The Holland Times December 2022

by: Julius Horsthuis

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Contributors

Lorre Luther, Marla Thomson, Nanda Jagusiak, James Turrell, Molly Fitz, Parul Sachdeva, Nicole Kerr, Stephen Swai, Femke van Iperen, Christien Kraaijeveld (Cappon Tax Consultants), John Mahnen, & Wendy van Dalen

Editor Roselaar Tekstadvies

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How to support your child during a move

Moving is a significant life event for children, especially if you are moving to a new country. In addition to the new house and a different neighbourhood, your child will also need to adjust to a new school, (sports) club, day care or afterschool care. Add new relationships with peers and teachers... It can be quite daunting! How do you approach this as a parent and how can you guide your child through a move?

We’d love to give you some tips! www.partou.nl/moving

Princess Amalia has to stay indoors due to security threats

Princess Amalia, the 18-year-old heir to the throne of the Netherlands, recently started styding at the University of Amsterdam. Her course, PPLE, is a small-scale, interdisciplinary Bachelor’s programme that connects four disciplines: Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics. In September, she moved into a shared student house on a picturesque Amsterdam canal. However, she has not been able to enjoy student life for long: recently it emerged that the security services have moved her back from her student house in Amsterdam to the Huis ten Bosch royal palace in Den Haag, due to security threats. Amalia is said to be forcibly housebound and unable to leave her current residence.

After De Telegraaf broke the story last month that security measures surrounding both Amalia and Prime Minister Mark Rutte had been increased, a spokesperson for the Government Information Service (RVD) at the time declined to comment on the Princess’s living arrangements, as did the police and Public Prosecution Service. This is not unusual, as the Royal House and the RVD are - perhaps naturally - hesitant about commenting on security issues surrounding the royal family.

So it was striking that King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima on a recent state visit to Sweden made some unexpected public comments in relation to Amalia’s situation. They gave a relatively detailed description of Amalia’s current situation. In response to a question about how the parents were finding life without their oldest daughter, Queen Máxima replied: ‘She hasn’t really left. You may have heard the news [referring to the previous reports] and that has enormous consequences for her life.’ Maxima went on to confirm that Amalia ‘doesn’t live in Amsterdam and can’t really go outside’. The Queen went on to discuss the impositions this was placing on Amalia’s life: ‘She doesn’t have a student life like other students have. I’m really proud of her [and] how she keeps

her spirits up despite all that.’ The King added that the situation in which Amalia finds herself is ‘very difficult.’

Prime Minister Mark Rutte commented on the current circumstances during his weekly press conference, stating that: ‘It definitely affects her and the way she can shape her studies.’ Apparently, Amalia still visits university, but travels by car and is escorted to the lecture theatre, leaving straight after her classes. Rutte also made clear that ‘everything is being done’ to resolve the situation. He added that ‘everyone is working on it with all their might’, and ‘it has the highest priority [of the government] permanently’. Rutte was noticeably tight-lipped in regards to certain aspects of the case, refusing to explain which government agencies are handling Amalia’s security issues or which person or groups were causing the threats. ‘I’m not going to make the opponent wiser than he already is,’ Rutte said.

While Rutte may have refused to suggest who might be behind the threats to Amalia’s safety, it has been widely reported across Dutch media that the situation has direct links to organised crime gangs. Rick Evers, Dutch royal correspondent and author of Máxima, more than Majesty, was one of many to link the events to the ‘Mocro-mafia’, the name given to gangs with Moroccan roots involved in large-scale drug trafficking, particularly cocaine, that has gripped the Netherlands in recent years. Jelle van Buuren, Assistant Professor and security expert at Leiden University, also said that ‘it is rumoured the security threat comes from organised crime’.

The government refused to confirm a timeframe as to when Amalia might return to a sense of normalcy and move back to Amsterdam to continue her studies publicly at the UvA. Rutte stated that ‘he cannot make any guarantees’ on when the threat level will be reduced sufficiently for Amalia to safely move back to Amsterdam.

The Princess is scheduled to take her first Royal Tour of the Dutch Caribbean Islands in January 2023 with her parents. Whether Amalia will participate in this tour in light of these events is yet to be determined.

Amalia made world headlines in 2021 when she became the first Dutch royal to reject her yearly allowance, which is assigned to her in the government’s budget. In a handwritten letter to the Prime Minister, she wrote she found the idea of accepting the money ‘uncomfortable while I do not do any work to deserve it’.

Written by James Turrell

Families around the Netherlands turn down the thermostat to save on heating bills

Statistics Netherlands (CBS) numbers regarding national energy use in the first months of 2022 also show that Dutch households responded to the energy crisis and increase in energy prices by reducing consumption. In the first part of 2022, Dutch households used approximately 16 percent less energy than in the years before, with at least half of that decrease attributable to lower demand.

According to a survey conducted by Kieskompas, at least 70% of the population is consciously taking shorter showers to save on gas bills. More than 85% of people over 65 have joined the quick-shower brigade. Taking shorter showers is actually a solid energy bill-lowering technique, according to Marlon Mintjes of Milieu Centraal, an organization that provides consumers with information about sustainability. Showering for five instead of nine minutes daily can save one person €190 per year. A lowflow showerhead can add an additional €70 in savings.

With little chance of a resolution to the energy crisis on the near horizon, Dutch leaders announced the creation of an energy subsidy of €190 available for November and December. All energy consumers in the Netherlands are eligible to receive the payments, which will be administered by energy companies. Starting in January 2023, all gas and electricity sold to individual Dutch consumers will be subject to a price cap of € 1.45 per m3 for gas and € 0.40 per kWh for electricity. The price cap, however, applies only to the first 1,200 m3 of gas and 2,900 kWh of electricity usage. The average Dutch household used 1,200 m3 of gas and 2.460 kWh of electricity in 2021.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in rising energy prices throughout the European Union, since not more Russian gas is being supplied. Several European nations have taken steps to reduce gas usage, including lowering temperatures in public buildings. Families in the Netherlands have responded to the energy crisis and resultant rising bills by drastically lowering their energy use at home. According to Eneco, the secondlargest energy company in the Netherlands, individual households consumed 25 percent less gas in September than in the same month last year.

Substantial numbers of households are setting their thermostats 1 to 2°C lower than in prior years, according to Eneco. The company based its conclusions on data gathered from approximately 230,000 smart thermostats that provide the energy company with real-time household consumption information.

The decrease in gas use due to financial constraints mirrors what experts have long predicted would happen in the face of high prices. “Due to the extremely high gas prices, it’s currently simply not affordable for many people to use the same amount of gas,” says Thijs Bouman, Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Psychology at Groningen University.

In response to the energy crisis, the Dutch government issued new operating procedures designed to lower energy use in public buildings. Government buildings throughout the nation are now heated to 19°C instead of 21°C. During the summer, public buildings are to be cooled to 25°C, 2°C degrees warmer than normal. More than 90 of the 115 government buildings covered by the new regulations are in compliance, having already adjusted their thermostats to reflect the new guidance.

It’s yet to be seen if consumers will respond to the price cap by reverting to old usage patterns or if most will continue to consciously limit their gas consumption. “What you often see with financial incentives is that they remain as long as that incentive is there. The question is, therefore, whether the decline will remain as strong when gas becomes cheaper again,” says Bouman.

The Netherlands isn’t the only nation facing rising energy costs. High energy prices have also hit the United Kingdom. The increasingly popular Don’t Pay UK movement urges people to simply not pay their energy bills, as gas and oil companies post record profits while inflation and rising energy prices continue to eat away at household purchasing power. In other countries, such as Italy, similar movements have arisen. The Dutch government hopes, however, that its current measures will suffice in order to lessen the cost-of-living crisis in the country.

Written by Lorre Luther

Photo: RVD - Mischa Schoemaker

info@atlas-movers.com | +31 (0) 297 348 281 www.atlas-movers.com

Dutch supermarkets do too little toencourage healthy eating

The special offers, product assortment and store design of Dutch supermarkets are designed in ways that make unhealthy options more attractive. All in all, they do little to create an environment that encourages consumers to make healthy food decisions. These are some of the findings of the Superlist Health 2022, a national comparison study into healthy food in Dutch supermarkets. A supermarket may in itself be unable to make consumers healthy, but according to experts such as Forbes, supermarkets are key players in what consumers choose to eat and drink. The creators of the Dutch study too argue supermarkets can influence customers’ choices through their range of products, types of promotions and shopping environment.

The recently-published review also shows how not much has changed since the preceding study, conducted two years ago, and that unhealthy products are still found to predominate in the range of products and in the layout of supermarkets. It was found that almost all supermarkets, except Dirk, tempt their customers to opt for unhealthy products at the checkout, and that often those products are specifically aimed at children. On average, the survey stated that 82% of supermarket special offer brochures included unhealthy foods, and overall, measures to encourage healthy choices were lacking. Supermarkets were also said to lack clear targets to sell fewer unhealthy products.

Of the supermarkets studied - Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Aldi, Plus, Dirk, Coop, Lidl and

Ekoplaza - only the latter two were found to have made some notable improvements. Lidl and Ekoplaza were also found to be the only supermarkets to publish their performance targets and statistics regarding the sale of healthy food products in relation to the Wheel of Five, the Dutch practical information tool regarding healthy dietary patterns.

The Superlist Health study is the first ranking that compares what Dutch supermarkets are doing to help their customers choose healthy food and drinks. It is conducted by research agency

Questionmark, in collaboration with the Diabetes Fund, Heart Foundation, Stomach Liver Bowel Foundation and Kidney Foundation, as part of the Alliance Nutrition for the Healthy Generation. The alliance is committed to healthy nutrition for younger generations and aims to thus secure more health for future generations. It has called unhealthy food the second most important preventable cause of death and of lost years of healthy life after smoking.

The results are quite surprising, since promises had been made by supermarkets to stick to the National Prevention

Agreement (2018). This agreement was set up by the government and a variety of organisations to combat obesity and encourage consumers to eat and drink healthier. Questionmark points out that many adults and children in the Netherlands are overweight, and has called for government legislation. Therefore, it has presented its report to the State Secretary for Health, Welfare and Sport. The Alliance is also calling for a government ban on marketing of unhealthy food towards children and a decrease in tax on fruit and vegetables.

In response to the findings, Albert Heijn told newspapers it regrets that the review failed to take online shoppers into account. Nor did it look at a number of its own initiatives, such as its My Lifestyle Coach app, a spokesperson said, who also reasoned the supermarket chain is continuously expanding its range of products with less salt, sugar and saturated fat. Jumbo told newspapers it does endorse the objectives of the National Prevention Agreement, and that it regrets that lifestyle as a category was lacking in the study. The supermarket chain also said it has lifestyle measures in place, and calls these a key factor in health. Meanwhile, the branch organisation of supermarkets, Central Bureau for Food Trade (CBL), has also made assurances that a lot is being done to help customers make healthier choices, and that supermarkets have implemented a ban on marketing towards children on their private-label products.

Written by Femke van Iperen

Payment arrears in health insurance increase

With inflation on the rise, many people are struggling to pay their health insurance premiums. ABN AMRO and the debt collection industry have estimated that in the first nine months of 2022, more than 320,000 arrears were transferred from health insurers to collection agencies. This represents an increase of more than 17 per cent compared to the same period last year.

What does this mean? It is certainly a sign of problems arising from inflation. Simply put, people are struggling to make ends meet. Payment arrears with health insurers are often seen as the first sign of economic problems, because insurance premiums tend to be the first thing not settled during times of hardship. Unlike rent arrears, which can cause eviction, unpaid health insurance premiums are somewhat abstract and have fewer consequences.

Phone calls for payment arrangement

The number of phone calls to collection agencies has risen by 10 per cent last year. Most of these phone calls are from people who have payment arrears, asking to have the amount in their repayment arrangement reduced. It’s not just lowincome earners who are keeping the lines busy. It has been reported more phone calls are coming from households earning average or above average income. These households, which are not used to contacting collection agencies, are also trying to find solutions. In this group, the number of non-payment cases has increased by 34 per cent in the first nine

months of this year compared to the same period last year.

Health insurer DSW has also seen a significant increase in the number of customers who have problems paying their premiums. The number of people who have applied for a payment plan rose by 50 per cent in August, compared to a year earlier. DSW has made 900 more payment arrangements than last year.

The question among many is how serious the situation is. To put matters into perspective, the increase in payment arrears is still lower than before the

pandemic. Health insurers CZ, Menzis and Zilveren Kruis have not seen a significant increase in cases handed over to debt collectors.

What happens when defaulting

If a policyholder defaults on their health insurance premium, the health insurer will initially send them letters and payment reminders. The insurer will also announce a payment scheme, ideally arranged in cooperation with the customer. After six months of non-payment have passed, the insurer will report the policyholder to the Central Administrative Office (CAK). After being reported to the CAK, the

policyholder can no longer pay their premiums to the insurer. Instead, the amount due will be withheld from their salary and remitted to the CAK. The policyholder will continue to be insured under the basic insurance package, which is compulsory for all inhabitants of the Netherlands. In case the policyholder has an additional package, the insurer may cancel it. Being referred to the CAK comes with additional cost to the customer: the premium will be increased to 120 per cent of the standard premium. This will also apply to those whose income is at or below the level of the social insurance benefit.

In case the premium cannot be withheld because the customer’s income is irregular or too low, the Central Juridical Collection Agency (CJB) will contact the customer about payment. During this time, the policyholder cannot end insurance or even change insurers, since this will be considered debt avoidance.

After successfully paying the debt, CAK will be formally notified by the health insurer and the administrative premiums will no longer be withheld. The CAK will in turn notify the policyholder and the employer to end the withholding of the premium from the salary. The customer may then pay their premium directly to the insurer again, and is also free to change insurers.

Written by Stephen Swai

Amsterdam schools provide children with breakfast and food vouchers at school

One in twelve children in the Netherlands lives in poverty, according to statistics from the Fair Start Foundation. The Fair Start Foundation wants to ensure that all children who grow up in poverty in the Netherlands have a healthy start by providing breakfast and education on the value of a balanced diet.

The Foundation notes that in terms of education, social skills and health, children who live in poverty are less able to keep up with their peers intellectually and have a higher chance of becoming poor themselves. The Foundation collaborates with the corporate sector and educational institutions in order to accomplish its objectives. It’s currently expanding in the Netherlands and collaborating closely with schools in Amsterdam.

Children need a healthy breakfast to start the day with plenty of energy. Children need to be able to concentrate because they are still developing fully and move around a lot throughout the day, and take in impressions constantly. Children who skip breakfast lose out on the nutrition and energy it provides and are therefore unable to perform to their full potential at school. In a bid to tackle the issue of children not having sufficient nourishment, educational institutions are taking steps to provide free meals for children in Amsterdam.

The Fair Start Foundation explains that it is crucial that children have more knowledge about healthy nutrition. In addition to improving academic performance, good

nutrition protects against the development of chronic ailments in later life. The Foundation has therefore established instructive nutrition classes at schools in association with the business community: business community volunteers assist students in the classroom while they are learning about nutrition.

Het Parool reports that educational institutions are observing a sharp increase in the number of children and adolescents who arrive at school on an empty stomach and go the entire day without eating. Schools in Amsterdam take action by providing food or food coupons. According to Amsterdam teachers, making provisions for breakfast and lunch is no longer essential only for the poorest families, but also for the middle class. Het Parool notes that upon visiting primary, secondary and MBO schools in Amsterdam, some children day that they have already eaten out of humiliation; others honestly say “there was no more bread.”

The basic requirements of young people in the Netherlands are a concern, according to government plans. The House of Representatives stated last month that it will release 100 million euros for free school lunches. Additionally, since the start of this month, students at 500 elementary schools are provided with a free school lunch each day. The government is currently debating whether secondary school pupils should receive free meals at school as well. But like many other school administrators, Maryse Knook, director

Homelessness becoming a grave concern: municipalities take action

While the whole world was still clutched in the pandemic’s claws, ‘stay home stay safe’ was the message being promoted widely. Still, there are people who are so unfortunate that they don’t have a home to stay safe in. On one hand, we talk about living on Mars, but on the other hand people are struggling to access basic necessities. Homelessness is a pervasive problem in every nation of the world.

The Netherlands is not immune to this promise, despite its overall wealth. Many cities, mainly Amsterdam and Utrecht, have reported a sharp growth in the number of homeless people, which has doubled in the last decade. The current housing and

inflation crises are adding fuel to the fire. It is difficult to map the exact size of the problem, but social workers indicate that homelessness is becoming more visible on the streets every single day.

Concerned over the worsening problem, the four largest municipalities in the Netherlands, Amsterdam, the Hague, Utrecht and Rotterdam, have jointly made an urgent appeal to the central government earlier this week. They requested the government to take its responsibility and take action to reverse the trend of rising homelessness. In a letter sent to Prime Minister Rutte, the municipalities suggest that more affordable homes are needed to provide homeless people a new beginning.

Furthermore, they asked for more funds to support vulnerable homeless people and people in danger of becoming homeless.

Written by Parul Sachdeva

of the Open School community Bijlmer (OSB) in Zuidoost Amsterdam, is not waiting. All children will receive breakfast at school after the autumn break.

According to Rian Horvers, counsellor at the Indische Buurtschool, such plans also have an effect on parents who are unable to send their kids to school with a full stomach and packed lunch. The primary school in Amsterdam-East told parents recently that it perceives that the recent period has grown financially more challenging ‘for all of us’. To help, the school has started a

collaboration with two nearby businesses. All parents who require them can pick up two vouchers each week after the fall break: one for two loaves of bread at De Bakkers van Oost and one for spreads and fruit at the nearby grocery Lale Kasabi. Horvers says: “In this way, children get fruit, while parents maintain control. Fruit is often left out of the diet earlier, when parents have no more money; apples are more expensive than bread.”

Written by Nicole Kerr

Schiphol shells out millions per day due to large number of canceled flights

Schiphol has been experiencing major disruptions in its services since the spring, due to an ever-increasing employee shortage. The airport authorities have not been able to solve the problems created by the extremely stretched labour market, and a fresh challenge emerged recently, as many security personnel decided to back out as the summer bonus ended. This led to a large number of flight cancellations.

To combat the ongoing staff shortage and avoid the long queues this autumn, an emergency measure was taken to limit the number of passengers per day. Schiphol reached out to airlines to accept an offer of € 350 per traveler per canceled flight. Thus, the airport hoped to reduce the number of flights and thus reduce footfall. This temporary solution costs a fortune, however: to decrease the number of departing passengers by 18% until things settle down, will cost the airport a whopping 3 million euros per day. This endeavour is in addition to the already announced passenger ceiling of 69,500 passengers per day.

A spokesperson for the airport stated that this emergency response is challenging for the airlines, as they will have to limit the number of passengers quickly. He added that the temporary financial incentive will be in effect until the effects of the announced reductions are visible.

The emergency measure has been taken in order to encourage airlines to be decisive and take immediate action. The airlines are not keen on this temporary solution, as they are afraid they will end up paying for it themselves because of the increased fees they pay to the airport.

Some authorities are baffled by Schiphol’s decision of compensating airlines. They believe that Schiphol should rather have invested these millions into recruiting extra staff or offering lucrative perks to retain existing staff, thus solving the problem in the long term.

Until few days ago, chaos was a normal sight at the airport, and not limited to large queues, delays and staff shortages at checkin and security. There were also not enough baggage handlers to complete the loading and unloading process, leading to piles of unclaimed baggage all over the airport.

It seems that Schiphol is still struggling with all these problems. But it is a relief that the airport is taking all necessary measures to fix these issues and get back on track.

Written by Parul Sachdeva

Letnature doitswork

date s from 1906 . In thi s warehouse cheese s a re a llowedto m ature just a s the y di d 10 0 year s ago, which ensure s tha t the y h ave th e nice

aroma c haracteristic of the cheese. But how doe s thi s proces s work?

andaroma areallowed to develop over ambient airby openingthe shutters in the old ageing room and allowing nature inthenaturalcondition s during the changing conditions around it. In warm weather, the individual cheeses heat up gradually and maturation accelerates, whilein coolerweatherthe opposite happens: theproces s slows . Indamp weather, thecheese s loseles s of their moi sture (dr y out less), wherea s the reversei s truein dr y weather. In this way, weput nature to work to help the In addition, a micro-climate of aromas and micro-organisms that is essential to the cycle of maturation has been created in the 100-year old ageing room.

Reypenaer is aged for 1 year, Reypenaer V.S.O.P for 2 years, and Reypenaer XO Reserve for between 2½ and 3 years.

the result of the knowledge, experience of the same family.

ww w.reypenaer.nl

National Mortgage Guarantee limit rises signi cantl in

In 2023, many more people will be able to apply for a mortgage with the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG). The purchase price limit that deteremines whether a mortgage is eligible will increase by € 50,000 next year. At the moment, the limit for an NHG mortgage is € 355,000. Anyone who buys a house for a price above this limit cannot make use of advantages of the mortgage guarantee.

Advantages of the National Mortgage Guarantee

The advantage of an NHG mortgage is twofold: the Waarborgfonds Eigen Woningen (WEW) reimburses any loss in the event of a forced sale (e.g. when a relationship ends or one of the buyers dies or becomes ill, or through non-culpable unemployment) and the mortgage interest is considerably lower than with a mortgage without NHG. The lower mortgage interest rate has everything to do with the security that NHG offers. This not only offers peace of mind for the homeowner; the bank also runs fewer risks. If it turns out that the homeowner does not pay the mortgage for some time and the house has to be sold as a result, the bank can declare any remaining mortgage debt to NHG. The lower risk for the bank translates into a substantial discount on the mortgage interest rate.

Significant increase NHG limit

The new limit for an NHG mortgage will be € 405,000. Those who choose to invest extra money in energy-saving measures can even take out a mortgage up to € 429,300 with NHG. This sharp increase is not a surprise, since house prices have risen enormously in the last few years. The current limit of €355,000 is no longer sufficient for many buyers to take out a mortgage with NHG. Minister

financial risks with the NHG and often pay a lower mortgage interest rate. Buyers also receive help with financing to make their home more sustainable. The sharp increase in the NHG limit will give more home buyers financial security.”

NHG costs remain the same

For taking out an NHG mortgage, the home buyer pays a suretyship of 0.6% on the mortgage amount. These costs are quickly recovered through the lower interest rate that a mortgage with NHG offers.

Going Dutch … but how abouttaxes and accounting?

often think that they can easily start working here as a freelancer and continue working for their employer. Although there are certainly possibilities for this, there are also snags to this set-up.

In this new era of internationalization and crossborder entrepreneurial engagement, it would be of great help if taxes and accounting were made easy and understandable. Unfortunately, our tax and accounting regulatory framework lags behind in this respect. It requires knowledge and experience to properly follow

Self-employment is popular in the Netherlands. It offers the freedom to focus on what you are good at. From online shops to medical specialists, there are people in all professions and walks of life who like to take their own responsibility and link great ambitions with individual entrepreneurship.

The Netherlands annually receives thousands of people who want to study, work and live here. Not only to get acquainted with our culture, history and open society, but also to piggyback on our open economy and great business opportunities. The new international employee and entrepreneur is often young (at heart), well-educated, digitally skilled and, above all, fast. Fast thinkers and movers, who don’t want to be held back by rules they don’t understand.

Cross-border tax and accounting issues are complex and often overlooked at the start of any new business. Trouble is compounded by language barriers, unfamiliarity with local regulations, delivery times and deadlines. As Alfred Neuman once said: “Today, it takes more brains and effort to make out the income tax form than it does to make the income.”

As an example, people who already have an employment contract with a company based outside the Netherlands

tax legislation and accounting rules in the Netherlands. Certainly, as an international employee or international employer, or as an independent entrepreneur, it’s wise to have your taxes and accounting figured out. This prevents a lot of hassle afterwards.

Once you have decided that you want to start your own company, the question arises, how? As a freelancer, or your own private company? Dutch law involves many rules that you must adhere to, also with regard to taxation and administration. And they are sometimes quite complex: value added tax, corporate tax, income tax, the 30% rule, migration forms, tax deductions, annual accounts, preliminary tax assessments, … I could go on. In order to comply with the rules and reduce your liability, it makes sense to get acquainted with the Dutch tax system. Don’t make the same mistakes as others have done before you, and ask a tax consultant for advice.

Written by Christien Kraaijeveld, Cappon Tax Consultants

Hugo de Jonge of Housing and Spatial Planning says: “It is important that many buyers have access to a mortgage with NHG, certainly given the current scarcity on the housing market and high house prices. Buyers run fewer

We understand the highs and lows of living internationally

Leading transformation, means for In2motivation a focus in leadership. "only leaders can change the world, and we need them more than ever", says Ligia Koijen Ramos in2motivation CEO.

With more than 23 years of experience in leadership in international teams and also preparing other leaders in different industries and companies, Ligia shares some of the fundamentals of leadership for the future.

What differences can be expected in the future with regard to leadership? This means that it will be much more an action than a position. The leader will be asked to show how rather than just explain how. The leader will also be required to have much more congruence and much more attitude than just monopolizing tasks or evaluations.

Will the leader be the engine of progress?

That's right. The leader will be that engine, not necessarily the executor, but will have to have the ability to create the ideal context for that progress. space, time and momentum so that each collaborator can contribute without losing time or opportunities. That’s why we see much more demand for coaching as a competence to facilitate this continuous progress.

What are the foundations for this activation of the leader in each one of us? Knowing why we do what we do. Having a clear i ntention in every decision, as there are more questions and more curiosity to know how decisions are made.

Having the agility to make connections with everyone. To relate honestly and with real connection. Very few people tolerate masks and dishonesty. The capacity to see and hear more and act on that. more and act on what is happening. The e is much less waiting or willingness to let things go.

Neuroplasticy, the ability to see new realities, to always learn. The willingness to create and lead others to a new perspective.

And can everyone be a leader?

Yes, but not everyone wants to be a leader, that's fine. But we have to make sure that those who do want to have the time and space to be. They will take companies much further.

The beauty of having anorganisational culture that creates leaders in every employee, is that these are the people who take the company as their own. They accept the challenges and their performance serves the company and not the other way around.

Know more about In2motivation Courses in www.in2motivation.com

Ligia Koijen Ramos, CEO and Master Coach

Enjoy the holiday season at Gelderlandplein

Looking for the perfect outfit or gift for the holiday season? Do you want your kids to experience the original Dutch Sinterklaas festivities or get in the mood for Christmas with the famous Christmas Parade and Santa? Or just a fancy lunch, dinner or coffee? Check out shopping mall Gelderlandplein, close to Amsterdam’s Zuidas business district in Amsterdam South. This modern and sleek shopping mall with international allure is home to over 90 shops and restaurants and various art pieces by worldfamous artists.

At Gelderlandplein you can get anything from your daily shopping to luxury items. Check the website for the upcoming holiday events.

Fashion, food and more Gelderlandplein houses a variety of shops: a great mix of local, national and international shops, ranging from high street to high-end brands. If you are looking to treat yourself or find that special gift, you might want to check out Siebel jewellery or the recently renewed Rituals. At Skins Cosmetics, discover its carefully curated collection of refined, exclusive perfumes and beauty brands.

Or get inspired by all the latest trends in living and interior design at Total4Living, Riviera Maison, Sissy Boy and Bröring. For that perfect outfit, try Pauw, Modehuis Blok, Bronwasser Woman, Cotton Club, Rogge Amsterdam, Costes, Mango, Rick Moorman House of Men, Maestro Men’s Dresscode or many of the other fashion shops. Your new favourite shoes can be found at Zwartjes 1883, Van den Assem, Nelson or Ecco.

But Gelderlandplein is not just for shopping. Enjoy a drink at Coffee Company at the centre court while the kids play their hearts out at Kiddieland or go ice-skating at the ice rink, suitable for kids up to twelve years. Furthermore, the halls of Gelderlandplein showcase a continuous exhibition of art pieces by Erwin Wurm, KAWS and Joel Morrison.

Just like within the mall, the outside structure of Gelderlandplein accommodates many restaurants and terraces. Whether you’re in the mood for French (Bistro G.P. by George), the best seafood (Mr. Crab), Italian (Gusto di Casto), quick food (Febo and Tjin’s) or delicious artisanal bread (Le Pain Quotidien), you will love your meal in a relaxed setting, where you can catch up with friends or just enjoy a drink. Asian cuisine lovers will enjoy the Vietnamese restaurant Saigon Càphê, Japanese Izakaya Tanuki or Japanese and Korean food market Shilla, which also offers lunch options. For Asian tapas try Ruby’s Oriental Restaurant. Delicious!

If you need more time to explore the mall, you could prolong your stay at Hotel Element Amsterdam.

Gelderlandplein wants you to have a great experience. Therefore the centre is open seven days a week, and you

can park up to 2.5 hours for free. Gelderlandplein even offers a free bus service that takes you to and from the shopping centre to the Zuidas and station Zuid. With its great options for endless shopping, breakfast, lunch, drinks or dinner, you’ll love Gelderlandplein!

Monday 12.00-18.00

Tuesday - Saturday 09.30-18.00 Sunday 12.00-17.00

Gelderlandplein Van Leijenberghlaan 43 1082 GC Amsterdam

Please note that some shops and restaurants have slightly different (extended) opening hours, so if you’re looking for a specific store, please contact them directly. See you at Gelderlandplein!

Enjoy sixteen days of Christmas at Royal Christmas Fair The Hague

After two years of absence, the Royal Christmas Fair will take place again at the beautiful Lange Voorhout in The Hague, from Thursday 8 to Friday 23 December. For sixteen days, this largest multi-day Christmas market in the Netherlands settles in the middle of the historic center of The Hague. The Royal Christmas Fair is free and open daily from 12 noon – 9 pm. Just around the corner from the Binnenhof, Noordeinde Palace, embassies, museums and attractive shopping areas such as Denneweg, de Plaats, Hofkwartier and Noordeinde the Royal Christmas Fair will take place. With dozens of Christmas houses, illuminated by 100,000 twinkling LED lights in the trees and the beautiful surroundings, this Christmas market of international allure guarantees the ultimate Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market is very popular with the expat community, and for a reason. Steaming mulled wine, crackling fires and cozy music guarantee a great Christmas experience.

Crafts and quality

The Royal Christmas Fair distinguishes itself by the many high-quality and

traditional products for sale in the cozy Christmas houses. Visitors can also indulge themselves at the various food trucks and cozy bars scattered around the market. The one and only Santa Claus is present every day for photo opportunities with children and adult. All this makes The Hague Christmas market an unmissable experience.

Have a Royal Winter

The entire city center of The Hague breathes Christmas this period and is therefore the ideal destination for a day of shopping. With winter events and activities, The Hague gives its visitors a warm welcome during Have a Royal Winter, despite the cool temperatures and dark days.

The Hague Christmas market is easily accessible by car, bicycle and public transport and within walking distance of Central Station. The entrances are at the Kloosterkerk (corner Parkstraat/Lange Voorhout), Hotel Des Indes (Denneweg) and Tournooiveld.

Opening of the Exhibition BYBLOS, the World’s Ancient Port

The rich history of Byblos, a town situated on the coast of present-day Lebanon, began around 6500 BC with a simple fishing village that would grow into a prosperous city. Around 3000 BC, Byblos played an extraordinary role in the Mediterranean and Middle East as the world’s first international seaport, thanks to the trade in cedar wood. Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans left their mark on the city.

On Thursday, 13 October 2022, the exhibition Byblos, the world’s most ancient port was officially opened in the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden in Leiden.

At the opening, more than 100 hundred guests were present of which many ambassadors and we had the following speakers:

Mr. Wim Weijland, Director of the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities (RMO) Leiden; H.E. Mr. Abdel Sattar Issa, Ambassador of Lebanon to the Netherlands; Mr. Lucas Petit, Head Collections and Research, RMO and the opening speech was given by the Minister of Culture of Lebanon, H.E. Judge Mohamad Wissam Al Mortada.

In his speech, the Ambassador of Lebanon, H.E. Mr. Abdel Sattar Issa, thanked the RMO and the Ministry of Culture of Lebanon for the beautiful exhibition. They managed to achieve it notwithstanding the great challenges Lebanon is facing since 2019, and said that the cooperation between the two institutions is not limited to this exhibition but extends to helping the renovation of the Museum of Byblos. He sincerely hopes that this cooperation will last in the future. About the exhibition, three general thoughts occurred to the Ambassador:

“The first one is rather an anecdote, a coincidence, a few days ago while visiting the Hortus Botanicus of the University of Leiden, right across the street from this Museum, I discovered a young beautiful specimen of the major actor of this exhibition, I mean the Cedrus Libani. It is because of this majestic tree, the national symbol of my country, that Byblos became prosperous in ancient times, by selling it to diverse Empires and Kingdoms of the region. The second idea was that trade is not only an exchange of goods. It has always been also an exchange of ideas, styles, even religious and social norms, simply a human exchange. Ancient Byblos was a living example of that. It was a melting pot of styles, gods and languages. The third idea is: when you see the traces of Byblos and its products in regions as distant as the Red Sea to the South East and the Agean Sea to the North West, when you remember that finally Europa, the daughter of the King of Tyr (some say Sidon) was kidnapped by the God Zeus from our shores (Heroditus mentions a less romantic version by saying it was merchants from Crete that kidnapped her), you cannot but wonder where the

West ends and where the East starts? Are they not only intellectual constructs? Are we not all humans in the end?

I think this is the main message of Lebanon.”

The Minister of Culture of Lebanon, H.E. Judge Mohamad Wissam Al Mortada gave the following opening speech: “It is my pleasure to inaugurate today the exhibition “Byblos, The Oldest Port in the World”, organized in collaboration with the RMO (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden). This joint project represents an exclusive and unique focus on Byblos, a millenary city, in the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities. The Ministry of Culture is particularly proud to focus on the 8000-year-old city of Byblos, Gbayl, listed, as well as four other Lebanese sites, Baalbeck, Tyre, Anjar and the Qadisha Valley, among the World Heritage Sites. With its 400 masterpieces on display, “Byblos, The Oldest Port in the World”, is not only presenting archaeological discoveries unearthed more than a hundred year ago, and showing recent outstanding findings. Rather, it focuses attention on the cultural enrichment of an ancient city throughout an archaeological collection and points out the significance of a unique National treasure.This exhibition is a fascinating journey across a geographic area and a historical context, where political, economic, religious and cultural life, are represented through powerful artistic expressions. It is about the understanding of Byblos, of its inhabitants throughout the ages, the landscape that shaped the city and the richness of its land and sea trade. Moreover, in old times, Byblos was a center, an “ancient capital” of the Levant as often stated, and the place where major innovative models were developed, such as the alphabet. The story of Byblos is today presented to both the Dutch and the International public.A project requires support and cooperation. In this regard, we are extremely grateful to the RMO. Our thanks go to all of whom helped bring this exhibition to fruition. From the Millennium city of Byblos, to the rich cultural heritage city of Leiden, we believe that this exhibition will develop shared understanding of each other’s values, beliefs and artistic traditions.”

The World’s Most Ancient Port’ will present around 500 highlights from museums including the National Museum of Beirut, the Louvre and the British Museum, bearing witness to this archaeological and cultural richness. From simple fish hooks, anchors and clay tablets to golden weapons, colorful gemstone jewellery, a Roman mosaic and a bronze statue of Heracles. A key role is played by the kings, mythological heroes, merchants and fortuneseekers who visited and lived in Byblos. Particularly important were the city’s special ties with Egypt and the goddess known as the ‘Lady of Byblos’. For millennia, Byblos was the chief purveyor to the pharaohs and the most important trade hub in the Mediterranean.

Byblos’ wealth arose 5,000 years ago through trade with Egypt, among others, in products of the cedar tree from the mountains behind the city. These trees were famous for their straight trunks, which could reach 40 meters in height. The cedar wood and other precious materials from the Middle East, such as silver, wine and oil found their way to Egypt from Byblos. Byblos received precious stones, gold, linen and elephant ivory in return from Egypt and subsequently traded them with cities in Mesopotamia. The exhibition is bringing together the most beautiful artefacts from Byblos. The display includes finds from the royal tombs and the temples of Byblos, figurines of gods and goddesses, richly decorated weapons and jewellery. The distinctive bronze figurines of warriors, gods and animals, of which many hundreds have been found in Byblos, are especially striking. The exhibition is presented as a storybook, in which famous stories from Antiquity are set in the port, palaces and cedar forests of Byblos. For example, the Mesopotamian King Gilgamesh went to the Lebanese mountains to cut down cedar trees and the Egyptian Goddess Isis brought her deceased lover Osiris back to life in Byblos.

These days, the ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archaeological research is still ongoing. Finds from an elite burial complex recently excavated by the Lebanese Ministry of Culture/Directorate General of Antiquities and the Louvre will be on display in Leiden, with spectacular images of the excavation site. The exhibition was developed in partnership with the Lebanese Ministry of Culture/Directorate General of Antiquities. Through this partnership, the RMO is supporting the construction of a new archaeological museum and cultural center at the historical site of Byblos. This museum will open to the public in the spring of 2023

This international exhibition project features loans from numerous museums and collections: the Ministry of Culture/Directorate General of Antiquities (Lebanon); American University of Beirut Archaeological Museum (Beirut); Royal Museums of Art and History (Brussels); Bibliothèque Nationale de France (Paris); Musée du Louvre (Paris); British Museum (London); SMB, Vorderasiastisches Museum (Berlin); SMB, Ägyptisches Museum (Berlin), Roemerund Pelizaeusmuseum (Hildesheim); August Kestner Museum (Hannover); the Netherlands Institute for the Near East (NINO Leiden) and others. The exhibition was developed with the support of the Blockbusterfonds and the Vrienden Loterij, with thanks to the Lebanese Embassy (The Hague), the Dutch Embassy (Beirut) and Labrys Reizen.

The exhibition will be exposed until March 12, 2023. For more information: Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, Leiden, www.rmo.nl

Written by Nanda Jagusiak-Monteiro

Ambassadeur of Lebanon, H.E. Mr. Abdel Sattar Issa

Minister of Culture of Lebanon, H.E. Judge Mohamad Wissam Al Mortada

How are you managing eco-anxiety?

Studies show that over 80% of us struggle with varying degrees of eco-anxiety, with the resounding emotions being sadness, anger, guilt and helplessness. These are difficult emotions to live with and can set the stage for issues like depression, anxiety and substance abuse. However, we often fail to grasp the full spectrum of coping mechanisms humans use in response to difficult emotions. For example, back in 2019, I was as terrified about climate change as I am today. But I was also doing very little about it. Sure, I recycled and avoided fast fashion, but I also ate meat and flew like it was nobody’s business. I felt guilty about doing these things, yet I couldn’t seem to respond to that guilt in any productive manner.

Looking back, I can see that the climate crisis provoked feelings of dependency and helplessness in me. Because I found emotions like these too difficult to face, I relied on projection and disavowal to function. While these responses were unhelpful, they were, in a sense, the best tools I had in my kit at the time. I know I am not alone in this response. But I also know that we are at a point in human history where we cannot afford the luxury of emotional avoidance. So, as our summers heat up and pandemics become more frequent, it is crucial to recognise that our mental health is not only impacted by climate change, it also affects how we respond to it.

The age of anxiety: climate change and psychosocial wellbeing

The Americal Psychological Association defines eco-anxiety as a chronic fear of environmental doom. It typically manifests as a feeling of helplessness and frustration at one’s powerlessness in the face of ecological destruction. Common harmful coping strategies for dealing with it include:

1. Projection

Projection is a psychological term that denotes ‘putting’ undesirable feelings or emotions into someone or something else. For example, maybe

you know about the risks of climate change, yet do not feel too emotionally reactive towards it. However, you are becoming increasingly afraid of seemingly unrelated things. In this instance, you could have projected your concern about the planet into something more ‘within your control’, such as your well-being.

2. Denial

Denial is an all-too-well-known reaction to climate change that poses terrifying risks. Denial refers to an unconscious attempt to rid oneself of reality by maintaining that it is not there. Climate change deniers are an extreme example, but more subtle versions exist. For instance, if someone minimises the impact of climate change because “climates have changed before”, it could indicate that they are using denial to cope.

3. Disavowal

Disavowal is a type of psychological dissociation which involves inducing a split within the psyche. Specifically, when someone disavows something, it is both seen and not seen simultaneously. For instance, an individual intellectually knows that climate change is real and imminent, but does not believe that he can do anything about it. He may discuss it with friends and articulate his fears, but a dissociation occurs when it comes to his own lifestyle.

Why do some people respond to the climate crisis like this?

Many psychoanalytic thinkers have argued that eco-anxiety is perpetuated by the evident fact that world leaders are not doing enough to protect us, and it is painful to feel so uncared for. As a result, our fears about climate change can all too quickly become entangled with childhood experiences of abandonment and dependency. Hence, we tend to respond to that fear similarly to how we learnt to deal with it in childhood. For some of us, this could mean leaning into the feeling, exploring it, acknowledging it and creating strategies to deal with it – from not eating meat or flying, to protesting and voting in

a manner that focuses on the environment. For others, this could mean avoiding the reality that surrounds them at all costs. Poignantly, because the mechanism is unconscious, even the mostattuned to the crisis could find themselves using unhelpful tools in times of panic.

For example, there is a famous psychoanalytic incident that has become a parable within the field. During World War II, a pivotal series of conferences took place in London. These meetings focused on theoretical conceptions of aggression and violence. Amidst a heated discussion, Donald Winnicott stood up to say, “I should like to point out that there is an air-raid going on outside.” In other words, even those who spent their lives studying human nature were not immune to using such coping strategies in times of crisis. And much like the psychoanalysts in the 40s, we are living through a difficult and dangerous period.

So, if you want to do more to help or are struggling with difficult feelings you cannot seem to find the root cause of, try to focus on how you feel about the climate crisis. Ideally, try to figure out what emotions the climate crisis provokes in you, how you typically respond to these feelings, and whether those strategies are helpful to both your own health and the health of the planet.

Written by Molly Fitz

Challenges for an expat

For a new expat, figuring out new services, and which ones are best, can be daunting. After a huge move, now you have to figure out services like electricity, internet, TV and mobile phone service. Fortunately, most of the companies behind these services in the Netherlands are very good. They have reasonable customer service, transparent terms and understandable bills. Most of these companies offer websites in English and with most of them it’s easy to change or stop services, and also to reach them. Well, most of them.

I’ve had a recent experience with one company that really stands out – and not in a good way. I won’t mention their name but let’s just say that I haven’t “ben” (sic) happy with them. They are a reseller mobile service for one of the larger national mobile companies. And like most mobile service resellers, they are affordable and easy to sign up for. This makes them particularly attractive to expats, immigrants and newbies in the Netherlands.

I’ve had experience with two of them. The first reseller was – and probably is still – the best option for a newly arrived person without a bank account. I was able to get a mobile phone number, which is essential for all the administrative and immigration business when first arriving in the Netherlands. Many services do identity verification via text message (not WhatsApp, Google Voice, Skype or the like), so that newly arrived foreigners must have a Dutch mobile number.

This company was great and I really had no reason to leave them, except that I was lured away by slightly lower prices and an entertaining commercial from another reseller with people who had tattooed the name of a previous love interest on themselves, only to reveal that they were new with someone else. Even though mobile services here are incredibly cheap, I thought, why not change mobile services to save a few euros? So I switched.

The move from the old company to the new one was seamless. The previous company even had an option where I could extend or cancel my subscription. I figured the new company would too. Several months into the new contract, I needed a phone that could be used as a hotspot modem for my business. I found out the hard way that this is not possible with resellers. Crud. I needed to start a new mobile contract with a national seller to be able to use my phone as a hotspot. Furthermore, I needed to get a new number. I decided to retire the number from the mobile service reseller, ride out the contract (ugh, it was two years!), set a reminder two months before the contracted ended and cancel it in enough time that it wouldn’t revert to month-tomonth.

Fast forward to two months before the end of the contract. Knowing the contract would be ending soon, I logged into my account with the mobile reseller and discovered there was no way to cancel my account. Not only that, there was no way to contact the company. There was no phone

number on their site and though they said they had several ways to contact them – Knowledge forum, WhatsApp, AI chatbox – nothing worked. No answers anywhere. It was frustrating but, like most people, I couldn’t spend all my time trying to contact this company.

I am now in month number four of trying to cancel my account with this company. I’m not on social media, but wound up signing up for Twitter just so I could try to reach someone there. One day, I finally sat on the phone for 45 minutes and finally got connected with a representative. They cancelled my account and even sent a confirmation email. Two weeks later – today – I received another bill for them. I am currently DM’ing with this company trying to get my money back and to finally – once and for all –cancel this account.

The moral of this story is that even though most Dutch companies have good customer service and are transparent with their practices, not all of them are. The mobile reselling business is cutthroat competitive. But at the end of the day, they are resellers of someone else’s service and the only thing they have is customer service. So do your research and make sure the mobile company you have – especially if it’s a reseller –has an easy way to reach them and a reasonably easy way to cancel your subscription. Me? “Ben” there, done that already.

Written by Marla Thomson

IDFA 2022

IDFA 2022 opens on 9 November with the world premiere of All You See by Niki Padidar. Contemplating questions of what it means to belong, who gets excluded, and how outsider status is continually reaffirmed, Padidar’s multi-layered feature powerfully foregrounds the sensation of being looked at. Honest, painful and even humorous encounters with three other immigrants to the Netherlands are stylistically interwoven between Padidar’s own personal history, opening up a vulnerable space of articulation with global resonance. A confessional collage with no simple outs, All You See turns the spotlight on all of us, while simultaneously asking: who is “us”?

Guest of Honor

Academy Award-winning director Laura Poitras will be honored at IDFA with a Retrospective and Top 10.

Focus program Around Masculinity

From the alpha male to toxic masculinity, the focus program interrogates the problematic social construct that is masculinity from a variety of perspectives. The curated section homes in on a blind spot in film history, inviting audiences to take a hard look at their heroes by re-reading classics such as es lank’s urden of Dreams and the Maysles rothers’ Meet Marlon Brando. Fragility comes to the fore in eddy onigmann’s ra y, as do the inherent paradoxes of masculinity in Pirjo onkasalo’s The 3 Rooms of Melancholia.

Focus program: Playing Reality

ringing the drama of documentary film centre stage, the titles in this focus program creatively reimagine the concept of theatricality. Clio ernard’s The Arbor, on renowned playwright Andrea Dunbar, showcases the performativity of language and voice. Werner er og’s ittle Dieter Needs to Fly iconically uses re-enactment as a documentary film instrument, while ola Arias’ Theatre of War experiments with mise-enscène as its protagonists revisit memories of the Falklands War. duardo outinho’s Moscow, on the other hand, deals directly with the physical space of the theater. Playing Reality is the result of a special collaboration between IDFA and Internationaal Theater Amsterdam (ITA). There are several competition programs throughout IDFA, of which the International and Envision Competition are the main competitions.

IDFA DocLab theme: Nervous Systems

With the theme Nervous Systems, IDFA’s new media section returns to the heart of Amsterdam for 10 days of digital and XR programming. DocLab VR projects and installations can be visited in De Brakke Grond and at Artis Planetarium. Documentaries and projects will be presented in 20 theaters throughout Amsterdam.

The 35th edition of the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam takes place from 9 to 20 November.

Tickets available on the website: www.idfa.nl

3 things you must know about Sinterklaas

1. The Sinterklaas celebration, in short Sinterklaas is a children’s celebration celebrated on December 5 in the Netherlands. Sinterklaas and his Pieten give presents to children.

From November 7, the fun starts with the Sinterklaasjournaal on TV, and usually after Sinterklaas arrives in the Netherlands per boat on November 12. Then the preparations at schools also begin.

The modern form of the Dutch St. Nicholas celebration probably stems from the picture book Sint Nikolaas en ijn knecht (1 50) by the teacher Jan Schenkman. The feast has much older origins. If you want to learn more about the history of St. Nicholas, read on here at the St. Nicholas Center.

The traditions rie e lained

The entry of Sinterklaas: de intocht Sinterklaas arrives in a different port in the Netherlands every year. The national entry of Sinterklaas this year will be on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, and it will be in Hellevoetsluis. This entry can be followed live on TV (NPO 3) or via the Internet on Sinterklaasjournaal.nl.

Shoe setting: schoen zetten

From the arrival of Sinterklaas in the Netherlands, children are allowed to set up their shoes. Originally before the chimney. Traditionally they put a letter with their wishes to Sinterklaas in their shoe and put down some hay and a carrot for the horse and a bowl of water.

Sinterklaas and his Pieten (oh, sorry, you as parents) fill the shoes with something nice and/or a small gift. Parents usually decide how often the children can set their shoes during this festive time.

Gift Night: Pakjesavond

December 5 is Sinterklaas’ birthday and many families in the Netherlands celebrate Pakjesavond. This is the evening when Sinterklaas brings a bag of gifts for the family. Today it is not only for children anymore, but adults also give gifts to each other.

Some families only do presents that are unwrapped during that evening, others have presents with poems, and yet others prepare surprises for each other (mostly when the children are older).

A surprise is a St. Nicholas gift, often wrapped in an original and fun, surprising way. Surprises are usually exchanged between youngsters and adults. They often draw lots among themselves about a month before December 5. Each person is assigned the person listed on the draw. If you have no clue, you have several great websites with ideas.

Sinterklaas songs

Sinterklaas songs are sung throughout the entire Sinterklaas period. Especially at the arrival and entry of Sinterklaas, at the putting of the shoe, and at the beginning of pack night. The songs are taught by parents to children and also at school. Follow this link and sing along.

Candy

There is not a St. Nicholas celebration without candy! Famous are kruidnootjes, pepernoten, chocolate coins, chocolate letters, and speculaas. When the Pieten pass by on the street or in the classroom, they throw candy around from their burlap sack.

Petes: Pieten

Sinterklaas has been accompanied by many Pieten since the modern version of this celebration, often with their own task for each, led by a Head Pete. Pieten behave mostly like acrobats and pranksters who often pull pranks.

In the Netherlands, there is debate surrounding Black Pete and the fact that the Pieten are darkskinned. Meanwhile, we now know Pieten with all the rainbow colors on tv and in our schools.

3. Not to be missed if you want to celebrate Sinterklaas with your children

Among the best-known Dutch Sinterklaas programs since the late 20th century is the Sinterklaasjournaal and De Club van Sinterklaas. It is also fun to listen to Sinterklaas radio from FM radio with your children.

Dutch language and Sinterklaas: Many great tips can be found in this article, from videos, short reading texts, and online books to several great tips to celebrate December 5 with your children: Hoe Sinterklaas te vieren in het buitenland? How do you celebrate Sinterklaas abroad?

Written by Wendy van Dalen www.dutchforchildren.nl

Brut! | Nederlands Zilvermuseum

Experience the power of pure silver at the Thalen & Thalen exhibition

From 13 October 2022 until 5 June 2023, the exhibition Brut! by father and son Thalen is on show in the Dutch Silver Museum in Schoonhoven. Brut! will tickle your senses. Like the famous champagne Brut, the objects represent finesse and sparkles, but are a bit rough on the edges at the same time. The contemporary silver sculptures made of the purest metal invite you to taste, hear and touch. Still, a lot of hammer blows are needed to bring this precious metal into the shape of cutlery, plates, candelabras and art objects. Brut! surprises and inspires the visitor with old, new and experimental work. In the Dutch Silver Museum you find a large collection of historic and contemporary silver. Children can practice their silversmithing skills in our workshop, which can make it a nice day out for the whole family!

Stretching the limits in silversmithing Rob and Jaap Thalen have been working in pure silver for over 20 years now. Before his career in silver began, Rob was a seasoned bronze caster. Jaap has a background in architecture. The Dutch silversmiths explore the technical limits of the material in their studio in Belgium. The twinkling 1.5-meter high Fro en Morning ight is a good example of their magnificent work. Sometimes they explore the possibilities of other materials or develop their concepts even further. A good example of that is the M-light, which started as an innovative sculpture called ‘Mandarin Ball’ and developed

into a modern lampshade brought to life in corten steel and aluminum. It soon became a collectors’ item at the Art Fair in Milan.

Bringing concepts to life

Rob and Jaap focus on devising and bringing creative concepts to life. Rob talks enthusiastically about the silver table he once designed: “The painting ‘Dejeuner sur l’herbe’ by Manet inspired me to design a table that you can take with you and includes a complete set of silver tableware.” The table is a place where people can experience moments together and which, like Manet’s painting, inspires others. For example, a chef in America fell under the spell of the table and devised dishes that complements the silver in taste and texture. Jaap still remembers the commission for a gold vase. “It is very special to get the opportunity to work with gold on a larger scale. You notice that gold is even more elastic and stretchable than silver.” Rob and Jaap: “With this exhibition we hope that the visitor gets a taste of the joy and passion we had while creating our work. Be inspired and experience the power of pure silver!”

Brut! by Thalen en Thalen 13 October 2022 - 5 June 2023 Kazerneplein 4, Schoonhoven www.zilvermuseum.com

Interview with an expat

What do you like to do on the weekends?

Travis I am usually either shooting a new video for ouTube or playing with our Mini usky Tabasco.

Tracey I’m always up for exploring new cities - some of my favorites are Gouda and Delft. For such a small country, there’s still so much I want to see!

Who is your favorite Dutch person?

Travis erman oerhaave. After visiting ijksmuseum oerhaave in eiden, I felt that so many of the modern advances in medicine and technology started right there.

Tracey As we are undergoing IVF treatment, our fertility nurse Moni ue is just incredible. She is so patient, understanding and excellent at communicating what can be a difficult process.

What would you recommend a visitor to do and see in your city in the Netherlands?

Travis I would recommend going to visit the otanical Gardens in eiden.

Where do you come from and where do you live in the Netherlands?

Travis I’m from Texas, specifically ouston, and now live in eiden.

Tracey I’m originally from pstate New ork, moved to ouston, and now live in eiden.

What’s your job/business?

Travis I’m a speciali ed project manager, and part-time ouTuber, of the T and T Go Dutch hannel.

Tracey I’m a freelance writer and blogger, and also a part-time ouTuber.

What as o r first time in the etherlands?

Travis Tracey We visited Amsterdam in late 2019 and fell in love with the city, and on our way up to Germany had the opportunity to drive through the less touristy parts of the country.

What is the nicest thing about the Netherlands?

Travis ow safe I feel here I feel like I can walk through the streets late at night and feel completely safe.

Tracey ow pictures ue the cities are here. So much beauty and history!

What’s the worst thing about the Netherlands?

Travis The lack of air conditioning during the summer heat waves!

Tracey ately, Schiphol Airport and the massive lines!

Do you have Dutch friends?

Travis Tracey es, we made friends with our Dutch neighbours. They have been so welcoming and lovely!

What do you like about Dutch people? What don’t you like?

Travis Dutch people are curious about our experiences here in the Netherlands, which I like. I don’t like some of the rudeness we’ve received masked as Dutch directness.

Tracey I have grown to love the directness of the Dutch, although, much like Travis, when rudeness is masked as directness, that’s hard to handle.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in your city?

Travis ust Meet - I find the uality of the food is great and the majority of their beef comes from Texas!

Tracey Wijnbar Goeswijn for incredible dishes and wine, and for the best fish and chips in town, The North nd.

Where do you prefer to relax in your city?

Travis Polderpark ronesteyn, because it’s so lush and green. Stopping by De Tuin Van De Smid is always a great time.

Tracey I love visiting De urcht van eiden. Some of the best views in the city.

What’s your favorite Dutch store?

Travis ave de a une, a natural wine shop in eiden. The owner, Tare , is super knowledgeable and very helpful in finding you the perfect wine pairing.

Tracey Dille and amille. We both love to cook, and it is truly a paradise for anyone who loves their kitchen. They also have the best souvenirs to bring back to the SA to loved ones!

Tracey I would recommend just grabbing a coffee from orgman orgman, and walking around the beautiful canals early in the morning. It’s so peaceful.

What is your favourite Dutch food? And what Dutch food do you dislike?

Travis I love pannenkoeken because there are so many different varieties to make with different ingredients. acon, apple and cheese is my favorite combination. I dislike drop because it can be so salty.

Tracey Dutch cheese is so excellent. The last time we were in the S, having American cheese was so jarring. east favourite food Dutch herring - just not for me.

Do you celebrate Dutch holidays? What is your favourite?

Travis We do my favorite holiday to celebrate thus far is ing’s Day.

Tracey ep, loved ing’s Day, looking forward to celebrating a eidenspecific holiday, October.

Where do you like to go out?

Travis I really enjoy exploring around and have been finding many things to do in otterdam lately. My favorite recent stop has been umah, a rum bar that has some of the best cocktails in the Netherlands.

Tracey We both love cocktails, so I have a special place in my heart for a speakeasy in Amsterdam called Door 4. For a great beer, Vi- ings in eiden is spectacular. They have a huge selection of uni ue beers and will sometimes play NF games during football season.

What famous Dutch place should you really go and see?

Travis asteel De aar it really invokes the ideas of what an 1 th-century castle could be, and looks like something out of a movie I would have watched as a child.

Tracey Mauritshuis in Den aag is just incredible. Seeing “The Girl With the Pearl arring” is a must-do. And it’s on the Museumkaart!

Best-kept secret in your city?

Travis Wijnbar Goeswijn it’s down a little side alley, and has delicious food and lovely natural wines.

Tracey xploring the hofjes (courtyards) in eiden is so interesting, it feels as though you are stumbling on little secrets tucked away from the main streets.

Looking back, what do you wish you knew before you moved to the Netherlands?

Travis I wish I had learned more Dutch before moving here.

Tracey I totally agree with Travis.

What are one or two things you recommend to new expat here in the Netherlands?

Travis Start learning basic Dutch because people will be much more accepting if you are trying to speak their language.

Tracey Get a Museumkaart! It covers over 400 museums and landmarks in the Netherlands, and there’s something for everyone.

Travis & Tracey, thank you for the interview!

Written by Marla Thomson

Carlijn Kingma

The Waterworks of Money

on view now until January 29

The Waterworks of MoneyExploring the role of money in our society

Who makes our money? Where does it all go? And why doesn’t the financial system work for everyone? These questions are at the heart of The Waterworks of Money, the latest work and exhibition of the same name by artist and cartographer arlijn ingma. In the exhibition, now on view at ijksmuseum Twenthe, she leads you through a watery world where money is in motion, its hidden forces made manifest.

Money as water

If you think of money as water, then our financial system is like an irrigation system, watering the economy. And just as irrigation helps crops grow, money allows the economy to flourish. As long as the money keeps flowing, society will thrive –or at least that’s the idea. In reality, large swaths of society remain parched, while a small group of people is swimming in money. Today, a handful of billionaires controls more wealth than half the world’s population combined.

Banking through the ages

With her project, ingma follows in the footsteps

of a long line of artists who call attention to the role that money and banking play in our lives. In the exhibition, you’ll wander past centuriesold charts and satirical prints depicting greed and hubris, their message just as relevant today. ingma draws on this rich history to map out how today’s monetary system is set up. With the help of humor and metaphor, she brings the world of big money within our grasp. ome journey beyond the shiny facades of financial institutions and uncover the true workings of money in our society.

The Waterworks of Money

In her newest piece, The Waterworks of Money, ingma maps the world of money using water as a metaphor, exploring alternatives for a more fair and just system. In the tall towers of the financial sector, bankers, technocrats and lobbyists meet to discuss the future form of our monetary system. Politicians look on from the sidelines, while the rest of the people see nothing of this design process, which takes place behind mirrored facades. ut our monetary system is a

public affair. Design choices made in conference rooms have great influence on how money moves through the economy and how wealth is distributed. Soaring inflation, growing ine uality, a lack of funding for sustainable projects – all are tied in with the system’s design. Those who hold power over money hold sway over the future of us all. To protect our democracy against the pull of big money, we first need a better understanding of the financial system, and ingma takes a first step in this.

Carlijn Kingma - The Waterworks of Money

1 October 2022 - 29 anuary 202

ijksmuseum Twenthe asondersingel 129-1 1 514 P nschede www.rijksmuseumtwenthe.nl

Dutch National Ballet | Balanchine / Van Manen / Arqués

were. Alongside well-known masterpieces by alanchine and ans van Manen, the touring programme includes a recent creation by the successful young choreographer uanjo Ar u s. alanchine Van Manen Ar u s will be presented from 9 to 19 November in various theatres across the Netherlands.

The Four Temperaments

Manoeuvre

Touring programme performed by Dutch National Ballet

Well-known works by three leading choreographers

Presented in theatres throughout the Netherlands from 9 to 19 November 2022

The first night of Dutch National allet’s touring programme will take place in Amare, in The ague, on Wednesday 9 November. “See the music, hear the dance.“ These words by George alanchine, the greatest choreographer of the twentieth century, are masterfully expressed in alanchine Van Manen Ar u s. Three leading choreographers from different generations show how they make music ‘visible’, as it

The Four Temperaments is one of the early works by the ussian-American choreographer George alanchine (1904-19 ). esides being a key work in his oeuvre, it was also the first alanchine ballet to be taken into Dutch National allet’s repertoire, in 19 1. The ingenious, energetic choreography is inspired by the mediaeval belief that people are made up of four different humours, which determine their temperament. The ballet is set to music by Paul indemith.

Frank Bridge Variations

Following the ans van Manen Festival as part of the celebrations of the choreographer’s 90th birthday, Dutch National allet is once again presenting Frank ridge Variations. According to the dance critics, Frank ridge Variations, by Dutch master ans van Manen (19 2), gives the only possible danced answer to enjamin ritten’s Variations on a Theme of Frank ridge. In duets, solos and group sections, he indulges in contrasts sharp and flowing, precise and free, angry and melancholy. ut no matter how diverse, together the nine sections form a unity.

The third work on the programme is Manoeuvre, created for Dutch National allet in 2020 by the Spaniard uanjo Ar u s (19 ). Although the piece is abstract, it is inspired by thoughts about the changing views in our Western society of the concept of masculinity. Ar u s set the work to Shaker oops by ohn Adams, who is celebrating his seventy-fifth birthday in 2022. Ar u s says, “It’s music that has been used by many choreographers before me, but I’ve always known that one day I’d want to give my own interpretation of it”. The premiere of the ballet was presented earlier to a small audience, during the lockdown in 2020.

alanchine Van Manen Ar u s – Tournee

9 nov 2022 – 20.15 Amare Den aag (premiere)

10 nov 2022 – 20.00 hass Theater reda

1 nov 2022 – 20.00 Stadsschouwburg trecht (sold out)

4 nov 2022 – 20.00 Theater aan het Vrijthof Maastricht

1 nov 2022 – 20.00 Parktheater indhoven

19 nov 2022 – 20.00 Theater otterdam

Information on ticket sales and ticket prices for the touring performances can be obtained from the respective theatres.

Photocredit Campaign image © Marta Syrko Dancers: Davi Ramos and Elisabeth Tonev

Carlijn Kingma, The Waterworks of Money (detail), 2022

Carlijn Kingma, The Waterworks of Money (detail), 2022 Carlijn Kingma, The Waterworks of Money, 2022

PAN Amsterdam: 35 years of bringing the best in art, antiques & design together

Sunday 20th to Sunday 27th November 2022 at RAI Amsterdam

PAN Amsterdam will celebrate its 35th anniversary as the Netherlands’ leading art, antiques and design fair from Sunday 20 to Sunday 27 November. Showcasing 125 art and antique dealers and galleries ranging from familiar PAN favourites to exciting newcomers, the fair will offer a wide and diverse display of art, antiques and design from home and abroad.

125 art and antique dealers and galleries

PAN Amsterdam 2022 hosts a range of 125 gallerists, antique dealers and art dealers, bringing paintings, antiques and modern and contemporary art, to jewelry, photography, design furniture and objects from ancient and distant cultures. The broad and eclectic mix of exhibitors ranges from leading Old Master specialists such as Rafael Valls Gallery and Weiss Gallery from London, and Koetser Gallery from Zürich, alongside contemporary Dutch furniture designer Piet Hein Eek. Antiques from the distinguished Limburg Antiquairs, art deco silver from Rondom 1920 and exquisite 20th-century jewellery from Epoque Fine Jewels feature alongside POP, ZERO & Nouveau Realism from Borzo Gallery and The Mayor Gallery. The newcomers’ pavilion, Walls & Cabinets, welcomes Gallery Martin van Zomeren, Kers Gallery and The Ravenstijn Gallery, Den Otter Fine Art, Joost van den Bergh from London and Duende Art Projects from Antwerp as first-timers on the fair.

PAN is back en better than ever Mark Grol, Managing Director of the PAN: “PAN Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ leading fair in art, antiques and design. Every year, more than 35,000 art lovers are inspired and tempted by the many thousands of works of art on show. Whether your interest lies in classical antiquity, old masters, photography, contemporary art, antiques, designer furniture or decorative objects, PAN is the perfect place to compare art, gather information and make surprising discoveries. Each object is vetted by independent experts for quality, authenticity and condition before the fair opens, giving you the assurance that you can buy with confidence.

PAN Amsterdam 2022 is back and better than ever, after the last two turbulent years. With sixteen exhibitors and galleries from abroad and fifteen more exhibitors than last year – when PAN saw ama ingly high visitor numbers and excellent sales – nearly all regular exhibitors have chosen to return, plus an exciting line up of new exhibitors. This, along with an exciting programme of events, should make this anniversary edition of PAN Amsterdam one to remember. For the expected 35,000-plus visitors, the organisers hope this year’s PAN will offer a unforgettable spectaclean actual ‘ArtCity’.

PAN campaign image 2022 by Winy Maas: ‘ArtCity. Everything is Art’ ach year PAN asks a leading figure in the art world to design a campaign image to be used for marketing the fair. This year Winy Maas, architect and co-founder of MVRDV, has designed PAN’s image for 2022: “ArtCity. Everything is Art”. Inspired by the idea of regarding anything in the city as an object of art, he says: “Whether it’s a bridge, a building, a park or a child’s chalk drawing on the pavement: everything has artistic value.” In the campaign image, Maas has depicted a city where every nook and cranny is piled high with art objects: “spaces where everyone and their ideas are welcome: an inclusive city brimming with art”.

Daily talks on the PAN Podium PAN Podium offers the visitors of PAN Amsterdam a varied program of inspiring talks and interactive presentations. The many diverse art disciplines, the art market and the fun of collecting take centre stage. This year, the programme for each day will focus on a different theme, from museums to young collectors and from jewellery to Old Masters. In the daily talks, designer Richard Hutten will highlight his work, artist Jan Dirk van den Burg will give a performance and porcelain, while museums

New: PAN Education App

New this year is the PAN Education App, which can be used during the exhibition. The app is intended to send visitors of all ages on a journey of discovery. The app shows three routes with different themes, such as Masterly Material, Other Views and Panimals (for the young visitor). Via these routes, visitors look for objects that play a role in the relevant theme. In this way, young and old are introduced to the world that is hidden behind the objects on display at the fair.

35-year anniversary PAN Amsterdam

In 1987, six leading Dutch antiques experts, art dealers and enterprising private art lovers took the initiative to launch PAN Amsterdam, giving Dutch dealers a national showcase. Since then, PAN has evolved and become the Netherlands’ leading national art fair, where art, antiques and design are presented by more than 125 art and antique dealers and gallery owners, primarily from the Netherlands. Each year 250,000 invitations are sent, and approximately 35,000 visitors come to the fair to see its broad range of top international art, which covers five millennia of art history. PAN Amsterdam has earned widespread praise for the quality of the objects on sale, which\ is secured by means of a meticulous vetting process. Eighty independent specialist vetting experts, organised in committees, appraise the authenticity, quality and condition of all the objects before the fair.

For tickets and more information about all exhibitors, artists and objects, and the daily program and talks on the PAN Podium: www.pan.nl

and sustainable design will also be in the spotlight. All PAN visitors are welcome at the PAN Podium.

Pottery and painting | Royal Delft Museum

oyal Delft was granted official museum status in 2021 oyal Delft Museum. Two of its ambitions, the upgrading of the museum rooms and returning exhibitions in a new exhibition hall, have been realised this past year.

oyal Delft Museum is the home of Delft lue pottery. Since oyal Delft received museum status, action has been taken to emphasi e even more the craft, production and history of the 400-year-old factory. With the renewed museum rooms, upgraded factory experience and audio tour, all visitors can soak up the history, learn about the production process and enjoy the demonstration of the craft.

Two new exhibition halls have been built to programme multiple exhibitions per year. The first exhibition, which will open on November, is one that has never been displayed before. It showcases two great 1 th-century landscape painters, Frederik van Frytom and acob van uisdael, who designed their artistry, each for himself, on Delft pottery and canvas respectively. They are known for their perspectives and portrayal of the Dutch landscape and their works were and still have an influence on contemporary artists. For the first time, works by the two artists can be seen side by side. Two worlds come together, with nature and landscapes on canvas and pottery playing a leading role. In addition, attention is paid to the traditional techni ue of the making process of the blue pigment, as used by both masters, and how it is still used today.

The exhibited pieces come from international private collectors and museums to Delft for an exclusive period from November 2022 to 15 March 202 .

A supporting programme has also been created around the exhibition. More information www.museum.royaldelft.com

Bicentennial Concert: Commemorating 200 years of Independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama and Peru

On Tuesday 11 October a special concert took place in the oyal onservatory of The ague. This concert celebrated 200 years of independence, after a historic transition in 1 21 when osta ica, the Dominican epublic, l Salvador, Guatemala, onduras, Mexico, Panama and Peru took a step forward to long-awaited independence from Spain.

Over a year ago, in a gesture of friendship, these countries decided to celebrate this special occasion together. They proposed the idea of a concert to enk van der Meulen, Director of the oyal onservatory of The ague, who loved this idea. The concert was to take place in December last year, but due to ovid restrictions, the concert had to be postponed. So, with great joy, this October the eight countries could share with 50 guests this long-overdue musical delight, to commemorate the beginning of republican government in these countries.

Words of welcome were spoken by the Ambassador of the epublic of Panama, . . li abeth Ward Neiman. She hoped that the audience would enjoy a musical journey of pieces carefully selected to represent each of the countries. Throughout the evening, guests could listen to outstanding students at the oyal onservatory of The ague, many from the atin American region. The ambassador was very grateful to the musicians for the many hours they devoted to rehearsing the different partitions. The Ambassador expressed her special thanks to the team at her embassy, which had put in endless hours for weeks in order to make the concert a reality, as well as to the staff of all the participating embassies.

Next, enk van der Meulen welcomed the guests in the onservatorium aal in the new oyal onservatory in the Amare Theatre. e emphasi ed how much he enjoyed the cooperation with the embassies and the foreign students for this event.

The concert featured a varied programme, from classical music of the 1 th century to percussion and modern music, and was highly appreciated by the public. At the end there was the song “Por Amor” from the Dominican epublic, the Ambassador of the Dominican ep. . . uan autista Dur n spontaneously came to the stage and joined the singer. The concert finished with a rendition of “Ode to oy”, sung by all musicians and the audience.

After the concert, the audience could meet the musicians. enk van der Meulen noted that he would like to get in contact with companies that are trading in the participating countries, to ask them for financial support so that students from atin American countries can study at the oyal onservatory - surely a worthwhile initiative to support!

Written by Nanda Jagusiak-Monteiro

Words of welcome by the Ambassador of Panama, H.E. Mr. Elizabeth Ward Neiman

Group photo with the  concerned ambassadors of the Latin American countries

Christmas shopping at Sligro Forepark!

You will find everything you're looking for at Sligro Forepark! The most amazing, freshest & festive products and the best advice from our team of food professionals. Come and experience Sligro Forepark this holiday season!

sligro.nl Linge 2, Den Haag

e che fi e star hotel

Carlo Chantrel, who received a Michelin star for 27 years in a row with restaurant Tilia in Etten-Leur, has succeeded Casimir Evens as Executive Chef at VANE Restaurant in the NH Collection Eindhoven Centre.

Chantrel prides himself on quality and taste without compromising the purity of the products. His experience takes VANE’s elegant cuisine to a higher level, reaching far beyond Eindhoven’s skyline. In addition, the NH Collection Eindhoven Center has received the prestigious 5 * Superior shield. It now ranks among the sixteen hotels in the Netherlands with a Superior five-star status.

The hotel, which has been located in the Groene Toren in the center of Eindhoven since 2017, has 132 spacious rooms and suites, with lots of natural daylight thanks to the high windows with French balconies, and a modern design. The restaurant has a unique panoramic view of the city. VANE Skybar, the rooftop lounge with terrace, is the icing on the cake.

www.nh-collection.com

n ith a ie in en osch

With 160 rooms, two restaurants and three bars - including a rooftop barThe Den in Den Bosch is the largest hotel in the city and the tallest building in Den Bosch where you can eat and drink with such a view. HDVL

Designmakers created the interior design, including the lobby and all rooms; HIP Studio the design of Current Rooftop Restaurant & Bar. HDVL Designmakers was inspired by the three rivers that meet in the city and give it its pictures ue character. The water theme is reflected in the interior in several ways: from the undulating shape of the reception desk to the seating sculptures in the lobby, the custom-made carpets and the rounded furniture. All this is combined with copper, brass and gold details, a reference to the Palace Bridge to which the hotel is directly connected.

The hotel rooms, where the high windows take a prominent place in order to connect the rich interior with the city, are decorated in a dark green shade with furniture in black wood. The lighting creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. The Den is a franchise of Marriott International and part of the Odyssey Hotel Group.

www.hoteltheden.nl

il er ilee in im r

In the heart of the Ingendael nature reserve, a stone’s throw from Maastricht, lies the ancient Château St. Gerlach, a place of impressive beauty and grandeur. The hotel, with 114 rooms and apartments, two dining options, its own spa wellness and fifteen meeting and ban uet rooms, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

Since its opening, Château St. Gerlach has held special appeal and hosted both NATO guests and President G.W. Bush. But it’s more than a monument full of memories: the estate has gone through an evolution over time. Sustainability, nature, art and culture have become key concepts. For example, in the kitchens, local and artisanal products are increasingly used from its own vegetable garden, WIJland, which is maintained together with local residents.

Château St. Gerlach has been part of the Limburg family business Oostwegel Collection since 1997 and is a member of Relais & Châteaux.

Our motto at Caesar is: “Your body is your temple.” We offer a variety of activities for a healthy balance between sports and relaxation. Our members can train and relax in a safe and healthy environment. Thanks to our state-of-the-art ventilation system, our visitors always breathe in fresh and clean air. This system supplies us constantly with fresh outdoor air filtered through glass filters. Good air keeps us all in a good mood.

Our Body & Mind studio is a place to bring balance to your body, mind and spirit. We give different types of yoga classes. For example: Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Yin Yang yoga and many more. We can help you find the yoga class that suits you best. As a member you are free to explore all of them.

Next to yoga classes we also give different group classes in our aerobic studio, spinning studio and our swimming pool. They are fun, energetic and they keep you fit. We also have various Fitness & Sports activities. There’s a range of fitness equipment for beginner and advanced athletes, so there is always something to do for everyone.

At the Spa & Wellness area you can ease yourself in a soothing atmosphere. We have a hot whirlpool, a lovely swimming pool and different types of saunas to calm down. Our Beauty & Health offers a variety of massages that add to your well-being.

Did you know that we also have a Kidsclub? Our Kidsclub is for young children from three months old till four years old. If you have kids as a member, they are taken care of during your visit at Caesar Fitness + Spa Resort.

Caesar offers the perfect environment to encourage a healthy lifestyle. A place where you can take a moment to yourself or to have quality time with friends. We are open every day of the year. Being a member at Caesar Fitness + Spa resort adds to your well-being and health. Come and experience it for yourself. For more information, visit our website www.caesar-denhaag.nl.

Fitness & Sport Beauty & Health Spa & WellnessBody & Mind

Walking Amsterdam|

Floor van Spaendonck & Gijs Stork

Walking Amsterdam is the English translation of the successful book Amsterdam by Floor van Spaendonck and Gijs Stork, celebrating arts, architecture, nature and diversity. Gijs and Floor are not just best friends, but also art and design curators, and know Amsterdam by heart. Every week they describe a city walk for Amsterdam newspaper Het Parool. They love storytelling and are good at it. The book features nine of their favourite walks, plus seven themed walks on arts, crafts, parks and gardens.

The first edition of the book appeared in 2021 it’s now on to its second edition and thousands of copies have been sold. Both editions are a great gift for new, old, former and prospective Amsterdammers. Residents, expats, students, people who love culture, but above all: people who want to get to know the city in a special way. Floor and Gijs say: “Amsterdam is the city of endless stories. Colorful and creative, packed with architecture and hidden, secret places. Always on the move, and getting better. Let us take you on a walk.”

The Hague Global Cinema Festival | Filmhuis Den Haag

The ague Global inema Festival in partnership with Filmhuis Den aag welcomes everyone to the fourth annual international film event on 111 November. The festival is a showcase for cultures beyond borders and provides an international platform for filmmakers with a vision and an important story to tell. The selected films in the ‘ xplore ultures’ theme showcase these stories and give viewers a chance to experience the differences and similarities with other people’s lives.

The Global inema Festival is the Netherlands’ leading gathering of film buffs, movie goers, critics, filmmakers, and everyone else who loves to watch really good alternative films. There is plenty to see, interesting like-minded people to talk to about all things related to film, and special events each day of the festival.

For more information and tickets: filmh isdenhaa nl the ha e lo al cinema esti al www.thehagueglobalcinema.nl

‘The Arctic: Our Last Great Wilderness’ in One Planet Dome

The spectacular large-screen film ‘The Arctic Our ast Great Wilderness’ is on show in the Museon-Omniversum in The ague from 1 December. Discover one of the last areas on arth untouched by humans on One Planet Dome’s 40 m dome screen.

Imagine a vast, wild and magical area in the far north of Alaska – a region where one of the greatest natural spectacles in the world takes place. ‘The Arctic Our ast Great Wilderness’ takes you to the land where the Gwich’in tribe has lived for countless generations and where nature has evolved without human interference since the dawn of time. Join National Geographic photographer Florian Schul on his five-year effort to film the 200,000-strong herd of caribou as they make their way to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest animal migrations on Earth.

‘The Arctic Our ast Great Wilderness’ features uni ue, intimate images of polar bears and musk oxen, wolves, grizzly bears and golden eagles, among many other species. This beautiful large-screen film immerses you in a world that few have actually seen until now. Enjoy an unforgettable experience on the screen of One Planet Dome, and at the same time experience a call to embrace and protect this magical area.

Deck the halls with footballs!

Perhaps the appearance of pepernoten and chocolate letters on the supermarket shelves in August was you first clue or those holiday travel plans have been a constant reminder that the holiday season is nearly upon us. Along with the travelling, celebrating and eating there may be some gift giving you need to consider. Perhaps your list includes a sports enthusiast or two so here are a few ideas of what to get that special sporting someone this holiday season.

Football is of course the most important sport in the Netherlands and many a youngster have received a jersey from their favorite club as a holiday gift. This may be the perfect gift for someone on your list whether here or back at home during the holidays. Even if you don’t barrack for your local club, a football shirt under the Christmas tree is always a winner. Check out the fan shop of your local club usually to found in the stadium itself. Always check ahead on the club website to be sure of the location and the opening hours. Many of the clubs have webshops as well but if you can make the trip, there’s probably a stocking stuffer or two on offer you might overlook if you do your shopping online. That being said, if you want to see a broad selection or shop the collection of the Dutch National Team then Voetbalshop.nl is the place to go especially if you need to pick up merchandise from more than one team. With the World Cup playing out this holiday season, an Oranje gift might just be the way to go.

www.voetbalshop.nl

Perhaps the “beautiful game” is not your thing or you’re just looking for something different for that special sports someone. Among other sports, the Netherlands are pretty darn good at baseball or honkbal as it called here. The Dutch National Baseball Team has some sweet kit bearing the “Kingdom of the Netherlands” moniker. You could make your sports nut feel like a king with their own Kingdom honkbal shirt. The Dutch baseball federation features a shop on their website with a selection of shirts as well as baseball caps. You can score you gear at www.kluppsportswear.nl/majr/ kingdom/

If you want a gift that is more sport agnostic but bearing the full-on Oranje feeling, look for official Olympic Team gear at the webshop of Team NL. While the next Summer Games won’t be held until 2024 in Paris, the orange apparel of the Dutch Olympic team is an evergreen that any sports fan will truly appreciate. The Team NL Miffy doll is just about the most perfect souvenir gift item we’ve seen in a long while! www.teamnl.nl/shop

Do you have a tennis buff on your shopping list this holiday season? Of course, you pick them up a can of balls but if you really want to give a gift that will hit the sweet spot, why not send them to the ABN Amro Open? This annual tennis tournament, held in Rotterdam’s Ahoy, is the place to be for tennis fans as the world’s best converge on the harbor city for the largest indoor tennis competition in the world. The 2023 version will take place from 11 to 19 February and this year’s 50th anniversary edition will feature a women’s wheelchair tennis tourney to compliment the men’s competition. More information and tickets are available at www.abnamro-open.nl/en

Golfers are easy to shop for given the huge selection of clothing and accessories. Here in the Netherlands, one of the best golf shops is run by the same folks from the Jumbo supermarkets. Jumbo Golf has several bricks and mortar locations throughout the country as well an extensive webshop. One of the items that got our attention was a bag of American Lake Balls – 50 balls salvaged from the water traps of the USA. Who knew that Americans were so lousy at golf that salvaged golf balls would be an export item? In any case, you can find all kinds of gift ideas for your special duffer at www.jumbosports.com

Should your shopping list include a cyclist, you are certainly in luck in this country of bike enthusiasts. One of our favorite finds are the Santa and Ugly Christmas Sweater cycling jackets from Grupetto. This holiday-themed gear and a host of other original designs are available at www.grupettocycling.cc

If you are looking for sports apparel with a distinctive Dutch touch, several brands jump out. The venerable Cruyff name adorns an extensive line of clothing and footwear. You can deck the halls with an homage to the Netherland’s most legendary footballer by visiting www.cruyff.com While Johan himself wore Puma, many of his contemporaries laced up Quick boots. The Dutch brand, founded in 1905 lives on in the Q1905 line of trainers and you can outfit your favorite sneakerhead at www. Q1905.com Sustainability is a popular theme these days and it is also taking hold in our holiday shopping. Ex-hockey international Kim Lammers has taken this to heart, integrating sustainability and circular design into her own brand of sportswear and field hockey accessories. www.circulr.eu

Still stumped for ideas? If you want to combine sporty with everyday use in a product that combines Dutch design and sustainability, you can’t go wrong by picking up a Dopper for everyone on your shopping list. These Dutch water bottles have become a common sight in schools, offices and gyms. They have all sorts, sizes and colors and you are far better getting your hydration out of one these than a

single use plastic bottle. www.shop.dopper.com is the place to go.

Hopefully you’ve gotten a bit of inspiration to gift your own sports fans or weekend warriors this holiday season. We’d like to think that St. Nicolas, Santa Claus or whomever is making joy this holiday season will kindle more sports passion and participation for the new year… Happy Holidays!

Written by John Mahnen