German city builds 'sex huts' for World Cup
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German city builds 'sex huts' for World Cup
Dortmund wants to provide discreet spots for prostitutes, clients
Updated: 11:35 a.m. ET June 8, 2005
BERLIN - A German city is rushing to install a series of drive-in wooden “sex huts” in time for next year’s soccer World Cup and an expected boom in the local sex trade, a city official said on Wednesday.
Dortmund, one of 12 cities to host World Cup matches, is anxious to keep prostitutes and their clients off the streets by providing them with discreet places to do business.
Experts estimate as many as 40,000 prostitutes may travel to Germany to offer their services to fans during the tournament.
“The World Cup has put us under added time pressure, as we don’t want a situation where prostitutes and their clients disturb residential areas,” the official said.
Not enough room
Prostitution is legal in Germany in designated areas.
“In Dortmund we have an official red light district on the outskirts, but there is a problem. There is not enough space for everyone to park.”
Dortmund plans to arrange the Dutch-designed huts, which have been introduced in the city of Cologne, another World Cup venue, in an area with condom machines and snack bar.
“Men have to get used to them of course, but a high percentage accept them because they can protect their anonymity,” the official said.
“That said there will always be those who want to go behind a bush, under a bridge or into the woods.”
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