oleh admin | Agu 23, 2025 | community, culture, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel
Featuring ancient windmills and sloped-roof wooden homes situated along a winding river, the picturesque and widely popular spot known as Zaanse Schans is essential to visit for anyone exploring the Netherlands.
However, the village with its historic structures close to Amsterdam has been labeled “a national emblem of over-tourism” by local officials, who currently aim to implement a controversial entry fee.
The intense discussion regarding the proposed 17.50-euro ($20) ticket for next year occurs amid worldwide opposition to overcrowded tourism, with popular destinations such as Venice imposing fees for daily visits.
On a magnificent summer day during AFP’s visit, lengthy lines for the renowned windmills stretched outside the entrance, with groups moving across bridges, patiently awaiting photo opportunities showcasing the picturesque landscape.
Buses release hundreds of sightseeing visitors throughout the day, filling up a modestly sized space that remains open and accessible without charge — at least temporarily.
The local authority in neighboring Zaanstad claims the charge is essential for maintaining historic structures, which are facing “intense strain” due to large visitor volumes.
“Over the past few years, the Zaanse Schans has become a national emblem of over-tourism,” stated councilor Wessel Breunesse.
Approximately 2.6 million visitors came in the previous year, according to the council, with projections indicating an increase to three million in future years unless action is taken.
A ticket charge might lower the yearly number to approximately 1.8 million visitors and generate millions of euros for maintaining these historical structures.
“Not taking action is not feasible. With insufficient funds for proper upkeep, the heritage will disappear within a few years,” stated the council in a message delivered to AFP.
Tourism-dependent economy
Many visitors remain unaware until their arrival that although numerous structures originate from the 16th century, the location itself is a modern and constructed anomaly.
Following World War II, conventional wooden building techniques faced the risk of being completely lost.
Enthusiastic about safeguarding this piece of history, local Mayor Joris in ‘t Veld proposed a solution: he intended to move the homes and place them at a newly secured location.
In 1955, the first mill came into existence, followed by the first home a few years afterward. In time, the “Zaanse Schans” location became renowned enough to be formally inaugurated by Queen Juliana in 1972.
“Zaanse Schans was not originally intended to be the global attraction it has become, drawing millions of tourists from around the globe,” said councilor Breunesse.
However, for local resident and entrepreneur Ingrid Kraakman, the proposal to impose an entry fee would be catastrophic, not only as a community member but also for the dairy store where she is employed.
“A local living here doesn’t wish to reside behind a barrier… that’s unacceptable,” said the 62-year-old person, speaking to AFP from her 17th-century house located in the center of Zaanse Schans.
Kraakman and her husband Ko have resided in this region for 33 years and feel that implementing an entry charge would severely harm the local economy and employment opportunities.
“She mentioned there is significant fear,” she noted, adding that approximately 80 percent of the regional economy relies on tourism.
Her dairy store is full of visitors drawn in by complimentary tastings and mementos, yet she mentioned that the charge would significantly hinder their expenditure.
A household of four would already be spending approximately 80 euros including parking, which cuts into their funds for in-venue shopping, she pointed out.
“They do not purchase cheese. They do not buy clocks. Instead, they opt for a keepsake or perhaps the tiniest piece of cheese available,” she said to AFP.
Referendum demand
The Kraakmans have gathered over 2,000 signatures for a vote on this matter, yet their efforts have not been heeded at the municipal office.
Knowing about certain local opposition, the council has promised that the location will remain accessible to residents and that there won’t be any barrier surrounding the space.
Even though the plans are set for next year, an adjustment has been proposed to account for potential postponements. Currently, 2026 appears as an overly ambitious target — referred to by a local authority figure under confidentiality as a “moonshot.”
Many visitors believed the journey was worthwhile despite having to cover the costs.
Spanish tourist Robert Duque said to AFP: “It’s a beautiful location, although at times it gets very busy and you can’t fully appreciate the experience.”
A 35-year-old operations manager stated that he would be open to paying an entry fee to reduce tourism numbers.
“I believe it’s beneficial; thus, we can space out the arrival of visitors and make better use of the amenities,” stated Duque.
oleh admin | Agu 15, 2025 | business, community, culture, lifestyle, local news
Having managed a rural guesthouse for six years, Tay ethnic woman Thong unexpectedly gained popularity on social media, bringing recognition to her secluded village in northern Vietnam.
“Never before have I had my homestay completely reserved for three consecutive months since I began this six years ago,” said the proprietor of Ban Lien Pine Homestay, located 20 kilometers away from Bac Ha Town in Lao Cai Province, which lies 300 kilometers north-west of Hanoi.
we were unable to handle the influx of reservation inquiries.
In April, her host family home was selected as the shooting site for a Vietnamese reality television program.
In July, when the program was broadcast, the 36-year-old gained widespread attention; her videos documenting everyday activities received millions of hits.
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A front-row view with Thong leads artists through rural daily activities as part of a television series. Image provided by Gia Dinh Ha Ha
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She states: “I wasn’t particularly impressed with it during production. I had no idea how famous the visitors were.”
The unexpected attention brought happiness along with an influx of reservations. Her guesthouse was fully reserved from July through September, including weekday dates. However, Thong’s family maintains a slow and eco-friendly schedule: three days of welcoming guests, followed by two days of break.
Pham Hoang Long, a tourist from Hanoi, spent his stay at the homestay during June.
Following the performance, he was pleased the venue received acknowledgment, describing it as a restorative refuge offering clean air, beautiful scenery, and tea.
What set it apart was the host; she is skilled at cooking, proficient in playing the leaf flute, and organizes distinctive excursions including hat making, fishing, and tea preparation.
He mentioned that he would come back provided he could secure a room.
In 2019, Thong and her spouse initiated the homestay project as part of an eco-friendly countryside tourism initiative involving four additional households.
It offered instruction in hospitality, secure food preparation, and home stay administration, along with providing loans worth 50 million VND ($1,911) to attendees.
Within a 100-square-meter elevated home, Thong allocated seven dormitory-style rooms and one individual room to host 20 visitors.
Her charges begin at VND150,000 ($5.70) per individual each night.
Although tourism provides a more convenient lifestyle compared to agriculture, Thong’s family continues to manage their rice paddies and incorporates agricultural tasks into the visitor activities, allowing guests to gain deeper insight into local customs.
She mentioned that hospitality can be demanding, yet interacting with individuals from various places makes it rewarding.
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Thong (R) demonstrates to a guest how to transport a conventional basket. Image provided by Ban Lien Pine Homestay
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The trips are adaptable and designed according to the family’s everyday routine. Guests are encouraged to participate if they choose to drink tea in the morning or help with rice planting in the fields during the afternoon.
In addition to other activities such as touring waterfalls, Thong and her spouse alternate in handling household responsibilities while providing guided tours for payment.
Thong states: “80% of our visitors like to stick to our daily schedule. They consume what we eat, and participate in whatever activities we undertake.”
Certain visitors consider the agricultural tasks demanding and leave before completing their stay; therefore, the family hires additional assistance as required.
More dangerous activities are avoided, and every guest receives information and is required to sign a release form prior.
Tasks such as harvesting vegetables or moving rice seedlings often require half a day or longer.
The price ranges from 400,000 to 500,000 Vietnamese dong per group for four to five distinct activities ($15 – $19).
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People attempt to catch fish. Image provided by Ban Lien Pine Homestay
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Although tourism brings additional duties to their agricultural lifestyle, Thong views it as a means to maintain cultural customs and generate consistent earnings.
She begins her day at 4 or 5 in the morning and finishes long after midnight.
She leaves for the field before dawn, as her visitors remain asleep.
By 7 a.m., she returns to the kitchen to prepare morning meals. Her spouse assumes responsibility for cooking, their daughter lends a hand whenever possible, and during large gatherings, neighbors contribute, although Thong prefers to personally escort the visitors.
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A collection of international tourists enjoy a meal alongside Thong’s family. Image provided by Ban Lien Pine Homestay
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Despite her increasing fame, she continues to focus on eco-friendly travel practices.
She prevents overcrowding, keeping a schedule that her family can handle. If the number of visitors goes beyond what she can accommodate, she directs them to other local families, making sure the advantages of tourism are distributed throughout the neighborhood.
At age 39, Thong remains involved in agriculture, hosts visitors, and acquires new abilities to enhance her tourist experiences. She is committed to developing a tourism approach that preserves her mountainous cultural heritage.
“If the entire village benefits from tourism, it can continue, and remains authentic to our identity,” said the local leader.
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | business, commerce, community, lifestyle, local news
Approximately 3,000 residents of the Kitenden community in Amboseli are set to benefit from their investment in a WorldLife conservation camp.
On Thursday, April 3, Tourism Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano presided over the ground-breaking ceremony for a highly luxurious and select upscale tourism complex in the region.
“Today, we welcome a pace-setting development as we witness the groundbreaking of the construction of an ultra-luxurious and exclusive high-end tourist facility in the Kitenden area of Amboseli,” said Miano in a press statement seen by
SANGGRALOKA.co.ke
.
In what manner did the local community consent to construct the lodge?
The CS mentioned that the Amboseli Kitenden Lodge stands out as a pioneer in its category and distinguishes itself with numerous unique aspects.
The upscale 9-bedroom lodge financed by Conservation Equity Ltd is scheduled to be located within the 50,000-acre Kitenden conservancy, which is jointly owned by around 3,000 local residents.
The local residents have had their property titles completely documented thanks to the developer, who incurred a expense of KSh 90 million for this process. The CS highlighted that it is especially satisfying that the collaboration between the Kitenden community and the lodge developers of Amboseli Kitenden began with mutual agreement from the very start.
Miano disclosed that the agreement between the Kitenden Conservancy and the developers of the Amboseli Kitenden Lodge includes specific terms of engagement designed to nurture a positive relationship throughout the 25-year duration of the contract.
What advantages do local people gain from staying at Kitenden Lodge?
Initially, the lodge management committed to payinglocals an annual dividend of $400,000 (more than KSh 50 million). They also planned to increase this sum by 5 percent each following year throughout the duration of thecontract.
The funds will be distributed directly to each of the 3,000 people within the Kitenden Conservancy community.
As she mentioned, the compensation provided by the Amboseli Kitenden Lodge exceeds threefold compared to typical standards.
The construction of the lodge will begin with 100 local unskilled men and women working on-site.
The creators of the Amboseli Kitenden Lodge pledged to hire 200 local residents as staff members during the initial five-year period of their operations.
It is anticipated that the lodge will draw wealthy tourists looking for exclusivity, sustainability, and genuine cultural experiences. Conservation Equity Ltd. thinks this approach could establish a new standard for upcoming projects within Kenya’s travel sector.
“This pact goes beyond being merely a contract; it’s a pledge to guarantee that local communities reap the rewards of their rich natural legacy,” stated a spokesperson for the firm.
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | community, culture, heritage, indian national news, politics
New York [
US
On April 3 (ANI), a significant Indian community organization in New York utilized its 75th-anniversary celebration as an opportunity to emphasize the continuing absence of constitutional acknowledgment for the Rajasthani language.
The
North American Rajasthan Association
(
RANA
They celebrated the milestone with a cruise event along the Hudson River, which was attended by over 400 guests, utilizing the occasion to express their concerns regarding what they see as an ongoing injustice.
RANA
President Prem Bhandari voiced his “stern disapproval” over the omission of Rajasthani from the 8th Schedule of India’s Constitution, where recognized languages are listed.
“Bhandari informed the audience that despite a unified resolution adopted by the Rajasthan State Assembly in 2003 advocating for its incorporation, the central government hasn’t taken action on it yet,” he explained.
He observed that the resolution was achieved subsequently
RANA
‘ s initial International Convention along with ongoing efforts alongside former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, yet cited “a lack of political will” as the reason for the stagnation.
Bhandari, who additionally heads the organization behind Jaipur Foot
US
A announced intentions to host a significant prosthetic limb fitting event at the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
The project, created in partnership with the American Punjab Society, concluded following talks with Dr. Mehta, recipient of the Padma Bhushan award and the founder of the Jaipur Foot group. Additionally, plans are underway for a significant new clinic in Trinidad and Tobago, where India’s High Commission has obtained necessary permissions and is handling logistical arrangements. Notably, Dr. Mehta, who at 90 years old founded this organization, will make an appearance at the event having traveled all the way from India.
“India’s Prime Minister Modi has emerged as the foremost advocate of the ancient Sanskrit principle “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – meaning “the world is one family,” Bhandari told ANI. Under Modi’s leadership, the External Affairs Ministry has funded 32 international Jaipur Foot camps through its “India for Humanity” programme.
These facilities, managed by the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti, have offered complimentary artificial limbs to numerous individuals with disabilities throughout Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
The occasion also marked a farewell ceremony for Varun Jeph, the departing Deputy Consul General of India, who concluded his term which was noted as the longest in this capacity lasting more than three years and eight months.
Bhandari commended Jeph for his “constant accessibility” and “consistent backing” to the Indian community spanning the 10 states under the purview of the Indian Consulate in New York.
The newly appointed Deputy Consul General, Vishal Harsh, was greeted along with Indian Foreign Service officials Surender Adhana and Eldos Mathew Punnoose.
The festivities included cultural acts such as poetry readings by Abhinav Shukla, with organizers emphasizing strong involvement from young people of Rajasthan originating from various regions within the tristate area. (ANI)
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | community, islands, nature, tourist attractions, tourists
A renowned island on Instagram, once celebrated as the most picturesque in the Mediterranean, has transformed into a nightmarish habitat teeming with rats, resembling a dilapidated favela in some neglected nation.
Around the globe, the small Maltese island of Comino has earned recognition for its stunning turquoise waters and its well-known limestone beach called the Blue Lagoon.
The charming island’s appeal has grown thanks to social media influencers visiting Comino for the ideal photo opportunity and due to its feature in popular Hollywood movies like Troy.
Nevertheless, even though Malta’s tourism board calls it the ‘most beautiful location in the Mediterranean,’ Comino is currently suffering from excessive tourist traffic.
Throughout the summertime, as many as 10,000 visitors arrive daily by boats, only to be squeezed into the crowded bay.
Impromptu bars blaring loud tunes encircle the attendees offering alcohol and finger foods, only to have these items discarded as trash, thus becoming a readily available meal for Comino’s rapidly growing rodent populace.
Activists in Malta are currently battling to safeguard Comine, designated as a protected natural reserve and avian sanctuary, against potential destruction.
A civic organization called Movimento Graffiti is advocating for significant reforms in how the island is governed.
In 2022, they organized a large demonstration during which they took control of and removed sun loungers and umbrellas.
A participant from the group referred to the present circumstances as ‘intolerable’, according to Andre Callus.
‘The residents of Gozo and Malta consider it a nightmare, so they avoid going there now. Commercial enterprises have completely overtaken Comino. Despite being a tiny location, there are 11 kiosks selling food and drinks. Their primary aim seems to be maximizing profits from the island,’ he explained.
The Daily Telegraph
.
Maltese non-governmental organizations (NGOs) claim that a study assessing the number of tourists the island can accommodate was suppressed by the Maltese authorities. However, numerous residents clearly observe the adverse effects of overcrowding due to tourism.
Residents of the tiny island nation took to writing letters to local newspapers criticizing the current condition of Comino.
One remarked that the once-famous Blue Lagoon now resembled “a dilapidated favela in some neglected nation.”
Someone else commented: “This formerly picturesque island has transformed into a circus, and I would not visit it again even if someone offered me money.”
The Maltese government is attempting to carefully navigate the space between safeguarding the natural allure of Comino and fostering Malta’s tourism industry — an industry that constitutes 15 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product.
Ian Borg, who serves as the minister for tourism, suggests reducing the daily visitor limit to half, dropping from 10,000 to just 5,000 individuals permitted to explore the island each day.
In order to implement this legislation, the authorities must verify with commercial boat owners the number of passengers they transport and the frequency of their daily trips.
Mr. Borg has additionally committed to reviewing the permitted number of bars operating and installing public restrooms.
Nevertheless, organizations like BirdLife Malta advocate for Comino’s designation as a nature reserve to be upheld, which includes removing waste every day and limiting visitor numbers.
Comino symbolizes the broader challenges posed by tourism for Malta; this small country with a populace of slightly more than 500,000 experienced an astounding 3.6 million tourists visiting last year.
To cater to visitors, extensive shoreline projects have been greenlit, but activists argue these initiatives are causing irreparable harm to Malta’s natural surroundings.
Mark Sultana, CEO of BirdLife Malta, wishes that the condition of the Blue Lagoon serves as an awakening for both politicians and developers.
“The cow has been milked excessively,” he stated.
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | community, government, public health and safety, safety, security
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps plans to dispatch 500 of its staff members to maintain safety during the crowning ceremony of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, set to occur in Oyo town this coming Saturday.
The rollout is designed to ensure proper crowd management, maintain safety, and protect vital facilities during the event.
The dignitaries anticipated at the coronation consist of the ex-Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, envoys from several nations, along with more than 200 individuals of Nigerian Yoruba descent residing in Canada.
Notable attendees also encompass prominent traditional leaders like the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Erediauwa from Benin; Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III; and Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, along with several others.
As stated by Samuel Opebiyi, the spokesperson for the NSCDC in Oyo State, the officers will be positioned tactically at the site of the coronation, major roadways, and various crucial locations throughout Oyo town.
The primary coronation event will be held at Olivet Baptist Heights, with the Local Organizing Committee designating 10 additional locations to accommodate guests.
The Oyo State Command of the NSCDC, led by Commandant Augustine Padonu, has confirmed that their personnel have received specialized training to handle the particular needs of this event. The gathering is anticipated to attract numerous individuals from across the globe.
The declaration stated: “Under the guidance of Commandant Augustine Padonu, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, has established an extensive security strategy aimed at ensuring a seamless and protected coronation ceremony for His Imperial Majesty, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.”
Considering the importance of this momentous occasion and the anticipated high attendance, the NSCDC plans to deploy approximately 500 well-trained staff members for security duties. Their roles include maintaining order among crowds, protecting vital facilities, and ensuring safety across all stages of the event. These agents will be positioned at crucial points such as the location where the crowning takes place, significant roadways, and essential sites within Oyo Town to thwart any potential breaches in security measures.
The NSCDC representative additionally highlighted the cooperation with various security organizations to ensure prevention of any security incidents prior to, throughout, and following the event.
Furthermore, the NSCDC plays a crucial role within the committee established to guarantee the smooth execution of the coronation, primarily concerning safety measures. They are closely coordinating with various security organizations to uphold public order throughout the entire duration of the event. These seasoned personnel will oversee operations and swiftly address any security issues that arise.
The NSCDC continues to uphold its commitment to safeguarding individuals and assets. We guarantee both residents and visitors that comprehensive precautions have been implemented to secure them during the coronation celebrations. Additionally, we encourage everyone to collaborate with law enforcement personnel and follow all regulations to facilitate a safe and harmonious occasion,” the statement read.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
