one must understand that the women engaged in prostitution are not simply for display for tourists. This can include not teasing them, calling them mean names or coming onto them in any way.
4. Safety Tips for Visitors
Here are some other important safety tips that can be used to enhance the safety measures during ones visit in Amsterdam:
- It is also recommended not to walk at night, and if you do, it is better to do it not alone and not in the areas that are not well illuminated.
- It is safer to use credible and legal taxi services; if one cannot afford that, he or she has to rely on public means.
- Abstain from walking in northerly areas, areas that are deserted especially at night.
- It is important to write down emergency numbers which include the local police and your country’s embassy or consulate.
- Inform your lodgings of your travels.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Conclusion
It is true that Amsterdam is a safe city for tourists; however, proper measures should be taken to avoid any inconveniences. Some of the main problems that can be met when visiting this city are: It is necessary to act sensibly, keep to the law, and respect individuals if you want to become a regular guest in this great, beautiful city.
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