Amsterdam Takes Stand Against Overtourism by Halting New Hotel Construction
In a bid to combat the challenges of overtourism, Amsterdam has implemented a ban on the construction of new hotel buildings within the city. This move aims to regulate tourism flow and preserve the city's unique charm and resources.
Amsterdam, in the Netherlands, has announced a new measure to combat mass tourism by prohibiting the construction of new hotel buildings. The local government shared this decision on Wednesday, April 17, with the aim of preserving the livability of the city for both residents and visitors.
The statement released by the government emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable balance in tourism. To achieve this, Amsterdam will implement restrictions such as limiting hotel overnight stays by tourists to a maximum of 20 million per year. The goal is to prevent overtourism and maintain the city's unique charm.
A new hotel in Amsterdam can only be built if another hotel closes, if the number of sleeping places doesn’t increase, and if the new hotel will be better – for example, more sustainable. However, this rule does not apply to new hotels that have already secured a permit.
The city is making efforts to reduce the high number of tourists, especially those visiting the red light district for sex and drug-related activities.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - JULY 1: A general view of the 333 meter MSC Splendida, the largest ever cruise ship to visit Amsterdam on July 1, 2015 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Many European countries have issued weather alerts for a heatwave, expected to send temperatures soaring to a nine year high this week, with temperatures reachign as high as 40°C. (Photo by Michel Porro/Getty Images)
On July 1, 2015, the 333-meter MSC Splendida made its way to Amsterdam, making it the largest cruise ship to ever visit the city. A photo taken by Michel Porro shows the impressive view of the ship in Amsterdam, Netherlands. At the same time, many European countries were on high alert for a heatwave that was expected to bring temperatures up to a nine-year high, with highs reaching as much as 40°C.
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Amsterdam is banning cruise ships in a bid to combat overtourism
The Dutch capital has recently implemented new measures to address the problem of overtourism in the city. Last year, the Amsterdam City Council made the decision to prohibit cruise ships from docking and shut down its cruise terminal.
The city council implemented a new rule in 2021 called "Amsterdam Tourism in Balance" to manage the high number of tourists. According to this ordinance, the city will take action when the number of tourists reaches 18 million people.
As part of this initiative, the city has also prohibited the use of marijuana on public streets in the red light district. Additionally, guided tours that used to pass by sex workers' windows have been discontinued.
Editor's P/S:
Amsterdam's bold move to curb mass tourism is a testament to the growing concerns over the impact of overtourism on cities worldwide. The city's decision to halt hotel construction and limit tourist overnight stays demonstrates a commitment to preserving its livability and unique charm. By encouraging sustainable tourism practices and reducing the number of visitors, Amsterdam aims to create a balance between tourism revenue and the well-being of its residents.
However, it is important to note that the issue of overtourism is a complex one that requires a multifaceted approach. While restrictions on hotel construction and tourist numbers are necessary steps, they alone cannot solve the problem. City governments must also address the root causes of overtourism, such as low-cost air travel and the promotion of mass tourism. Additionally, tourism authorities need to work closely with local communities to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably and that the city's cultural heritage is respected.
