Timed visits, taxes and pledges: The strategies diverting tourists from hotspots

Timed visits, taxes and pledges: The strategies diverting tourists from hotspots By Nelli Saarinen and Caitlyn Davey Topic: Travel and Tourism

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For many people, a holiday in a beautiful destination far from home is the perfect way to relax and leave behind the daily grind.

For those who live in tourist destinations, travellers bring business and work opportunities.

But when more and more people flock to the same places, the pressure on locals and their environment can become destructive.

The city of Amsterdam, known worldwide for its picturesque canals, red light district and bike lanes, has stopped investing in traditional marketing altogether.

Amsterdam, known for its red light district, is trying to shake its reputation as a "permissive playground". ( AFP: Ramon van Flymen via ANP )