European tourists have been branded a 'locust plague' after they swarmed the streets of a city - causing an invasion of rats and seagulls Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A European city has been dubbed the "dirtiest in the world" as residents lament being inundated with rubbish left by tourists.
Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, saw authorities collect a staggering 73 tonnes of waste in a single day following the city's Pride festivities. Locals are up in arms, claiming their city is now plagued by seagulls and rats due to the refuse discarded by visitors. Last year, Amsterdam attracted around 20 million tourists, nearly double the number that flock to places like Venice.
This surge in visitors has led to a group of concerned citizens penning an open letter to the Het Parool newspaper, decrying litter as the "number one annoyance for the umpteenth summer in a row". The letter, which bears the signatures of 38 residents including business owners, artists, and writers, states: "We live in Amsterdam on a rubbish dump. The city has become one of the dirtiest in the world.
" In an effort to shift away from mass tourism, Amsterdam, alongside cities such as Prague, Venice, and Barcelona, is aiming to attract fewer but more affluent tourists who would stay longer. Once celebrated for its cultural offerings, picturesque canals, and museums housing masterpieces, Amsterdam's reputat.