ACCESS Spring 2016

serving t h e i n t e r n at i o n a l community www.access-nl.org

30 years

Discretely delicious

2016

Spring

In this issue Lekker Limburg | Review of Dutch music festivals | Outside the comfort zone in Amsterdam | Habits: keep the best | ­Choosing a secondary school | Celebrating bold female leadership |

Personal training

Upbringing

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Nutrition

Yoga for children

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Mindfulness

Coaching

Posture

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Massage

Yoga

Kinetics advice

WWW.BLOOMdenHaag.nL

Letter from the editor

PHOTO: LYSSA RAMOS PHOTOGRAPHY

Dear ACCESS readers

Mandie van der Meer-Danielski ACCESS Editor editor@access-nl.org

How do we, the international community in the Netherlands, usually talk about Dutch food? Maybe you’ve heard that it is bland. Maybe you think the expression ‘Dutch ­cuisine’ is a contradiction. Maybe you’ve never even tried it? As with moving to any country, ­opening yourself up to local flavours and ways of eating is a soulful commencement to the culture itself. What can you learn about the Dutch while enjoying that hearty piece of ­appeltaart with whipped cream? Do you feel like a local when fighting off a seagull for your basket of fried fish from the viskraam? Have you discovered how some chocolate hagelslag at breakfast boosts you for the bike ride to work?

Writer Alice Burke tackles the massive topic of Dutch food for us, reflecting on the joy to be found in these and other Dutch eats. She shares how what might seem like a choice of simple ingredients – Meat-potato-vegetable, anyone? – is really a lifestyle choice.

Simplicity in eating leaves more time, money and energy for other delightful endeavours.

For a varied culinary tour through Limburg, find out from Tracey Taylor what’s lekker in the southern-most region of the country. Cristina Roca Phylactopoulou encourages us to stick our forks into daring dishes in her review of restaurants ‘outside the comfort zone’ in Amsterdam. Steven Ecott tells us about a new kind of takeaway, and Connie Moser introduces us to an invaluable book that offers us the ins and outs of shopping at Dutch and international markets.

Opening yourself up to local flavours and ways of eating is a soulful commencement to the culture itself

Now that we're changing the clocks forward for spring, l­etting in the light we’ve been missing all winter long, can we kick-start healthier habits?

Carolyn van Es-Vines talks with an ACCESS counsellor to learn more about how internationals can keep the best habits for a happy life.

Speaking of a happy life – my thanks to ACCESS for inviting me back as editor, to team up with such thoughtful and dedicated volunteers to share with the international community what is relevant, informative and even surprising.

Tell us what you think of our magazine and our design changes. We’d love to hear from you! editor@access-nl.org ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 3

Colophon

About ACCESS ACCESS is a volunteer not-for-profit organisation that serves the needs and

Publisher Stichting ACCESS Laan van Meerdervoort 70, 1st floor, 2517 AN The Hague Editorial content editor@access-nl.org

interests of the i­ nternational community in

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the Netherlands. It is supported by Dutch,

070 345 1700

inter­national and e ­ xpatriate businesses and

fnd@access-nl.org

organisations through donations and

Editor

sponsorship.

Mandie van der Meer-Danielski Assistant Editor

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 wellbeing 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 • assist the HR departments of international employers in preparing for and receiving international staff

Gemma Gahan

Executive Board

• Chairman: Gary Hays

, Valshebnik Consulting

Members • Koosje Ploegmakers,

ABN AMRO • Godelijn Boonman,

GMW Advocaten • Lowri van der Linden , the Netherlands Foreig n Investment Agency • Pauline O'Brien, Coun cil of International School s

Design & Layout M-space, Marek Moggré Cover image www.vinitasalome.com Contents images (clockwise) holland.com, Justin de Nooijer, Kimberley Bosman, Ed Brownson, Dave van Voorden Contributors Alice Burke, Steven Ecott, Carolyn van Es-Vines, Gemma Gahan, Marijn Meijer, Connie Moser, Cristina Roca Phylactopoulou, Nira Satguru, Tracey Taylor, Deborah Valentine Thanks to Connie Moser, Willemijn van Oppen

0900 2 ACCESS (0900 2 222 377) local rate 20c per minute helpdesk@access-nl.org www.access-nl.org 4 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

Join ACCESS on

12 Spring 2016 Vol. 29 No. 1 Circulation: 2,500 Also available online at: access-nl.org

Contents 7 ACCESS News

32

19

9 What’s On 12 Cover Story Discretely delicious 19 Review A myriad of music festivals 20 Health & Wellbeing Habits: keep the best, change the rest 25 Dutch LifestyleTakeaway the Dutch way 26 Arts & Entertainment

29

Outside the comfort zone 29 International Community Bold female leadership 32 Travel Lekker Limburg 38 Food Food Shopper’s Guide to Holland 41 Education Choosing an international secondary school 45 Orange Pages Classifieds from the community

20

Copyright ACCESS 2016 All rights reserved. No part of the ACCESS magazine 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.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 5

ACCESS news

Gefeliciteerd met onze verjaardag! Congratulations on our birthday.

It is customary in the Netherlands, on your birthday, to trakteer, treat, your colleagues, friends or classmates. In an office or school setting this commonly takes the form of cake.

and respected publication. For a while it was only available online, but it was missed by those who ­simply enjoy settling down to turn some pages, those who take pleasure in passing it on once read, and those of us who want to see, and feel, our work in print.

We had another plan.

Future potential

ACCESS has a birthday in 2016, our 30 to be exact, and so our treat to you, our readers, members of the international community and new arrivals to the Netherlands, is bringing back the print version of the ACCESS Magazine. Why? Because it complements what we do: helping internationals find answers to their questions and discovering a little bit more about their new home, and we really enjoy working on it. So while we treat you – we are also treating ourselves. th

Humble beginnings

What began as the ACCESS Newsletter – for the smaller and more intimate international community in The Hague almost 30 years ago – has evolved into a publication serving internationals throughout the Netherlands. The Magazine has now become a sought after

In the last five years, the ACCESS Magazine has become increasingly focussed. On providing a platform for locally based, international writers to demonstrate their skills and share their knowledge, while at the same time supporting ACCESS. We aim to provide content which informs, allows you to connect with your host country and neighbours, and allows you to explore your new home with pleasure, hopefully learning something new along the way. What makes the magazine so attractive is its easy style of writing, content which is solely focussed on building bridges between communities, insights shared by professionals as well as individuals about expatriate living in the Netherlands and a myriad of other issues.

It is distributed free of charge through Expat centres and international schools among other locations, and as we professionalise our services hopefully directly to you. It will also be available online on our website. Would you like to write for the Magazine, or support us by placing an advertisement or sharing a Classified ad for our ‘orange pages’? Then do get in touch. « For potential contributors: editor@access-nl.org For advertisers & Classifieds: fnd@access-nl.org ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 7

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What’s On

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’.

National Restaurant Week www.restaurantweek.nl/lang/en

Are you in the mood for fine dining but turned off by the prices? You’re in luck because starting 30 March more than 750 “high class” restaurants all over the Netherlands are participating in the DiningCity Restaurant Week. Restaurants will serve a special three-course dinner for a fixed price from € 27.50, and a three-course lunch from € 22.50. In order to take advantage of this ‘sweet’ deal, book online via the website.

PHOTO: IVO HOEKSTRA

30 March-10 April - Various

Mauritshuis: In and Out of Storage www.mauritshuis.nl/en

Until 8 May - The Hague The storage rooms of the museum are off limits to the public. This might make you ­curious. What paintings are stored there? How did they end up there? Why aren’t they hanging in the museum? And do they really hold unknown treasures, as is often thought to be the case? Now through 8 May 2016 the exhibition In and Out of Storage answers these questions and, for the first time, acquaints visitors with this invisible part of the ­collection of the Mauritshuis.

Cheese Market

Pasar Malam Istimewa

HACKING HABITAT

www.kaasmarkt.nl

www.wnproductions.nl

www.hackinghabitat.com/en

25 March - Alkmaar It’d be a crime to feature events centred on food in the Netherlands only to omit the Alkmaar Cheese Market, a tradition over four centuries old. Although it runs every Friday until September, the opening on the 25 March is marked by the ringing of a church bell, a carillon performance, and an introduction to the history of the market in multiple languages. An exceptional setting in which to enjoy the best of Dutch cheese.

26-28 March - Rotterdam

Until 5 June - Utrecht

The Asian festival of Indonesian origin takes over Ahoy Rotterdam with a whirlwind of food and entertainment. Should you be looking for a taste of home, or a taste of a new culture, you’re sure to find something to please amongst the music and dance performances, food stalls, or even Pentjak Silak demonstrations.

For the more daring amongst you, why not challenge your taste buds with the spiciest sambal you can find?

HACKING HABITAT uses art to address an urgent question: “How can we keep life in the future liveable?” A daring exhibition which presents artwork in a disused prison, the perfect setting to question our relationship with technology and the idea of digital captivity. Confront the ‘dangerous artwork’ that aims to break down institutional boundaries and develop your horizons through the challenges of this science fiction haven cultivated by artists and hackers alike.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 9

What’s On

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’.

Pure Markt

Get Into the Greenhouse

www.puremarkt.nl/english_puremarkt.html

www.komindekas.nl

17 April - The Hague

Where do vegetables come from before they end up on our plate? While you may know the basics, the Dutch Greenhouse industry opens its doors at a few hundred locations to introduce children, or curious adults, to the art of growing fresh produce. You may be surprised to find out how some vegetables, fruits, and flowers are developed by robots in laboratories! Consult the website to find an open location near you.

If this issue has whet your appetite for quality ingredients, the Pure Markt is right up your alley. With around 70% of stands food related, this market is the place to go to meet passionate producers of artisan Dutch and international food. Although it has a fixed location in Amsterdam, the market travels to other locations throughout the year, including the Zeeheldenkwartier in The Hague in April.

Catwalk www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/catwalk

Until 15 May - Amsterdam Fashion, clothes, and the people who wore them are a fascinating window into our history. Catwalk highlights this by dedicating six wings of the Rijksmuseum to Dutch fashion from 1625 to 1960. Discover the story behind the widest dress in the Netherlands, worn in 1759, or marvel at the fragility of silk bobbin lace dress from around 1820. This exhibition promises to be an invaluable insight into the power of clothes and what they say about you.

PHOTO: AMY GENSER

2-3 April - Across the Netherlands

Art Breda www.artbreda.nl

10-17 April - Breda Browse fine art, antiques, and contemporary art alike at this carefully curated fair in the heart of Breda. Immerse yourself in the huge variety of objects and styles, from 17th century paintings to art nouveau and art deco ornaments, jewellery, and prints. Although worth a visit just to admire the beautiful displays, you may even find the perfect artwork to display above your mantelpiece.

Life I Live Festival www.lifeilive.nl

26 April - The Hague

PHOTO: ERWIN OLAF

On the eve of King’s Day, the whole city centre comes alive during this free music festival in The Hague. You’ll find local and international live bands as well as DJs performing at stages scattered across the city. Grab a beer, or indulge in excellent street food, and revel in the exciting atmosphere of this huge musical party. You could end up seeing the night through until the flea market the following day!

10 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

What’s On

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’.

Spring Beer Walk

TREK Food Truck Festival

www.bierwandeling.nl/lentebierwandeling

www.festival-trek.nl

1 May - Leiden

6-8 May - Rotterdam

PHOTO: TREK ROTTERDAM

Pick your starter café, collect your glass, and enjoy good company and beer while wandering through Leiden.

Whether you need an excuse to sightsee, exercise, meet new people, or drink more beer… During the Spring Beer Walks, everybody wins! According to the organisers, not even rain was enough to put off participants from this gezellig venture in 2015.

Asparagus Market www.liefdevoorlimburg.nl/evenementen/ aspergemarkt-arcen

5 May - Arcen

PHOTO: STICHTING NOORD-LIMBURG

Have you heard of the Limburg ‘gold fever’? It refers to the annual harvesting of ‘white gold’, or humble asparagus.

The market in Arcen is not only a great occasion to sample the vegetable, but also to learn about harvesting, sorting, and washing it directly from local growers. If you can’t stomach a whole day of asparagus liqueur and chocolate, supplement your trip with a visit to the thermal baths or the castle gardens.

Enjoy Rotterdam’s Vroesenpark like never before as TREK turns it into a giant open air ­restaurant. Delicious food from all over the world, fresh lemonade or beer in a relaxed atmosphere, what more could you want? Well, except maybe another helping of fragrant curry or one more sauerkraut hot dog…

Lepeltje Lepeltje www.lepeltje-lepeltje.com/amersfoort

Festival de Muze van Zuid www.muzevanzuid.nl

13-16 May - Amersfoort 21-22 May - Amsterdam Lepeltje Lepeltje (literally translated as ‘little spoon little spoon’) is a food and culture festival that takes the food truck experience and rolls it into a complete package with a market and live music, as well as workshops and activities for children. Make it a family day out topped with tasty treats or eat everything you can before taking time to browse market stalls. However you choose to go about your visit, you’re guaranteed a full stomach - or should I say spoon?

If you’re stuffed from following all our food recommendations, it’s time for a breather. On top of the usual concert halls, de Muze van Zuid brings classical music out to the streets. The program includes music from the composers that gifted their names to streets in Amsterdam Zuid, which covers over 30 Dutch composers from the 15th century to today. A lovely way to bring city and heritage together through music.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 11

PHOTO: ROBERT DE BOCK

12 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

Cover story

Discretely delicious As an Irish person arriving in the Netherlands four years ago, I didn’t arrive with an overabundance of

taking a drink on a sunny terrace. There’s a practicality in this approach that is deeply appealing, and allows time to be directed towards other pursuits.

excitement about traversing new frontiers in culinary exploration. I expected more of the straightforward, dairy-laced, potato-fuelled creations of home, which I thankfully got, along with a whole world of interesting dishes that draw on a wealth of international cultures while still remaining uniquely Dutch.

BY ALICE BURKE

The world largely connects the Netherlands with an array of cheeses in all their well-deserved glory, but there are layers of complexity within Dutch culinary tradition that go far beyond Edam or Gouda. Dutch cuisine may initially present itself as limited in comparison to some of its European counterparts, but upon closer inspection, it offers a rather lovely and remarkable chance to enjoy the simplicity of good ingredients and savour individual flavours and freshness.

The modest approach that the Dutch largely take towards food becomes a way of life that one grows to appreciate. Food is something to be enjoyed, sure, but it’s equally seen as a way of keeping energy up so that you can go enjoy life’s little pleasures, like

Fuel for the day

When it comes to Dutch breakfast, the emphasis is on simplicity, energy to get enough fuel to kick-start the day. While breakfast is a simple affair, it’s usually quite a sweet one. Bread is almost always the canvas, with either hagelslag, little chocolate or fruity sprinkles, some honey, or perhaps pindakaas, peanut butter. The excruciatingly sweet Friesland delicacy suikerbrood sometimes makes an appearance, but watch for your teeth as it contains meteorite-sized chunks of sugar. The delightfully named ontbijtkoek, or breakfast cake, is a spiced ginger loaf that can also work at breakfast time.

Personally I’ve yet to find joy in consuming a slice of bread topped with hagelslag that tend to drive one’s sugar levels up to a dangerously high zenith so early in the day, but sugary breakfast choices are sensible if, like many people here, you start off your day with a brisk cycle to work and a lot of the day’s journeys are done by bike. After all, the Dutch government estimates that a quarter of all journeys in the Netherlands are by bicycle. It’s not just solo journeys either; it never fails to astonish me to see a parent balance two or three children on their bike and soar off confidently down a narrow, cobbled Amsterdam street. With those kinds of demands on your energy, a sweet breakfast makes a little more sense. » ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 13

PHOTO: ØYSTEIN ALSAKER

Cover story | Discretely delicious

Did .­ now.. you k r day the

popula ake­ Most t order .

Dutch Year’s w is Ne y a w . a ay ing’s D #2: K

Mid-day specialties to warm you up

One of the first gifts I received upon moving to the Netherlands was a soup cookbook.

Apparently my lack of ability to tell my snert from my erwten soup needed to be urgently remedied. Snert, or erwten soup (depending on who you speak to) is a Dutch pea soup, made thickly and richly, eaten at lunch or as an appetizer before an evening meal.

One thing that many newcomers to the Netherlands will quickly realize is that something that may appear to be a vegetarian dish will have surprise meat in it.

Pea soup, for example, may not conjure up a carnivorous feast in many other countries, but here there’s often an extra layer of ‘hearty’ below the surface. The soup is boiled with a ham hock and served with slices of rookworst, a delicious smoked sausage delicacy, plus a side of roggebrood – a dark, filling rye bread.

Books about Dutch food

• Dutch Culinary Art: 400 Years of Festive Cooking by Janny De Moor, Nico De Rooy, Albert Tielemns Dutch • Delight: Typical Dutch Food, by Sylvia Pessireron • The Wonderful World of the Stroopwafel, by Ulrike Schmidt & Lineke Eerdmans 14 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

You might notice that your spoon stands straight up in a robust bowl of thick soup – don’t worry, according to food writer Carla Hester, this is a tell-tale sign of excellent pea soup!

Another classic favourite is uitsmijter, a very simple dish consisting of sliced, buttered bread, fried eggs, ham and cheese, and isn’t exclusively served at lunchtime. Basic dishes such as this provide sustenance without being overly heavy and are a key identifier of Dutch cuisine. Simplicity usually dominates leaving more time to get on with your day.

By the way, save yourself a bit of time in languagelearning by just adding the word “broodje” to anything to order a sandwich, or follow a typical tradition of stopping at the supermarket nearest your office, buying a sack of bread buns (bolletjes), a pack of sliced cheese and some butter. Office lunches are a pleasant chance to sit with colleagues and break bread. For many Dutch, such ingredients make for a quick and easy lunch to hold them over until their warmest and most-filling meal of the day: dinner.

“Aan tafel!” Practicality and affordability for dinner

According to a 2012 study conducted by a Dutch food marketing group, Productschap Tuinbouw, 91% of respondents in the Netherlands enjoy their main cooked meal, or warme hoofdmaaltijd, in the evening.

It’s ­usually a rather heavy affair, with the magnificent stamppot taking centre-stage as the granddaddy of all Dutch main dishes. It has a number of variants, all circling around a theme of mashed potatoes and vegetables, a type of meat and often a gravy or a sauce. This holy trinity is often referred to as the “AVG-tje” – aardappels (potatoes), groente (vegetables), vlees (meat). These meals are easy to cook when there’s limited space and a limited number of pots and pans. The ingredients are usually cheap and local, and even the worst cut of meat can be transformed after a few hours of slow cooking doused in flavouring. In centuries past, with a largely agrarian economy, this type of nourishing, affordable food was the lifeblood of workers who would spend up to 16 hours a day labouring.

When are foods in season?

At your local ­market you can find Dutch-grown produce at their best with our ­visual guide to seasonal shopping.

Don’t miss the fish

Proud centuries of seafaring have lead to a deep love and respect for seafood in all its forms in Dutch national cuisine. Fish forms an integral part of the majority of restaurant menus, and keep an eye out for seafood stalls dotted around towns and cities that offer a variety of marine delicacies. Haring (herring), is one of the more difficult ones to tackle – literally – as it traditionally involves dangling the body of a raw fish above your mouth and snapping at it as if you were a seal. This is a rather enjoyable but challenging skill to be learned. Kibbeling, little bits of fish deep fried in golden batter, is a delicious seaside treat, but watch out for the North Sea’s peskily aggressive and oversized seagulls as they’ll more than likely try and invite themselves to have a nibble.

exist countless Indonesian dishes, some of which take hours to prepare; but a few easy ILLUSTRATIONS BY GEMMA GAHAN. ones have become so popular that they can be regarded as ‘national dishes’”. The Countess listed recipes for nasi goreng (fried rice), pisang goreng (baked bananas), lumpia goreng (fried spring rolls), bami (fried noodles), satay (grilled skewered meat), satay sauce ­(peanut sauce), and sambal oelek (chilli paste); all still to be commonly found on the streets and in the restaurants of the Netherlands.

Of the Dutch-Indonesian dishes the best known is the rijsttafel (“Rice table”), which is a complex meal consisting of many small dishes. A popular fusion dish is friet saté or patatje pinda, French fries with satay sauce as condiment, served at snack bars. »

Indonesian cuisine: a favourite Dutch import

PHOTO: JURJEN DRENTH

Years of connections have led to an intricate cuisine of shared flavours and ingredients, which can be linked to Indonesia’s role as the largest former Dutch colony. Food blogger Jeff Keasberry cites Dutch-Indonesian cuisine is one of the oldest fusion ­cuisines in the world, and says that “outside of Indonesia, the Netherlands has the highest number of Indonesian fine dining restaurants, take-out ­eateries and grocery stores.”

In her well-loved 1962 book, The Art of Dutch Cooking, Countess van Limburg Stirum writes that “There ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 15

Cover story | Discretely delicious

PHOTO: DAVE VAN VOORDEN

PHOTO: WWW.VINITASALOME.COM

Sipping a cup of black gold is… a leisure activity, not something to be pursued from a paper cup “Wil je een kopje koffie?”

Simplicity and sustenance were not always the bedrock of Dutch cuisine. During the Golden Age of Dutch exploration, the ports and cities were filled with spices and new delicacies, and coffee was to become a staple part of life. Culinary historian Peter G. Rose writes that “tea and coffee made a significant impact on meal patterns and social customs. A 1610 tea shipment was considered a curiosity, but the shipments gradually increased and domestic markets developed. Many humorous tales exist about the quantity consumed at popular late-17th century tea parties where, purportedly, between 20 and 100 small cupfuls per person were consumed.”

Nowadays, the coffee culture in the Netherlands is somewhat different. Starbucks has approximately 16 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

50 outlets dotted around the country, although they’re prominent mainly in Amsterdam and at Schiphol Airport, but the Dutch tend to drink coffee in a more relaxed manner and not on the go.

Sipping a cup of black gold is still largely viewed as a leisure activity and not something to be pursued from a paper cup while running for a tram or cycling a bike (mostly, anyway). It’s best enjoyed at home, on a terrace or after a meal.

A wonderful thing about the Netherlands is that it’ll be a cold day in hell before you’re served a hot drink without an accompanying cookie. The deli-

cious cinnamon-toned speculaas cookie is a key player, and its individually wrapped presence on your saucer is always a joy to behold. A mint tea made with fresh mint leaves and a dash of honey is a very common refreshment.

The sweet side

Gevulde koek (filled cake) and boterkoek (butter cake) are two favorites of mine. Their very perfunctory names are matched by the simplicity of the ingredients, and the rock-solid nature of the texture of the boterkoek means it could quite understandably be viewed as a weapon if thrown with enough force.

The more majestic after-dinner choice is the extremely rich apple tart found here. With a thicker, more straightforward pastry than used in many other countries, and the addition of sultanas and warming cinnamon, it’s served with an over-generous dollop of whipped cream. The solid pastry used in making Dutch apple tart is not the light, filigreed pastry of a French tarte aux pommes, but more a heavy slab of buttery goodness. The shorter preparation time ­happily leaves more time for eating.

Anyone who’s been here through the colder winter months will have seen the oliebollen trucks dotted around the cities. A New Year’s tradition, oliebollen are an airy, oilier version of a donut, but in a ball (hence the name) and can have raisins or other fruit fillings like apple. They’re covered in icing sugar before being handed over, and I have yet to eat one without covering myself almost head to foot in a light sprinkling of white powder.

Not-so-humble origins

Exploring the different tastes on offer throughout the country is one of the best ways to take an enjoyable

history lesson, and get to know a deliciously varied side to the Netherlands.The food writer Karin Engelbrecht talks about the 1669 Dutch cookbook, De Verstandige Kok (The Sensible Cook), which includes recipes for “roast goose with turmeric root and queekoeckjens, candies made from quince paste.” After the glorious spoils of the 17th century, things began to change and social and economic situations made frugality the better (and necessary) option for the population at large. By the 19th century, Engelbrecht writes, the newest bestselling cookbook was the rather more sternly titled Aaltje, die volmaakte en zuinige keukenmeid, (Aaltje, the perfect, frugal kitchen maid).

This frugality has carried on, although the restaurant scene in the Netherlands is flourishing, with a large international emphasis. Seven new restaurants were awarded Michelin stars this year, and two restaurants boast the much-coveted three stars.

Big flavours, small country

Despite a slightly rocky start when I arrived, and a disappointment at bread and cheese for lunch most days, the Dutch approach to food has become a source of simplistic enjoyment and comfort for me and many of my friends here. Making an effort to seek out the freshest herring or asking an Amsterdammer where they buy their rookworst opens up a world of local goods and a true understanding of national tastes. Living in the Netherlands is a great opportunity to enjoy the excellent array of good, local ingredients and also to explore the truly complex and exciting world of Dutch-Indonesian cuisine. I’ve found that a very big art of the joy of ­living here is in branching out and discovering ­surprisingly big flavours in a small country. «

About the author Alice Burke is an Amsterdam-based writer and editor.

Find her on Twitter @auroraborealice.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 17

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Reviews

A myriad of music festivals Music festivals are an excellent way to see new places, meet new people and of course enjoy some great music. Which of the many Dutch music festivals are worth your time during the upcoming spring and summer? ACCESS provides an overview.

BY MARIJN MEIJER

The obvious first mention is Pinkpop, held in June in Landgraaf.

Originating in 1970, Pinkpop is the world’s oldest running music festival in the country.

Its large open field sports a rowdy but

PHO TOS: BART HEEM SKER K

About the author Marijn Meijer is editor at a Dutch educational publisher and freelance music journalist.

He lives in Gouda with his girlfriend and record collection. mpmeijer88@gmail.com

friendly atmosphere. Excitement is fuelled by the consistently star-studded programme which in recent years featured Pharell Williams, the Rolling Stones and others. Lowlands, held in August in Biddinghuizen (pictured here), is comparable in size and atmosphere but also sports other cultural activities such as poetry recitals and theatre workshops. Though not cheap, both festivals are compulsory if you want to experience Dutch festival c­ulture at its biggest and most extravagant.

Notable indoor festivals

For those who like their festivals more comfortable and refined there’s North Sea Jazz, held in Rotterdam’s prestigious Ahoy convention centre.

The festival celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, hosting Tony Bennet and Lady Gaga, and many other jazz and R&B talents. Other luminaries such as Stevie Wonder and B.B. King have also graced the stage at Ahoy.

Another notable indoor festival is Le Guess Who?.

The festival is based in a number of concert halls and cafés in Utrecht, making it a great excuse to explore the city’s vibrant centre. Le Guess Who? caters to fans of underground artistic music and is held in November, a month which doesn’t see many festivals.

And many more

As for smaller festivals, the second edition of music and culture festival Loeren bij de Boeren was a standout in 2015. It was held in July on several ­farmyards south of Utrecht. Aside from some great concerts and theatre performances the festival offered a lovely glimpse of the Dutch countryside.

Here’s hoping it’ll return in 2016. Another notable is Jazz Festival Delft in August, which hosts concerts by Dutch home-grown jazz talent in Delft's h­istoric city centre.

Of course these are just two of a myriad of worthwhile local festivals. You can rest assured that during summer there’ll be one within half an hour’s travel of just about any major city. So keep an eye on the local event agenda and get out there! « ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 19

Health & Wellbeing

ILLUSTRATION BY GEMMA GAHAN

Habits: keep the best,

“The things we see every day are the things we never see at all. We have to live less out of habit and more out of intent.” - KateGoesGlobal.com

BY CAROLYN VAN ES-VINES

20 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

At the start of each new year people all over the world resolve to kick old, unhealthy, self-sabotaging habits, or take up helpful ones. Praiseworthy intentions in tow, we begin with gusto: we only drink on week-

ends, we make it to the gym on Monday and we cut back to a few cigarettes a day. Anything to make good on our promise to get healthy and enjoy life to the fullest.

Alas, come spring a whopping third of us have reverted back to our old habits. What’s up with that?

Why is it so hard to kick certain habits? In a word: Awareness. Many of us are on automatic pilot. We’re in survival mode, spreading ourselves so thin we don’t even notice how tired we are or what triggers

change the rest our stress reactions. We’ve forgotten about selfreflection. So until we slow down, unplug and look within, our old, unhealthy and self-sabotaging habits will indeed die hard.

good,” says Gaborova. So we indulge in certain behaviours, living on automatic pilot until we... well...crash. That is, until we feel physical or emotional pain in one or more areas of our lives.

Profile of a habit

Play the long game

So, what is a habit anyway? It is, simply put, a pattern of behaviour that we have learned and practised so much it has become routine. Because they reside much of the time in our subconscious, habits become automatic. We have little or no awareness as to why we do what we do, nor do we see their benefits or costs. Furthermore, we keep habits for practical reasons: they make us feel good, they reduce stress or help us cope. It’s logical we want to hang on to them. Right?

According to psychologist Katarina Gaborova, author of V!VA Tools for Well Being, an interesting fact is that all habits are not created equally. For example, smoking a cigarette feels good, reduces stress and helps us cope. So does exercising. The first time we do something we enjoy, dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for feeling happiness, satisfaction and achievement, is released into the brain.

“The more we engage in that pleasurable activity,” explains Gaborova “the sooner dopamine is released.

Keeping up this cause-and-effect response long enough will trigger the release of dopamine by just thinking about the activity.”

Some habits will trigger a higher level of dopamine to be released, which, of course, magnifies the feeling of satisfaction. However, since the brain does not distinguish between a ‘good’ and ‘bad’ habit, Gaborova concludes that it’s up to us to make a conscious choice between which habits we want to keep and which we want to change.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always easy. “The higher the level of dopamine release, the higher the satisfaction, the harder it is to stop the habit that makes us feel

When we decide to make a change, we must do so with conscious intention, aware that we’re foregoing instant gratification in exchange for a long-term investment. Martje van der Brug, successful Dutch novelist, dreamed of becoming a writer. Life, however, got in the way with the demands of raising a family and working freelance as a copywriter.

Twenty-five years after putting off her dream, she decided it was now or never. Van der Brug gave up her business, enrolled in a writing course, and cleared her agenda of old habits.

We become “experts in picking out the ‘good habits’ from each culture we come into contact with”

“No more lunches or fun shopping with the girls.

No more dinner parties, cocktails or anything that distracted me,” she says. Knowing she worked best with a deadline, she put herself on a regimen of 1,000 words per day and “ploughed on, not seeing anyone but my husband who ended up cooking every night because I was so focused.”

Approaching her process with the soberness for which the Dutch are known paid off. She knew where she was going and what it took to get there and while it wasn’t easy, it was ultimately “so wonderfully energizing,” says Van der Brug. A little over » ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 21

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Health & Wellbeing | Habits

a year of “work first, play later”, her riveting novel Havo is geen optie (HAVO is not an option), a novel about ambition gone wrong, was published.

The international advantage

Although Van der Brug attributes her success to ­discipline, other traits like determination, persistence and focus contributed to her process. Makes sense when, according to Gaborova, the ease with which we change an old habit or create a new one is determined to a degree by our genetic makeup. There are those of us who are genetically predisposed to struggle with change.

The good news is habits are learned and we can look to our Dutch environment for help. It worked for Van der Brug, and it can certainly work for those of us here on international relocation. The skills we learn and the traits we develop – curiosity, perseverance, resilience, openness, determination – also come in handy for making sustainable habit changes. We very often become “experts in picking out the ‘good habits’ from each culture we come into contact with and adapting them into our outlook,” affirms Gaborova.

True enough, international relocation can shake our foundations. But it also offers us the chance to travel deep within ourselves to discover what we’re made of. The very nature of self-reflection lends itself to raising our awareness about who we are as well as the world surrounding us. It is also a crucial step toward sustaining habits that best serve us. When we see and acknowledge our successes – be it waking up one hour earlier every day, or allowing for two minutes of meditation, or writing 1,000 words of that novel – we feel satisfaction. Dopamine is released, and that good feeling may motivate us to keep going and keep up the good habit.

From writing her first book Martje van der Brug learned a lot about who she is and how she writes.

She was able to apply those lessons to her second novel, and what took months to accomplish the first time was achieved in a matter of a few weeks the second time around. Her second novel, Wat doen we met moeder (What do we do with Mother) is scheduled to be released this spring.

Did you k now..

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cherRiebo er of A ld, C C E SS Tra Netw ork, re iner views Tools V!VA. for W ell Be ing on our w ebsite .

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Counselling Service Network

Even the most disciplined, focused and motivated of us will backslide at some point. Gaborova assures us this is to be expected and suggests we not beat up on ourselves when it happens. Being human, we may need outside help to get started or keep going. That’s where the Counselling Service Network (CSN) comes in. It’s ACCESS’s team of international psychologists, counsellors and psychotherapists on call to give information related to mental health.

Gaborova explains that expats and internationals often seek help in all stages of breaking, changing and keeping habits especially “whenever they feel distress or their ‘bad habit’ starts interfering with their everyday functioning.” Stay aware, and know that support is always available. « To find a counsellor from CSN, visit www.access-nl.org.

What habit have you succeeded or struggled with while living as an international? Share your story at www.facebook.com/ACCESSNL

About the author Carolyn van Es-Vines is a Certified Professional Life & Leadership Coach and author of black and (A)broad: traveling beyond the limitations of identity.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 23

Education | Partner feature

For many DISDH students, the bell at the end of the school day marks the start of an exciting afternoon. More and more parents have come to appreciate the benefits of the DISDH After School Programme.

DISDH After School Programme:

more quality time for families When children are collected from the afternoon ­programme, they have completed their homework, enjoyed their music lessons, practised their language skills, and have had fun taking part in a wide range of activities and spending time with their friends.

For parents and children, this means that the rest of the day can be dedicated to quality family time.

Activities for different ages

070 354 9494 www.disdh.nl

The DISDH Afternoon Programme is geared toward different age groups. Pupils from grades 1 to 4 take part in the Primary School programme whereas older students (grades 5 -7) are welcome to join “School XL”. Both programmes are voluntary and flexible; parents can register their children on the days and times which best suit their children as well as their own personal and professional schedules and obligations.

Primary School children begin their afternoon with a hot lunch served in the school cafeteria. Homework under professional pedagogical guidance stands next on the agenda. Once homework has been done, children choose between a range of workshops including cooking, photography, outdoors and

24 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

scouting, model making, crafts and sports.

In ­addition, all lessons and clubs at the DISDH are also open to children registered in the After School Programmes. Children move freely between the After School Care Programme and different clubs all within the trusted surroundings of their school.

A healthy snack rounds out the afternoon.

“School XL” is similar in its approach. Activities offered are age appropriate and constitute more demanding projects often in the field of science which students work on over longer periods of time.

The concept of afternoon programmes which adapt to the various age groups from Kindergarten to Secondary School has distinguished itself at the DISDH. The school grounds, together with the nearby beach, forests and museums provide the ­children with a home away from home. Spending time in familiar surroundings enables them to develop a stronger connection to their school and create positive associations with their classmates and learning in general. At the end of lessons and a busy and fun-filled afternoon, students return home where they can enjoy carefree quality time together with their families. «

Dutch Lifestyle

Thuisafgehaald: Takeaway the Dutch way Today’s fast-paced modern life often makes it

The idea started with Hart’s own next door neighbour.

“My husband and I both have busy jobs and small c­hildren and it was real challenge to get a homemade meal on the table,” she says. “…Our neighbour spent quite a lot of time cooking so I knocked on her door and asked if she was willing to cook some extra portions for us too.” Before long, “We would go over to her home with a couple of empty plates and a few euros, and then go and enjoy a meal as a family around the table.”

tough to find time to properly prepare meals, even when unwinding after a day at work.

Let me introduce you to www.Thuisafgehaald.nl, a uniquely Dutch concept started in 2012, which allows people to order takeaway from their neighbours, and create a larger sense of community in doing so.

Marieke Hart, co-founder of Thuisafgehaald, explained exactly what it is and how it works.

She translates the Dutch word thuisafgehaald as “share your meals”. “Our philosophy is that food connects people. It’s a great way to enjoy a d­elicious home cooked meal, but more importantly it’s a great way to get to know your neighbours.”

Hart says, “Our culture has really played an important role in helping it grow. Dutch people are open to ­trying new things all the time, and… organic, local produce has become a priority for some people and Thuisafgehaald fits well with that trend.”

But reflecting, Hart says it’s about more than just food. "There is a growing need for community...

Our website [provides] that.”

PHOTO: FLEUR WIERSMA

BY STEVEN ECOTT

Marieke discussed her food friendship with others who joined her WhatsApp messaging group to place dinner orders. Friends from outside her local area expressed interest too, but the taboo of talking to a neighbour prevented them for starting their own group. “For some people that is a bridge too far,” says Hart, and so what began as a small instant-messaging group rapidly grew from its humble beginnings into a website with over 75,000 registered users across the country.

Just as she and her neighbour had struck up a friendship, revolving around their connection through food, Hart says, “There are some beautiful outcomes with our users. The social spinoff is overwhelming.” « Find neighbours cooking in your area on the English website: www.shareyourmeals.net ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 25

Arts & Entertainment

Do you find yourself heading, time after time, straight for the gezellig atmosphere of your nearest ‘brown café’, or the comfort of your favourite Italian restaurant? We all love a good

erwtensoep to cure the soul, but it’s good to step out of your safety zone now and then. Here we suggest five ideas to do exactly so… without even leaving the Amsterdam ring. Whether it’s an adventure for the senses or a fun family activity, eating out need never be boring again!

BY CRISTINA ROCA PHYLACTOPOULOU

Outside the com Ctaste

Try it­ While it might not be the best location for a first date, it is guaranteed to give you a unique experience.

PHOTO: JONATHAN COHEN

We often forget how important a role vision plays in our experience of eating. Not for the faint-hearted, Ctaste, Amsterdam’s dine-in-the-dark restaurant, invites you to plunge into obscurity, giving free rein to all your other senses: taste, yes, but also touch, smell, and sound. The restaurant employs blind or visually impaired workers trained to serve tables in the dark. After ordering, you are led into the pitch-black dining area, where you will enjoy your meal and make conversation in complete darkness.

Amsteldijk 55 - Open Wed - Sat from 16:30; Sun from 11:00. Reservations encouraged. www.ctaste.nl/en Tel. 020 675 2831

Try it­ You appreciate nice i­nteriors (Instock also repurposes items like old classroom chairs and beer bottles for its chic decoration) and you want something new, but not too ­eccentric.

Instock Instock gives the term ‘junk food’ an entirely new meaning. A not-for-profit initiative aimed at reducing food waste, it serves dishes prepared from ‘rescued’ ingredients. Supermarkets and providers throw out massive quantities of food that is still legally fit for consumption; the Instock team picks it up every morning and comes up with a delicious three-course daily menu (vegetarian option available). It’s hard to believe this food would have gone to waste: we had grilled vegetables, an excellent marinated beef succade with garnish and deconstructed fruit pavlova, and who knows what it will be tomorrow?

Czaar Peterstraat 21, Open Sun - Wed 9:00 – 23:00; Thu - Sat 9:00 – 24:00. Reservations for dinner recommended. www.instock.nl/en Tel. 020 363 5765 26 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

G’s brunch boat Try it­ For the ultimate upgrade to your favourite weekend indulgence.

Brunch has become so popular it’s old news, but how about a floating brunch extravaganza? G’s has you covered – in the summer it’s alfresco with cool cocktails, while the winter lends itself to combining a lazy tour of the city’s canals with cosy blankets and candles. With a delicious brunch dish, two cocktails, coffee and dessert included in the price, the last thing you’d want to be doing is walking anyway.

fort zone

Homomonument, Keizersgracht 198 Fixed times Sat - Sun 11:00 - 13:00 & 13:30 - 15:30. reallyniceplace.com Email reserve@reallyniceplace.com

Kinderkookkafé

If you want your kids to experience the joy of cooking without dealing with a messy kitchen, then pay a visit to the Kinderkookkafé in the Vondelpark.

Literally translated as “children cooking café”, it’s an active spot where children get to do the cooking. You can come for a simple lunch or afternoon coffee and let the kids have fun building their own pizza or decorating cupcakes. They will learn their way around the kitchen, make friends, and might even lose their apprehension for new foods.

Try it­ You’re looking for a rainy-day activity for the whole family.

Vondelpark 6B, Open daily, 10:00 – 17:00. www.kinderkookkafe.nl/kinderkookkafe.nl/english-pages Tel. 020 625 32 57

TRUST Lunchroom

Hidden behind the stalls of the Albert Cuyp market in De Pijp, TRUST (To Rely Upon Source Totally) is decorated with colourful tiles and inspirational mottos. Its philosophy is all about trust, so there are no prices on the menu; you are invited to “pay as you feel”. While this concept might sound eccentric, you will definitely feel happy and relaxed at Trust. From lunch staples with a refined twist like sandwiches with old Gouda and truffle mayonnaise to more surprising options like a raw Pad Thai with spicy peanut dressing, everything is clearly prepared with love. Its healthy and vegan-friendly options are a bonus.

Albertcuypstraat 210, Open for lunch. trustamsterdam.org Tel. 020 737 1532

Try it­ Good vibes and good food matter more to you than fast service.

PHOTO: SANEM

About the author Cristina Roca Phylactopoulou grew up in warmer climes but is currently based in Amsterdam. She writes for ACCESS magazine and shares her fashion ruminations and culinary experiments in homeisthelowlands.blogspot.com.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 27

Education | Partner feature

Tea at

True Colors International childcare centre in Rijswijk When you think of a childcare centre, you usually think of nappies, bottle feeds and dummies. However, a child will also pass some of its first milestones here when learning to eat.

Eating habits that a child acquires at an early age lay the foundation for their eating behaviour in the future. But what is good for adults is not automa­ tically suitable for a child, and is ‘healthy’ really healthy? To look at these issues, True Colors got together with parents and dietician Lotte Nap.

070 792 0270 www.truecolorschildcare.eu

Manager Regina Stork explains that the basis for the new food policy was the Netherlands Food and

Consumer Product Safety Authority’s dietary advice: “In consultation with a dietician we have tailored this advice to suit True Colors. Some of the choices were a surprise for me. Such as the decision to opt for ­butter instead of margarine due to the use of additives. I have learned something from this too.

“Do we only eat ‘sensible’ food now? Generally we do, but we also have the occasional ‘party meal’.

We introduce the children to a range of tastes like olives or avocado so that they can learn to appreciate them. We always make the fruit meals for babies from 4 months with fresh fruit. From the age of 8 months, we teach the children to eat bread; first light brown bread thinly spread with butter. The ­children drink water or lukewarm tea, always without sugar as babies easily get used to sweet tastes. This also applies to the birthday treats. Healthy and delicious food is what we like. It will come as no surprise, therefore, that outside there will be all kinds of tasty fruit hanging on our fruit trees and growing in our little vegetable gardens.”

Isn’t it wonderful to drink tea with the children from real teacups? It’s one of our daily rituals and the children love it.

‘How’ also counts: tea time

It is not only ‘what’ you eat that belongs to a child’s development, but also ‘how’. We all sit together at a specially laid table and set a good example for table manners. Then there are the social aspects too, such as asking politely, “Can you pass me the bread, please,” and wishing each other “bon appetite”. «

28 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

Community

Bold female leadership: WBII celebrates 10 years For the Women’s Business Initiative International (WBII) 10 years seems a lifetime ago since the spark of an idea that Suzy Ogé had, which ignited, supported and encouraged more than 500 female entrepreneurs.

Day ­celebration, to feel supported or stimulated to embark on an entrepreneurial path. In Suzy’s words: “It takes more than a good idea to launch a successful business. It is a tremendous challenge and in a foreign country, navigating the maze of bureaucracy and understanding the business climate can be even more daunting.”

A view from within

BY DEBORAH

PHOTO: KIMBERLEY BOSMAN - ELM AND BLOOM

VALENTINE

And that does not include the hundreds of women who have taken advantage of seminars, professional development workshops, networking events, not to mention the annual International Women’s

For American-born Suzy Ogé, it was not long before she noticed the barriers – real and perceived – that were in the way of female leadership and entrepreneurship in the Netherlands. It became her mission to be a part of changing that. A mission that was to start with the female entrepreneurs she knew, and those she hoped to inspire. The sketch of a foundation has since not wavered: a non-profit organisation that would bring together and support women in the development of their professional lives, businesses and dreams.

No doubt Peter van Woensel, then Alderman for Economic Affairs as well as the International Community, who believed in this ambition all those years ago, would be heartened today. His visionary belief in supporting female entrepreneurship and the international community is certainly a band wagon many are now joining.

The plan was ambitious, and included the rental of a monumental building on the Laan van Copes van Cattenburch in The Hague in which and from which members could run their business, offer workshops, and together – regardless of business focus – work towards advancing themselves as well as others like them. » ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 29

learn

commitment

character

inspire

CONGRATULATING ACCESS ON THEIR 30TH ANNIVERSARY

integrity

excellence

vision creativity

nurture

www.ash.nl / admissions@ash.nl

Call us on 0900 2 222 377 (€0.20 ct/min) or email us via helpdesk@access-nl.org for answers to questions. 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

ACCESS-Netherlands

ACCESS_NL

• Want to volunteer?

• All too much?

Use your skills, acquire new skills and expand your network, start by attending our Volunteer information mornings.

We have expat friendly, English and other language counsellors who can help.

• Time for something else?

Want to work, find a new direction, learn a new language? Our Trainers provide a variety of courses to help you along the way.

• On the ACCESS website: A wealth of information and features from our Associates, Partners, Trainers and Counsellors as well as FREE Guides on life in the Netherlands.

www.access-nl.org

Community | Bold female leadership

Network evenings were soon complemented by week-long activities during Global Entrepreneurship Week, as well as hosting of missions of entrepreneurial women from other parts of the world. For it was not enough for Suzy to focus on what was here in The Hague or across the Netherlands – it was equally important for the WBII to have a global vision.

Choosing to launch the initiative on International Women’s Day in 2006 was no coincidence.

Suzy may have had the vision, but the strength of the WBII is in the collaboration, support and elbow grease many have put into the evolution, growth and sustainability of this network. The risk of naming a few is the omission of many. But lest it be forgotten, while Suzy had the vision, the members have been the engine.

“ My not-so-secret wish ...to see even more women dare to dream bigger about their businesses and really go for it!”

Ten years on

“My not-so-secret wish,” says Suzy, “to this day, 10 years later, is still to see even more women dare to dream bigger about their businesses and really go for it!” And, if we look at the achievements that have been made, the dips that have been overcome and the businesses which have flourished since, it is safe to say your dream is safe with us – the members.

Suzy says, “The WBII is what you make of it and that means many different things to different women.

For some it is simply a professional network, but for many women it has served as a confidence-boosting

starting point from where they could reach out from their comfort zone and launch or expand their business.”

As one long-time member in Rotterdam put it, “Everybody should know how valuable it is to expose your feelings, exit your comfort zone when there is a group of authentic, energetic women like you.

[Even though] we struggle with clients, manage a new business and more, WBII is a place where you can feel alive and kicking!”

Helping women flourish, internationals and Dutch alike

The WBII is by no means an exclusive network for expat women. It is a network with a diverse membership, Dutch and non-Dutch alike. While English may be the main language of operation it is by no means an exclusion factor. In fact, it is one of the strengths of the WBII that the core members keeping the organisation rooted includes Dutch (one-third of the members!) and long-term residents in the Netherlands.

Even though founder Suzy Ogé has moved on to Indonesia, she continues to be involved with the empowerment of women and entrepreneurship, and still serves on the WBII Board. The fact remains that much of the fluid membership of the WBII has more to do with members relocating (as is the case in the expatriate life) than it does with businesses which close, or end. Through the collaborative support of an active Executive Board and an enthusiastic team supporting them, it is true: together we can all go much further, and take stronger and bolder steps towards growing our businesses. « Join WBII

www.womensbusinessinitiative.net

About the author Deborah Valentine has been a member of the WBII since 2007 and is currently part of the ­support team managing its newsletter.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 31

Travel

Lekker Limburg When the good people at ACCESS magazine asked me to take a culinary tour through South Limburg, I was only too delighted to take-up the baton.

Or in my case, knife & fork!

Although it was ‘difficult’ having to dine at the various locations mentioned in the following piece, I did it (for you, dear reader) in order to bring you a tantalizing, tastebud tickling impression of the gourmet delights that this region has to offer.

PHOTO: JONATHAN VOS

BY TRACEY TAYLOR

32 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

How wonderful that I find myself living in Maastricht. Not only the capital of South Limburg but also, some might argue, the culinary capital of the country. It’s certainly true that every taste and budget can be catered for amongst the considerable number of bistros, cafés and restaurants generously peppering this region. Allow me to present, in all their scrummy splendour, my top foodie picks from this corner of the Netherlands that I call home.

Appetites at the ready, folks!

Limburg Kookt (€€)

A short walk from the Vrijthof is another restaurant that never fails to deliver, Limburg Kookt. Efficiently run by a husband and wife team, this place is chic but happily lacks pretension. There’s nothing lacking in relation to the quality of the cuisine. With a focus on using locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients, you get sophisticated “comfort food” here, and plenty of it. This restaurant is casual yet stylish, and intimate without being oppressive – a place that wants you to feel welcome.

Café Sjiek (€)

Café Sjiek has an intoxicating laid-back feel with attentive staff and speedy service – even when busy.

And it’s always busy. A cosy café with oodles of charm inside, there’s also a (seasonal) terrace lazing under a grand sycamore tree offering a coveted dining spot beneath its leafy umbrella. For the food, think simple and scrumptious. You can’t go wrong with your choice but if you want to try their most famous dish, order the homemade zoervleis, a regional favourite. Mighty good!

Sint Pieterstraat 13, 6211 JM Maastricht Weekdays 17:00 - 02:00 Weekends 12:00 - 02:00 www.cafesjiek.nl Gio’s Cucina Casalinga (€€)

No visit to Maastricht is complete without passing by the Vrijthof Square and it’s there you’ll find Gio’s Cucina Casalinga. Soft Italian music fills a pretty ­restaurant with a high ceiling and seductive tables crisply dressed in white. A small spot that’s big on authenticity when it comes to the décor and food, Gio’s offers a set menu (ravioli or pasta for starters & meat or fish for mains) with unique twists. The dishes are undeniably delicious, honest, and superbly prepared and presented. Perfect for a romantic dinner, or just to enjoy fine Italian cuisine at its best.

Vrijthof 29a, 6211 LE, Maastricht Wednesday - Sunday 17:00 - 22:30 043 3256275

Achter de Molens 15, 6211 JC Maastricht Thursday – Monday 18:00 - 23:00 www.limburgkookt.nl

Key for price symbols

Eetcafé Il y a (€€)

In the shadow of the striking Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk (Basilica of Our Lady) you’ll find Eetcafé Il y a. Tucked down a narrow cobblestone street, the ­modest façade forms a backdrop for a dainty terrace spilling out in front.

Inside you’re enveloped by an amiable ambiance and a style that’s contemporary and quirky. French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish dishes inspire the menu (the tuna is mouth-watering!) and there are more than 40 good wines available by the glass.

Koestraat 7, 6211 HR Maastricht Weekdays from 17:00 Weekends from 12:30 www.eetcafeilya.nl

€ = main courses around 15-20 EUR €-€€ = main courses around 15-25 EUR €€ = main courses around 20-30 EUR €€€ = menus from +60 EUR

Peter’s Irish Pub (€-€€)

Now they say the Irish are “everywhere” so it stands to reason there’ll be Irish Pubs in the international city of Maastricht. My pick of the bunch is Peter’s Irish Pub. Nestled into a quiet corner of the market square, the pub is spick and span and its dark wood interior is warmly decorated. Peter’s serves up seriously yummy pub-grub. Try the fish-n-chips or full Irish breakfast. Nice Guinness on tap too! The beat of Ireland in the heart of Maastricht. » ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 33

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Contact us and you will find out that we really care! What are your immediate wishes, and what are your wishes for the (near) future? We help you to map your financial needs in relation to your personal circumstances.

Moreover, we have managed to secure special deals with leading banks for the international community in the Netherlands.

Whether you have an EU passport or not, temporary or indefinite residence permit, we can almost always find you the most suitable financial solution, since this is where our expertise lies. We try to take the stress out of buying a home. All you have to do yourself is find your dream home. But it is always a good idea to find out what your financial possibilities are before you take this big step.

T The Hague office: +31 (0)70 511 87 88 • T Amsterdam office: +31 (0)20 664 55 78 • E info@fvbdeboer.nl • I www.fvbdeboer.nl

Travel | Lekker Limburg

has the best Dim Sum (= Dim YUM ;) plus a range of Chinese, Cantonese and Indonesian dishes with which to satisfy your palate. It’s all no-frills but has that certain something you’d expect from a Chinese restaurant with an unassuming frontage. All hail the wok! The calamari with peppers and chili is surely one to try. Book a table and bring your appetite!

Kleine Gracht 40-42, 6211 CB Maastricht Monday – Tuesday 16:00 - 02:00 Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 12:00 - 02:00 Friday & Saturday 12:00 - 03:00 www.petersirishpub.nl Harry’s Restaurant (€€)

If a lazy brunch is more your thing then look no further than Harry’s Restaurant at the Hotel Beaumont (Est. 1912). Harry’s radiates “old world charm” and is an utter delight. The Sunday Brunch menu is appetizing and is served in a splendid dining room by welldressed staff. Some genial jazz adds to the Parisian café atmosphere fitting to this area of Maastricht known as “Petit Paris”. The Eggs Benedict are rather heavenly. Fancy an extra treat? Why not try a Bellini for the ultimate weekend indulgence!

Spoorweglaan 5, 6221 BS Maastricht Weekdays 12:00 - 22:30 (closed Wednesdays) Weekends 12:00 - 23:00 www.wen-chow.nl Now up until now I may have been somewhat fanatical about Maastricht eateries (well, I do consider myself an adopted Sjeng) but never let it be said that I don’t venture outside the city’s medieval walls. »

Wycker Brugstraat 2, 6221 EC Maastricht Sunday brunch 11:00 - 16:00 www.harrysrestaurant.nl/en/sunday-brunch-en/

A bustling spot with a tasty lunch menu… For eats, I must recommend the Toasted Trammezzino Trio and any of the cheesecakes

For a trendy lunch spot, get thee to Coffee Lovers.

A bustling spot with a tasty lunch menu (and equally tasty prices), Coffee Lovers has a “New York/Artsy” vibe and hip and friendly staff. If you’re lucky, you might be able to nab one of the comfy sofas but failing that, set yourself up at the tall benches by the window for a bit of people watching, or grab a section of the large common table for the ultimate shared café experience. For eats, I must recommend the Toasted Trammezzino Trio and any of the cheesecakes. Even though there’s great coffee, do try their amazing Chai Tea Latte.

Ruiterij 2, Maastricht Weekdays 08:00 - 18:00 Weekends 09:00 - 19:00 www.coffeelovers.nl/locaties/espressobar-plein1992/ Wen Chow (€ - €€)

For Asian cuisine, you’ve got to go to Wen Chow – serving customers for over 20 years now. This place

PHOTO: KENNETH TAN FOR 'T STRUYSKOMMITEE

Coffee Lovers (€)

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 35

Innovative International Education

True Colors childcare DAYCARE, AFTER-SCHOOL & HOLIDAY CARE in Rijswijk and Delft

www.truecolorsdelft.eu

“Learning is the Heart of The International School of The Hague” E: ish.admissions@ishthehague.nl

I: www.ishthehague.nl

T +31(0)70 328 1450

A cosy, friendly, safe environment where children can grow and play.

Our staff is experienced in helping and supporting parents and children of different nationalities. www.truecolorschildcare.eu

More information?

Please contact Mrs. Regina Stork tel: 06-29409644 or e-mail rstork@truecolorschildcare.eu

Small learning environments Globally focused education Give your child the best of both worlds

HSV International Primary School

The Hague centre Nassaulaan 26

Benoordenhout Van Nijenrodestraat 16

One school, three locations in the Hague

Bezuidenhout Kon. Sophiestraat 24a

www.hsvdenhaag.nl

M-space is a graphic design studio based in The Hague.

It is made up of Ms Maartje Schuurmans and Mr Marek Moggré. As a collective we combine our individual craft and experience to communicate our clients’ message: capturing the essence in image and form.

www.m-space.nl 070 212 69 91

Travel | Lekker Limburg

Gerardushoeve (€€)

If you’re after somewhere with an impressive terrace that overlooks some spectacular scenery, coupled with a tempting and varied menu, then pop by the Gerardushoeve in Epen. The restaurant is a magnet for walkers and diners alike. With a smoothly-run kitchen, polished service and enthusiastic staff, it’s a must if you want food with a view.

Julianastraat 23, 6285 AH Epen Daily 10:00 - 22:30 restaurant-gerardushoeve.nl/en De Leuf (€€€)

And if you wish to partake of a Michelin Star restaurant, may I point you toward De Leuf in Ubachsberg. Set inside a stunningly renovated farmhouse, this elegant restaurant not only oozes charisma but also its outstanding menu and exclusive dining experience make it one to savour!

Dalstraat 2, 6367 JS Ubachsberg Lunch Tuesday - Friday from 12:00 Dinner Tuesday - Saturday from 18:00 www.deleuf.com/en l’Atelier (€€€)

Another fabulous option is the lovely l’Atelier in Gulpen. A modest building in a quiet corner of this lively rural town leads you inside to a beautifully appointed restaurant spread over several levels with an open kitchen dominating the central space.

The menu is special, the staff exceptional, and the experience divine.

Did you k now..

Preuv .­ ene

mint, or “ta ing ev stent”, o rganis by ’t S e d truysk omm ­attrac itee, ts 100 ,000 visitor s ­ann ually!

PHOTO: KENNETH TAN FOR 'T STRUYSKOMMITEE

The famed Preuvenemint is an annual four day event in late August that consumes the Vrijthof Square in Maastricht to become a lavish open-air buffet, with top nosh on offer from a variety of establishments. This year will be the 35th edition.

And last but not least, if you’re after wines, head to Thiessen Wijnkoopers, the Netherlands’ oldest wine shop; the Apostelhoeve, one of the oldest and largest vineyards in Limburg; and Hoeve Nekum, the second oldest vineyard in the Jeker Valley – one of their wines was served at the wedding of King WillemAlexander and Queen Máxima no less.

Let’s eat, drink and be merry!

Markt 9, 6271 BD Gulpen Monday - Saturday 12:00 - 14:00 for lunch; dinner from 18:30 Closed Tuesday & Wednesday www.restaurantatelier.nl I’m really starting to feel the hunger pangs now so just a few more tips and hints:

Remember to check opening times and prices prior to arrival. «

About the author Tracey Taylor is a freelance writer who loves food, wine and life in Limburg. Originally from Ireland, now residing in beautiful Maastricht with Dave and their fancy cat, Tubbs.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 37

Food

For the past 20 years, savvy shoppers and curious cooks have been perusing The Food

Shopper's Guide to Holland, the only go-to guide for a comprehensive review of the finest local and international food p ­ roducts available in the Dutch marketplace. This handy pocket format book (7th edition) is the helpful companion that internationals really need when shopping for food in the Netherlands.

Food Shopper's Guide to Holland Author and culinary expert Ada Koene, who previously lived and cooked in the Netherlands for many years, along with in-country researcher Connie Moser, provide detailed descriptions of just about anything you may be looking for in the way of food with over 1,000 entries, covering 248 pages full of enticing suggestions and tasty explanations.

The Food Shopper's Guide to Holland identifies some of the problem areas for internationals living here and takes much of the mystery out of food shopping and cooking in Holland. It provides a practical approach to recognising, purchasing and properly cooking cuts of meat, fish, poultry, wild game, fish and seafood. Also dairy, breads and pastries, fruits and vegetables, gourmet items, delicacies and much more.

Culinary curiosity

Newly arrived residents of Holland are often dazzled by the large variety of food shops and food products available. There are several supermarket chains, which supply everything needed for a well-stocked pantry. What they don’t carry, the ubiquitous hosts of other small highly specialized, family-owned shops do.

38 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

A visit to a supermarket, green grocer, or open market in the Netherlands often finds foreigners with quizzical expressions when examining the vegetation on display. A commonly heard remark is, “What in the world is that?” But don’t be shy. Local markets are fun to explore too. Unusual shapes, forms and textures are bound to arouse your curiosity. If you’re not sure what something is or what to do with it, just ask, or find it in the book, of course!

Indeed, vegetables from near and far have found their way to the kitchens of the lowlands. Multicultural entries include influences from the former Dutch colonies of Indonesia and Suriname, as well as exotic Asian vegetables for oriental cuisine. What we refer to as produce, greens or veggies, have a ­cornucopia of unusual names to the Dutch: paksoi, winterpeen, knolselderij, snijbiet, meiknol, postelein, ­koolrabi, rettich, raapstelen, schorseneren, kousenband and tuinkers, among others.

Conversions, weights & words

The book helps you get it right by name with a ­thorough vocabulary reference containing both the English and Dutch names for a wide variety

PHOTO: SOPHIA VAN DEN HOEK

Did you k now..

The D .­ u

tch ea t 89 kilos o f pota toes p.p. ­a nnuall y!

(CBS/ Euros tat)

of foodstuffs and household products.

It also offers the correct conversions for weights and measures, and oven temperatures in metric, the Dutch equivalent, American and Imperial. Not to be forgotten are the appendixes, listing house wares and cleaning supplies.

PHOTO: BEN GRADER

Hungry for foods from “home”?

Newly arrived residents of Holland are often dazzled by the large variety of food shops and food products

As you’ll find out in this accessible book, there are numerous shops you can personally visit here as well as online sites with worldwide delivery services.

These include American products, Irish, Scottish, British, Australian, Chinese, Indonesian, Middle Eastern, to name but a few…

Where to shop – the outdoor markets, specialty shops for international foods, bazaars with foreign delicacies – combine with interesting facts that merge with introductions to the traditional Dutch foods, exotic cuisine from former Indonesian ­colonial kitchens, tantalising imports, and savoury herbs and spices are all covered. Along with frozen, canned and dried foods, children’s foods, health foods, beverages and a chapter on exotic Asian ­vegetables. Indeed, the extensive contents are a mouth-watering introduction to eating well in the Netherlands.

PHOTO: MANDIE VAN DER MEER.

The Food Shopper's Guide to Holland is an indispensable guide for all who love to cook, enjoy food, entertaining, fine dining and most certainly plan to continue to do so while living in Holland, whether for a brief stay or long term. As the Dutch say, “Eet smakelijk”, meaning eat ­deliciously! « For locations of Dutch markets, visit www.hollandsemarkten.nl

Food Shopper's Guide to Holland

By Ada Henne Koene with Connie Moser Eburon/ISBN 978-90-5972-500-3 Available for €14.90 at bookshops and online

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 39

Law | Partner feature

Execution of foreign maintenance orders Last year the media reported that the Italian ex-wife of the former professional footballer Ruud Gullit had various Dutch properties of his seized. She argues that she

BY MARJET VAN YPEREN-GROENLEER

was paid insufficient maintenance by him. Is this legal?

Enforcement of foreign maintenance orders

The case

Enforcement (or execution) and recognition are not one and the same. Execution of a maintenance ruling means that the earnings and assets of the maintenance debtor can be seized in order to collect the maintenance if payment is not effected voluntarily.

Ruud Gullit was married to Christina Pensa, an Italian woman with whom he had two children.

He is obliged to pay her maintenance (partner alimony). This has been confirmed by a court of law in Milan. Pensa argues that Gullit failed to fulfil his obligations and therefore she has a claim against him on account of overdue maintenance. In order to collect her claim, she had properties seized.

Recognition of foreign maintenance orders

070 361 5048 www.gmw.nl/en

The question is whether rulings of foreign courts are adopted in the Netherlands indiscriminately. They are not, but within the European Union (EU) a regulation applies which regulates the recognition of maintenance orders from courts in the EU (EC Regulation no. 4/2009). It is important to understand the recognition of maintenance orders from courts in EU Member States (with the exception of the UK and Denmark, which are subject to a different regime).

Italy is a member of the EU and subject to the regu­ lation. This regulation stipulates that, if the ruling

40 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

has been reached without harming the so-called ‘fundamental principles of due process of law’ i.e., a ‘fair trial’, then the ruling will be automatically r­ecognised by the other Member States. Practice shows that rulings by courts in the EU are practically always recognised. Therefore, in the case of Ruud Gullit, the ruling of the Milan Court is recognised in the Netherlands.

Based on the aforesaid regulation, rulings by courts within the EU (again, excluding the UK and Denmark) are executed automatically. There is in fact no difference with the execution of a Dutch ruling, except for slightly more paperwork. The underlying thought for this automatic execution within the EU is the high level of confidence in each other’s judicial systems.

The Dutch courts therefore are no longer involved.

Hence in the case of Ruud Gullit, his ex-wife can indeed have his properties seized on the basis of a ruling by the court in Milan.

Conclusion

The difference between rulings from courts within the EU and Dutch courts has faded. Whereas you may still get away with not paying a foreign fine, you will not get away with failing to pay maintenance ordered by an EU court. «

Education

Choosing an international secondary school

BY NIRA SATGURU

Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a parent makes for and with their child. It is best to involve your child in this process. The latest mind and brain research demonstrates that a happy child will achieve his or her potential.

The key factors to consider when choosing an international secondary school are curriculum, aspirations of the student and family, and most importantly the fit of the student to the school. There is a plethora of other factors ranging from affordability, travel time, to extracurricular activities.

What are your curriculum choices?

While this is not an exhaustive list, it’s helpful to understand the various international curricula at ­secondary level on offer in the Netherlands: At middle school level (ages 11 or 12 to 15 or 16), schools offer either the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) or the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC) ­followed by the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE).

At Senior High school level, all international schools and internationally-minded foreign national schools offer the IB Diploma Program.

The IBDP is a challenging two-year program for students aged 16 to 19.

Next to their national curricula, the American Schools in Wassenaar and Rotterdam also offer the IBDP next to the Advanced Placement courses, as does the British School in Voorschoten, which is the only school in the country that also offers the IB Career-related Program. »

•

•

•

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 41

Are you looking to expand your horizons and meet new people?

Then connecting women is for you!

Come join us to meet an international community of diverse women and to listen to an inspiring speaker at one of our gatherings.

We meet on the first Monday of every month (except August and January) in The Hague.

You don’t need to be a member to join our events.

For more information visit our website... www.connectingwomen.nl

Learn Dutch and English this Summer at the British School in the Netherlands (BSN) Language Centre

• • • • • •

Summer Intensives for Adults in July Business and General English English Summer School for children Cambridge exam preparation including IELTS courses One week Introductory to English Teaching Dutch Conversation and NT2

For more information, contact us on 070 315 4080 or email us at languages@britishschool.nl www.bsnlanguagecentre.nl

THE EXPAT’S GUIDE TO THE SOUTH NETHERLANDS EINDHOVEN • MAASTRICHT • TILBURG

ANY QUESTIONS? CONTACT US TODAY! r +31 (0)40 238 6777

hollandexpatcenter.com

Education | Choosing an international secondary school

“ S ample the school’s ‘atmosphere’, that elusive but all-too-important ambience that should resonate with student and parent”

find out which school you think fits best. Contact the school and set up a personal Skype or phone conference. Speaking to someone gives you the opportunity to find out more about the school, but also get a feel of the school culture.” www.isrlo.nl Director of American School of The Hague, Dr. Richard Spradling

• The European schools offer the European curriculum, where in the final two years the European Baccalaureate Diploma program is offered, quite different from the IBDP. The European schools can be found in Bergen (Noord-Holland) and in The Hague.

“Our admissions office encourages parents and ­students to visit a range of schools to explore the ­different programs on offer, as well as to sample the school’s ‘atmosphere’, that elusive but all-tooimportant ambience that should resonate with ­student and parent for a successful high school experience.

What do we mean by the fit of the student to the school?

The student and the parents must feel at ease with the school culture, and the curriculum. A visit to the school with your child is highly recommended.

Parents are able to support this process by being ­positive in their actions and words toward the school of choice. Remember that the student, parent and the teachers are on the same team. Parents can help develop a culture that supports classroom engagement by setting boundaries, structures, goals and high standards. This will enable the student to transition in a happy state of mind.

“At American School of The Hague (ASH), we are all about student ‘choice’, offering students options to build the programme best suited to their post-­ secondary plans. We offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma, the US Advanced Placement International Diploma, and a US High School Diploma, or any combination of the three.

“The school also provides extensive support for ­students with special educational needs, offering an ASH General Diploma for students who may be planning to pursue work in the hospitality sector, for instance, or attend post-secondary vocational training.” www.ash.nl

Two leaders from international schools kindly offer their advice: Head of International School Rijnlands Lyceum

Complete list of international and foreign national schools in the Netherlands www.educaide.nl and via the ACCESS website

Oegstgeest, Mathijs Hekkelman

“In my opinion a school for your children is on the top of your to-do list when making an international move, and ideally comes before the search for housing. Start the search as soon as you hear that a move is on the cards. Luckily in our area one is spoilt for choice; there is a wide spread of schools in terms of curriculum, location and set-up. A good place to start your search might be at www.sio.nl which gives an independent listing of all schools offering international education in the Netherlands. You can then

International educationSIO, Stichting International Onderwijs - Foundation for International Education in the Netherlands www.sio.nl «

About the author Nira Satguru, BSc (Hons) PGCE, MBA, is the Founder Director of Future of Learning, which incorporates mind-brain research, digitalization and globalization. www.futureoflearning.nl

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 43

Education | Partner feature

Bitesize introduction to Food Tech at the BSN literacy and numeracy, confidence-building as well as social and language skills. For example, Junior School students often find themselves immersed in a full language experience whilst simultaneously developing their culinary expertise. When cooking and baking traditional Dutch dishes, students improve their Dutch vocabulary with instructions in Dutch, as well as daily words for kitchen utensils and food, which are learnt almost without the students noticing.

The way in which young people learn is not always directly tied to the traditional classroom. Topics can often be woven across the whole curriculum through a range of subjects and at the British School in the Netherlands (BSN), this is no more evident than within the area of Food Technology.

Learning about cookery and food can amongst other things provide students with the confidence to make healthy nutritional choices and maintain a balanced diet.

Admissions Department +31 (0)70 315 4077 Email: admissions@ britishschool.nl

44 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

Across the BSN Food Technology is used to captivate and stimulate students’ interest and enjoyment of food. The teaching in the school’s state-of-the-art kitchens is not restricted to cookery and food technology in the purest sense. Many other curriculum areas are merged into the children’s learning – supporting their holistic development in areas such as

Food Technology is continued through the Senior School years and students often choose to study ‘Food Cultures around the World’, one of the many topics covered in Year 8. Being an Internationally British School with more than eighty nationalities amongst its community, students at the BSN enjoy the added advantage of a familiarity with different diets from around the world.

New certificate in food preparation and nutrition

The BSN will be introducing a new exciting and c­reative General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) in Food Preparation and Nutrition, which focusses on practical cooking skills to ensure students develop a thorough understanding of, amongst other things, food provenance as well as the working characteristics of food materials. At its heart, the qualification focuses on nurturing students’ practical cookery skills to give them a strong understanding of nutrition, which may even inspire them into becoming the next Jamie Oliver, Mary Berry or Rudolph van Veen. Alternatively students may wish to follow one of the many other related career options including food product development, sports nutrition or food product development to name a few. «

ACCESS Classifieds

The orange pages Want to post a entry in this magazine? Contact ACCESS magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘The orange pages’.

All regions

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Join us!

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info@womensbusinessinitiative.net

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START YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Amsterdam region

Three 45-minute seminars in one workTHE EXPAT WEDDINGPLANNER

shop! Follow-up conference call one

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

Congratulations! You found the love

week later. Choose from:

COURSES

of your life and are getting married!

1. Setting up a business in NL

The ACCESS Childbirth Preparation

Now you need to organize a wedding

2. Financial and legal considerations

Courses are designed to help new

in a country that is not your own and

3. Reality check

­parents preparing for a birth far from

no family to fall back upon. Venue,

4. Brainstorm & Action Plan

home to navigate the waters of doing

authorities, dress, flowers… With local

5. Building your network

so in the Netherlands - from answering

knowledge and international experience

Thursday, 21 April, 17:30-21:30.

your questions to meeting others in

- we are here to help you.

WTC The Hague

the same situation. Courses take place

www.expatweddingplanner.eu

Price: €50 (incl. BTW)

regularly. Check the website for dates.

06 363532305

www.womensbusinessinitiative.net

www.access-nl.org

info@womensbusinessinitiative.net

0900 2 222 377

Gain control of your career. Career

COUNSELLING SERVICE NETWORK

AKRITI CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

Transition and Job Search coaching can

(CSN)

PROGRAM

help you identify your career options,

The ACCESS Counselling Service

Akriti childbirth courses prepare expect-

gain confidence in taking the next steps,

Network is a network of English-

ant parents for a safe, natural and

and lead you through the practicalities

speaking counsellors (as well as other

healthy childbirth experience. We offer

and techniques to increase your

languages) and psychotherapists in

HypnoBirthing, HypnoMothering,

chances of finding a job. Contact us for

the Netherlands who are or have been

HypnoFertility and other tailored

a free 20-minute telephone consultation.

expats themselves. Every month two

­birthing courses at Amsterdam, Utrecht

www.moynihan-consulting.com

are on-call to provide a FREE referral

& Hilversum.

06 26654708

to the member best suited to assist you.

www.akriti.nl

www.access-nl.org

06 43061731

CAREER COACHING

0900 2 222 377

Disclaimer: ACCESS takes no responsibility for the quality of the goods and services advertised in these Classified pages.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 45

ACCESS Classifieds

The orange pages Want to post an entry in this magazine? Contact ACCESS magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘The orange pages’.

Amsterdam region

Rotterdam region

CELLO LESSONS A professional cellist and cello teacher

COUNSELLING COACHING

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

teaches children and adults, beginners

AMSTERDAM CENTRUM

COURSES

to advanced level in Oegstgeest and

Counselling and Coaching built on the

The ACCESS Childbirth Preparation

Haarlem. Students can register at both

premise that, in our personal and pro-

Courses are designed to help new par-

locations. Pupils are encouraged to play

fessional lives, everything we do, we do

ents preparing for a birth far from home

together and to perform at concerts.

for a good reason, even if those things

to navigate the waters of doing so in

Please contact Tamara for more infor-

are not good for us. Understanding why

the Netherlands - from answering your

mation. Also available in Amsterdam

brings positive change and enhanced

questions to meeting others in the same

www.tamarakrzelj.com

performance within reach. Malcolm is

situation. Courses take place regularly.

06 47904955

a relaxed, engaging and collaborative

Check the website for dates.

practitioner.

www.access-nl.org

M-SPACE GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

www.crossENHANCE.com

0900 2 222 377

From logos to corporate identity,

06 15320523

­websites to annual reports, illustrations INTOUCH SERVICES B.V.

to publications, M-space works in a

BRITISH IMPORTS SINCE 1998

InTouch Services B.V. provides full-­

­targeted and specialised manner ensur-

We supply popular items from all

service packages for expats and repats

ing each client is fully satisfied. And, to

regions of the UK. Stock is varied to

living in the broader Rotterdam area.

ensure things are effectively imple-

include, teas, food, cards, tea pots,

We help you with settling into your new

mented, we provide technical support

Union Jack clothing and gifts, choco-

living environment, in the broadest

and can recommend trusted

lates, crisps, decorations and more.

sense. Find answers to a big variety of

colleagues.

Special offers every month.Like us

questions, from housing to schooling

www.m-space.nl

on Facebook for daily updates.

to activities for you and your family.

070 212 69 91

www.britishstore.nl

www.intouchservices.nl

020 6836191

06 24423639

MICROSOFT OFFICE TRAINING Computer skills are an important part

Eindhoven region

The Hague region

of working in the modern office. If your skills are old or you want to be faster

EXPAT EVENING WORKSHOPS

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

with Microsoft applications, then this

Evening workshops organised by the

COURSES

is your chance. Computer Training is

Holland Expat Center South on topics

The ACCESS Childbirth Preparation

offered one-to-one or in small groups.

of interest to the international/expat

Courses are designed to help new

For Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access

community. Saturday, 19 March: Buying

­­parents preparing for a birth far from

and Photoshop.

a House in the Netherlands; Thursday,

home to navigate the waters of doing

www.cftrainingtoday.com

21 April: Learning/Improving your

so in the Netherlands - from answering

06 22779969

Dutch. Details and registration infor­

your questions to meeting others in

mation on the website.

the same situation. Courses take place

www.hollandexpatcenter.com

regularly. Check the website for dates.

040 238-6777

www.access-nl.org 0900 2 222 377

46 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

The orange pages Want to post an entry in this magazine? Contact ACCESS magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘The orange pages’.

SHORT TERM RENTAL/HOLIDAY?

MOBILE MASSAGE & MOVEMENT

COS RENTALS THE HAGUE

Marriott Marbella Beach Resort, Spain

PRACTICE

COS Rentals is located only a 10-minute

(Malaga airport) 1-8 April 2016,

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walk from The Hague Central Station,

Apartment with 3 bedrooms, 3 bath-

offers professional massage treatments

ideal for your meeting point. Facilities

rooms, sleeps 6-8. Rent our 100-year-

as well as exercise session programs

are versatile and well equipped for a

old villa in Voorschoten with 3/4 bed-

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wide range of activities. We have differ-

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needs and/or corporate requirements.

ent types of spaces to accommodate

Weekly €950.

Conscious Rebalance travels to the

small, medium and large groups for

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comfort of people’s homes or to their

receptions, seminars, concerts, meet-

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COURSE

06 41487301 ENGLISH SPEAKING ROMAN

I am a qualified Lactation Consultant IBCLC and give a course in English every

LEMONBERRY GRAPHIC DESIGN

CATHOLIC PARISH

last Monday of the month in breastfeed-

Hello, I am Lisa Hall. A British freelance

The Church of Our Saviour has parish-

ing and preparation for breastfeeding.

graphic designer providing design

ioners from 97 different nationalities.

My course is held every last Monday

(web/graphic) and consultancy services

With a wide variety of cultures, the

of the month at 19:30 in an informal

to clients across the Netherlands. Please

Parish offers a unique opportunity for

setting in my home in The Hague.

take a look at my portfolio on my web-

worship, and showing care to our

Please join me.

site. If you are looking for a designer for

neighbours and the environment.

www.helenmarshall.nl

your next project, please get in touch.

Activities include religious education,

helen.marshall1@gmail.com

www.lemonberry.com

and over 50 groups ranging from spirit-

06 41330942

uality to international solidarity.

GK MOMENTS – UNIQUE, DELICIOUS

www.parish.nl

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

A great and new alternative for kids

Do you need a designer to create your

­parties with custom themed, creative

logo, promotional material, web design,

MAKE ME MOSAIC

sweets tables, games and amazing

illustration or other graphical work?

I specialize in creating custom-made

handmade piñatas. Call us today to

We are here to help you create an art-

mosaic art pieces or portraits. If you

book your special day. This will be

work for your project, brand or busi-

wish to have a mosaic art piece, well-

your child’s favourite party ever!

ness. Our designs are unique, telling

suited for your home or as a gift for

www.gkmoments.com

a story, simple and purposeful. Check

someone else, do contact me. Together

06 51476241

our ­website and drop us a message.

we could create wonderful mosaic art

www.astridesigns.com

pieces. Follow my work on my

06 34485407

Facebook page Makememosaic.

070 3280816

makememosaic@gmail.com 06 24877703

Disclaimer: ACCESS takes no responsibility for the quality of the goods and services advertised in these Classified pages.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 47

ACCESS Classifieds

The orange pages Want to post an entry in this magazine? Contact ACCESS magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘The orange pages’.

The Hague region

HOW TO MANAGE A CAREER CHANGE

WELCOME TO THE HAGUE

Moved to the Netherlands and being

23 May: For new or recent arrivals to

PIANO LESSONS IN OEGSTGEEST

confronted with major changes in your

The Hague, Delft, Leidschendam-

A qualified and experienced teacher

professional life? This programme offers

Voorburg, Rijswijk and Wassenaar,

offers piano, music theory and ear

you tools that will have an impact on

an information morning hosted by

­training/solfege lessons in Oegstgeest,

your ability to find new avenues. You will

the City of The Hague and ACCESS.

to beginners and advanced students.

recognize what your skills are and how

Includes a short introduction to

Pupils are encouraged to take ABRSM

to explore your possibilities for a new

‘Living with the Dutch’ as well as a tour

graded practical and theory exams.

future.

of the city centre. Free, but registration

For more information please call or

www.okma-advies.nl

required.

send an email.

06 10185298

www.access-nl.org

seventhchord.7@gmail.com 06 44383362

0900 2 222 377 YOUR VOICE IN THE NETHERLANDS Dutchbuzz - A radio programme with

THE BETTER ME

EXPERIENCED AND RELIABLE

news, views and interviews for the

First impressions matter! Fair or not, it is

HANDYMAN

i­nternational community in The Hague.

a fact of life that your appearance

Experienced and reliable handyman

Broadcast every Tuesday at 22:00 on

­suggests who you are as a person. If you

for house renovations/rehabilitations,

the city broadcaster Den Haag FM 92.0.

feel like your outside does not reflect

painting, installing laminate parquet, etc.

This local news programme is made by

who you are on the inside, I would be

Used to solving problems with electric-

members of the international commu-

delighted to help you find “the better me”!

ity and water pipes. Can help with mov-

nity in The Hague.

www.thebetterme.nl

ing. Repairing computers and solving

www.dutchbuzz.nl

06 241 55 900

basic IT problems. Speaks Spanish,

06 24237528 NATURAL HEALTH SOLUTIONS

English, Italian. Examples of work can be found on Facebook page

ASPIRE PILATES STUDIO

Are you looking for a natural solution

robbyhandyman.

Fully-equipped boutique Pilates studio

for health problems for your family?

www.facebook.com/robbyhandyman

in the Bloom House of Health. Personal.

Want to learn about it in a fun way?

06 17156826

Effective. Empowering. Private and

Call me for an essential oil class in

group sessions. Suitable for all age

your home and find those solutions.

VIOLIN LESSONS

groups and experience levels, including

Become a healer in your own home.

Highly qualified teacher with a lot of

remedial work. Top quality instruction.

Love to hear from you, Marie-Christine.

experience and a successful practice,

Endorsed by The Hague International

www.oilknowingmom.com

gives lessons to all levels in Wassenaar

Health Centre. Open seven days a week.

06 14182133

and The Hague. Grown-up beginners

www.nobignames.com

are also welcome; it is never too late to

06 11533323

start. My method is clear, smooth and fun, too. If interested please contact Ana. harmonia135@gmail.com 06 33800098

48 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

The orange pages Want to post an entry in this magazine? Contact ACCESS magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘The orange pages’.

BEAUTY BY JULIA

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

Intimate beauty salon for expert face

COURSES

and body care. With over 15 years of

The ACCESS Childbirth Preparation

experience, we offer a range of facial

Courses are designed to help new

treatments from deep cleansing to

p­arents preparing for a birth far from

advanced anti-aging; massage: sport;

home to navigate the waters of doing

relaxing; aromatherapy; anti-cellulite

so in the Netherlands - from answering

body wrap. We stand for attentive

your questions to meeting others in

s­ervice, personal advice and friendly

the same situation. Courses take place

atmosphere.

regularly. Check the website for dates.

@ Bloom House of Health

www.access-nl.org

www.beautybyjulia.nl

0900 2 222 377

06 13177372

Utrecht region OUTDOORS LIFESTYLE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER If you are looking for a fresh, natural family photo come to the Utrechtse Heuvelrug for a lifestyle photo session outdoors. Every season has its charms and will make for memories to be treasured forever. Please contact me or take a look at my website for more details. www.elmacoetzee.nl 06 26312188 SPRING PERFORMING ARTS SPRING is a renowned international performing arts festival based in Utrecht. The festival presents (inter) national performances by innovative theatre makers and choreographers.

It showcases the latest developments and crossovers in contemporary and cutting-edge performing arts. SPRING will take place from 19 – 28 May 2016. www.springutrecht.nl 030 23 320 32

Disclaimer: ACCESS takes no responsibility for the quality of the goods and services advertised in these Classified pages.

ACCESS | SPRING 2016 | 49

ACCESS Partners & Associates

Thank you for your support!

Platinum ****

Gold ***

Silver **

Associates A

Healthcare

Banking, taxation and personal finance ABN AMRO

Bronze *

Bloom House of Health

Your child

***

British School in the Netherlands ***

***

J.C.Suurmond & zn.

Government support

*

AAme Accountants & Tax advisors A

City of The Hague

City of Delft

The Community Xpat Media (Xpat Journal)

Candles Flame Computer ­Training M-space graphic designers The Hague Online

*

City of Rijswijk

*

True Colors

*

*

*

*

Expatcenter Amsterdam

*

Housing and relocation

Check-NL A

Tulip Expats Services

Expat Events A

***

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International School of The Hague **

***

City of Leidschendam-Voorburg

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Zein Childcare Big Ben Kids

****

Expat Center Utrecht

Media Partners M

*

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American International School of Rotterdam * British School of Amsterdam

*

German International School The Hague * HSV (The Hague School ­Association) * International School Utrecht

*

*

The Student Hotel *

Kindergarden

Teddy Kids International ­Daycare A

Amsterdam Mamas M

RSH Relocation and Immigration Service A

Broadcast Amsterdam M

Utility Provider A

FIGT (Families in Global T ­ ransition) A

AngloINFO SouthHolland M DutchBuzz M

Legal matters

Dutch News M

GMW Advocaten

**

Expatriate Archive Centre M Expat Haarlem Community M Global Living Magazine M IamExpat M

Volunteer The Hague M

Learning Dutch Direct Dutch

*

Partner support CIYS (A Career in Your Suitcase) A ANCOR M Connecting Women M

*

Kickstart School

STET The English Theatre A The Hague Boat A

InTouch Rotterdam M

BSN Language Centre

Lifestyle

*

50 | ACCESS | SPRING 2016

Women’s Business Initiative International M

There are many ways in which you can support the work ACCESS does: as a Partner, Associate and Advertiser. Contact our Relationship Management Team at fnd@access-nl.org for our Helping ACCESS 2016 Media Pack for opportunities.

Are you an IB talent?

THE NOIB

CHALLENGE

NYENRODE IS LOOKING FOR INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) TALENTS WHO HAVE THE AMBITION TO PLAY A LEADING ROLE IN SHAPING TOMORROW’S BUSINESS WORLD.

COMPETE FOR ONE OF THE 3 AWARDS The NOIB Challenge is an online competition where the best IB talents have the chance to be invited to visit Nyenrode and to compete for one of three awards:

LEADERSHIP AWARD

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD

STEWARDSHIP AWARD

Each award is worth a €21,000 scholarship

for the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration starting in August 2016.

COMPETE FOR ONE OF THE 3 AWARDS: WWW.NOIBCHALLENGE.COM

NYENRODE. A REWARD FOR LIFE

e h t n i Jo ! e r u t Adven

Learn new skills and discover new talents Is your child a sports enthusiast, or someone who loves outdoor adventure? Perhaps they have an artistic mind, or consider themselves a tech geek? Whatever it is that they are interested in, they are sure to find a Holiday Camp that will suit...

Running during the holidays of all international schools in The Hague, our Holiday Camps offer something for everyone at five different locations in and around the city.

All children between the ages 4-12 years old are welcome on weekdays between 08:30 - 18:30. To sign up or for up-to-date information on our exciting programme for the upcoming holidays, check holidaycamps.nl.

Did you know that all of Zein’s services are covered by the Dutch Childcare Allowance including our Holiday Camps?

The Dutch government reimburses a substantial portion of the childcare costs to all families where both parents (or a single parent) are working or studying – irrespective of nationality or length of stay? Visit www.zeinchildcare.nl for more info.

Day Care

•

Pre-School

•

After School Care

•

Holiday Camps

Trusted partner to many International Schools