Amsterdam's red-light district opened its first "prostitution museum" on Thursday, hoping to lure tourists who always wondered what life was like for those on the other side of the infamous glass windows — but were too afraid to ask.
"How do they liveIJ What happens in their worldIJ" said Melcher de Wind, a founder of the "Red light Secrets Museum of Prostitution" which showcases one of the Dutch capital's most famous attractions. "I have always wondered what really happens behind those neighbourhood windows."
Nestled between two famous brothels overlooking a canal, the new attraction seeks to offer something different to nearby museums on the subject such as the Sex Museum or the Museum of Eroticism. "The other museums focus on sex and sexual performance. The new museum gives you a glimpse into the world of sex workers — what it feels like to stand behind a window and the looks you get," explained Yolanda van Doeveren, who deals with prostitution for the Amsterdam municipality. "Maybe tourists will get a chance to change their behaviour and show a little more respect," she added.