The Netherlands is drowning in tourists (and doesn’t have enough space for them)

Everybody wants a bit of the Netherlands. How could they not? The land of windmills and bikes appeals to tourists and business travellers alike. The problem? There is not enough space for all of them.

According to AD.nl, the Netherlands will welcome about 21 million foreign tourists this year — on top of the 29 million domestic vacations taken by Dutchies. 

According to the Dutch Tourism & Conventions Board (NBTC), this represents a 30 per cent growth in tourists and business travellers. This year alone. 😳

Where is everyone coming from?

Germans, in particular, are increasingly flocking to the Netherlands, accounting for about 7 million foreign guests. Tourists from other countries like the UK and China are lagging behind because of COVID-19 restrictions.

COVID-19 restrictions? Yup, the UK and China stand out in how they handled the crisis because their restrictions lasted much longer. As a result, there are disproportionately fewer visitors from these countries now.

READ MORE | More and more tourists flock to the Netherlands each year: here’s why

Still, the non-Dutch visitors account for approximately 21 million visitors to explore this bike-filled land. That being said, the number of staycations by Dutch tourists will stay stable at almost 29 million.

In total, that leaves the Netherlands with almost 50 million tourists! And, of course, 50 million people shifting around this tiny, flat country will lead to some spatial issues. 

Okay, so what happens now?

Regardless of whether someone is from the Netherlands, all these people take on a “tourist” lifestyle, and they need shelter in places like campsites, hotels, and other accommodations.

READ MORE | 9 tourist traps in the Netherlands (and the best alternatives)

The result? There is literally not enough space for everyone. Because of this, “doing nothing is no longer an option,” NBTC director Jos Vranken tells AD.nl.

It’s not just for the tourists, but something also has to be done to make sure that certain areas stay livable for the locals.

@driplist Which other ones did we forget to mention? 😅 #livinginthenetherlands #netherlands #amsterdam #touristinamsterdam #hetboeitmeniet #dutchstories ♬ Chill Like That – Sunday Scaries & PiCKUPLiNES

The NBTC is taking action by asking to be a part of the discussion regarding spatial plans in the Netherlands.

Specific cities are also starting to take matters into their own hands. In Amsterdam, for example, attempts are being made to reduce tourism because the quality of life is under pressure.

Have you noticed an increase in people moving around your city in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments!

Feature Image:Unsplash
Julia de Oliveira Moritz
Julia de Oliveira Moritz
Júlia was born in Brazil, but she’s been away for more than half her life. At five years old, she moved to Nigeria, and at 14, she came to the Netherlands. She came for her education and stayed for… something. She’s not sure if that something is the vibrant springtime or the live music bars. All she knows is that this is her new home, at least for now.

2 COMMENTS

    • Hi there! You’re right; we meant 29 million domestic vacations (holiday movements within the country) — we have fixed this error now. Thanks!

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