The Red Light District of Amsterdam is one of the most popular places to visit in Amsterdam due to their nightlife and historical landmarks as well as the lively ambiance. Although, because of some current happenings and the coronavirus disease 2019, many tourists are asking themselves whether the Red Light District is still operational. Here at The Amsterdam PATH, you will find the most recent information regarding the Red Light District and the state it is currently in.
Gangsters in Red Light District
De Wallen is situated in the city center and is easily one of the oldest and most famous red light districts on the planet. It is defined by its winding network of alleyways, canal side buildings, and the well known red lighted windows in which prostitution thrives. Prostitution however is legal in the Netherlands but there is some level of control put in place to protect the prostitutes.
The Impact of COVID-19
Similar to many other countries in the globe, the Netherlands has been facing an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To curb the spread of the new virus, the government of the Netherlands has on different occasions taken certain measures such as closing down some form of businesses and limiting travel. All these factors have had the following effects on the Red Light District.
Temporary shutdown of brothels and sex working
As a response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Dutch government shut down the sex workers for three months and banned paid sexual work. The closure was planned to prevent the virus spread in environments that entails close contact with other people.
Gradual Reopening
With the enhanced situation, the government of the Netherlands started to relax measures and permit specific sectors to resume: De Wallen area acknowledged the continuation of sex work in specific parlors. But, opening brought a lot of conditions and safety rules to minimize the dangers for both the employees of the organization and other people.
The Current Status
At the moment during the coronavirus crisis the Red Light District in Amsterdam is open although with some restrictions and following COVID-19 rules. Formerly, visitors need to obey the guidelines of the government and accept the restrictions set in the course of protecting the health of all the people.
Measures For Protection And Procedures
To curb the spread of COVID19 within Red Light District, the Dutch government and other agencies of compentence have set measures to enhance safety. Some of these measures include:
Physical distancing, and this should refer to a distance of 1.5 meters (approximately 5 feet) between people.
Covers which are worn on the face or neck, including face masks and headscarves, to be worn in indoor settings, including brothels.
Conformity to measures of hygiene and washing of the hands.
Reducing the number of people that certain premises can host at a given instance.
For any visitor or sex workers, it is important to fully observe such measures for them to achieve a safe and responsible atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Potential visitors to the Red Light District in Amsterdam should ensure that they have read through this article and understand the current guidelines under which people are expected to operate. Here are a few tips to help you:
Check Travel Advisories
When planning to visit Amsterdam, it will be wise to first look at the official travel warnings and what is in place to limit or prohibit entry to people from your country. It is important to adhere to all entry measures and be safe from the virus and all the related risks.
Stay Informed
Get to know the current situation in Amsterdam and the Red Light District. When looking for updates on COVID-19 guidelines and regulation, consult government health sites as well as popular respected newspapers.
Respect Local Regulations
When in the area, everyone is supposed to adhere to the strict set down rules of the Red Light District. Practice social distancing and wear face masks where required and/or as instructed by the authorities or other staff of the establishment. Please don’t forget that these measures are meant to ensure the health and well being or all people.
In the following chapters a closer look will be taken at the current state and the future of the Red Light District.
As the COVID-19 pandemic endures, the future of the Red Light District and tourism in general remains unknown It remains to be seen what uses the area will find popular in the coming years. We also need to remember that news and guidelines change from time to time and so should endeavour to be acquainted with them. Both the city authorities of Amsterdam and commercial companies try to protect residents and guests of the city as well as prostitutes from potential threats and maintain the historical and cultural character of the district.
In Conclusion
Currently, the Red Light District in Amsterdam is open but when visiting entertainment facilities it is utmost important to wear masks, follow the social distancing rules and avoid crowded places. In like manner, you can explore the environment and feel the aura of the district without endangering one’s health as well as the health of the population of the community. Maintain your awareness, make your necessary preparations, and have fun responsibly, please.
