Zaanse Schans, a historic village in the Netherlands known for its picturesque windmills, is set to introduce an entry fee of €17.50 ($20.50; £15) for visitors from outside the area starting next spring. This decision follows a significant increase in tourist numbers, with visits rising from 1.7 million in 2017 to an estimated 2.8 million this year, while the local population remains around 100 residents. The local council aims to control visitor numbers and mitigate increasing discomfort among residents, who have reported issues such as intrusions into private gardens and homes.
Marieke Verweij, director of the village’s museum, emphasized the challenges posed by high tourist volumes, stating, “We just don’t have room for all these people.” The council plans to use the revenue generated from the fees to maintain the village’s infrastructure, including the windmills. Currently, visitors must pay separately for access to the museum and the interiors of the windmills; the new fee will encompass both.
Concerns have been raised by local shop and restaurant owners regarding the potential impact on their businesses. Sterre Schaap, co-owner of a gift shop, noted that the entrance charge may deter visitors who cannot afford additional expenses, potentially resulting in a decline in sales.
While some tourists expressed skepticism about paying for entry, others see the new fee as a reasonable trade-off for a more managed visitor experience. The situation in Zaanse Schans draws comparisons to other tourist destinations, such as Bhutan and Venice, which also implement entry fees to manage visitor flow and preserve local culture.
As Zaanse Schans prepares to implement this fee, it raises broader questions about the management of tourist sites and the sustainability of small communities facing the pressures of mass tourism.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn4ly3mr443o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss