Exploring Amsterdam’s Famous Red Light District
The capital of Netherlands is Amsterdam, a city renowned for its interesting past, beautiful canals, thriving art scene and robust culture. One aspect of Amsterdam however which is always cause to raise an eyebrow is its colourful Red Light District. As we explore what the Red Light District is, where it came from, and how it got to be rebranded so evil, maybe they’ll let us experience its birth. For now, let’s explore this blog post along with a few practical tips that may be helpful when you do visit the Red Light District.
What is the Red Light District?
Prostitution in Amsterdam is legal and regulated in the area called the Red Light District. It lies in the oldest quarter of the city, De Wallen, along a number of canals. It is identified by its red lit windows where a woman advertises her sex for money to clients.
The History of the Red Light District
The history of the Red Light District is quite interesting being as it involves many centuries. Merchants and sailors started to appear in Amsterdam in the 14th century, resulting in a flourishing port city. During that time prostitution started to appear in the city.
In the 19th century the Dutch government legalized and regulated prostitution. It was meant to protect sex workers, improve public health, combat human trafficking. Cardinally, the Red Light District symbolizes today an Amsterdam that was progressive in its stand on sex work.
Exploring the Red Light District
1. Visit the Museum of Prostitution
A must visit when in the world of the Red Light District is the Museum of Prostitution; also known as Red Light Secrets. This is an educational and interactive museum a behind the scene look at the life of sex workers and the history of the district.
2. Protect the Workers’ Privacy and Respect its People.
When walking through the Red Light District, considering that the sex workers are human beings and people to be treated with respect. The workers should not be regarded as objects to photograph, nor should any form of harassment be permitted to take place. Finally, it is essential to let them be and not knock on the windows, or make any inappropriate gestures.
3. Know of Local Laws and Regulations
Should you visit the Red Light District, try to know the laws and regulations in the country first. Before listing any activities you should consider that some are prohibited strictly, for example drug use or public disturbance. When playing them you should follow the rules that will make you play safely and have a good time.
4. They should discover the area during the daytime.
If you are interested in the Red Light District but hesitate to visit, I suggest you go during the daylight hours. At night, the district came alive becoming vibrant and vibrant. Visiting the area during the day will give you an opportunity to see the architecture, the canal side cafes and the one of a kind boutiques that blend in with the architecture.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that many visitors to Amsterdam are intrigued by the subject of the Red Light District. Learning about its history and respecting the rules of the road can help you have an intimate look at this unusual neighborhood while keeping in mind the big picture of the city’s cultural and social background. Keep in mind, the Red Light District is no place to be judgmental towards the sex workers.
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