Promoting normalcy: the Amsterdam tourist association VVV during World War II

During World War II, the Amsterdam tourist association VVV played a pivotal role in promoting 'normalcy' and acceptance of a new normal in the Dutch capital. Despite the German occupation obstructing foreign tourism, the VVV continued its promotional activities, serving as an institutional nexus between German-controlled authorities, local entrepreneurs, tourists, and citizens. The study reveals that the VVV encouraged domestic tourism and public life centered around amusement, cultural enrichment, and identification with local heritage, largely ignoring the exclusion of Jews. This research highlights the VVV's significant impact on maintaining a sense of normalcy during a turbulent period in Amsterdam's history.

Furnée, J. H. (2025). Promoting normalcy: the Amsterdam tourist association VVV during World War II. Urban History, 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1017/s096392682510062x