Amsterdam's Worst Behaved Tourists: The Perception in Residents' Eyes

Amsterdam is a city known for its beauty, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. However, the concept of a responsible traveler is sometimes lost on visitors, leading to various behaviors that residents find frustrating. This article explores the common issues and perceptions surrounding tourists in Amsterdam from a local's perspective.

Tourists Primarily Engaging in Excessive Partying

One of the most common complaints by residents is the significant influx of tourists who seem to visit the city solely for excessive partying. This trend is particularly pronounced in areas such as the Red Light District and around popular nightlife spots. Public drunkenness, loud noise, and rowdy behavior can irritate both residents and other tourists, often leading to conflicts and tension.

Disrespectful Behavior in the Red Light District

A specific issue that stands out is how some visitors treat the Red Light District with a lack of respect for the sex workers. Unconsented photos, out-of-hand attitudes, and treating the area as mere entertainment rather than a legitimate industry can be quite disrespectful. Residents often emphasize the need for tourists to show better respect and consider the cultural and professional context of the Red Light District.

Cyclist Safety Violators

Amsterdam is a city built on the back of cycling; its residents take great pride in their cycling culture. However, tourists who are unfamiliar with bike lanes and traffic rules can be a source of frustration. Erratic behavior such as walking or riding in bike lanes can not only be a safety hazard but also disrupt the flow of well-integrated cycling culture that locals enjoy. Dutch cyclists often have little patience for such behavior.

Drug Use and Misuse

Amsterdam has a lenient stance on cannabis in designated coffee shops, but some tourists abuse this privilege, leading to public disturbances or illegal drug use outside these establishments. The misuse of cannabis can cause public disturbances, leading to even more problems for the city and its residents.

Disregard for Local Customs and Etiquette

tourists who do not adhere to the local customs and social norms can also be viewed negatively by residents. This includes noise levels, littering, and not following established social etiquettes. Some of the most egregious behaviors include disrespect for public spaces and noise pollution, which can be especially problematic in residential areas.

Hen and Stag Parties

Hen and stag parties can often fall into the category of disruptive behavior. While these parties can be fun, some visitors from around the world, particularly those from the United Kingdom, seem to lose all sense of respect during these events. My wife and I, who own a townhouse in the Jordaan, a quieter area of the city, still experience unseemly situations. The aftermath, including vomiting and public drunkenness, is often viewed with shock by the local community, while female parties are often deemed the worst behaved, up to and including fighting.

City Safety in Perspective

Despite these issues, it is important to note that the city is generally safe. The majority of crime here is simple bicycle theft or pickpocketing. While it is true that some tourists bring disruptive behavior, many visitors do enjoy the city responsibly and contribute positively to the local economy.

In conclusion, while Amsterdam is a city that welcomes tourists, the perception of the best and worst behaviors reflects the city's values and norms. Residents would appreciate it if tourists could show more respect and consideration for local customs, cultural spaces, and public spaces.