The historic Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, renowned for its iconic windmills, is facing a tourist surge. Set to attract 2.8 million visitors this year, the local council has decided to impose a €17.50 entry fee for non-residents from next spring to manage the influx.
With a tiny population of just 100 residents, the village has witnessed the number of tourists skyrocket from 1.7 million in 2017. Marieke Verweij, director of the village's museum, highlighted the strain tourism puts on daily life: visitors often intrude on private properties and disregard community privacy.
At the same time, the local shops and restaurants fear the fee will deter potential visitors, as noted by Sterre Schaap of Trash and Treasures. The anticipated decline in foot traffic could significantly impact their businesses.
Despite the concerns voiced by locals, many tourists expressed an understanding of the need for control. Some believe that charging an entrance fee could even enhance their experience by streamlining access to the windmills and associated activities, contrasting those who find the fee excessive for a simple view of the landscape.
In comparing Zaanse Schans to other global tourist hotspots, experts point out that charging entrance fees is becoming more common as destinations seek to manage visitor numbers and uphold their unique character. With its entrance fee, Zaanse Schans joins other notable sites like Bhutan and Venice in an effort to balance tourism with the preservation of local culture.
