ABSTRACT
In the barrio, prostitution was characterised by low payment, a low level of education amongst the workers, poor health and living conditions, low attendance at the sexually transmitted diseases clinic, general unsafe sex, and low condom usage. The barrio registered both high unemployment and a high dependent population. However, compared to other parts of the town, economic activity amongst women was relatively high, at over 30%. Men who bought sex in the barrio were mostly over the age of 40; indeed, many were pensioners. The barrio's central position attracted a small number of holidaymakers and travellers, some of whom were foreign. Except during the summer months, the barrio was also the major nightlife centre in Marito for young people. Prostitution supply and demand is of the utmost importance with regard to the economic dimension to prostitution in Marito.
