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One of The Hague’s newest museums offers an experience like no other. Here, you are a visitor of another kind – instead of being a casual observer of exhibits and historical artifacts, the Humanity House transforms you into a refugee, and makes you keenly aware of your visitor status… to the country. The European migrant crisis, which began in 2015 when an unprecedented number of refugees fled to Europe from countries like Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq, has tested this continent’s reputation as a home for all. The influx of over 1.2 million first time asylum seekers in 2015 alone has sparked furious debate, and has illuminated some of Europe’s darkest corners, as anti-immigration rhetoric immediately flared up in response. In light of these current events, the Humanity House’s attempt to raise discussion about humanitarian themes by placing the visitor in the role of the refugee has never been more important. The Humanity House opened in December 2010 with the express mission of allowing people to put themselves in the shoes of the survivors of disasters, both natural and military. It might not be on a list of ‘fun things to do in The Hague’, but it is an important and exciting experience that will make you think and feel as never before. Read more: Best Beaches in Venice 
Arrival:
The Humanity House is an unassuming building on the Prinsegracht, a bit away from the usual tourist fare. Once you enter, there’s a small but pleasantly airy café to the left, which is stocked with pamphlets, books and some tasty treats. To the right you’ll find the cashier and the promise of exhibitions, but that is not where visitors go – not yet anyway. 
The Experience:
Without giving too much of the experience away, I can definitely say that the Humanity House goes through some length to recreate a refugee’s journey by tapping into a variety of senses. One of the first rooms is made up to look like an abandoned living area. The smell of spilled wine fills the room and the television is still on. You can hear a radio broadcast urging you to evacuate, and take only what’s necessary. It’s colder than it should be, even on a May afternoon. 
Practical Information and Other Exhibits:
The Humanity House offers the refugee experience throughout the year, but that is only a small part of this museum’s efforts to fuel discussion. Temporary exhibits also run through the year, and cover a range of topics from violence in Ukraine to fashion’s role in humanitarian issues. At the moment, the main temporary exhibit is called “The Asylum Search Engine”, and it takes a closer look at the Netherlands’ experience with asylum seekers since the migrant crisis. The Netherlands, like many other European countries, is deeply divided on the refugee issue. As the website explains, “Rules are rules, states one group; the individual comes first, states another.” 
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