Welcome to the Red Light District of Amsterdam
The prostitution part you might be familiar with is called ‘De Wallen’ or, the Red Light District in Amsterdam. It is one of Amsterdam’s prominent features and remains a point of discussion both loved by millions of tourists yearly.
Detailed history of the prostitution area of Amsterdam
The history of the Red Light District began in the 14th century as the place was important both as a seaport and a trading center. In the course of the years, as seamen went to the area looking for entertainment, it was soon identified with prostitution. Today it is a major tourist destination with hundreds of years of history behind.
How Does It Work?
Prostitution in the Amsterdam Red Light District functions under window prostitution. The place is composed of several streets and every girl rent a small rooms called ‘the windows’. These windows have red lights to show that the sex worker is on duty for business.
The Role of the Prostitutes
They are the common and important characters in the Red Light District. They act as sub contractors in windows and operate their own businesses, fix their own charges and timetables. They enjoy the opportunity to select own clientele and may agree with the terms of their service offering.
Safety and Regulations
The Dutch government headed by the capital city of Amsterdam has provided all out measures for the safety of the prostitutes as well as visitors. The workers are forced to be subjected to the periodic health check and the district has a rigorous surveillance by security officials. There are actually no laws against prostitution though the business is legal making it easier to regulate the whole venture.
Tourism in Red Light district of Amsterdam
If you are planning to visit the Red Light District, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Respect the workers: Please do not forget addressing sex work as a profession and being polite to the workers.
No photography: There is also an absolute bar against photography or filming of the prostitutes. Some of these concerns are for the benefit of the second party as well as for your own sake.
Observe the rules: You should strictly abide the rules and regulation of the district to avoid getting into trouble while enjoying your favorite activity.
Be cautious: Concerned with theft, especially for pocket, tourists especially males, should be more vigilant especially at night when the area may be filled with many people.
Consider a guided tour: For anyone interested in the history and culture of Red Light District, it is possible to easily sign up for one.
Is It All About Prostitution?
Although, the primary aim of the visitors to the Red Light District is prostitution, there is still more to the area. It is equally a perfect place for shop lovers, cafe and bars lovers and even museum lovers. Alternatively it will be worth to visit different bars and clubs of the district or just take a romantic walk down its beautiful streets.
The Transformation: Future Plans
There has over the years been some debate about the possibility of the redevelopment of the Red Light District. City authorities want his area to be repopulated, socially accepted and crime-free, so that the ratio of sex work to all other trades can be brought back into equilibrium. They intend to do so by minimizing the number of windows, and expanding new business prospects in the region.
Conclusion
The Red Light District in Amsterdam is historically and culturally an interesting area. It functions on a scheme known as window prostitution, thus ensuring that environment is well controlled for the prostitutes and clients. If you are going there or not, it is always good to know how this famous area works.
