Summary
The Dutch village of Zaanse Schans will start charging tourists an entry fee next spring to manage overcrowding. The village, known for its historic windmills, has seen a rapid increase in visitors, causing privacy issues for residents. The entry fee will allow visitors to access the museum and windmills and is aimed at funding infrastructure improvements.
Key Facts
- Zaanse Schans is a village in the Netherlands famous for its windmills.
- The village plans to charge tourists €17.50 starting next spring.
- Last year, the village had 2.6 million visitors, with projections of 2.8 million for this year.
- The village has only about 100 residents, creating an overcrowding issue.
- The fee includes entry to the village museum and windmills.
- The council aims to use the funds for windmill maintenance and new infrastructure.
- Local shop and restaurant owners worry the fee may reduce their customer base.
- The charge is intended to address privacy concerns and improve visitor management.
