About Red Light District
Red Light District is one of the major attractions in Amsterdam. It is an original experience, because you can see sex workers who freely and openly practice the oldest profession in the world. Women (and men) are standing in their open rooms, waiting for customers. These rooms have large windows, framed with red light and various signs.
It may seem odd, but this is a bustling and atmospheric neighborhood, crowded with people. There are #sex #shops, cabarets, cinemas and bars, brothels and peep shows, live sex or interactive shows and private houses with a traditional form of service, all mixed with loud music, neon lights and excited #tourists.
When to visit Red Light District
You should see Red Light District, even just out of curiosity. Most of the women come to their windows around 11 PM, but some are there during daylight. Generally, the windows are closed between 6 AM and 8 AM. Be aware that it鈥檚 strictly forbidden to take #photos or to film private #cabins.
Why to visit Red Light District
Red Light District is actually very picturesque part of the city, with original 14th century architecture, narrow streets, and scenic canals. Oude Kerk stands in the middle of it. Additionally, you can find great restaurants here. Some of them were the first in #Europe to serve authentic international cuisines.
The first notes about prostitution in Amsterdam are from the 17th century. In order to prevent criminal and forced prostitution, the #Dutch legalized prostitution in 1810 and brothels in 2000. There are over 290 red-lit windows today in this charming district. It is pretty safe, because of policemen and private guards, who are constantly watching everything. Just beware of drug dealers, pickpockets and some peculiar people who are wandering the streets.
Right in front of Oude Kerk, you can find Prostitution Information Center (PIC), established in 1994. It defends the rights of sex workers, and organizes public lectures and guided tours through Red Light District. There鈥檚 a Sex Museum here, as well as Prostitute Monument. Various shops are selling books, condoms and sex equipment.
Significance of Red Light District
Prostitution is legal in Holland. Workers from Red Light District are tax payers, and the government is trying to regulate their working standards and to give them better medical care. Still, there's discrimination and stereotypes their union is fighting against every day. For example, some banks refuse to grant mortgages to #sex workers.
Red Light District will make visitors think a bit more on similar subjects. It will also show all the diversities and the liberties Amsterdam is proud of!