The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, has launched a campaign targeting British men traveling to the country in search of drugs and sex tourism.
The ad says British male tourists aged between 18 and 35 are not welcome in the city.
The initiative is part of an effort to change the reputation of the Dutch city, considered one of the most liberal in Europe. In Amsterdam, cafes can legally sell cannabis to users and brothels are also allowed.
But, a few months ago, the local authorities approved some limits to these activities and also started to try to scare away some specific groups of tourists, among them, young British people stand out.
They are known for the stereotype of drinking heavily and causing mayhem when traveling in Europe.
Amsterdam locals say Britons have no problem urinating in public, throwing up in canals, stripping naked and getting into big fights when drunk.
The videos are very explicit. They show young men staggering down the street, handcuffed by the police, and having their prints taken.
The ads show the risks associated with excessive alcohol and drug use. The videos will be triggered online each time people in the UK type phrases that link Amsterdam with words like sex, cheap hotel and bachelor party.
The Dutch capital benefits from tourism, receiving more than 10 million visitors a year.
But part of its residents suffer from disturbances, especially in the so-called Red Zone of the city, where brothels are concentrated.
They support the campaign. But critics say it is based on unfair stereotypes and is discriminatory.
New rules for sex workers
This Saturday (1st), new rules for sex workers came into force in Amsterdam.
The companies that hire the workers will have to close the service at three in the morning, instead of 6 am.
The reduced schedule comes amid a campaign to transfer these professionals to a specific center outside the city center.
In addition, Amsterdam is also implementing measures to limit cruise ships and impose restrictions on vacation rentals.
The reforms have drawn criticism from professionals, who say their income will be reduced and they believe they are being used as a scapegoat for the city’s problem with mass tourism.
Source: CNN Brasil
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