Posted by Greta on August 01, 2005 at 04:08:57:
In Reply to: Worth going to Zandvoort? posted by James on July 31, 2005 at 15:47:06:
As mentioned in the comment about the Art Deco sauna in Amsterdam, the Dutch have among the most liberal attiudes towards nudity in Europe. The saunas, for example, usually have one dressing room where both sexes strip before using the sauna facilities. It is very acceptable for the average Dutch person to be nude on a beach.
Zandvoort is a very large beach about an hour from Amsterdam. On a summer weekend it is filled with nude Dutch sun worshippers. The beach is very long and sandy so there is pelenty of room for the thousands of visitors. Though it may be very hot, the water is always freezing cold which makes it very refreshing while tanning au natural.
On most other Dutch beaches a large proprortion of Dutch women are topless. It is very acceptable to go on long walk on the beach wearing just a thong.
Since the Dutch have such a favorable attitude towards nudity, you will find people of all ages on nude beaches so don't be surprised. It would be rare to use a camera so try to be discreet.
I believe that this coming weekend there is a large nude run at Zandvoort that attracts hundreds of people. Since it is so natural to be nude for the Dutch, the event atracts seriosu runners who strip for the event. There usually is plenty of Heiniken (brewed locally) for everyone at the end.
Enjoy your visit
Greta