During this sunny spring break, Texel is again busy with tourists and day trippers. Much needed for the island, but many Texel residents also suffer from the crowds. The island has been struggling for years to find the right balance and that is why the municipality is now working on stricter rules.
Er an estimated one million people visit the island each year, accounting for four million overnight stays. Opinions about whether Texel is too crowded are divided. That it is an important source of income is certain. No less than 80 percent of the islanders depend on tourism.
North Holland
Not only Texel is in a dilemma when it comes to tourism.To limit mass tourism in Amsterdam, there will be a smoking ban in the old city center from mid-May. The alcohol ban is also being tightened. Finally, the closing times for catering and prostitution will be brought forward, so that residents get more rest in the late night.
In Zandvoort, thelarge flow of tourists residents nowhere to lose their car. That is why the parking rate there will now increase from four to eight euros per hour. In Amsterdam they are also fed up with the crowds and there you now also pay almost eight euros per hour. Monnickendam, on the other hand, is eager for more tourists. Where Marken and Volendam are flooded by day trippers, they ignore Monnickendam.
What do you think?
Do you live in a tourist area? What do you think of (mass) tourism? Do you think it is too busy in North Holland? Or maybe you depend on tourism and are you happy with the large influx? We’d love to hear from you!