One of these places that you would not expect to find in Amsterdam is the Red Light District. This neighborhood is famous for legal prostitution, active nightlife and historical spirit for tourists. For those readers who are interested in learning about this peculiar area, read this extensive guide how to navigate through the Amsterdam Red Light District.
1. Understanding the History
The origins of the Red Light District can be seen from as far back as the 1300s when many of the district’s sex workers were first established. It became over the years the district of legalized and regulated prostitution that is characteristic of Amsterdam.
Currently, the area covers several streets including Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal where are prostitutes display themselves with their window lit with red light.
1.1 Regarding the Customs and Tradition of the People
When visiting the Red Light District of the city, one should not forget that it is also a legal district of the city. Some of the essential features include; privacy of local residents as well as the local businesses since the area is commercial and residential.
However, it is worth reminding that it is forbidden to take any photographs in most of the places of the Red Light District. It is unlawful to film or take a picture of the women working in the windows hence; refrain from doing it.
2. Experiencing the Atmosphere
And Red Light District is not only the place with numerous sex shops and bars; still, it is the concentrated district with an excellent night life. When walking around the town the streets are quite narrow and you will find both restaurants and cafés alongside the brothels and shops.
Certainly do not ignore the possibility to have a cup of coffee in the typical Dutch pubs named “brown cafes”. Thanks to these small and inviting venues you can try a beer produced by a local brewery and also chat with the staff.
2.1 You can also tour the Red Light District either on foot or by bicycle.
The only way to really get to know the Red Light District is on foot or by bike, where there are more opportunities to feel the atmosphere of the city. The area is very compact for walking around and you will not be followed by a guide while you move around the sites. Just make sure to keep an eye on your pockets, purses etc, because some streets are more popular among pickpockets due to the crowd.
If you decide to cycle, be cautious with thebike lanes, skinny roads and trams. Get acquitted with the roads in the particular country and avoid recklessness. For your information, there are many bike rental shops that are located across the city.
3. Visiting the Museums
Not only that the Red Light District is famous for the adult entertainment, there are numerous museums in the area which explain certain aspect of the city’s traditions and past.
The Museum of Prostitution or the Red Light Secrets is designed to give the visitors an insight into prostitution. Here you will be given a genuine insight into the lives of participants of the sex trade and the trade itself.
The other unique museum that attracts visitors is the Amsterdam Museum. This guide helps to admire the architecture and presents the history of the city, for example, the transformation of the Red Light District.
3.1 Staying Safe and Aware
For the most part Amsterdam is a safe city though it is always important to be more cautious especially in areas such as the Red Light district. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
Do not buy drugs at the black market because this is unlawful and the products could be fake.
Be careful, especially, with pockets, and do not lose sight of your property if you are in places where people may decide to steal.
Always respect the procedure and the restrictions placed by the local government.
4. Enjoying the Nightlife
As will be seen and indeed experienced, the Red Light District assumes its liveliness at night with great and pulsating nightlife. Its entertainment includes some of the best bars and clubs, great restaurants mixed with the Thuws of live music venues.
If you want to go to an unusual place then one can visit the famous “coffeeshops” in the region. These are licensed business entities which offer cannabis products for sale and the visitors may engage in and experience the city’s permissive drug law in a reasonable manner.
4.1 Planning Your Visit
The Red Light District operates later in the day and more specifically during weekends is busiest. If you do not like rush, avoid going there during festivals, and late at night or during weekends when the place isvery busy.
As with any populous area, it’s always wise to plan the visit in advance and take some time to study the area’s geography. This way, you will be able to move around the region with ease, and also stand a better chance of not losing out on most of the exciting features.
Conclusion
The Amsterdam Red Light District is a must-visit for any tourist yearning to explore the heart of the Dutch capital and it’s a lively evening scene. With regard to this it can be noted, to have a fun and informative visit to the area, one needs to embrace history, embrace local culture, and embrace safety. Take advantage of the neighbourhood and spend wandering or cycling, checking out the museums and feeling the vibrant spirit of this place.
