Red Light District, Hamburg

Okay, as everyone knows the Reeperbahn is the historically infamous red light district where in addition to the usual club, theatre, and restaurant venues, there are scores and scores of sex shops, strip bars, and brothels.

Apparently, it's just always been that way, since the area is bordered by the Hamburg Harbour, and has been a hangout for sailors on leave trying to grab a beer and a winch at the pubs since the time people were still sailing wooden ships. So yes, the whole idea of legal sex trade is a normalized part of Reeperbahn/Harbour culture.

Take note however, that there are tons of door guys trying to hawk the "wares" of their particular establishments by way of offering free or discounted entry, enticing you to go in. I've been told, however, that once inside, guys should expect to pay anywhere from 15-20 Euro for a single beverage, and if you offer to buy a drink for one of the strippers the price escalates.

In short, a complete rip off that will help you blow your evening's entertainment budget in 20 minutes flat.

Unique Suggestions: In short, most native Hamburgers ingnore strip clubs altogether. But if you just HAVE to go for the curiosity factor, be sure you're ready to spend a lot of money, even with the free entry....and watch out for pickpockets while you're at it.

Well, seeing this sign I was so surprised and then happy to have the chance to finally meet the Banana Fritata. BUT SHE WAS NOT THERE!!! DARN!! Really disappointing!!

Unique Suggestions: don´t go!

Fun Alternatives: take a flight to Perth...

The Reeperbahn: Of course anyplace with 'adult' activity is going to generate an audience which desires to separate you from your money through some type of deception or lure. Though I never have had any trouble with pick-pockets in Europe, the area appears to be quite safe and fairly non-threatening. When touring, have a destination in mind and keep moving through the area (don't dawdle or linger); it will be easier to brush off the barkers and hustlers who want to lure you into some form of sin. :-O

Anything on the Reeperbahn...
This is the sleaze strip of the city - where the 'adult bookstores' and sex shoppes, as well as live sex shows, all take place.

I believe 'Reeper' refers to rope-makers, as this is where that trade was centred, but it has just become somewhat nasty...

However, as in modern society, there are apparently some decent places to eat, drink and watch entertainment... (legitimate entertainment!).