The historic Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, known for its iconic windmills and rich cultural heritage, will introduce an entry fee of €17.50 ($20.50; £15) starting next spring to regulate the increased number of tourists. This move, prompted by a significant rise in visitors—expected to hit 2.8 million this year—has been deemed necessary by local authorities, given that the village's permanent population is only about 100.
Local museum director Marieke Verweij shared the challenges faced by residents dealing with the influx, noting that in 2017, the village welcomed 1.7 million visitors, a figure that has surged over the last few years. We just don't have room for all these people! she lamented, pointing to issues of overcrowding and lack of privacy for the locals. She reported incidences of tourists wandering into private properties and homes, overwhelming the small community.
While the entry fee may dissuade some visitors, it also presents a compromise; tourists will gain access to both the museum and the interiors of the windmills, which are now paid attractions individually. This strategy is aimed at not only managing crowd size but also generating a potential annual revenue of around €24.5 million, which will be allocated for the maintenance of the windmills and improvements to local infrastructure, such as clean public toilets.
However, local shop owners and restaurant operators fear the fee may drive away visitors who otherwise contribute to their businesses. Sterre Schaap, a co-owner of a local gift shop, expressed concern that the fee could deter families, especially those on a budget. If you’re a family of four and have parking costs, it could total around €100 for a visit, leaving little room for other expenses, she remarked.
Despite mixed feelings about the fee, reactions from tourists vary. Some, like Elisia from Albania, recognize the need to protect the local charm, while others, like Steve from Massachusetts, view the fee as a fair exchange for a more comprehensive visitor experience.
Experts in tourism, such as Rachel Dodds from Toronto Metropolitan University, highlight similar approaches in other destinations, noting that entry fees for scenic spots like Bhutan and Venice have become more prevalent as communities seek to balance tourism with local needs. As Zaanse Schans prepares for this significant change, future visitors will need to adapt to a new normal of prepaid entry, reflecting an evolving landscape in global tourism.
