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Redlight District
The Red Light District in Amsterdam is without a doubt the most famous neighborhood of its kind in the world. For over five hundred years it has been an area of special interest for visitors from abroad, for both obvious and less obvious reasons. Perhaps unexpectedly to some, the Red Light District has an atmosphere about it that attracts not only those figures traditionally associated with the "darker side" of city life, but plain average people as well.
You find them wandering around, sometimes embarrassed or amused, sometimes excited by the sight of those who sell their bodies under the sensual glow of red lights.
But there is more to the Red Light District: The old pubs where travelers, students and colorful figures from all walks of life gather to enjoy a drink in the midst of all the sensationalism, the ancient architecture that one finds oneself admiring in passing while glancing at other things, and a multitude of unique shops selling souvenirs, paraphernalia and other goods that one might find oneself in need of while in town.
In short, the Red Light district is well worth paying a visit, for more than one reason…
Prostitution is legal in Holland, and in Amsterdam most of it is concentrated in the Red Light District. Even if you don't want to play, this is a place you may want to see at night, when the red lights reflect from the inky surface of the canals. Lots of visitors come here out of curiosity or just for fun. There's no problem with wandering around, and you don't need to worry much about crime as long as you stick to the busier streets--and keep an eye out for pickpockets. While you can josh with the hookers behind the windows, taking pictures of them is a no-no; large and observant men are always on the lookout and will have no qualms about throwing your camera (and maybe you) into the canal.
Theater Casa Rosso has what many consider to be the "best" red light show in town, if one could rate such things. It's just what it advertises: Live adult shows on a stage. (Casa Rosa is distinguishable by the marble penis fountain in front of the door.)
Don't worry about finding the other live adult shows - they will find you. Their not-so-subtle doormen talk up their place to all comers.
The Red Light District is not all adult shops and window girls. There are several coffee shops and bars contained within its boundaries. The best pubs are The Old Sailor and Cafe Zeevaart ("Sea Breeze" in English). As one might expect, the clientele is largely male.
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