ACCESS Spring 2012

Spring 2012 WWW

S E R V I N G T H E I N T E R N AT I O N A L C O M M U N I T Y

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Spring into a great year of sport Special features | Mauritshuis: A jewel in a perfect setting |

Discover the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium | Sporting destinations | What’s on | Oranje goes for gold | 1 | access | SPriNG

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ACCESS magazine Spring 2012 Vol. 25 No. 1

Contents

Spring 2012 ‘Oranje’ goes for the gold

• Letter from the editor • Letter from the board • Community News • What’s on • ’Oranje’ goes for the gold • The Amsterdam Olympics • Love at the Mauritshuis • A European sporting year • Happy @ home

PHOTO: Olympic.org / Lars Baron / Bongarts / Getty Images

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Love at the Mauritshuis

• The British Consulate-General PHOTO: Het Mauritshuis

Amsterdam • Courses

Copyright©ACCESS 2011 All rights reserved. No part of the ACCESS e-zine may be used in any form without explicit permission in ­writing from the Publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at the time of going to press. However, ACCESS and its writers cannot accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information included.

Happy @ home PHOTO: Yuri Arcurs

Colophon Publisher Stichting ACCESS - Zeestraat 100, 2nd floor, 2518 AD The Hague, Editorial content editor@access-nl.org, Advertising 0900 2 222 377, local rate 20c/min. adv@access-nl.org, Editor Lee Seabourne, Assistant Editor Carina Hyllested, Design & layout Marek Moggré, Contributors Mandie Rose Danielski, Monique Rubin, Jane Richards, Ann Jennen, Karen T Slingenberg, Kirsty Donald, Cover photo Gettyimages/ london2012.com

Letter from the editor

­ review of some of the Dutch Olympic p team and their chances of turning orange to gold in 2012.

Dear ACCESS readers In this Spring edition of the ACCESS e-zine, we’re focusing on a year of sport and in ­particular, the Olympic Games.

We’re sure that many of you will be supporting your national team, and whether you are in the s­t adium or watching TV at home, even the most reluctant sports fan can feel proud as they see their fellow countrymen and women recognised for being ‘the best’.

With five months to go before the Olympic flame illuminates London, we give you a 4 | access | spring

It’s a long time since the Netherlands hosted the Games, but in our article on the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium you can find out more about this venue and its place in Dutch sporting history. In our travel feature we’ll take you on a sporting tour of Europe, and whether a participant or a spectator, we suggest a number of exciting events and destinations, which are easily accessible from the Netherlands.

However, if you’re not a great fan of sport don’t despair. There are other things going on in the Netherlands this year and in our regular What’s On section, we take a look at some ‘must see’ exhibitions, events and entertainment taking place over the next three months.

We also encourage you to visit the Mauritshuis, before it closes its doors in preparation for a major renovation. Writer Karen Slingenberg highlights a couple of the lesser known paintings, which have love as their theme.

Finally, don’t forget to put your clocks forward one hour on 20 March. Leave the winter behind and look forward to a new season, full of possibilities. « Lee Seabourne - editor@access-nl.org

Partners

Thank you for your support

PLATINUM • Gemeente Den Haag GOLD • ABN-AMRO Bank • The British School in the Netherlands •W FIA - West-Holland Foreign Investment Agency SILVER

Associates

Thank you for your support

• Bureau Kraamzorg Extra • Bizstay The Hague • Crunch Cafe • The English Theatre • J.C.Suurmond & zn Tax Consultants • Physiomotion-Physiotherapy Rotterdam • PR Housing • De Regenbogen Beheer • Voorhoeve Foundation

• American School of The Hague • GMW Advocaten • International School of The Hague • OPCW BRONZE • Big Ben Kids • The British School of Amsterdam • Bronovo Hospital • BSN Language Centre • DutchbuzZ • DutchNews.nl • Financial Consultants De Boer • The Hague Online • ICP – International Community Platform • International Health Centre The Hague • Kickstart School • ThexpatTV • The Xpat Journal & Xpat Media • The Underground The Hague

The ACCESS Associate scheme is aimed at small and start-up businesses to enable them to reach a diverse international audience. With our Associate scheme we offer the benefits of a listing both on the ACCESS website and in the ACCESS Magazine, and promotional opportunities to our Facebook and Twitter audience.

Contact fnd@access-nl.org to find out more about becoming an Associate.

Your organisation’s name here?

Supporting ACCESS means helping over 20,000 people in the expat and international community each year. access | spring | 5

Letter from the board

Dear Readers, We’ve gone digital! a mere tenth of the cost of the paper version – the new webbased e-magazine is available 24/7 and can be enjoyed by a global audience. Moreover, from an ecological standpoint, the digital version saves plenty of trees, ink and waste paper recycling.

This change to embrace modern media with our e-magazine has a number of benefits.

As a non-profit organization, ACCESS relies on contributions from the municipality, various companies, advertisers and donors for our funding.

ACCESS will continue to expand its communications reach via our website, Twitter and Facebook. So whether you’re on a laptop or mobile phone, ACCESS is readily accessible. If you like what you see, do tell others about it.

As good stewards of our often-limited financial means, the decision was made by the Executive Board to discontinue printing the magazine and move to digital. Not only is this a substantial savings –

Our talented team of writers, all international residents, brings you the best of the Netherlands, sharing their experiences and insight on living here, as well as useful tips and a full agenda of things to

6 | access | spring

do, great classes to attend and interesting places to travel to.

ACCESS is made possible by all of the wonderful volunteers who graciously and tirelessly contribute to the day-to-day operations along side our ­fantastic Executive Director Deborah Valentine and the office and editorial teams. Our trainers also offer invaluable assistance, while the board keeps an eye on developments to ensure our continuity.

As for the future, we’ll keep on doing what we’ve done best for 25 years – helping each other, and keeping the international community informed. « Warm regards, Connie Moser ACCESS Executive Board Communications

News Like what you see? Missing something?

The new ACCESS website is up and running. Have you seen it?

With clearer navigation, variety in the information we offer and the opportunity to share more items on how you can make the most of your time in the Netherlands, we are proud of what we have come up with. Please visit and give us your feedback.

Send us feedback

Is there something you wish you could find? A topic you would like to see explored, from the expatriate point of view? Let us know and our team of dedicated volunteers will see how they can respond. « webmaster@access-nl.org

Support ACCESS and reach the community

Have a service or product geared towards the international market in the Netherlands? The ACCESS website and social media platforms are a great opportunity to reach out while at the same time supporting this not-for-profit initiative of the international community. For 25 years its volunteers have been serving the needs of the international community, with the contributions of many partners and associates. Want to know how you can contribute & become known within the international community? Visit our ‘How you can help’ pages on www.access-nl.org for more information. «

ACCESS | SPRING | 7

LuxuRIOuS, fuLLy SERvICED apaRTmENTS ON TOp Of THE HILTON THE HaguE

In the centre of The Hague, on top of the brand new Hilton Hotel, 10 magnificent Hotel Residences are available for short or long term rent, including a tailor-made service package.

The luxurious apartments offer the service and security of a five-star hotel within the privacy of your own house.

For information please visit: WWW.HOTELRESIDENCES.NL or contact Jan Tettero from Tettero & Wetters Makelaars: (070) 356 07 99

About ACCESS is a volunteer non-profit organisation that serves the needs and interests of the international community in the Netherlands.

It is supported by Dutch, international and expatriate businesses and organisations through donations and sponsorship.

Executive Board

Chairman: Gary Hays, TNK-BP ikis, • Vice Chairman: Kiri K Kikis Investments paris, • Treasurer: Anita de Cas

•

Mazars penaar, • Secret ary: Imanda Wa WFIA

Members

What we do

Established in 1986 ACCESS is a unique volunteer-based organisation. Representing an impressive cultural and ­linguistic variety, its dedicated volunteers work to: • provide guidance, advice, information to help individuals with settling, and/or living and working in the Netherlands • promote friendship, understanding and well-being of the members of the international community in the Netherlands • contribute to community development through skill training schemes and courses • serve as a bridge between local and international communities How you can help

ACCESS can be supported in many ways: • As a Volunteer: check the website for Information Morning dates or contact vrd@access-nl.org • As a Trainer: consult ‘Become a Trainer’ on www.access-nl.org • As an Associate or Partner: details of which can also be found on our website • As an Advertiser: on our website or in our ezine.

Contact adv@access-nl.org • As a Friend: Like our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter to show your support. Click on links below.

Charles van Beuningen, van Beuningen advocaten • Connie Moser uyt, • Willemijn van Oppen-St

ACCESS Zeestraat 100 2518 AD The Hague

Educaide • Jessie Rodell RO. • Lars Tomson, ABN AM

The Hague International Centre City Hall Atrium, Spui 70

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0900 2 ACCESS (0900 2 222 377) local rate 20c per minute helpdesk@access-nl.org www.access-nl.org Join ACCESS on access | spring | 9

Community News

New typeface Dyslexie for people with dyslexia

Dutch designer, and dyslectic, Christian Boer has designed a new typeface that has proven to help people with dyslexia.

10 | access | spring

People with dyslexia see mirror images of letters, rotate letters and mix them up. And as most fonts have been designed from an aesthetic point of view, the letters all look very similar.

The specific characteristics of the ‘dyslexie’ font make it easier for people with dyslexia to distinguish the individual letters:

The bottom part of each letter appear heavier visually than the top, and prevents the letter from turning upside down and the openings of the letters have been enlarged to make the letters look less alike. With more space between the letters and words they each stand out more clearly and by using semi-italics the letters slightly appear hand written and don’t all look the same.

Letters that seem similar have been adapted by changing the tails, given longer strokes or made different in height to prevent confusion.

Furthermore bold capitals and punctuation marks clearly highlight a beginning and an end to a sentence. « www.studiostudio.nl

Community News

The Grand Shave of the year Many of those who suffer with cancer lose their hair due to chemotherapy.

Cafe Quirky together with Eef Lanoye have decided to hold a charity event to raise money for awareness and research for The Cancer Foundation. They invite you to a wonderful shaving affair! Eef and Ms Quirky have offered themselves as candidates for the GRAND SHAVE - they will be shaven totally bald!

If you would like to participate in the GRAND SHAVE for this very worthwhile cause and be part of raising in excess of Euro 100,00 please contact Cafe Quirky via email, info@cafequirky.com, and they will add you to the program! « Date: Sunday 15 April, 16:00 – 20:00 Quirky, Lunchroom & Gallery Tasmanstraat 128, 2518 VS The Hague www.facebook.com/ cafequirky

Did you k n Globall ow... y 15 milli , in 2020 on be newl people will y diag with ca nosed ncer.

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European School in The Hague The European School will start up operations on 20 August 2012 on Houtrustweg in The Hague with two nursery groups and one first grade class. Other primary school grades will be added in subsequent years.

The school’s secondary school programme will start in 2014.

The school will initially offer three language sections: Dutch, English and Spanish.

European schools were founded in 1953 for the children of members and officials of European institutions, bodies and agencies like Europol, Eurojust, European Patent Office and ESA/Estec. « www.europeanschoolthehague.nl/en

rce: Kwf

access | SPriNG | 11

Community News

The Hague city guide app for iPhone and Android Which restaurant is close by? is it going to rain? Are there any delays in public transport? The single answer to these questions is: The Hague City Guide app!

The free application offers the possibility of sharing tips with friends through social media and the ‘near me’ function tells you which restaurant, theatre or hotel is close by using a GPS signal.

You can stay updated on the public transportation situation through 9292ov and on everything that’s going on in the city via the UIT Agenda. And thanks to the latest weather report users won’t be in for any unpleasant surprises. Furthermore you can scan QR codes with the app’s QR scanner.

You can download the mobile application for free by sending a text message with ‘denhaag’ to 5040 or by looking for ‘denhaag’ in the App Store or Android Market. «

The Hague hasn’t lost its jazz Jazz lovers can live it up at a new festival called ‘Jazzin’ The Hague’ on 1 - 2 June at the World Forum in The Hague.

12 | access | SPriNG

North Sea Jazz left The Hague for Rotterdam and The Hague Jazz went bankrupt. Nevertheless there is a new jazz festival in The Hague. The internationally successful pianist Peter Beets has taken the initiative

for Jazzin’ The Hague as he did not want the city’s rich jazz tradition to fade away. ‘The declaration of bankruptcy for The Hague Jazz shouldn’t mean a declaration of bankruptcy for jazz in The Hague.’ «

Community News

Logbook of the Low Countries A concise chronicle of Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, setting their major roles against events in world history, together with famous quotations and highlights from art and science.

This Logbook is meant for members of the corps diplomatique, expatriates and students from international schools, giving them easy access to the fascinating history of the country in which they live.

Wout van der Toorn, a Dutch economist with a keen interest in history, has compiled this helpful historical guide. With its two and a half thousand references, it gives a chronological summary of important events in the history of the Low Countries, and major events in the wider world.

Logbook of the Low Countries € 22,50 Seaside Publishing ISBN 978 90 8860 052 4

Brigitte Grouwels, Minister of the BrusselsCapital Region and Jozias van Aartsen, Mayor of The Hague, have graciously contributed the preface and praise the Logbook of the Low Countries as “a very handy guide through world history”. « access | SPriNG | 13

Crèche Hermelijntje - partner in child raising and caring is an organisation that focuses on providing professional and expanding child care to private clients and businesses.

Quality is our Priority with first attention given to our children and no less to parents, businesses and employees.

Head Office: Hoge Pr. Willemstr. 226 2584 HX Den Haag Tel: 070-3062771 Fax: 070-3515391 info@hermelijntje.nl www.hermelijntje.nl

It’s one less worry to know that your child is in the safe hands of qualified teachers who understand what excellent child care means.

You can count on the staff of Crèche Hermelijntje!

With 8 day-care centres in The Hague and 1 in Voorburg, we offer professional child care for children from 0-4 years of age.

Visit our website to find out more about locations and general terms and conditions: www.hermelijntje.nl For more detailed information and placement opportunities, please contact Elisa Bouwens-Struijs or Tanja Morley at our child administration centre: Hoge Prins Willemstraat 226 Tel: 070-3062771 e-mail: administratie@hermelijntje.nl

What’s on Spring 2012

Special events in March WANT TO POST A COMMuNiTy EvENT iN THiS MAGAziNE? CONTACT ACCESS MAGAziNE AT EDiTOr@ACCESS-NL.OrG, SuBJECT: ‘WHAT’S ON’.

12 -13 March Shen Yun 2012 - The Hague Shen Yun Performing Arts are again touring the world - on a mission of reviving 5,000 years of divinely inspired Chinese culture.

Lucent Danstheater, The Hague.

Until 1 April Warhol’s World Kunsthal, rotterdam

PHOTO: STEvE SCHAPirO

www.uniekeshow.nl

22 -28 March Movies that matter Festival - The Hague Seventy feature films dealing with various human rights issues. In two main sections: A Matter of ACT, Amnesty International’s competition programme of ten documentaries dealing with remarkable human rights defenders, and Camera Justitia, the competition programme on law and justice: the rule of law, international law, legal dilemmas and miscarriages of justice. Filmhuis and Theater aan het Spui, The Hague. www.moviesthatmatter.nl/english_index/festival

Yet unknown photos of Andy Warhol give a characteristic image of the New York underground scene surrounding The Factory in the sixties. www.kunsthal.nl/en-22-701Warhols-World.html

23 March – 22 April

PHOTO: CirQuE Du SOLEiL

Cirque du Soleil Amsterdam

16 - 25 March TEFAF Maastricht

The famous circus returns to Amsterdam with a new show called Corteo. A joyous procession, imagined by a clown who pictures his own funeral in a carnival atmosphere. Grand Chapiteau, Arena, Amsterdam.

The world’s leading art and antique fair attracts the best dealers, academics, art critics, and collectors. Everyone who’s in the field of fine art should visit The European Fine Art Fair in Maastricht.

www.cirquedusoleil.com

www.tefaf.com access | SPriNG | 15

What’s on Spring 2012

Special events in April WANT TO POST A COMMuNiTy EvENT iN THiS MAGAziNE? CONTACT ACCESS MAGAziNE AT EDiTOr@ACCESS-NL.OrG, SuBJECT: ‘WHAT’S ON’.

15 April PHOTO: THEATrE DELAMAr, AMSTErDAM

Rotterdam marathon

20 – 21 April One Night with Joan - Amsterdam The English actress and writer Joan Collins brings her one-woman show to the Netherlands. A huge hit in London and on Broadway, she uses photos and film clips to talk about her life and career. At the end of the show, the audience will have the opportunity to ask her questions.

DeLaMar, Amsterdam. www.delamar.nl

The world’s top athletes will be at the start on the bustling Coolsingel, alongside thousands of other runners who will also triumph, each in their own unique way.

The marathon weekend is a wonderful blend of sport and festival. No other marathon in the Netherlands can match the atmosphere in Rotterdam; 925,000 spectators along the course make the party complete. www.abnamromarathonrotterdam.com/home

5 April – 7 October Floriade, World Horticultural Expo - venlo

PHOTO: FLOriADE.COM

Once every 10 years you can visit the largest horticultural exhibition in the world in Holland. In 2012 the Floriade comes to Venlo under the theme: “Be part of the theatre ACCE in nature, get closer to the quality of life”. will al SS so be featur The Floriade Park, Venlo. ing www.floriade.com 16 | access | SPriNG

in the Floriade su editio mmer n of t e-zine he .

What’s on Spring 2012

Special events in May WANT TO post a community event in this magazine? contact access MAGAZINE at EDITOR@access-nl.org, SUBJECT: ‘what’s on’.

17 May

PHOTO: Ewoud Koster

Festival a/d Werf Utrecht

5 May ‘Bevrijdingspop’ (Liberation Pop) - Haarlem Bevrijdingspop is a free festival where everyone’s welcome. The program contains a mixture of classical music, debates, poetry, rap and pop music from (inter)national bands and a ceremony with the liberation fire. Peace and freedom play a central role. 5 May is Liberation Day in the Netherlands. No better way to celebrate freedom than at Bevrijdingspop in Haarlem. www.bevrijdingspop.nl

25 – 28 May

26 – 28 May

North Sea Regatta The Hague

Pinkpop - Landgraaf

Always a popular event, a total of about 1.500 sailors will be invading The Hague for the annual Delta Lloyd North Sea Regatta.

Soundgarden, The Cure and Bruce Springsteen are among the artists visiting the Netherland’s biggest open-air festival.

www.northsearegatta.nl

www.pinkpop.nl/2012/festivalinformation/tickets-en/

Festival a/d Werf is an annual festival that takes place at a wide range of locations, steeping the city of Utrecht in culture for ten days.

The installations, theatre, dance and music performances are known for its large experimental content. www.festivalaandewerf.nl/ english.php

27 May Dunya Festival - Rotterdam Dunya brings all the cultures of the world within hand’s reach in Rotterdam. You are encouraged to try, taste, experience and enjoy all the activities at this world arts festival. You seem to visit every corner of the earth in one afternoon at the Dunya Festival in Rotterdam. www.dunya.nl/nl/English access | spring | 17

Education - Partner feature

Early Childhood education

Early Childhood education is not to be confused with crèche facilities or day care.

At American School of The Hague, the Early Childhood Department utilises a well-defined curriculum, which includes strong phoneticbased reading, exploration of the world through social studies, hands-on experiential science and problem solving math. Classes are taught with developmentally appropriate expectations in mind, along with an emphasis on social skills.

The focus of education for these young students, aged 3-6, is on developing the core areas of learning, namely: Social and Emotional Development, Physical Development, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies with additional lessons in Music and Library.

Students are supported with Dutch or English as an additional Language and Technology classes where students access learning tools on iPad’s.

18 | access | spring

The social and emotional development of each child is an essential part of the learning process as young students learn social skills, problem solving, develop a sense of responsibility, and learn to be independent. Creating a passion for lifelong learning begins early at American School of The Hague.

As the global demand for Early Childhood education grows, American School of The Hague is developing a new, purpose-built facility for their 3-6 year olds, due for completion in the latter part of 2013. This new Center will be located just across the road from the current campus, on the site of a historical monument, farmhouse (Boerderij) Ter Weer. Combining the charm and history of the old farmhouse, constructed in 1647, with modern, age-appropriate new facilities has made for an exciting challenge for architect Hans Goverde of Kraaijvanger Urbis. The new facility will incorporate many sustainable measures, which will also be used as teaching tools for these young students. Each of the sustainable measures implemented will be made visible and accessible

for students so that they can learn, in a hands-on way, what sustainability is all about. Sustainable energy elements will also be incorporated into their age-appropriate play areas dotted around the grounds.

The 4-year-old students, who will be the first Grade 1 class to occupy the new Early Childhood Center, recently took part in the official groundbreaking, when they dug up

“ A merican School of The Hague nurtures and inspires character, commitment, creativity, and learning.” some plants at the old farmhouse to preserve them for re-planting when the building opens in 2013. They will study the plants in class as part of their curriculum, in a block called “Is It Alive”, and will nurture them until they are ready to be re-planted.

In the words of the Early Childhood Team at American school of The Hague, “As passionate educators of young children, we don’t just want to think of the ordinary; we want to create the extraordinary. That’s what our young children do every day.” «

Contact: American School The Hague Rijksstraatweg 200, 2241 BX Wassenaar 070 - 512 10 80 www.ash.nl admissions@ash.nl ECC@ash.nl

access | spring | 19

Cover story

‘Oranje’ goes for the gold

BY MANDIE ROSE DANIELSKI

Douglas, originally from Bermuda, has been an expat in the Netherlands since 1994. Reflecting on his days as a sprinter with the Dutch team in Atlanta, 2004, Douglas recalls times in between competitions: “That’s the coolest thing on the planet, having a whole team together. You can have a cup of coffee with someone from cycling or tennis or hockey or swimming… You’re more at ease, knowing that you’re together, and you end up pushing each other. Competition always brings the best out of you.”

Like all the other coaches, Douglas has high confidence in the team’s athletes heading to the Games of the XXXth Olympiad in London, later this year.

20 | access | spring

“If I see anybody with orange, I know that’s my team,” says Troy Douglas, a four-time Olympic athlete and now Olympic coach for the Netherlands athletics team.

The games include 28 sports represented by more than 10,000 top athletes from 200 nations. No matter where your national loyalties lie, look out for those orange (oranje in Dutch) jerseys. Douglas predicts that the Dutch will win big in cycling, swimming, sailing, water polo, equestrian and field hockey, among other events.

Medallists in field, track and course

Most of the players on the Dutch Olympic women’s field hockey team are not old enough to remember the Netherlands scoring gold in 1984, the sport’s first Olympic competition. But they carried a winning spirit at the last summer Olympics in 2008 in Beijing.

They clutched gold when, in the sec- »

PHOTO: Olympic.org/Julian Herbert/Getty Images

“Anky van Grunsven takes gold at Beijing in 2008”

access | spring | 21

Another must-see is Marianne Vos. She, like most Dutch, started biking at an early age. But she’s cycled to the Olympic (and sometimes muddy) extreme. In 2008, the same year she won the gold in Beijing, Vos also broke a new record, becoming the first woman to hold world championship titles for three types of cycling: road, track, and cyclo-cross. It may be surprising that a woman from such a flat country could hold her own in even “mountainous” terrain, but Vos is also a former skater with serious training for that much-needed legwork. Fans are anxious to see how the 25-year-old defends her title in London.

22 | access | spring

PHOTO: Anton Vos

ond half of the final game against China, players Naomi van As and Maartje Goderie scored, respectively, bringing the team to a 2 – 0 victory.

Field hockey (or “hockey”) is the second most popular sport in the Netherlands, after football, and Van As is currently the second best player in the world. In fact, the Dutch women’s and men’s hockey have such a rich history of success (the men took silver in 2004 and gold in 2000 Olympics) that it will be a shock if neither team takes home a medal.

PHOTO: Olympic.org / Lars Baron / Bongarts / Getty Images

Cover story | ‘Oranje’ goes for the gold

“ The Dutch will be defending well earned titles in London, building on a rich history of success from previous games”

Both Marianne Vos and Anky van Grunsven have had the honour of being named Dutch Sportswoman of the Year, respectively. Van Grunsven, however, is a more seasoned veteran of the games and a rider of a different kind – horses. Van Grunsven competes in dressage, a sport that tests the horse and rider to display athletic prowess and supreme elegance. The equestrian champion, 44, has earned an Olympic medal in every Summer Game since 1992. She won gold in 2000 with her horse Bonfire, and won gold again in 2004 and 2008 with her horse Salinero.

She has also been named the World Cup Champion eight times.

at Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour (where you can even get a view of the races without a ticket).

High expectations

Winning in and on the water

Still, even more female athletes are “making waves” in the pool. The Dutch women’s water polo took gold in Beijing, defeating the US 9 – 8.

That team came up from fourth place at the Sydney Olympics, and will no doubt be another challenge to the US, and others. The “golden girls” of 4x100m freestyle relay swimming also earned a gold for the Netherlands in the last summer Olympics, and with a world record time of 3:33:76 they disappointed the US (silver) and Australia (bronze).

The Dutch are internationally renowned as experts when it comes to water. The aquatic athletes’ past performances give a good indication of more excitement to come. For example, the Dutch men’s sailing crew continues a winning streak as just this past January they took first place in the Yngling Worlds 2012 in Australia, a repeat of their win from 2011. The women’s sailing team, who earned the silver medal in Beijing, are also more than ready for this summer’s challenge

The women’s rowing team pushed ahead that year with gold in lightweight double sculls and silver in the coxed eight event. The men’s rowing team are also a team to look out for.

Support from home is also important.

Frank Schoots, an avid sports fan, ­traveled all the way from Eindhoven to Sydney for the 2000 games, especially to see Dirk Lippits, a long-time friend and professional rower for the Dutch team. » access | spring | 23

Cover story | ‘Oranje’ goes for the gold

“He was definitely surprised to see me there in Sydney,” says Schoots. He promised Lippits six months before the event that if Lippits qualified, Schoots would go watch in person.

One of the highlights for him at those Sydney games was watching the row team secure silver in quadruple sculls.

“Seeing them win made that massive journey worthwhile,” says Schoots, who also witnessed the men’s field hockey team win gold that year.

Olympics & Paralympics Schedule Olympics (London) 27 July – 12 August Search the full schedule of events here.

Paralympics (London) 29 August – 9 September International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Athletics European Championships (Stadskanaal, the Netherlands) 24 – 27 June

PHOTO: Xinhua

World records in Paralympics

24 | access | spring

The second phase of this summer’s event is the Paralympics. This elite sports event is for athletes with a disability, but emphasises and celebrates the participants’ athletic prowess.

Every athlete has a tremendous history of physical trials and challenges, but ultimately victory. One of the Netherlands’ most extraordinary examples is Paralympic swimmer and Amsterdam native Mirjam de Koning.

Her paraplegia doesn’t stop her from her being one of the world’s best swimmers. She won four medals in Beijing, two gold and two silver, including a 1:18:56 time in the 100m freestyle. Now 43 years old, De Koning has earned numerous world and

national championships, and has ­broken European and World Records in freestyle and backstroke.

De Koning will be one of many Paralympic contenders entering the International Paralympic Athletics European Championships, the last qualifying round before the London Paralympic Games. Taking place from 24 - 27 June, the event is being held in Stadskanaal, in Groningen. The Netherlands actually has a long and strong history with Paralympic Games, having joined England in the 1950s in competitions among WWII veterans with spinal cord injuries, officially making it an international affair. The Paralympic Games in Beijing hosted 3,951 athletes from 146 countries.

That “wow” moment

In the Sydney games, for the first time in the country’s Olympic history, the Netherlands ranked in the top 10.

The team returns every year for that same international distinction.

“It’s the most important sporting event in the world,” says Schoots, “when the best athletes in the world come together. If you win a gold medal, you’re famous forever.”

Whether the athletes take home a medal, they are still distinguished among the world as the top in their sports. The Olympics remains a positive, peaceful event bringing countries together.

Douglas, as an athlete and an expat has never had a problem adjusting on or off the track and always enjoys catching up with players and Did coaches from all over the you k The Net now... ­ world. he so far p rlands has erf at the S ormed best ydney Back when he competed ­bringin games, g ho with the Bermuda team, 25 med me als! athletes didn’t share a common language. Douglas says, “You both have the same look on your face, that facial expression of, ‘Wow.’ Now I see that same guy or girl that I saw in 1988 and they are now coaches too. We look at each other and smile... It’s just too bad we only get once every four years to tell how fun it is!” «

Heineken Holland House at Ally Pally If you make it to London, party with the athletes at Heineken’s Holland House. It’s open every day of the Olympics, with daily medal ceremonies celebrating the athletes. During the day big screens project live coverage of the games. Tickets are €10 each, with limited entry. They go on sale via the Heineken Holland House website: www.hollandheinekenhouse.nl. A ticket is good for one day, allowing unlimited access on that date. access | spring | 25

Education - Partner feature

Sports and the international schools It is common knowledge that sport connects people (and peoples) – but how does it work in practice, in an internationally mobile community, specifically in international schools?

By Nathan Scott – age 14, Year 9

The International School of The Hague (ISH) is a good example.

As all of our students have to be from international families, building bridges into the host country, while keeping a link with international communities outside the Netherlands is essential. One way to do this: Sports. ISH is part of the ISST (International Schools Sports Tournaments) organisation with teams in field hockey, tennis, girls and boys football, and basketball.

At the same time, these and other teams compete against clubs in The Hague. Some of our students

26 | access | spring

have gone a step further. Read Nathan Scott’s story below. He shows how sports/studies, local community/ internationalism can all be combined, forming a wellrounded and balanced whole.

Playing the game in two different languages

“Some people believe football is a matter of life and death. I’m very disappointed with that attitude.

I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.”- Bill Shankly, former Liverpool manager and Scottish international(1981).

Now, my attitude towards the beautiful game may not be as strong as the Scotsman’s, but I definitely do dedicate around half of my time to it, the other half I spend studying.

Even though you may be at school, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t participate in sports like football.

“ Participating in sport helps to build bridges between communities” While in school I also had the opportunity to play for the school team called the Silverbacks.

I enlisted to this team two years ago, and while playing with kids mostly a year older, I was made vice-captain.

This year, the team is better than ever. We went to many places, the American School of The Hague, the British School in the Netherlands,

PHOTO: Olga Dmitrieva / Shutterstock.com

The Netherlands is a land full of opportunities for people with a passion for football. Nobody is left out.

Two years into school at the ISH, I joined a local club. As a British ­citizen, and knowing about five words of Dutch, I was nervous playing for the first time, and at the trials, I observed how much talent all the other kids had. I trained at this club for six years, and through this time I improved so much that I made it into the first team for my age group, and this is where I stand today. Not only did I improve my football, I am now among the native speakers of Dutch at school.

Germany, and Belgium, and returned as winners. As the current U14 captain it is great fun to play amongst classmates and peers. I love the travelling, and playing with and against people from a wide variety of nationalities and cultures. «

The International School of The Hague Wijndaelerduin 1 2554 BX Den Haag

Secondary School +31 (0) 703281450 Primary School +31 (0) 703384567 ish.admissions@ishthehague.nl www.ishthehague.nl access | spring | 27

Arts and culture

The Amsterdam

PHOTO: IOC

– A Game of Firsts

28 July 1928. Prince Hendrik, consort to Queen Wilhemina of the Netherlands, steps forward in the Royal Box of the newly built Art Deco Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam. He clears his throat and formally declares the Games of the IX Olympiad open.

BY JANE RICHARDS 28 | access | spring

Olympics It’s the first time the Netherlands has played host to the Games and it’s also the first time a host nation’s Head of State is not personally present at the opening ceremony.

Documents recently released from the Royal Archives reveal why. The date had been fixed (in January 1927) without consulting the Queen’s office and she declined to alter her Norwegian holiday plans in order to attend.

On her return from Norway, the Queen hosted a reception for world dignitaries.

Today, as we approach the London 2012 Olympics, it is fascinating to remember that Amsterdam 1928 was an Olympiad of firsts.

Ceremonies we now take for granted as part of the modern Games were introduced in Amsterdam; technology influenced adjudication decisions for the first time; and most ­­significantly, the 1928 Olympics was a landmark for the inclusion of women in sport and for the achievement of Asian athletes.

A new Olympic stadium

Both the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium and the surrounding area showcase the best of early 20th century Dutch design. Architect Jan Wils, a founding member of the Dutch artistic de Stijl

movement, was commissioned to create a ­stadium that would complement the Plan Zuid, a radical scheme for developing a swathe of South Amsterdam. Work on Plan Zuid took place between 1917 and 1925 to a blueprint by the distinguished Dutch architect H.P. Berlage.

One of the outstanding features of Wils’ Stadium is the tall square column of the Marathon Tower. In a white concrete bowl at the top of this tower, the modern Olympic flame burned for the very first time. (The bowl is referred to locally as the Schiphol pilot’s ashtray). In Ancient Greece, a flame was lit from the rays of the sun and burned continuously throughout their Games. In 1928, the flame was lit by an employee of Amsterdam’s Electric Utility. Bringing the flame by relay from Greece originated at the 1936 Games.

In a further homage to ancient Olympia, Greece led the parade of athletes at the opening ceremony. The host nation’s team (the Netherlands) brought up the rear. It’s a convention followed ever since. A giant scoreboard showed competition results to the crowd in the Stadium for the first time and using a camera to film the finish line enabled judges to replay close calls before making their final decision. » access | spring | 29

Arts and culture | The Amsterdam Olympics

“A record that still stands was set during the new women’s gymnastics event.”

PHOTO: iOC

Women athletes are recognised for the first time

Perhaps the most revolutionary innovation of the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics though was the formal recognition of women as competing athletes. There were no women competitors in the first modern Olympics in 1896.

The founder of the games, Pierre de Coubertin felt that their inclusion would be “impractical, uninteresting, unaesthetic, and incorrect.”

From 1900 onwards, a few women’s events were gradually included in the Olympic programme, but were not formally recognised by the Olympic Committee. Before 1928 women had competed in sailing, equestrianism, golf, tennis, croquet, archery, fencing and swim30 | access | SPriNG

ming. In Amsterdam, female athletes and women’s events were formally recognised by the Olympic Committee. Five women’s track and field races and a group gymnastics tournament were added. A record that still stands was set during the new women’s gymnastics event. Luigina Giavotti of Italy became the youngest ever medallist of all time, winning silver with her teammates at just 11 years and 302 days old.

A setback for equality

The battle for equal status for women’s sport was not won there. The collapse of several competitors at the end of the 800 metre women’s race in the Amsterdam Stadium triggered a debate over its compatibility with the female

constitution. In the next Games the Olympic Committee withdrew it as a women’s event and it was not reinstated until 32 years later at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.

First medals for Asian athletes

The first gold medals for Asian athletes were won in Amsterdam. Mikio Oda and Yoshiyuki Tsuruta of Japan won gold in triple jump and 200m breaststroke and the Indian Men’s Hockey team won gold for the first time.

The Indian team dominated men’s hockey for the next five Olympics, going on to win another five consecutive gold medals.

After the Games

On 12 August 1928, the closing ceremony of the IX Olympiad was held in the Amsterdam Stadium - this time in the presence of the Queen. The Amsterdam Olympic Stadium continued to be used for major Dutch sporting events – especially athletics and football - until it fell into gradual disrepair and was threatened with demolition in the 1980s.

The Olympic Stadium is the site of Johann Cruyff ’s pick for his favourite football match ever, the seminal 1966 European Cup second round match between Ajax and Liverpool.

Played in thick fog, neither spectators nor TV cameras could see a thing. Ajax wiped the floor 5-1 against favourites Liverpool in one of the first victories for ‘Dutch Total Football’.

The Olympic exprience

In the late 1980’s, after a public outcry, the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium was listed as a National Monument and reprieved from demolition. Fully restored, it was ­re-opened by Prince Willem Alexander in May 2000. The Stadium is now used for Athletics and other sporting events. The Amsterdam Open Athletics Championship will be held in July 2012 and every October, the Olympic Stadium hosts the Amsterdam marathon. As part of the renovation ­project, a museum dedicated to the history of the Games and particularly to Dutch sporting heroes, was housed in part of the Stadium. “The Olympic Experience” offers an interactive trail, particularly suitable for children. There is an opportunity to time your speed off a starting block, cycle against the clock, and score a penalty shoot out.

Building for the future

But it was in 1928 that the Amsterdam Stadium first had its day. The roar of the crowd, the setting of records, the winning of medals. The city is hoping to recreate the euphoria, with its bid to host the Olympics in 2028. If they are successful, the Netherlands will be the first nation to ever hold a second games on the centenary of its first. Now that would be some record. «

access | spring | 31

Arts and culture

Love at the Mauritshuis

PHOTO: Het Mauritshuis

BY KAREN T. SLINGENBERG

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“It is the smallest of the great museums and the greatest of the small museums, a jewel.” Pay a visit to the Mauritshuis because it will soon be closing its doors to the public.

The Mauritshuis is a must-see museum in The Hague, flaunting great works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and besides famous masterpieces, it exhibits less well-known works of art that are no less exquisite and shouldn’t be overlooked. Amidst the collection are a selection of gems that explore the theme of love, well worth the admiration. This Spring sees the start of great plans to expand and renew.

The collection’s past

Peter Paul Rubens Old woman and a boy with candles (1616-1617)

The collection was formerly owned

by Dutch Stadholders, who were literal ‘holders of a place’. The title of Stadholder originated from the medieval period and developed into a type of head of state tasked with maintaining peace and provincial order in the early Dutch Republic. The last stadholder of the Netherlands was Willem V (17481806), who housed the impressive collection in a Gallery at the Buitenhof specially constructed for this purpose

and open to the public a few days a week. After an extensive renovation, the Gallery has recently been restored to its original splendour and is open to the public again.

The collection’s fate was sealed when Napoleon confiscated the whole of the collection, bringing it to France.

However, two-thirds were eventually brought back by the Duke of Wellington (1769-1852) and rightfully returned to the Dutch. The remaining third can still be found in Le Louvre and other provincial museums in France.

Willem V passed ownership of the ­collection down to his son Willem I (1772-1843) who consequently became the first King of the Netherlands.

Willem I handed the paintings over to the Dutch State in whose hands they have remained ever since.

The setting of this noteworthy collection is a stately 17th century palace, one of the best examples of Classicist architecture in the Netherlands. It was commissioned to be built by Count Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen who enlisted top architects of his time; Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post.

The last 200 years have seen the collection of the Mauritshuis expand consid- » access | spring | 33

Arts and culture | Love at the Mauritshuis

erably. In 1822 the museum housed around 200 paintings but now it has nearly 800.

The collection in the 21 st century

Today, exciting plans are in place to transform the Mauritshuis into a state of the art Museum and centre for cultural and social activities. The changes will involve the building of a modern underground foyer connecting the Mauritshuis to the art deco building opposite, Plein 26. This extra space will accomodate a new museum shop, café, a new area for temporary exhibitions, educational facilities that will include children’s activities, a library and auditorium, where lectures, films and conferences will take place. Emilie Gordenker, Director of the Mauritshuis, shares her vision, ‘We want to bring the Mauritshuis into the 21st century, while at the same time preserving and improving this jewel-box museum.’

The museum will be closing its doors to the public in April and will remain closed for two years. But do not despair, as Emilie says, ‘We are staying open but in another location’. A large number of top pieces will be moved to the other prominent Hague museum the Gemeente Museum. Amongst them 34 | access | spring

will be Vermeer’s View of Delft, Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson and Paulus Potter’s Bull. The much loved Girl with a Pearl Earring will be on display in the Gemeentemuseum until 28 May before going on tour to Japan and America to work her ambassadorial charms alongside 49 other pieces. The Prince Willam V Gallery, which shows about 150 paintings from the museums colection, will also remain open to the public during this two year period.

Paintings of love

A gallery’s treasures can sometimes overwhelm so why not focus on a selection of paintings per visit. With Spring on its way it might inspire you to look for love at the Mauritshuis by way of the Double portrait of Constantijn Huygens (1596-1687) and his wife Suzanna van Baerle (1599-1637). They are seated next to each other with Suzanna coyly peering round to make eye contact with the onlooker. This portrait was painted by none other than the architect of the Mauritshuis himself Jacob van Campen (1596-1657). The composition is unusual because of van Campen’s choice to depict this famously devoted couple in a single portrait rather than two separate paintings which was custom at the time.

The married couple were friends of van Campen’s which probably influenced his choice to ­portray their devotion so intimately. An interesting detail is that the sheet of music the couple are holding symbolises their loving, harmonious marriage.

eager, perhaps impatient to experience love as the old woman has done.

This piece must have been special to Rubens, whether it was because it was his first nocturnal composition or that it reminded him of his own secret desires.

The intimate painting by Rubens titled Old woman and a boy with candles (16161617) is another example of love.

Apparently, when Rubens died this particular canvas of his was found in his private collection, which was curious as he was known for being an astute businessman and normally would have sold off his paintings for a good price. The old woman stares wistfully into the flame, lost in thoughts of past flames of her own, while the boy looks expectant and

Two years without the Mauritshuis might seem a long time, but it looks as though the wait will be worth it. Not only will the Mauritshuis be renovated and renewed, it will be transformed into an innovative cultural and educational centre as well. A jewel in a perfect setting. «

PHOTO: Het Mauritshuis

“ Extra space will accommodate educational facilities, a library and auditorium”

access | spring | 35

Finance - Partner feature

Buying an apartment and the VvE

(Association of Owners) Many expats in the Netherlands tend to buy apartments rather than houses, especially in the big cities. But what do you actually buy when you buy an apartment?

by JosÉ de Boer

Buying an apartment differs to some extent to buying a regular house.

This can be best explained by looking at the legal side of the purchase.

The right to an apartment consists of two parts: the right to an undivided share to the building and the land and right of use of certain parts of the building, the individual parts.

What you actually buy is the right to the use of the individual parts and simultaneously you become coowner of the entire building.

36 | access | spring

By law, every owner is a member of the Owners Association (Vereniging van Eigenaren, VvE). At least once a year the VvE needs to meet. Votes will be taken regarding the management of the building. And decisions will be made regarding service costs and reserve funds. The Management of the VvE needs to be able to answer to the members regarding the finances of the VvE. Before you buy your new apartment, it is advisable to request the minutes of the last couple of meetings of the VvE. All members of the VvE share in the communal costs and debts by paying service costs to the VvE. This is normally a monthly amount. The monthly amount is determined by the VvE. Before you buy an existing apartment, it is advisable to ask about the maintenance of the building and what the future plans are.

Also ask if the VvE has enough money saved to perform any possible repairs. The law provides that you do not take on a debt to the VvE of the previous owner (the notary will check this for you). Service charges always have to be paid to a bank account of the VvE (rather than someone’s private account).

Jose de Boer Financial Adviser (MFP) / Owner of De Boer Financial Consultants bv.

Contact:

“ Before you buy your new apartment it is advisable to request a copy of the VvE minutes ” It is also obligatory for all VvE’s to have a reserve fund. A reserve fund is intended for big repairs or improvements to the building. The seller of an apartment is obliged to inform a future buyer if he has debts

with the VvE. It is not necessary to have unanimous votes to make changes in the Division Deed.

4/5th of the votes are required for a change in the Deed nowadays.

When you buy an apartment, you need to pay Transfer Tax (currently 2% of the purchase price). You do not need to pay tax over your future apartment’s share in the reserve fund. You need to declare your share of the VvE reserve fund in your annual tax return and you may have to pay wealth tax on this share. «

De Boer Financial Consultants 070 511 8788 www.fvbdeboer.nl Wassenaar / The Hague office Gang 3 2242 KD Wassenaar Amsterdam office (New Address!)

De Lairessestraat 108 1071 PK Amsterdam

access | spring | 37

A European sporting year From the Netherlands we have great access to many of the European countries hosting major sporting events this year.

Here, Monique rubin gives us an insight into some of those destinations and events that sports fans will not want to miss.

By MONiQuE ruBiN

38 | access | SPriNG

Travel

PHOTO: PESKyMONKEy

extra tourists who will travel to London for the Olympics will be the large of amounts of money that will pour into the city during the event. The always-popular London will become even more so, as large numbers of follow-up tourists descend on the city long after the Olympics are over. If Barcelona is any indication, not only can London expect to see its tourism increase in the years to come, but other cities in the UK can expect a surge in tourism as well.

Sports tourism, defined as travel involving either viewing or participating in a sporting event, is the fastest growing sector of the global travel and tourism industry, accounting for €720 million annually. According to World Travel Market Director Simon Press, the London Olympics, which hopes to generate £1 billion and attract 4 million extra visitors, “is arguably the biggest promotional opportunity for the UK inbound travel industry in a generation”.

The direct benefit of those 4 million

While viewing or participating in a sporting event may be what takes a tourist to a destination, they are interested in seeing more than just the inside of the stadium. Sports tourists tend to stay longer and spend more than other categories of tourists.

If you don’t have tickets to the Olympics in London, don’t despair. It is far from the only game in town. A number of major sporting events will be hosted in cities throughout Europe that are easily accessible from the Netherlands and that are wonderful destinations to explore once the sporting event has ended. Those interested in traveling to participate in a sporting event will also find that there are plenty of opportunities to pursue this passion. » access | SPriNG | 39

PHOTO: iurii Konoval

Travel | A European sporting year

Major Sporting Events in Europe

The 2012 UEFA European Football Championship will be held in Poland and the Ukraine. Many of the host ­cities of the event are popular tourist destinations, such as Warsaw and Wroclaw in Poland and Kiev in Ukraine. Warsaw, Poland’s largest city and its capital, is an old city that is new again. Its 50 year-old Old Town - completely destroyed during World War II and laboriously and lovingly rebuilt 40 | access | spring

is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites and a must-see when visiting Warsaw. Some of other things to do when visiting Warsaw include seeing the world’s tallest four-faced clock tower and taking a walking tour that follows in the footsteps of its famous sons, Chopin and Pope John Paul II. Wroclaw is located in the south of Poland and is known as the “Venice of Poland” because of its islands and

Sporting variety

Closer to home are the European Women’s Handball Championships and the IPC Athletics Championships, both being staged in the Netherlands.

In Istanbul, the European Capital of Culture in 2010, is the European Capital of Sport for 2012. In this capacity, the Turkish city where Europe and Asia merge will host a number of major international sporting events, including the IAAF World Indoor Champion­ships in Athletics,

PHOTO: ANP

bridges. Having once been a part of Czech Republic, Germany and Austria, Wroclaw boasts a beautiful mix of cultures, which is evident in the city’s architecture. In addition to being one of the host cities for the 2012 UEFA Championship, Wroclaw has been named the European Capital of Culture for 2016, both of which will be a boost to its tourism industry. Named by Lonely Planet as one of its Top Ten Countries for 2012, Kiev boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, countless shops, cafes and restaurants and even a waterfall. The Olympic Stadium, which was used during the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games, has undergone a major renovation and will be the venue for the UEFA final.

Euroleague Final Four and WTA Tour Championships. High quality stadia have been built or renovated to support this major sporting event. With the infrastructure already in place, Istanbul may be at an advantage as the bid for the 2020 Olympics. »

2012 sporting events across Europe • The 2012 Olympics are from 27 July until 9 September.

• 2012 UEFA Championships are from 8 June until 1 July.

• IAAF World Indoor Championships are from 9 March until 11 March • Euroleague Final Four is 11 May and 13 May • WTA Tour Championships 23 October until 28 October • Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim is 15 July • International Istanbul Eurasia Marathon is 11 November For routes, schedules and ticket information for these destinations go to www.schiphol.com. access | spring | 41

ague The city of The H SS on congratulates ACCE SARY! it s 25TH ANNIVER

The Hague International Centre the first point of contact for new residents and visitors to The Hague.

The Hague International Centre Spui 70, Atrium City Hall The Hague, Opening hours – Mon-Fri 09.00-17.00 hours, Contact Tel: +31 (0)70 353 5043, E-mail: internationalcentre@denhaag.nl, Website: www.thehague.com

FLUTE, RECORDER, PIANO LESSONS AND THEORY Qualified, experienced music teacher with excellent results in A.B.R.S.M. examinations Regular Performing opportunities available FUN THROUGH ACHIEVEMENT All ages and levels welcome Call Angela Duncan 070 350 4950

“Crossing borders, the 7km Bosphorus Cross Continental swim joins Asia and Europe.”

Participation in sporting events

Istanbul also hosts two stand-out events that are popular with those who travel to participate in sports.

The Bosphorus Cross Continental Swim is a 7km swim that starts in Asia and ends in Europe, and the Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasia Marathon also starts in Asia and ends in Europe and is the only marathon that crosses two continents.

London, Paris and Amsterdam are also top choices for destination races in Europe and offer various distances for those not interested in running a marathon.

PHOTO: BOSPHOruS CrOSS-CONTiNENTAL / NOCT

Travel | A European sporting year

glad to know that you are in close proximity to what is regarded as one the best hikes in the Did world, the Haute Route. you k n This mountain trail goes The old ow... e comple st man to from France to te a ma Switzerland and covers is Fauja rathon Sing aged 10 h Chamonix, Zermatt, Mont 0.

Blanc and the Matterhorn, passing some of the greatest peaks in the Alps. «

Combine sport and touring

Opportunities for independent or guided cycling and hiking are plentiful throughout Europe. No matter if your dream is to cycle through the Alps, Italian vineyards or retrace the Tour de France route, there is a cycling tour to suit you. If you are a hiker, you will be

About the author Monique Rubin lives in The Hague with her husband and two children. She writes the blog Mo Travels www.motravels.com, which documents her travels, expat life and the many destination races she participates in annually, allowing her to combine her love of travel and running. access | SPriNG | 43

Lifestyle

Happy @home

After relocating with your partner you suddenly find yourself at home in a new country.

What initially feels like a long holiday slowly turns into… boredom. No job, no friends, most days look the same. When did life become so, you know, empty?

Relax. With this 10-step training scheme, you can focus on some key areas to achieve your goal in no time: happy @ home!

BY ANN JENNEN

Being at home doesn’t have to feel like running a marathon without any preparation.

Personal

Upgrade your look: Plan a ‘no jeansday’ twice per week. Why look the same every day? Chuck the sneakers and retrieve those high heels from the back of your closet. You’ll feel sexy and self-assured walking to Albert Heijn. And before you put the sneakers back on, paint your toe nails. You’ll feel good every time you put on your socks!

Keep fit: Go for a 20-min run and you’ll feel energised. You can also take up Holland’s national sport, cycling - for a fantastic oxygen boost. Prepare a juice or smoothie after exploring the local market to find fresh fruit and vegetables. It will work wonders for body and mind.

Invest in your relationship: Take up a new activity with your partner. How about jogging at the beach or in the park? Being together and keeping fit at the same time: Perfect deal!

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PHOTO: Yuri Arcurs

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Professional

Get qualified: Being at home doesn’t have to equal lost time in terms of professional development. Expand your expertise by focusing on your talents. Good with languages? Then you could add to your CV by volunteering to teach. Study - the time may be right to obtain new skills that will be useful in your profession.

Upgrade your status: Invent a cool title for yourself: ‘Manager of the Smith Household’ or ‘In charge of logistics at the family company’. You will feel so much better next time someone asks you what you do. Have personal cards printed. Once you get used to handing out smart business cards, why go back to scribbling your telephone number on the back of a scrap of paper?

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dar. Overall, you need the feeling that you have to hurry. If you have all day to do just one thing, it will take you all day to do it.

Community

Plan social contact: Volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people. Also, it will give you the feeling that you belong to a community again. Another school holiday? Invite a fellow mum and ask her to bring her favourite recipe. You can cook it together while the kids are playing.

Dive into the local culture: Ask a Dutch friend to make a list of five great films, five books - available in English – and five must-see places to visit. Not only will it keep you busy for a while, you’ll know what to talk about next time you’re invited to a Dutch party.

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Time management

Last but not least

Start a routine: Picking up the kids from school, having a coffee every morning in the same café or walking the dog in the afternoon. Repeating activities helps you to organise your day. Create metime, preferably on a daily basis. If not, your time will be swallowed up by the agendas of the other family members.

Fill your agenda: Plan lots of activities.

Start a new hobby. Always dreamt of playing the piano? Now is the time to learn! Visit the theatre. Buy the tickets in advance and mark the date in the family calen-

Put things in perspective: You won’t be at home forever. See it as a period in which you reinvent yourself. You can discover new qualities and live experiences you wouldn’t have lived if you were still in your old job or native country.

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Follow the training scheme above and you will reach your target – happy @ home – in no time. Furthermore, all your working friends will be green with envy. Not only do you look good, you do lots of fun stuff ! « Reactions: annjennen@hotmail.com access | spring | 45

Community

The British ConsulateGeneral Amsterdam: worldwide consular assistance With more than 40,000 British citizens living and working in the Netherlands, what kind of practical support can they expect from representatives of their home country.

PHOTO: British Consulate-General, Amsterdam

BY KIRSTY DONALD

46 | access | spring

Have you ever played the word association game? It’s quite simple. The first person says a word and then the next person has to say the first word that comes into their head, so when the first person says “the Netherlands”, the next person might say “bicycles” or “tulips”. Ok, so now that you know the rules, let’s begin!

What is the first word that you think of when I say ‘’British ConsulateGeneral”? Perhaps it’s “passports” or “visas”. However, if either of these were your responses, then I’m afraid

that you’d be disqualified from this round, because the British ConsulateGeneral in Amsterdam no longer issues full validity passports nor visas.

Why not? Well, there is a long official answer. However, according to John Cameron-Webb, the British Consul, “the short answer is finances and security”. John is a people person. He is trying to get away from the stuffy, reserved and aloof image of the foreign office. The fact that he plays in a folk band, regularly gives “war walks” through Amsterdam, and speaks fluent Dutch gives some insight to the man.

Ok, but let’s first go back to passports and visas. What can people do about this? Well, if you’re British and you require a passport then you now have to send your old passport off to Paris, which takes about 3-4 weeks. For more information, visit the Regional Passport Processing Centre’s website: www.ukinfrance.fco.gov.uk/en/help-forbritish-nationals/passports/ If you’re from a country that requires a visa to enter Britain, then you now have to go to Dusseldorf in Germany.

For more information, visit the UK Border Agency website: www.ukba. homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/

The role of the British Consulate-General

Well, if the British Consulate-General no longer does its traditional core tasks, what exactly does it do? Above all, the Consulate provides Consular Assistance to British nationals in a ­crisis. But it can also help British nationals with the registration of births and deaths and a range of notarial services.

Did If you’re British and you k n you’ve found love in that you ow... ­ your pa can renew the Netherlands ssport 9 months and you intend to before i ts expir y marry, then the date?

Consulate provides Certificates of No Impediment or Declarations of Marital status. It can also issue Emergency Travel Documents, if a British national has had their passport stolen, and they urgently need to get home to the UK. The Consulate also regularly visits British nationals in prison to offer welfare support.

About 3 million British citizens visit the Netherlands each year, either passing through, working or as tourists. A significant number of them sometimes require the help of the Consulate. » access | spring | 47

Community | The British Consulate-General Amsterdam

Assessing the situation

Let’s return to the word association game. When the first person said “the Netherlands”, you might also have said “below sea level”, but this is three words and against the rules of the game, however, it does highlight one of the very real threats of living in the Netherlands. It might not be a warzone, nor at risk of civil unrest.

“ By improving customer knowledge and utilising partnerships, the Consulate can become better, more responsive and efficient.”

However, back in January when there was a huge amount of rainfall, the warnings that they might have to evacuate residents in Groningen, showed that there is a very real risk of flooding if the dykes should burst.

Hopefully this will never happen and hopefully the little boy will keep his finger in the dyke! However, if there was such an event, then the British Consulate-General wants to be ready to aid its nationals, facilitating with the evacuation and helping Brits in whatever way it can. And since there are well over 40,000 Brits registered as living in Holland, there is a real ­possibility that there might be some Brits involved.

PHOTO: British Consulate-General, Amsterdam

Getting to know you

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With this in mind, the British Consulate-General is currently undertaking a Customer Knowledge project (its customers being British nationals).

The primary aim of the project is to get to know their Customers better, so that in the event of a crisis it’ll be easier to help. The Project “BACK-UP” was the brainchild of John Cameron-Webb.

The acronym stands for “Brits Abroad Customer Knowledge and Utilising Partnerships”. This is appropriate, as

the British Consulate-General provides support to British nationals when abroad. The Consulate is their “backup”. However, it is only by improving customer knowledge and utilising partnerships, that the Consulate can become better, more responsive and efficient. This was one of the reasons that the Consulate hosted a Consular Services Reception on 25 January, inviting approximately 70 representatives from the British and international community, including the British Club, the British Society, Commercial AngloDutch Society and also ACCESS. Help in a crisis

The British Consulate-General in Amsterdam is very keen to get the message across: “We’re still here. If you’re a Brit in the Netherlands and you’re in a crisis, then let us know.” Meanwhile, if you need advice with living in the Netherlands, then you can look to one of the British Consulate-General’s partners, such as ACCESS. Consular Affairs Minister Jeremy Browne said: “We will always try to help where we can but there are limits to the support that we can provide.”

One of those limits is that the British Consulate-General cannot help you

with the information about Prince Charles’s shoe size. This was a real request received by the Foreign Office in Spain. The caller wanted this information so that he could send the prince shoes as a present!

So, when you next hear “British Consulate-General”, don’t think “housing” or “Prince Charles’ shoe size,” think “help” and “support” in a crisis.

Further information on being part of the network of Brits in the Netherlands can be seen on www.ukinnl.fco.gov.uk, where you can find the Consular Connection quarterly newsletter. «

Further points of contact for British residents or those interested in British culture and business: • British Society of Amsterdam - www.britsoc.nl • British Club in The Hague - www.britishclubthehague.nl • British School in the Netherlands - www.britishschool.nl • Commercial Anglo-Dutch Society - www.cads-amsterdam.org • GNE Netherlands-England Society - www.nederlandengeland.nl • Oxford and Cambridge Society of the Netherlands www.oxbridge-nl.com • The Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce www.nbcc.co.uk access | spring | 49

Courses r eg i ste r fo r co u r ses onl i ne at www . access - nl . o r g , o r contact t r a i ne r d i r ectl y .

Date / Time

Title

Details

Contact

Childbirth and parenting 20 March, 15 May, 17 July, 19.00 - 20.15

Labour Control

An effective, practical preparation for labour through a combination of techniques as yoga, relaxation and breathing.

Location: Bronovo Hospital - Physiotherapy.

Cost: € 135,– for 8 sessions.

Joke van Roosendaal sport-en-spirit@hotmail.com 070 326 26 38

Thursday evening 20.15 - 21.30

Postnatal course

Combination of different disciplines will make you feel stronger and relaxed: Relaxation techniques, Pilates exercises and Hatha yoga.

Location: Bronovo Hospital - Physiotherapy.

Cost: € 70,– for 8 sessions.

Joke van Roosendaal sport-en-spirit@hotmail.com 070 326 26 38

29 March, Breastfeeding Preparation for breastfeeding: the class that deals with the period after the birth of your child.

23 April, 24 May, information Location: Wethouder Frankeweg 44, 1098 LB 18 June Amsterdam. Cost: € 25,– 20:00 -22:00

Borstvoedingscentrum Amsterdam info@borstvoedingscentrum.nl 020 470 03 21

4 April - 9 May 16 May - 20 June 19:00 - 21:00

Childbirth Preparation Course, The Hague

24 April - 29 May Childbirth 12 June - 10 July Preparation 19:00 - 21:00 Course,

Amsterdam

A 6 week course starting on 4 April and again on 16 May. Wednesday evenings.

Location: Bronovo Hospital, The Hague.

Lee Tolman/Nester Moyo ceb@access-nl.org

A 6 week course starting on 24 April and again on 12 June. Tuesday evenings. Includes one Post natal session. Location: British School Amsterdam, Anthonie van Dijckstraat 1, 1077 ME Amsterdam. Cost: € 220,–

Truus Gale ceb@access-nl.org

Personal development 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 March 19:30 - 21:30

POWERtalk International Short Course

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An interactive, practical, module course covering all aspects of communication skills from speech construction to a clear, confident delivery. Location: Christus Triomfatorkerk, Juliana van Stolberglaan 154, The Hague.

Cost: € 180,–

Marlene Burns, PhD, burns.marlene@gmail.com 06 202 777 65

Courses r eg i ste r fo r co u r ses onl i ne at www . access - nl . o r g , o r contact t r a i ne r d i r ectl y .

Date / Time

Title

Details

Contact

Every Thursday Morning 11.00 -12.00 or Evening 19.00 -20.00

Fireside Chats -Diversity Discussion Group

Weekly discussion group covers a new topic on diversity ranging from racial identity, ethnic identity, racism, gender, orientation, accessibility, to power issues etc.

Location: Daytime, Bagels & Beans, Thomsonlaan 53, 2565 HX The Hague.

Location: Evening, Valkenboskade 131, 2563 GR The Hague. Cost: € 10,– per chat.

On Demand

Fireside Workshops - Diversity Trainings

These sessions are created to help deal with Christine Fischer homesickness, stereotyping, difference, etc. info@fischersfiresidechats.com Location: On Demand. Cost: € 35,– per person. 06 361 508 75

On Demand

Fireside Seminars

A deep exploration of the pervasive influence Christine Fischer diversity has on one’s own identity. This info@fischersfiresidechats.com semester’s fireside explores the work: 06 361 508 75 Understanding Race, Ethnicity, & Power.

By Elaine Pinderhughes.

Location: On Demand. Cost: € 280,– per person.

Check website

Social Media

Goal oriented course towards setting up your own Social Media plan to get in contact with your audience. Location: Access office at Zeestraat 100, The Hague. Cost: € 30,– p.p. per evening.

23 March, 17 April, 11 May 9:30 - 12:30 Other dates on demand

Life & Career Coaching: Understanding Yourself

A workshop offering a down-to-earth and Marie Dewulf practical approach to help you achieve your info@coach2moveon.com goals. To get settled quickly into a new posting 06 244 013 55 or finding direction and deciding what you want from your time abroad, personally and professionally. Location:TheHague. Cost: €176,–

3 April

Find Your Passion

We are more effective, happier and successful when doing things we are passionate about.

Let me help you Find Your Passion.

Location: Amsterdam / The Hague. Venue to be confirmed. Cost: € 197

Christine Fischer info@fischersfiresidechats.com 06 361 508 75

Mark Drenth info@onyourmark.nl 06 535 772 87

Jacinta Noonan jacinta@jacintanoonan.com 06 512 76691

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Courses r eg i ste r fo r co u r ses onl i ne at www . access - nl . o r g , o r contact t r a i ne r d i r ectl y .

Date / Time

Title

Details

Contact

Job seeking On demand, By appointment

Career Coaching Programme

Individual sessions to help you decide your future career direction. Discover yourself identify your skills, strengths and qualities what you enjoy doing and what really motivates you. Clarify what doesn’t! Result is an action plan. Location: Bentinckstraat 133, The Hague. Cost: € 607,– for full programme.

Teresa Moynihan HR and Career Consultant teresa@moynihan-hrconsulting.com 06 266 547 08

20 March 14:00 - 16:30

Workshop: Career Explorations

Map your passion, aspirations, experience, education with various Dutch opportunities.

Learn how to get effective quickly in the Netherlands. Location: Amsterdam Bright City Claude Debussylaan 2-8, Amsterdam Zuid.

Cost: € 79,–

Caroline van den Bogaard Professional & Certified International Career Coach info@cctransitions.com 06 153 743 71

17 - 18 March Amsterdam 24 - 25 March The Hague

Career Boot Camp

This program is aimed at designing a new Dorota Klop-Sowinska career path for yourself. The career that fits dorota@dosocoaching.com you and not the other way round.

06 132 536 55 Location: Amsterdam / The Hague. Cost: € 299,–

Personal Consultation on demand. FREE introductory call.

Career Coaching

Have you moved here and want to continue your career in the Netherlands? Work with a personal career coach to define your career goals and actions for development.

Location: Amsterdam Bright City Claude Debussylaan 2, Amsterdam Zuid.

Cost: € 79,– per Meeting / Hour.

Caroline van den Bogaard Professional and Certified International Career Coach. info@cctransitions.com 06 153 743 71

On demand, by appointment.

FREE 20min phone consult.

Job Hunting Support

Individual Job Hunting support to help you increase your chances of success in finding a job. Strengthen your job application techniques; improve your CV and Cover Letter; practice interview skills and learn how it all works here in the Netherlands.

Location: Bentinckstraat 133, The Hague.

Cost: € 125,– for a full 1 1/2 hr session, includes follow-up (CV editing, information, tips etc.)

Teresa Moynihan HR and Career Consultant teresa@moynihan-hrconsulting.com 06 266 547 08

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Courses r eg i ste r fo r co u r ses onl i ne at www . access - nl . o r g , o r contact t r a i ne r d i r ectl y .

Date / Time

Title

Details

Contact

Health and wellbeing 10 March 13:00 - 15:00 or 13 March 20:00 - 22:00

This two hour presentation providing insights, information, and tips for those wishing to achieve emotional balance and eliminate emotional eating.

Location: Het Coachhuis, Raamweg 4, The Hague. Cost: € 20,– including VAT

Mary Jane Roy maryjane@creatingwaves.nu Jacinta Noonan jacinta@jacintanoonan.com

23, 24 March, Mind your with follow up Stress on 21 April; and 25, 26 May, with a follow-up on 30 June All sessions are from 13:00 - 16:30

A unique opportunity to learn how to reduce unsupportive emotional stress reactions. We will explore various ways to develop emotional control and become more stress resilient.

Location: Het Coachhuis, Raamweg 4, The Hague. Cost: € 295,– including VAT.

Mary Jane Roy maryjane@creatingwaves.nu

6 March The Hague 15 March Amsterdam 9.30 - 13.00

Healthy Weight Course

Introduction workshop teaching you how to achieve your most healthy weight.

Location: The Hague, Venue to be advised.

Cost: € 20,–

Jacinta Noonan jacinta@bigontheinside.com 06 512 766 91

On Demand

Weight Loss Coaching

One to one coaching helping you acheive your most healthy weight without going on yet another diet!

Location: Haarlem and The Hague.

Cost: € 95,– per hour.

Jacinta Noonan jacinta@bigontheinside.com 06 512 766 91

Art and Etiquette for children

This program provides a comprehensive cover- Park Avenue Art Studio age of aspects of decorum such as art and eti- Marjolein van der Sluis quette. Location: Christus Triomfator Church, 06 521 908 72 Juliana van Stolberglaan 154, The Hague.

Cost: € 250,– for 6 classes, materials included.

The heart’s influence on achieving your ideal weight

Creative Please check websites for future dates.

access | spring | 53

Courses r eg i ste r fo r co u r ses onl i ne at www . access - nl . o r g , o r contact t r a i ne r d i r ectl y .

Date / Time

Title

Details

Contact

Ongoing

Oil painting and Fresco techniques for adults

Beginners course to learn your own style of painting. Basic techniques from fresco to oils.

Courses on location or in your home.

Location: Laan van Meerdervoort 52e 2517 AM The Hague. Cost: 6 classes of 1,5 hours for € 295,– (inclusive materials and canvas).

Park Avenue Art Studio Marjolein van der Sluis 06 521 908 72

Ongoing

Painting classes for children

Your child will learn the basics of painting such as colour wheel, sketching, setting up a canvas, picking a subject, mixing paint, composition and finish a canvas.

Location: Laan van Meerdevoort 52e 2517 AM The Hague. Cost: € 40,– per hour.

Park Avenue Art Studio Marjolein van der Sluis

Learn how to get the most from your digital camera by understanding the basics of photography. Let the adventure begin!

Location: Duintjer CS, Vijzelstraat 72, 1017 HL Amsterdam.

Cost: € 260,– (inclusive VAT)

Megan Alter meganalter.com/contact/

Daytime Course Digital starting 24 April Photography 13:00 - 15:00 Basics Evening Course starting 25 April 19:00 - 21:00

Languages and Culture See website for dates.

Dutch Language Courses

Different levels, small groups, experienced Caroline van den Bogaard and qualified trainer, challenging, relaxing info@cctransitions.com and interactive learning environment.

06 153 743 71 Location: AICS, Prinses Irenestraat 59, Amsterdam. Cost: € 250,– per course / 9 weeks.

The courses offered through ACCESS are aimed at providing opportunities for personal growth; supporting the development of ‘community’; learning something new; preparing for a new direction. Trainers who work with ACCESS are vetted for their relevancy to the international community. Interested in being part of the ACCESS trainer network? Have a course which provides value to the international community? Contact ced@access-nl.org or click here for more information http://access-nl.org/about-access/how-we-do-it/trainers.aspx

54 | access | spring

WELCOME TO THE NETHERLANDS ABN AMRO: Expert in financial services for expats ABN AMRO is literally and figuratively the bank for international customers. ABN AMRO is the financial specialist for expatriates residing in the Netherlands. And just like our expat customers, we aim to offer pioneering services complete with tailor-made products and skilled consultants who speak their language.

You have a busy job, so we would like to make banking in the Netherlands as easy as possible.

We will gladly assist you with your financial needs, not just after you arrive, but from the moment you know you are coming to the Netherlands. ABN AMRO is a trusted partner for expats, diplomats, civil servants and international organisations.

For more information, please visit www.abnamro.nl/expats Contact Amsterdam: 020 - 34 34 002 The Hague: 070 - 37 52 050 Rotterdam: 010 - 40 25 888

e-mail: expat.clients@nl.abnamro.com e-mail: international.clients@nl.abnamro.com e-mail: international.clients@nl.abnamro.com