OK...so why is a nice woman like me interested in this area? I wasn't sure myself until I got there. It's quite a cross section of humanity and, in some ways, a real lesson in sociology. Aside from being the center of the sex industry in Holland (accounts for 5% of the country's economy), it's been growing exponentially into quite a tourist destination.
I wasn't exactly sure where "it" was when I started out, but realized I was close when I started seeing mainstream tourist shops with references to "red". There were standard gift shops and eateries sprinkled throughout the district and the area was very busy with people of ALL sorts. I saw walking tours from Japan and China, one with mostly senior citizens and another with mostly younger folks. I trailed along with another group that had an English speaking guide and learned a few things. :) There were many families walking along with children of all ages. Quite a sight.....the people watching was great!
The narrow alleys that extended from the main canal-side streets were marked with a round blue sign showing icons of a mother and child designating "child-friendly" paths with no ladies in red-lit windows. The main canal-side streets really came alive after dark when the lights came on and reflected in the water, the crowds increased and, from what I saw, some business was transacted.
OK...so why is a nice woman like me interested in this area? I wasn't sure myself until I got there. It's quite a cross section of humanity and, in some ways, a real lesson in sociology. Aside from being the center of the sex industry in Holland (accounts for 5% of the country's economy), it's been growing exponentially into quite a tourist destination.
I wasn't exactly sure where "it" was when I started out, but realized I was close when I started seeing mainstream tourist shops with references to "red". There were standard gift shops and eateries sprinkled throughout the district and the area was very busy with people of ALL sorts. I saw walking tours from Japan and China, one with mostly senior citizens and another with mostly younger folks. I trailed along with another group that had an English speaking guide and learned a few things. :) There were many families walking along with children of all ages. Quite a sight.....the people watching was great! 
The narrow alleys that extended from the main canal-side streets were marked with a round blue sign showing icons of a mother and child designating "child-friendly" paths with no ladies in red-lit windows. The main canal-side streets really came alive after dark when the lights came on and reflected in the water, the crowds increased and, from what I saw, some business was transacted.
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