Well, if approaching this city of colorful destinations, one would have surely hear of the Red Light District. Rich in night life and sexual services the district has an important role in the cultural life of the city. In this guide we promise that you’ll get all the essentials along with a map that you would need to get through Red Light District effectively.
Section II Exploring the Culture Pearls: Case, the Red Light District
De Wallen is much better known as the Red Light District, which is a rather popular area in the center of Amsterdam. This district is also one of the oldest districts of the city, and millions of tourists come here annually. In this district one is likely to come across blended streets which comprise of commercial s.e.xual outlets, bistro, coffee shops, nightclubs among others.
The sex workers who advertise themselves by placing red lights on the exteriors of their windowless rooms gave the district its name. Controlling and monitoring the functioning of the sex workers in the Red Light District is legal in the Netherlands and the establishment are closely monitored for the satisfaction and protection of the prostitutes.
Finding the Red Light District
It is easy to find Red Light District because it is centrally located. This area lies in between two of the principal canals: Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal. It is located between Warmoesstraat in the west side and fronting the Zeedijk street in the eastern side.
[As seen in the map below,] the Red Light District is an area in Amsterdam.
It is pretty easy to run around the area by foot and it is located just a walking distance from Amsterdam Central Station. There is a large number of hotels located close to this area, although if you plan to travel around this district it may be more convenient to find a permanent place to stay in one of the hotels.
About what You are going to find in Red Light District
Some of the features you will readily notice when wandering around Red Light District include women standing behind windows that are lit in red. But there is more to the district than the sex trade as a number of tourists would want to believe.
1. Coffee Shops
It is also important to mention about cannabis culture of the city. Even if you don’t venture into the Red Light District, be prepared to see numerous coffee shops that sell and serve marijuana products legally. Please ensure that you recal Vista the rules and regulation of each coffee shop for they differ from one another.
2. Adult Stores and Clubs
Besides the brothels, local stores.
and clubs are available in the Red Light District. There are shops selling sex aids, enhancing underwears, and other items, which are uniquely chosen for couple’s bedroom pleasures. For the adult entertainment you will find that there are other clubs which provide live shows as well.
3. Bars and Restaurants
The industry is not only based on sexual entertainment. It also boasts of vibrant bar and restaurant business. Regardless, if you feel like relaxing over a beer, or enjoying a steak, you will not be left without choices. Don’t forget to buy some authentic Dutch foods such as bitterballen or stroopwafels.
Eye-Opening History and Traveling Recommendations
Here are some essential tips to make your visit to the Red Light District safe and enjoyable:
Be respectful: It is important to remember that the Red Light District is actually their workplace for the sex workers. Just be polite and don’t take pictures or talk to them inappropriately.
Use common sense: As in any other city the levels of safety increase along with the overall safety measures that should be taken into consideration. Travel in well lit areas and don’t stroll about alone in the evening.
Don’t buy drugs on the street: Although using marijuana is accepted in the coffee shops, purchasing any drugs on the streets are prohibited and risky. It is safe to order only in the licensed coffee shops and have a responsible take.
Try local tours: Those visitors who would like to get some more insights about the Red Light District and its history should certainly join a tour. A local guide will can be informative and make sure that your tour is fun and worthwhile.
In Conclusion
The Red Light District may be one of the most interesting areas in Amsterdam. It is important to go with no prejudice and with a certain degree of reverence to the workers and the culture of the country. With this information you will be able to have a good experience when you are in the district especially in Amsterdam.
