Access summer 2017

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

The joys of a pet-loving land

2017

Free for yo to pic u k up

Summer

In this issue | The history of De Stijl | Supporting local shelters | Simple brunch recipe | Wadlopen for beginners | Animal-assisted therapy | The LGBTQ community today | Pathways to higher education |

Zein Holiday Camps Join the adventure...

Whether you’re looking for something fun to keep your child occupied, or you need full time care while you’re at work, Zein has the answer!

Exciting English-speaking Day Camps offering a great range of sports, crafts, games, activities and field trips.

Running Monday to Friday across 4 locations in The Hague during all school summer holidays for children from 4-12 years.

Multi-Activity Camp

Beach Camp

Circus Camp

Cooking Camp

Adventure Camp

Performing Arts Camp

Art & Photography Camp

Multi-Sports Camp with a focus on Football

Multi-Sports Camp with a focus on Tennis

Hello Holland Camp for new arrivals!

www.zeinchildcare.nl for details & registration

Letter from the editor

PHOTO: RUDI WELLS FOTOGRAFIE

Dear ACCESS readers

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

Whether they’re covered in hair, scales, shells, feathers or fur, pets are an essential part of life for millions of Dutch people. You’ve noticed pets everywhere—dogs on the tram, cats sunbathing on windowsills, your neighbour’s songbird chirping ­‘goedemorgen’. How could you miss them when the number of house pets in the Netherlands nearly doubles that of humans?

For international families, couples and singles, pets provide companionship, care and consistency in times of transition. In this issue, Olivia van den Broek-Neri shares stories from pet owners who all say that the rewards of living with a pet outweigh the responsibility. Anuja Tipnis explains how therapeutic pets can be; and Elizabeth Joss shows us how local shelters care for animals before finding them suitable homes.

For the International Community piece, Alice Burke interviews several members of the LGBTQ community. They reveal the complexity of homosexuality in the Netherlands today—the many liberties combined with unfortunate intolerance.

While the country may not be the ideal ‘gay haven’ many assume it to be, there is still much to be proud of.

For internationals, pets provide companionship, care and consistency in times of transition.

You can also discover the reason for all the red, ­yellow and blue blocks adorning your city this year in Kelly Merks’ article on the Dutch De Stijl. Nancy Kroonenberg gives us an impressive overview on the options in higher education. And Magdalini Zografou delivers an easy and scrumptious brunch recipe to try on a lazy Sunday.

Lastly, in the ACCESS News page find out about a special offer for mothers-to-be who attend one of the ACCESS Childbirth Preparation Courses. I’ll be joining one of these courses soon, too, as I’m expecting my first child in August. I’ll take a break from the magazine for a little while to care for the little one, and I have complete confidence that the next editions will inform, entertain and help you, our faithful readers, feel welcome.

Here’s to a splendid summer!

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 3

About ACCESS

Colophon

For 30 years ACCESS has been an independent

Publisher

not-for-profit organisation serving

Stichting ACCESS

internationals so they may settle successfully

Editorial content

in the Netherlands. Our mission is to provide

editor@access-nl.org

essential, comprehensive and unique services

Advertising

nationally, through the expertise and

070 345 1700

experience of our dedicated volunteers from

fnd@access-nl.org

the expatriate community.

Editor Mandie van der Meer-Danielski

Our magazine complements the services we provide through our Helpdesk, FAQ Guides, Counselling Service Network and Trainers Network. Our intention is to further facilitate our readers’ settlement process in your new home, by providing content which helps you better understand the country; discover things about it you may not have been aware of; encourage connection with your Dutch neighbours and colleagues; and offer contributors a platform to share your skills.

ACCESS Magazine aims to be: • welcoming • informative • educational • entertaining • original

Assistant Editors Nancy Kroonenberg, Kelly Merks Design & Layout M-space - Marek Moggré Printer Edauw en Johannissen Drukkerij Cover image Marie Charlotte Pezé

Have feedback for us? Interested in contributing to the magazine?

Please contact the Editor at ­editor@access-nl.org. We love to hear from our community!

Contents images (clockwise)

Executive Board: Chairman: Gary Hays, Valshebnik Consulting .

Members: Koosje Ploegmakers, ABN AMRO - Godelijn Boonman, GMW Advocaten - Lowri van der Linden, the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency, Pauline O'Brien, Council of International Schools.

GAPS - Arjan de Jager, FaceMePLS

Edwin van Eis, Kate Miller, Mandie van der Meer,

Contributors Alice Burke, Elizabeth Joss, Nancy Kroonenberg, Kelly Merks,

0900 2 ACCESS (0900 2 222 377) local rate 20c per minute

@

Sally Squirrell, Anuja Tipnis, Deborah Valentine, Olivia van den

helpdesk@access-nl.org www.access-nl.org Laan van Meerdervoort 70 - 1st Floor 2517 AN The Hague

4 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Broek-Neri, Mandie van der Meer, Magdalini Zografou

Join ACCESS on

19

Summer 2017 Vol. 30 No. 2 Circulation: 4,000 Also available online at: magazine.access-nl.org

24

Contents 7 ACCESS News Babies bring us together 9 What’s On for Summer 12 Cover Story The joys of

12

a pet-loving land 19 International Community Proud of Pride 23 Food Egg-in-a-whole 24 Dutch Lifestyle Keeping local animal shelters thriving 27 Travel The 10 stages of wadlopen for beginners

41

33 Reviews Book The Evenings 34 Health & Wellbeing

27

Animals as therapy 36 Education Pathways to higher education 41 Arts & Entertainment Still ‘in style’ 100 years later 45 Our View Photo Contest Copyright ACCESS 2017 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 | SUMMER 2017 | 5

ACCESS News

One of ACCESS’ longest running programmes is our Childbirth Preparation Course—something we are proud to have been able to provide to internationals preparing for birth in the Netherlands.

Babies bring us together “Ria was a great instructor. She was able to answer all the questions we had, was very clear and friendly.

I will definitely recommend this course to my friends...”

Rotterdam course attendee, 2017

Now offered in The Hague, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht, these courses have not only prepared countless couples for the birth of a child in a country far from home; they have also provided these couples a group with which to connect—and plan future play dates. One course, two missions achieved: informing parents-to-be and creating community. Each fulfilling one of ACCESS’ four values: providing guidance and facilitating connections.

Courses are run by qualified professionals knowledgeable not only in their fields and the healthcare system in the Netherlands, but just as importantly, familiar with an expatriate community from very different backgrounds, with a variety of expectations and many questions.

Being guided by people, who know what you don’t know, is comforting, and important.

Parenting as the Dutch

It will not have escaped our readers that Dutch parenting has received some ‘attention’ in recent years.

From a UNICEF report (2013) concluding that Dutch children are the ‘happiest children in the world’ to books and studies written on the subject, there has been a lot of attention to ‘the Dutch parenting’ style.

New parents though have enough on their hands.

Reading studies, delving into the history and psychology of it all, may well be a bit much. A fun, accessible and humorous way of “Chitra is very competent, delving into the Dutch passionate and parenting culture is the empathic presenter. recently published Stuff I follow other Dutch Moms Like. Just the courses, but this right speed and respectwas by far the best…

Many thanks!” ful humour one may Utrecht course need to prepare for raisattendee, 2016 ing a child in the Netherlands.

ACCESS is a fan of Stuff Dutch People Like, the blog and publishers of this book. (www.stuffdutchpeoplelike. com) We asked what could they offer new parents. We are happy to say that, until supplies last, all parents participating in an ACCESS Childbirth Preparation Course will receive one of their latest products, and a discount on their book, Stuff Dutch Moms Like. Even if parents cannot yet foresee the use of the ‘Stroopwafel Teething Toy’, the humour (and insight) here will provide some relief for the long nights of the early months. « Register for ACCESS Childbirth Preparation Courses www.access-nl.org/about-access/ what-we-do/childbirth-preparation-courses.aspx

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 7

Apply now for September 2017

British Curriculum IB Programmes Ages 3 – 18 Global University Placements

admissions@britishschool.nl +31 (0)70 315 4077 www.britishschool.nl

Connect with BSN:

/BSNetherlands

Settling in, simply.

We’re here to make it easier for internationals to work and register in the Amsterdam area. Qualifying companies can start the paperwork before arrival and a single visit to International Newcomers Amsterdam (IN Amsterdam, formerly called the Expatcenter Amsterdam) will complete the process.

What’s more, our website has loads of valuable information on a wide range of topics including education,taxes, healthcare and housing.

The cities of Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Almere, Diemen, Haarlem, Haarlemmermeer, Hilversum and Velsen are working with the Immigration and Naturalisation Services (IND) to bring you the IN Amsterdam services.

To learn more please visit: www.inamsterdam.com

What’s On

Special events in June Want to post a community event in this magazine? Contact ACCESS Magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘What’s On’.

Oostwold Airshow www.oostwold-airshow.nl

Flag Day

De Parade

www.denhaag.com/en/event/584/ flag-day-scheveningen

www.deparade.nl/dh/english

4-5 June - Groningen

Various dates and locations 17 June - The Hague

A two-day event at the Oostwold Airport, this family-friendly show includes aircraft, aviation-based products, jet plane, fighter planes, and gliders in the Railway, Shipping & Aviation Products industry.

Under the motto ‘Time Flies’, the public can enjoy dizzying stunts and glorious formations of warbirds.

Aalsmeer Flower Festival www.aalsmeerflowerfestival.nl (Dutch only)

Flag Day in Scheveningen is one of the biggest street festivals in The Hague.

The new herring catch of the year is ­celebrated on Flag Day. Originally Flag Day was the day when fishing boats were decorated with flags in the harbor before heading out to catch herring.

Nowadays it’s filled with fun activates for young and old alike. You can take part in old Dutch games. Visit boats. Listen to the military tattoo. Watch old crafts.

See old fire engines. Sing along with the sea shanties. Anything goes!

This summer, theatre festival De Parade travels through the country for the 27th year. The festival kicks off in Rotterdam and continues the journey with colourful tents, restaurants and terraces to The Hague and Utrecht. The tour concludes in Amsterdam.

There will be over 80 different theatre, music, and dance performances for all ages. Visitors are invited to enjoy cocktails, soul food, BBQ and much more.

Rotterdam, Museumpark: 23 June-2 July Den Haag, Westbroekpark: 7-16 July Utrecht, Moreelsepark: 21 July-6 August Amsterdam, Martin Luther Kingpark: 11-27 August

17-18 June - Aalsmeer The 4th edition of this festival takes place in the village of Aalsmeer, just southwest of Amsterdam. During a colorful weekend, flowers and plants will be centre stage, accompanied by music, street theatre and tasty refreshments. Get an impression of past, present and future of the fascinating world of flowers and plants.

Festival Mundial www.festivalmundial.nl (Dutch only)

24-25 June - Tilburg Festival Mundial is one of the biggest and most versatile world music and culture festivals in the Benelux. Count on a cross-over between world music and world pop. Ambiance, surprise, new art disciplines, current themes, and encountering other cultures play an important part at the festival. There is always something for everyone!

Parkpop www.parkpop.nl/en

25 June - The Hague

PHOTOS: DOLPH CANTRIJN

Since its inception in 1981, this free musical event has become ever more popular. Tens of thousands of music ­lovers gather at the Zuiderpark for the party. The festival invites upcoming ­talented bands on stage during the ‘Road to Parkpop’ contest.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 9

What’s On

Special events in July Want to post a community event in this magazine? Contact ACCESS Magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘What’s On’.

North Sea Jazz Festival

UEFA Women’s Euro Football Finals: Netherlands

www.northseajazz.com/en

7-9 July - Rotterdam

www.uefa.com/womenseuro/index.html

North Sea Jazz is the largest indoor music festival in the world, known globally as the event where the past, present and future of jazz are featured within three days.

Next to a firm base of jazz, many genres will impress, such as blues, soul, funk, hip hop, world, pop and much more. This year enjoy top names from around the world, including Grace Jones, Mary J Blige, Keb’ Mo’ & Taj Mahal, and many, many more.

PHOTO: BAS CZERWINSKI

16 July - 6 August Various locations

The Four Day Marches www.4daagse.nl/en

18-21 July - Nijmegen

Get hyped for women’s football! The Netherlands will host UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 in July and August, the first final tournament to involve an increased 16 teams.

Venues • Breda: Rat Verlegh Stadion • Deventer: Stadion De Adelaarshorst • Doetinchem: Stadion De Vijverberg • Enschede: FC Twente Stadion • Rotterdam: Sparta Stadion • Tilburg: Willem II Stadion • Utrecht: Stadion Galgenwaard Check website for dates and times.

PHOTO: ROBERTO MALDENO

Get your gear ready and join the tens of thousands of walkers participating in the Four Day Marches, a walking achievement event for four consecutive days.

People from all over the world come to Nijmegen to walk in and around the city and its beautiful wooded surroundings.

Thousands of spectators cheer on the walkers.

Tilburg Kermis (Fun Fair) www.tilburg.com/pleinen/kermis-tilburg (Dutch only)

Don’t miss the biggest fun fair of the Benelux, taking place over 10 days in Tilburg. Explore countless attractions and rides and a range of stage performances. Visit ‘Pink Monday’, one of the biggest gay events in the Netherlands. The fair ends with beautiful fireworks on closing night.

10 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

PHOTO: ANDREAS NILSSON

21-30 July - Tilburg

What’s On

Special events in August Want to post a community event in this magazine? Contact ACCESS Magazine at editor@access-nl.org subject: ‘What’s On’.

Westland Boat Parade www.varendcorso.nl (Dutch only)

Fireworks Festival Scheveningen

Grachten Festival Amsterdam

www.vuurwerkfestivalscheveningen.com (Dutch only)

www.grachtenfestival.nl

11-20 August - Amsterdam

PHOTO: FRANS DE WIT

11, 12, 18 & 19 August Scheveningen

4-6 August - Westland, Den Haag, Delft, Vlaardingen Varend Corso Westland (Westland Boat Parade) is a festive spectacle on the water in the first weekend of August.

Dozens of boats are decorated with flowers and vegetables, with a theme that changes annually. Together they form a colorful sailing flower parade that passes through the Westland region for three days. This unique event draws over 500,000 visitors every year.

Open Monument Day www.openmonumentendag.nl

This annual festival offers two crackling shows of fireworks per evening. Teams from several countries brandish the most vivid kaleidoscopic creations of colour and light with the accompanying ear splitting sound in an effort to outdo each other and take home the trophy. The event attracts about 300,000 spectators hence it is advisable to arrive early in order to secure a good place to watch from.

The Grachtenfestival celebrates 20 years!

It’s the stage for young musicians from all over the world. During this largest classical music festival in the Netherlands, young and old enjoy more than 250 unique concerts at 90 venues. A large part of the concerts will be held outdoors. These concerts are free of charge.

Other concerts will be held on remarkable venues so don’t be surprised to discover a concert programmed in a metro tunnel or under a bridge in Amsterdam.

World Port Days Rotterdam www.wereldhavendagen.nl/en

1-3 September - Rotterdam Each year the city of Rotterdam celebrates its port during the World Port Days. This festival is all about strengthening the bond between the port, the town and its natural hinterland. You can take a look behind the scenes at a host of companies in the port area. It gives a unique opportunity for the public to check out areas they normally would not be able to access.

9-10 September All over the Netherlands

PHOTO: ANNE REITSMA

Open Monumentendag (Heritage Day) brings people into contact with history and encourages interest in historical monuments and the need for their ­preservation. 80 to 85% of Dutch municipalities open about 4,000 historical buildings and sites to the public free of charge. Many locations also organise on-site activities like exhibitions, musical performances and guided tours. Around 900,000 visitors participate annually.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 11

Cover story

The joys of a pet-loving land Moving to a different country has its ups and

go outside to explore my neighbourhood, and to get me talking to new people. Even though I was in a new place, I never felt alone because Pepper was right there with me.

downs, but having a pet along for the ride can make things a bit easier.

PHOTO: KATE MILLER

That is how I met Sjannie, whose maltipoo, Flippje, quickly became Pepper’s best friend! Over time, Sjannie and I started to go on evening walks together.

While our dogs played, I got to know Sjannie: one of my first Dutch friends. She did not mind that my Dutch was not perfect. It was very sad when Sjannie passed away this past January. I will always cherish how Pepper introduced me to her. Luckily, Flippje has found a second home.

BY OLIVIA VAN DEN BROEK-NERI

Breaking the ice with locals

When I moved to the Netherlands after marrying my Dutch husband, we quickly added a Chinese Pug (mopshond) to our household. We named her Pepper.

Although Pepper is only eight kilos and cannot speak, aside from the occasional bark, she has helped me to feel at home in the Netherlands.

One thing that I quickly noticed about having a dog is that it was much easier to meet people. Each day, I would take Pepper on multiple walks, which was good for both of us. It was also an excuse for me to

12 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

For others, not being able to speak Dutch can make things a bit harder. “I thought I would meet people at the off-leash parks, but once I start speaking English, the conversations seems to stop, which is unfortunate,” says Gina Single, a dog owner from Australia. “I have, however, met lots of people through my pet-sitting and it is great to see other people caring for their pets as much as I do.”

The animal culture

The Netherlands is an animal-loving country, which many internationals appreciate. For the 17 million people here, there are 33.4 million pets! In fact, according to a 2015 report by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, Agriculture and Innovation, an impressive 59% of Dutch people own a pet.

That includes about 1.2 million rabbits, 1.5 million dogs, 2.6 million cats, 3.9 million singing birds, 5 million pigeons, and about 18 million aquarium and pond fish.

Reptiles, amphibians, and furry creatures such as gerbils and hamsters are also commonplace, but it’s dogs that are seen out-of-doors most often. Dogs join their owners on the bus, on the train, on their bike, and in their cars. Walk by a shop and you may see a dog in the store—probably that of the owner—and a bowl of water to help cool your dog off on a warm day.

Did you k now.. .­ You c

“I do find it wonderful that dogs are allowed in most shops, restaurants and on public transport,” says Single. “It allows people to take their dogs out and about with them.”

an be fined €90 t o €14 0 for not p icking up aft er your d og!

from

“Even swimming pools open their doors for a dog swim after the summer season,” says pet owner Scarlett Hebeler-Mueller. “And compared to Germany we have a lot more areas where the dogs are allowed without a lead!”

PHOTO: BAS BOGERS

Tips!

• Beaches such as

Scheveningen, Katwijk and Noordwijk allow dogs on the beach, but be aware of their specific times and seasons.

Usually dogs may run free in » ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 13

Cover story | The joys of a pet-loving land

the months September to May, but during tourist season, there are more restrictions for where and when dogs may enjoy the beach.

There is usually an area in a park where your dog can be off the leash. These areas are clearly marked ‘hondenlosloopterreinen’ or ‘uitlaatgebied’. Take note of areas marked ‘Verboden voor Honden’, which means dogs are not allowed.

For those unable to walk their dog, there are many dog walking services (hondenuitlaatservice) available.

•

•

Animal welfare

In the Netherlands, cruelty to animals is a criminal offence. Many groups and foundations work hard to defend the rights and welfare of animals, including the Dutch animal protection agency Dieren­ bescherming; the Dutch dog protection agency

“ Having a pet is like having a good spirit in the house (when he does not dig up the flower pots or damage the furniture)…”

PHOTO: MARTHA VIEIRA COSTA

14 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Hondenbescherming; Sophia association (Sophia vereniging); and the animal ambulance (Dierenambulance). There is even a Dutch political called Party for the Animals (Partij voor de dieren or PvdD). www.partijvoordedieren.nl (Dutch only) Taking care of business

Single brought her Cavalier King Charles dogs Charlie and Harvey, eight and seven years old, r­espectively, with her to Eindhoven from Australia.

“Harvey spent his life as a breeding dog in a puppy farm in Australia before he was rescued,” says Single.

“Seeing how wonderful his life is now being a part of our family makes me so happy, and he certainly is happy.”

Single was sure to arrange all the proper paper work and fulfil the legal requirements set by the Dutch government regarding pets. In the Netherlands, dogs are required to have an electronic microchip implanted in them (implanted by a veterinarian).

The microchip has an issued number that is accessible in a European database, which makes it easier for animals to be identified. Proof of vaccinations is required, and all dog owners must register their dogs with the local city hall (gemeente).

PHOTO: SERGE LIGTENBERG

Dog owners should expect to pay an annual dog tax (hondenbelasting). The annual fee in Maastricht, for example, is €84 for one dog, €121 for two, etc.; and in Groningen, €117 for one dog, €292 for two, etc.

The price varies per city. For other animals there is no tax obligation.

Time to find a vet

For those searching for a veterinarian, ask a fellow pet owner for a recommendation, or look up dieren­ arts (veterinarian) or dierenartspraktijk (­ veterinarian practice). The ACCESS Helpdesk also has a list of preferred services that have been recommended by other internationals living here.

Antje Ritter was not expecting to need a vet, but her seven-year-old Reg German Rex cat ran into her ­cellar in Maastricht one dark winter night when Ritter was returning from work. “When I saw something red shooting passed me, I screamed out to my husband that we had a rat in the cellar!” she says.

“He said that there were no red-coloured rats and we found out that it was a four-month-old kitten.”

After taking Charlie to the vet and unsuccessful attempts to find his owner, they decided to keep him.

It was meant to be, because as Ritter says, “I always say having a pet is like having a good spirit in the house (when he does not dig up the flower pots or damage the furniture). He helps us through many difficult moments just by being present.” (Read more about how pets can assist families emotionally in the Health & Wellbeing article on page 34.)

Rabbits can high-five too!

Training pets is a common practice in the Netherlands. The Ministry of Economic Affairs report says animal training is a €21 million business here. While training is especially popular for dogs, other animals can be trained by professionals too.

Bernice Muntz (pictured left) is a Dutch animal trainer with a great love for rabbits. She had a dog training school and has also trained other animals, including fish, turtles, otters, and even a crocodile.

Important contact information In case of an emergency, call the Animal Ambulance (Dierenambulance): 0900-0245 www.dierenambulance.nl If your pet is lost, or if you have found a lost pet: www.mijndieriszoek.dierenbescherming.nl/home For questions about caring for a pet: ACCESS Helpdesk 0900 2 222 377 / €0.20/c per minute or email helpdesk@access-nl.org, Monday - Friday 10:00-16:00 For more details on ensuring your pet’s vaccinations and registration: www.access-nl.org/living-in-the-netherlands/lifestyle/having-a-pet-in-the-netherlands.aspx

When she learned of Syn Alia Training Systems (SATS) by Kayce Cover, it “opened up a new world for me,” says Muntz.

According to the SATS philosophy, “When we teach animals like we teach people, we find that they are capable of learning many, many words, concepts, places, people, animals, behaviours and more.”

Muntz gives examples: “Bees are trained to find drugs; rats are trained to find landmines. Rabbits can be trained like any animal, it’s just not as usual.”

As Muntz demonstrates in her book, High five with your rabbit, available in English, you can train a rabbit to high-five and more.

Because rabbits in particular are animals of prey, that puts them naturally on the defence, says Muntz.

They must not show their anxiety or fear, so by nature’s design, “You can’t tell how the rabbit is ­feeling… Stress is high during times of change,” reminds Muntz, so special care must be taken to ensure that your rabbit feels safe.

For families moving back ‘home’ or onward to another country, “It is a necessity for families in transition to train [their pet] rabbits. With training there is a better chance the animal will survive the move.” When you begin training, Muntz advises to “start with something the rabbit can already do... what they feel good about.” www.dierentrainer.nl/boeken/high-five-with-your-rabbit » ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 15

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Cover story | The joys of a pet-loving land

Another option is to have a friend or neighbour take care of your pet. For those who are new to the area, this can be difficult, which is why Ritter decided to start a Facebook group. This group helps people to find a pet sitter in their area, and already has 1,600 members. “… A lot of internationals and exchange students were joining this group to be able to take care of pets temporarily because they missed their pets at home but could not take them along,” says Ritter. “We even helped the local shelter finding volunteers. More than 100 people reacted to their outreach.” www.facebook.com/groups/petsittermaastricht Adopting a pet

Going on a holiday

Hebeler-Mueller (pictured above) explains how her six-year-old Longhaired Weimaraner, Jupiter, is a member of her family. “Since we have him our lives have totally changed,” she says. That includes their holidays! When her family goes on holiday, neighbours take care of their rabbits Gilmore, a three-yearold longhaired Angora rabbit, and Roxanne, a fiveyear-old dwarf rabbit. However, Jupiter gets to join in on the family fun, so they take trips closer to home.

“For almost seven years now we go by car on holidays with just a little luggage because Jupiter needs the whole trunk,” says Hebeler-Mueller.

There are hundreds of animal shelters (dierenasiel/ dierenopvangcentrum) across the country with pets in need of a new home. Brazilian Fernanda Campestrini chose to adopt from a shelter. “Here they have a national website, ‘Ik zoek een baas’ (in Dutch), where you can see all available animals with details such as the personality, special conditions, previous history...” she says.

“Once I saw Bo I was in love, so my partner and I went to the shelter.” After their trip to meet Bo at the shelter in Eindhoven, they decided to adopt the 12-year-old female cat. “There is a fee,” says Campestrini, “but the shelter is very organised and caring, and for that I think totally worth it.”

If you can’t take your pet with you on holiday, there are boarding kennels (dierenpension) located throughout the country. Pepper’s veterinarian recommended a kennel to us, and we have been happy with the ­service and care she has received. They also have a Facebook page where they post photos of the dogs and cats staying with them. It is a nice way to see what Pepper is up to while we are away.

Read more about the longest-standing animal shelter in the Netherlands in the Dutch Lifestyle article on page 24. «

Before leaving your pet at a boarding kennel, make sure that their pet passport and vaccinations are up to date. Contact the kennel for any other requirements.

Olivia van den Broek-Neri is originally from the US. She has lived in the Netherlands for 10 years and is currently Project Coordinator for Communications & Events at Holland Expat Center South.

About the author

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 17

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Have you been an expat? We would love to preserve your memories.

Interested in academic research? We welcome researchers from all disciplines.

Love history? We offer volunteer opportunities in an international work environment.

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International community

Proud of Pride

BY ALICE BURKE

Did .­ now.. lth a you k

ch he at 5, Dut ban th In 201 ed the t e f v li a r h e t ho minis men w m d e it n fro prohib ith me sex w od. ing blo donat

Every year in early August, an enormous rainbow flag is hung from the famous Westertoren of Amsterdam’s Westerkerk, transforming the Protestant church into a beacon of LGBTQ pride.

The sight is always striking: the 17th-century stone work contrasts with the shimmering stripes of the flag, and the stiffened devotion of religious practices clashes with the Drag Queen Olympics that take place in the shadow of the church on the Friday of Amsterdam Pride Week.

Outside the church sits the Homo­ monument, which commemorates those who have been persecuted because of their homosexuality. Unveiled in 1987, it takes the form of three large pink granite triangles that merge to form a larger triangle.

The pink triangle was the marker of shame enforced on gay people by the Nazis, and is reclaimed here in the spirit of hope, equality, and defiance.

The freedom of identity

The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001, a move that secured its reputation as a bastion of gay rights for Dutch people and immigrants alike. It has long

More info Contact the COC for information on volunteering and supporting their work, or if you need help or advice as an LGBTQ person: www.coc.nl Testing for sexually transmitted infections is available for free at GGD clinics located nationwide. Find the nearest clinic at www.ggd.nl, or download the app.

enjoyed this reputation of tolerance and equality, but several recent homophobic attacks have raised questions of new tensions stemming from old prejudices. Is the positive reputation that the Netherlands enjoys still warranted, and what is it really like for an LGBTQ outsider arriving in the Netherlands?

For many, like Mariana Marques, the Netherlands is a place where a previous cautiousness around e­xpression of one’s sexuality can be set aside.

Marques, an aerospace engineer from Portugal, found the Netherlands to be a place she could freely develop a sense of her own identity as a gay person.

“I’m from Portugal, and I must say I was never very involved in LGBTQ social groups back home.

The most that I did was participate in Pride parades in Lisbon,” says Marques. “Having grown up on an island with a pretty closed community without any other LGBTQ people (that I knew of ), I never felt that coming out would be a smooth process so I avoided it until I moved to Lisbon to study.” Even there she was only out to a couple of friends, and still didn’t feel part of the LGBTQ community: “I was afraid of what being open about my sexuality would mean for my daily life in Portugal.”

That changed after she moved to the Netherlands.

“A few months after arriving, I joined an introduction group of the LGBTQ association in Delft, and through making friends, going to a lot more LGBTQ events, and simply by seeing people on the street being open about themselves, gave me the courage to be open about my sexuality,” says Marques.

Tackling violence and homophobia

ACCESS Counselling Services Support is available for anyone feeling isolated or struggling with life as an expat, gay or straight. Find a counsellor at www.access-nl.org/about-access/what-we-do/counselling-service-network.aspx

But despite that positivity, she feels there’s still quite a lot of work to be done in certain areas, such as “educating people on the issues that LGBTQ people » ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 19

interactions that occur in a wide variety of social ­settings, including school or the workplace, among friends, family, and even other LGBTQ people.

These accumulated experiences are associated with feelings of victimisation, suicidal thoughts, and higher rates of substance abuse, depression, and other health problems.

Violent aggressions against LGBTQ people have been making headlines recently in the Netherlands.

In April, a gay couple in Arnhem were attacked as they walked hand-in-hand; they sustained serious injuries. Four men were arrested following the attack, and denied that the attack was motivated by homophobia. The leading Dutch gay rights organisation, the Cultuur- en Ontspanningscentrum (COC), called for the government to take action—including proposing tougher prison sentences—on the rising frequency of homophobic attacks.

" Tolerance and acceptance in the Netherlands are under pressure, and we need to keep our attention on that.”

20 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Since 1946, the COC has led an extensive network of activism and advocacy throughout the country.

National, regional, and local groups provide one-toone support, carry out learning and development s­essions at schools, and are staffed almost exclusively by volunteers. The COC also advocates on behalf of LGBTQ refugees and asylum seekers, and have been involved in enshrining protections in Dutch law for immigrant groups.

Reclaiming Pride

face, how to be an ally, and recognising microaggressions, but that’s what the community is ­striving for, so I think we’re on a good path.”

Amsterdam Pride is also a key feature in the Dutch LGBTQ landscape. The Pride canal parade covers six kilometres and features 80 floats every year, but faces some criticism for being more commercially-driven than activism-focused in comparison to other global Pride parades. There is a tiered approach to the celebration, with priority given to the groups who need most support.

The micro-aggressions Marques mentions are ­generally accepted as subtle forms of discrimination against LGBTQ people. Researcher and activist Dr. Kevin Nadal explains them as commonplace

The theme of the 2017 parade is “This is my Pride.”

Managing Director of Amsterdam Pride, Lucien Spee, says that this year’s theme addresses concerns about the freedom to be LGBTQ in the Netherlands.

International community | Proud of Pride

PHOTO: PATRICK ANDRIESSEN

“For years, [Pride] became a world-renowned event.

This year we go back to the core of what we originate from,” says Spee. Pride 2017 is a chance to acknow­ ledge the struggle that those in the LGBTQ community still face: “Tolerance and acceptance in the Netherlands are under pressure, and we need to keep our attention on that.”

Participating in the canal parade can cost from €125 to €30,000, depending on the size and type of organisation. Media organisations and sponsors currently pay the highest costs, as do non-gay organisations who wish to join.

James Hall, a British lawyer who lived in London for eight years before moving to Amsterdam, loves the acceptance offered to LGBTQ people in the Netherlands.

“I think our (straight, middle-aged, Dutch) neighbours are most likely far more shocked by the fact that we don’t wash our car every Saturday than they are about the fact that we’re gay,” says Hall.

PHOTO: JASMINE DE VRIES

Hall values the inclusivity of Amsterdam Pride: “The thing that really struck me about Amsterdam Pride is that it really is an event for everyone. You see all types of people there, including kids of all ages.

I felt part of it because I was there—not because I’m gay, but because I pitched up and had fun.”

He also understands the arguments that Amsterdam Pride is increasingly commercialised. “In some ways, is this what integration actually looks like? I’m sure plenty of people hate it, but when you see barges of the emergency services, big companies, the Gemeente, etc., this sends a great message about integration. In London, I got more of a feeling that you were supposed to be ‘gay’ or ‘straight’ in your choices...” he says. “In the Netherlands, I get more the feeling that it’s just a part of who you are than a defining characteristic.” «

About the author Alice Burke is a writer and editor based in The Hague. Connect with her at @auroraborealice.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 21

Education | Partner feature

Learning from each other

Inter-grade Projects in Primary School Going beyond the classroom and learning together with pupils of different ages opens new perspectives. Inter-grade learning not only develops curious minds but also supports social development.

Taking others into consideration, recognising strengths and cooperating to achieve common goals are social skills learned in interdisciplinary projects.

Each school year, a different project lasting from one week up to a few months, is offered to Primary School children at DISDH. Children learn from and with each other. Subjects including Art, Science and History form the basis for the various projects.

Children choose which area of the project interests them most and work in groups, fostering independent learning.

070 354 9494 www.disdh.nl

22 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

For the project “Medieval Times – Knights and Castles”, children met weekly to learn about the structural building of castles, the daily lives of knights, the foods prepared, the games played by children as well as the clothing and jewellery worn at the time. They also learned about medieval cities and were given the chance to try out handicrafts ­popular in the Middle Ages and build their own fortresses.

During the project “Great Masters – Young Artists”, school lessons were put on hold and the world of painting grasped the attention of pupils as they learned about different artists including Henri Matisse, Keith Haring and Piet Mondrian. They studied the styles, the colours and the emotions portrayed in the paintings and then employed the various techniques themselves letting their creativity take reign.

“The Four Elements – Fire, Water, Earth and Air” was a project geared toward the science-minded.

The children experimented, documented and marvelled at natural phenomena applying a hands-on approach to discovering the world around them.

They learned about fire itself as well as its mystical presence in fairytales. They studied the properties of water, finding out how it flows and freezes and how objects float. They looked at earth and its resources considering the importance of the environment and gave thought to how air plays a part in everyday life.

Over the years, inter-grade projects have covered an array of themes and have encouraged young pupils to challenge their imagination and go beyond their limits to test new ground. They have grown, learned and developed, and that is the success of Project Days at DISDH. «

Food

Egg-in-a-hole with charred red bell peppers and parmesan Sunday mornings in the summertime are special, whether spent at the beach, enjoying the freedom you feel when swimming in the open sea, spent in bed with a cool breeze coming in from the bedroom window, or spent with friends over a nice brunch.

One of my favourite recipes for such occasions? ­Egg-in-a-hole. Not a plain one, though, but slightly jazzed up with charred red bell peppers and parmesan cheese. The flavours are simple yet so satisfactory. The savouriness of the eggs and the smoky quality of the charred peppers, the robust “umami” flavour of the parmesan, the earthiness of the wholewheat bread and the rich smoothness of the Dutch butter, is all you need to have a delicious tasting breakfast or brunch on a Sunday morning. Enjoy!

RECIPE AND PHOTO BY MAGDALINI ZOGRAFOU

Ingredient

s

gs For 2 servin

heat slices whole-w • 2 thick lo crusty af, not bread (from a ad) sandwich bre lted butter, sa un • 1-2 Tbsp softened ive oil extra virgin ol

• 2 Tbsp d clove, mince • 1 garlic t into ell pepper, cu • ½ red b strips m-sized eggs

• 2 mediu • Salt pepper ground black • Freshly ed at gr ful of finely • A hand parmesan

How to make egg-in-a-whole: Butter the bread slices generously on both sides with the softened butter and using a round cookie-cutter or the rim of a glass, cut a hole in the centre. Keep the centres; you will cook them as well.

In a medium-sized skillet, big enough to fit the two bread slices comfortably, add the olive oil and heat over a medium heat. When the oil starts to shimmer, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring continuously, and then add the pepper strips.

Cook the peppers over a medium heat, stirring often, until they start to caramelise and char around the edges. Be careful not to take them too far and burn them because they will taste too bitter. Once ready, transfer them to a bowl and set aside.

Keep the pan on the stove, still on a medium heat, and add the bread slices onto the hot pan, arranging the centres around the edge. Cook one side of the bread until a bit crusty and golden, for about two minutes, and then flip it over. Immediately break the eggs in the holes of the two slices of bread, put a lid on the skillet, and cook until the eggs are done to your liking. For the yolks to stay a bit runny, they’ll need about four minutes.

Transfer to two individual plates, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and add the charred bell peppers on top. Finally, sprinkle with the parmesan and eat immediately. «

About the author Read more recipes from Magdalini Zografou, “a Greek girl cooking in her little expat kitchen in the Netherlands” at ­mylittleexpatkitchen.blogspot.com

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 23

Dutch Lifestyle

One thing that strikes visitors to the Netherlands is the absence of stray animals.

This may be attributed to the culture’s serious stance regarding pets.

Keeping local animal shelters thriving

BY ELIZABETH JOSS

For example, all dog owners must register their pets at the municipality, making them liable for taxes.

Dogs and cats are to be chipped, and pet owners are also encouraged to take out extra insurance in the event their pet falls ill. Moreover, there are high ­penalties for animal abuse and neglect. Despite such precautions, animal shelters in the country still have an abundance of animals.

Shelters make a difference

Beer Lankhorst, Commercial Manager of the Haags Dierencentrum, one of the country’s 200 animal shelters and also the oldest shelter, dating from 1877, explains, “At present we have around 120 cats and 35 dogs. Sadly, people sometimes decide that they just don’t want to take care of their pets anymore, and they bring them to us.”

PHOTOS: KATE MILLER

“Animals also end up at the centre because they may be lost. A problem that we find is that many dogs still don’t have a chip, even though it’s obligatory, or sometimes the chip isn’t linked to the correct owner,” continues Lankhorst. “My colleagues at the centre have to do quite a lot of Sherlock Holmes work to track down the rightful owner. But it’s not always successful and so we turn to adoption.”

To adopt or make a donation Haags Dierencentrum www.haagsdierencentrum.nl/en/ Lozerlaan 595, 2544 MC The Hague, 070 366 1806 receptie@haagsdierencentrum.nl

24 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

In general, cats are quicker to be adopted than dogs.

Cats can be rehomed almost immediately if a suitable and dedicated person is found. However, hopeful dog owners need to make an appointment for adoption as there are more considerations and the process can take longer. The potential owner takes the dog on short walks, for example, so they can get accustomed to one another. If employees deem the match suitable, the dog can go home with its new owner.

“We also try our best to inform [the new owner] about the animal’s health

as far as possible,” says Lankhorst. “We conduct regular health checks, but sometimes the animal may develop a condition after being adopted, or later in life.” Thus, owners need to understand that it is a responsibility they must be willing to take on.

Ultimately, adopting a pet can add enormous value to one’s daily life. Lankhort adds the therapeutic benefits for people: “Animals can help a person through depression. I’ve heard this from many people who adopt. That’s really the magic thing about animals.

So we don’t only stand for animal welfare, we stand for human welfare too.”

Funding shelters

“It’s a good feeling that people want to leave a legacy for our animals,” says Lankhorst. “However, we never know when we will receive these funds. But when we do, we are able to survive and can also work on improving our facilities. Either way, we cannot rely on the timing of these legacies, and so we always need the help of ordinary citizens to support us by means of donations or fundraising initiatives.”

Run for the money

Tristan Turner, originally from Scotland and now a resident of The Hague, adopted two cats from the centre. He recently came up with an inspiring fundraising idea to help the organisation. His goal was to run 31 half-marathons in the 31 days of May to raise €500. To his surprise, he raised over €1,300.

PHOTO: KATE MILLER

Government funds cover only around a quarter of all operating costs, so the shelter looks elsewhere for support by means of donations or fundraising.

A misconception is that the centre is part of the Animal Protection Services, a nation-wide organisation, and that funds are received from them. In fact, funding at the Haags Dierencentrum is mostly garnered from legacies. advise anyone interested to get in touch with the Haags Dierencentrum and ask about options for ­volunteering or fundraising,” he says.

Ways to be of help

Pet owners may also want to consider the shelter’s lodging services when they go on ­holiday. Funds from the lodging go directly into improving the ­shelter’s facilities. Volunteering at the shelter is also possible (or even by taking on cats on a temporary basis), but individuals must understand spoken and written Dutch. Those who cannot give their time are encouraged to make a donation. «

About the author “It felt right to give something back to this great place that does everything it can to give the correct home to the correct pet,” says Turner. “I would

Elizabeth Joss is a South African freelance writer based in The Hague and the founder of The Museum Times, spreading the love of museums and arts and culture on a global scale. www.themuseumtimes.com

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 25

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Travel

The 10 stages of wadlopen for beginners Wadlopen: Mud up to your knees. Water up to your waist. Shells in your socks. Worm poop for miles.

The smell of rotten eggs... Despite the palpable physical trials that come with this unique undertaking, you should absolutely give wadlopen a try! The adventure is a sure-fire way to commune with nature, test your muscles, and impress your Dutch in-laws.

TEXT AND PHOTOS

BY MANDIE VAN DER MEER

I found out on a weekend trip with new friends that I was not the best candidate for the wadlopen challenge—even though it was my idea. I humbly share with you, ACCESS readers, my tale of triumph, a ­candid impression of these mucky low lands.

Stage 1: “Let’s do it!”

We—three couples of mixed American and Dutch heritage—decide we’ll attempt the distinctively Dutch feat that is wadlopen. Tidal mudflat hiking, as it is also called, involves walking across the sea from the mainland of the Netherlands to one of the Wadden Islands in the north, a recreational tradition that unofficially started in the late 1930s.

It sounds like walking on water. In fact, you wait for low tide and, with a licensed guide, cross over kilometres of banks of mud, sand, seaweed and water to get to the other side. It’s an activity only to be found in the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark, because of the shallow depth of the North Sea. Stage 2: “Oh, the smell.”

Today’s the day. We’re all set. We eat a big lunch and arrive at the meeting point outside Holwerd in the northern province of Friesland. We’re among hundreds of other enthusiastic—many naïve—hikers.

Our group’s guide is a no-nonsense Frisian, close to seven feet tall, nearing 60 years old, skinny as a string bean and clearly experienced. He’s holding a wooden stick as long as he is.

We stand on the edge of the coast, no longer solid land and not yet sea. While our guide is laying out the rules, I underestimate the »

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 27

Travel | The 10 stages of wadlopen for beginners

Know before you go participate in wadlopen with a knowledgeable guide. Don’t go it alone!

• Only trip can be cancelled if guides determine that weather conditions are unsafe.

• A Don’t wear heavy hiking boots. The best shoes for wadlopen: imitation Converse™ • sneakers.

Lightweight, secure on your feet, easy to wash. Available for sale on the islands.

If you don’t consider yourself in good physical condition, wadlopen is not for you.

For those 165cm tall and under (5 feet, 5 inches), wadlopen is not advisable.

You’ll have few choices for dinner after your excursion as restaurants on Ameland close early. Pick up pizzas from Pizzeria San Remo in Nes by taxi. Tel. 0519 542 720

• • •

sink value of the mud beneath me, and fall directly on my butt. I get over the embarrassment quickly as there is a potent, familiar and utterly disgusting distraction in the air: the stink of rotten eggs.

28 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

We’re told that the first 90 minutes will be the most difficult. We understand with our first steps. The mud is deep, thick and yet vacuous, sucking us in up to our calves. Many of us hesitate, some slip, some fall.

At least two lose a shoe. Pulling your leg out from the mud is physically demanding and a delicate balance.

“Don’t be afraid,” says the guide.

“Oh, the smell,” says Kathryn.

“Breathe through your mouth,” says Ebbe.

“Can I get some help over here?” says another hiker.

(Actually, that was probably me.)

And we’re only three minutes in to our adventure.

Stage 3: “There’s a shell in my sock.”

The swamp stage of the hike goes on for some time, with occasional breaks on flat areas. Although the longer you stand in one place, the harder it is to yank your foot out from the mud. Our guide reminds us of the two forces of nature we’re working against: the setting sun and the incoming tide. We must move on.

The offensive odour remains, but we can’t see the mud now. We’re walking in knee-high seas and mud!

The challenge of lifting my legs here is a shock.

I’m the weakest link of the group. My companions remain positive, expressing more observations than complaints, and I’m grateful to be among such ­go-getters. With encouraging words from them and a reality check from our guide (remember those forces of nature!), I trudge on.

“There’s a shell in my sock,” says Jeroen.

“Yup, me too,” say all of us.

Stage 4: “I’m sorry about your panties.”

Eventually, due to strong currents, the mud transforms to sand and we are wading through waist-high waters, having to carry our backpacks on our heads.

As I’m still recovering from my panic attack during the previous segment, my friend makes the chivalrous gesture to carry mine for a while.

“That’s big love,” says Ebbe, and snaps a picture.

“I thought those pictures on the website of people up to their chest in water were the advanced walks,” I say, and we all realize that no one should have trusted a gal from New York City to know what ­wadlopen truly is.

Did you k now..

The D .­ u

tch is lan popula d t ion: about 13,40 0.

Schie rmon nikoo g: only 8 00!

Texel' s

One of the ladies admits, “I was just really hoping not to get my panties wet.”

All I can say is, “I’m sorry about your panties.

Are we still friends?”

Stage 5: “Watch your step.”

We emerge to new terrain. Straight ahead and left and right are oyster, mussel and cockle banks. While we shake our shorts dry, the guide explains that Pacific oysters, native to Japan, have essentially taken over the area in past decades, creating new habitats and landscapes. It’s an exceptional ecosystem for sure, and walking across uneven oyster beds is ­something of a circus act. The guide warns us to watch our step, that should we lose our balance, we should not brace ourselves with hands forward, as this will lead to bloody injury by the sharp shells. Fall backwards if you can.

Oh. Sure. » ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 29

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Travel | The 10 stages of wadlopen for beginners

Stage 6: “Shouldn’t we be going that way?”

Finally, the mudflat walking I was expecting: a long stretch of tranquil, barren, flat sandbar. Here, you can look up without risking a tumble. We’re granted a few minutes rest, a chance to appreciate why this area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We learn that some 10 to 12 million birds migrate through the area each year, carrying a global significance ecologically. Who knew?

There’s land behind us, land ahead of us. We’ve been zig-zagging several kilometres across the sea bottom. “Shouldn’t we be going that way?”, asks John, pointing in the opposite direction. But none of us wants to question the expertise of our seven-foot guide with a big stick. We carry on. It starts raining.

Stage 7: “Oh, that’s what the stick is for.”

As the depths of the seabed change, our guide makes more frequent use of the long stick. He measures the many pools of water we come across, checking for deceiving depths, areas where a sudden drop means swimming, not walking. We’re instructed to follow in a direct line behind him to ensure safe passage.

We can see the Ameland island ahead and march along without complaint.

Stage 8: “Are we there yet?”

Land! We’ve reached Ameland after more than three hours of trekking and plodding and slogging along.

Ebbe suggests we mark the occasion, literally, by smearing mud across our cheeks in victory. Just when we think we’re done and home free, there is still a last leg to go! We clamber up and over the dunes for another 45 minutes to get to the beach on the north side.

Stage 9: “No, really, are we there yet?”

Flatbed trucks are waiting to take us back to the main village of Nes. We climb aboard for—remarkably— the most uncomfortable part of the day. Squeezed together in the cold, in the rain, in the dark, we are quiet, lost in thought, visions of a warm shower and a cold beer ahead.

Stage 10: (Actually, too tired for words here.)

“Proost!”, we declare in unison. We toast to our ­survival, with helpings of the local Ameland liqueur Nobeltje. We eat our pizzas in silence. There’s no energy for much else. Eventually we reflect aloud on the day’s feat. René’s favourite part of the day was when I fell on my butt. Jeroen announces he would do it again. The rest of us are certain one time was enough. We will wear the experience as a badge of Dutch-ness.

And I will get a fever the next day.

Upon (murky) reflection

The Wadden Sea is one of the last truly undisturbed, wild natural environments left in the Netherlands, and the world. Despite the hardships—gooey mud, dreadful stench, sharp shells, wet underwear, minipanic attack, inevitable muscle aches, existential questioning of life, etc.—wadlopen promises and delivers an intimate experience with the country’s natural beauty, intense self-exploration and, even­ tually, pride. «

Book ahead Tourist office Ameland www.vvvameland.com info@vvvameland.nl 0519 546 546

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 31

Education | Partner feature

Music teacher Timothy Jones explains how student musicians from the International School of The Hague travelled to the States for a tour.

From Old Amsterdam to New York: student musicians cross the pond “Playing for a tour like this inspires us to play better,” says Mikkeline, orchestra leader on the recent tour to Washington, D.C., and New York with 40 other students and six teachers from the International School of The Hague (ISH). The tour was organised by the music department, enabling orchestra and choir members to combine performances, sight-seeing and cultural moments in a memorable week.

TV stars for a day

070 328 1450 www.ishthehague.nl

Our first school stop was Stedwick Elementary School in Montgomery County. ISH students led their young counterparts in learning a song which is part of a “learning through opera” project. We moved to a local high school where a joint performance of the song was filmed by a local online TV station.

The next day’s school visit was at the Washington International School where we performed a pro-

gramme of instrumental and vocal music to an audience which included two students who will transfer from the US to the ISH shortly.

The state-of-the-art facilities at the United Nations International School made it a joy to perform for the enthusiastic student audience, and our walk back towards the centre along the river was accompanied by bright sunshine, quite a contrast to the snow storms the region suffered some weeks before and after our visit.

From the old world to the New World

For many of our international students it was their first chance to experience sites such as the historical area of Washington, D.C., with its monuments to great figures of history, the lights and bustle of Times Square, the views from the Empire State Building and the ferry trip to Staten Island past the Statue of Liberty.

Cultural highlights included an open rehearsal of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and a magic carpet ride at Disney’s Aladdin show on 42nd Street.

Deeper friendships

Students Noor and Yung-Ching sum up their experience: “Travelling and performing together helped us make deeper friendships with our fellow students which we will never forget.” « View the TV report of our Stedwick visit: www.mymcmedia.org/stedwick-third-graders-make-musicwith-international-students-in-gaithersburg-video/

32 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Review

The Evenings

by Gerard Reve

This is a book that you really have to read for yourself to make your own mind up.

It is said to be one of the best works of Dutch literature. Born in Amsterdam, Gerard Kornelis van het Reve was only 23 when he wrote De avonden: een winterverhaal.

This book was his debut novel, published in 1947, though was only just translated to English last year by Sam Garrett, under the title The Evenings: A Winter's Tale.

BY SALLY SQUIRRELL

Little mention was made of the war, apparently much to critics’ dismay. The book certainly has a style of its own as it descriptively documents the minutiae of 10 evenings in 1946 of the lead character Frits van Egters. His inner monologue brings the book to life as he makes funny observations about all and sundry.

His parents drive him mad and he seems to take great delight in supplying witty retorts to their odd behaviour such as, “I believe, that you accidentally used the scouring pads known and loved by millions,” to his father’s mistaken washcloth usage. He not only examines his parents for their foibles, he also turns his lens on himself, frequently inspecting himself in the mirror and saying, “Deliver me from baldness.”

and the leegte (emptiness) of those times, and the lack of entertainment. Perhaps Reve was striving to fill this void with his droll commentary through the eyes of Frits.

Perhaps it is your cup of tea? Try it! « ACCESS thanks American Book Center for the ­complimentary copy of The Evenings. www.abc.nl

Reve’s main theme is time, time in which Frits tries to avoid boredom by hanging out with friends, and wandering aimlessly. He dreams vividly and sometimes it seems he lives more through the dreams than in reality. Oh, and he talks occasionally to a toy rabbit. Perhaps if he had done this earlier, it might have been more exciting.

Although this book did not quite hit the mark for me, it did provoke discussions with my Dutch father-in-law about the book, about life growing up in the Netherlands after the Second World War

Publisher: Pushkin Press Pages: 320 Hardback with dust-jacket ISBN: 9781782271789 www.pushkinpress.com/ book/the-evenings ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 33

Health & Wellbeing

One powerful method of assisting patients with ­several physiological and psychological issues is

walking with the pet, or simply the inclusion of a pet in a patient’s life, can result in great improvement in their recovery.

­animal-assisted therapy (AAT). Different animals are known to heal people suffering from any of a number of mental and physical problems.

This therapy guarantees an abundance of

By implementing correct methods of training, therapy animals are increasingly becoming of help to patients and victims in several nursing homes, rehabilitation centres, orphanages, retirement homes and psychiatric hospitals.

unadulterated love and compassion in return.

Conducting animal-assisted therapy

Animals as therapy

BY ANUJA TIPNIS

How therapy animals can help

Studies show that animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, horses and birds can serve as therapy pets. Even fish, known to lower stress levels just by watching their movements, are considered a good source of therapy with definite results. Whenever I stare at an aquarium, it slowly reduces my tension and calms my mind.

How do therapy animals actually help humans?

Animals can help patients work through and survive medical issues such as brain diseases, heart attacks, abnormal blood pressure, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Activities such as talking or

The European Society for Animal-Assisted Therapy (ESAAT), founded in Vienna in 2004, is involved in the research of therapy by animals. ESAAT explains that such therapy is mainly based on understanding the relationship between the human and the animal.

Animal-assisted therapy is conducted by experts with professional training in the subject, such as ESAATcertified courses. Furthermore, the specialists have to undergo additional training depending on the a­nimal species used. Other specialists like physio­ therapists and psychologists also participate in the process.

Practitioners study at Bachelor programmes and training programmes at various institutions in the Netherlands, such as Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences, and NHL Hogeschool, both in Leeuwarden.

Guide dogs

When it comes to therapy animals, dogs are the first to come to mind, and those four-legged souls live up to expectations with their unconditional care and support.

www.geleidehond.nl/contact/ www.sterkmetpaarden.nl/contact.html

In an interview with KNGF Geleidehonden (Royal Dutch Guide Dog Foundation), parent Tamara tells how the autism assistance dog Noortje helps her son Djamilo with his fears.

More references Animal Assisted Interventions in Zorg, Onderzoek en Onderwijs www.aaizoo.nl European Society for Animal-Assisted Therapy www.en.esaat.org Animal Assisted Intervention International www.aai-int.org

“He used to get bouts of extreme anger and agitation.

With the help of Noortje, my son’s condition is much better,” she says.

Get started with animal-assisted therapy

• • •

34 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

PHOTO: CHARLENE KEOHANE

While KNGF guide dogs are technically “assistance dogs”, according to an organisation representative, there are many examples of specially trained dogs like Noortje providing children with autism and their families an improved quality of life.

“She is like my oxygen; without her I cannot survive”

Similar to results with dogs, horses are known to successfully provide therapy to children with autism.

A literature review published on the Dutch Autism Academy website says that studies of children ages eight to 16 with autism indicate that horse therapy provides significant benefits to children’s wellbeing.

Horse therapy can reduce the stress hormone cortisol, improve tolerance to stimuli, and help develop communication and social skills. For adults, horse therapy can be used to treat extreme anger issues, eating disorders, depression, anxiety and burnout, according to Dutch psychologist and horse therapy practitioner Jet Menkveld.

PHOTO: PETRA SERRARENS - KNGF

Help from horses

“With the help of Noortje, my son’s condition is much better”

Therapy cats

Many locals are of the opinion that cats are a reliable source of therapy if trained in the right way. Just like dogs, cats have proven to reduce restlessness in individuals just by being around them.

Charlene Keohane, a librarian at the Amsterdam International Community School, is very fond of her cat Bella, who she describes as her “furry little soul mate” and claims that Bella has immensely helped her in overcoming severe mental trauma.

“She snuggles by my stomach every night so I can get a good sleep. She is like my oxygen; without her I cannot survive,” Charlene says.

Immediate sources

Therapy animals are usually available through the therapists who use them. Only support animals, such as guide dogs and cats, work independently with the people who need them. Some therapists require a doctor’s referral, and others you can contact directly. Some health insurance companies cover the expenses of therapists as alternative medicine. «

About the author Anuja Tipnis is a freelance writer and blogger. You can check her writings at www.wordsandimaginations.wordpress.com

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 35

PHOTO: UNIVERSITY COLLEGE UTRECHT

Education

Pathways to higher education

BY NANCY KROONENEBERG

You may be a secondary school student (or their parent) thinking about higher education and whether to choose the Netherlands or your ‘home’ country.

Or you may be an adult, weighing the pros and cons of completing an online degree or seeking a Dutch Master’s degree. Increasingly, internationals from both within and outside the Netherlands are opting for Dutch higher education, pursuing one of various pathways.

36 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

The Netherlands is a magnet for internationals seeking quality higher education. In the current school year 2016-2017, there are more than 112,000 inter­ national students at the tertiary level, 81,392 enrolled in full-time degree programs. According to Nuffic (The Dutch Organisation for Internationalising Education), international students represent 164 nationalities, with the greatest numbers from Germany, China and Italy. Nuffic noted that choosing a Dutch education is based predominantly on three factors: the good quality of Dutch education; the large number of courses in English (2,100+); and the relative affordability of degree programmes.

Things have come a long way since Webster University, the first English language post-secondary learning institute in the Netherlands, opened its doors in 1983. And while it remains today as the only accredited American University offering both Bachelor- and Master-level degrees in the country, it joins a growing offering for international students, graduating in or coming here to study.

ested in studying one specific region of the world, along with learning the language of that region.”

Pathway #2: University college

While most tertiary programmes in the Netherlands require choosing your programme or major at the application stage, one pathway, namely university colleges, gives students additional time to explore and choose their desired degree programme. These programmes offer a liberal arts style of education leading to a bachelor’s (BA and BSc) degree. Students begin their studies with general knowledge subjects prior to concentration in their chosen area(s). The university colleges, founded by and integral parts of established Dutch universities, are a perfect fit for many internationals completing their secondary studies in the Netherlands.

Pathway #1: Research or applied sciences

Most Dutch higher education is pursued at a research university or a university of applied sciences.

The 13 research universities are mainly responsible for offering research-oriented programmes while the universities of applied sciences focus on the ­practical application of arts and sciences. In both types of universities, the most popular field for i­nternational students is economy and business.

The top three universities in terms of international students are: Maastricht University, Erasmus University Rotterdam and the University of Groningen (with 300+ students from the UK alone).

Other institutions with greater than 30% international students are: four technical research univer­ sities (Delft, Eindhoven, Twente and Wageningen); university colleges; and university of applied sciences programmes in the fine arts and hospitality.

What does Silveira advise potential students? “This course will match your expectations if you are inter-

www.nuffic.nl/en www.studyinholland.nl Scholarships www.nuffic.nl/ en/#tab-find-a-scholarship

Frederika Cazemier, International Recruitment Manager at University College Groningen, noted the top reasons students choose to attend: broad range of majors to choose from, even a free major where you select your own curriculum; small-scale education (individual guidance, small groups, mentors and tutors); projects are integral to the programme (working in interdisciplinary teams, students learn to inte- »

• • •

PHOTO: UNIVERSITY COLLEGE GRONINGEN

Studying at the University of Applied Sciences Leiden is Brazilian Guilherme Monteiro Silveira, a graduate of the American International School of Rotterdam.

Silveira chose Leiden over a university in the United States as, “it came down to the university ranking.

Leiden University has a great ranking and prestige in the field of Social Sciences, I felt that I would fit in quite well, and that it was a great opportunity for me to develop even further academically.” He goes on to say, “The university has also met my expectations in terms of the specialisation ... The politics lectures, specifically, go into great detail of most of Latin America’s countries, and are very interesting.”

More resources

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 37

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Education | Pathways to higher education

grate academic knowledge and skills with creative approaches to face today’s complex global challenges); the interdisciplinary character of the liberal arts programme.

And why Groningen? “A great and safe city, affordable housing plus the cost of living, the university is a top 100 university.”

•

“ . ..driven by the small-scaled classes that focused on student-teacher relationships, the extremely international student community…”

Pathway #3: MBO or middle-level applied

Drs Kim Zwitserloot, lecturer in economics and tutor/director international recruitment at University College Utrecht (UCU), highlights what attracts international students to UCU: students compose their own individual curriculum, combing at least two different disciplines; residential, American-style, campus; access to Utrecht University facilities, an old and excellent university.

Zwitserloot notes that students can really thrive at UCU: “If you are the kind of student that thinks you ‘don’t know what you want’ but really you are just interested in many things and don’t want to choose (yet), have a look at UCU.”

• • •

An enthusiastic student perspective supports the official views from university college personnel.

Julian Cortes Dezan, French and Mexican, graduated from the American School in Japan. At Leiden University College (LUC) in The Hague, he is pursuing a Global Challenges BSc with a major in Earth, Energy and Sustainability. In applying to and attending LUC, Cortes Dezan says, “Overall, my decision to attend and take part in this university program was driven by the small-scaled classes that focused on student-teacher relationships, the extremely inter­ national student community, the liberal arts and ­science ideals that allow students flexibility in ­dis­covering their academic interests, and student accommodations.” Has the course of study met his expectations? Indeed, “… in every way possible.

The small classes allow one to build strong relationships with teachers as well as provide students ample opportunity to discuss controversial topics during seminars.”

education

Oriented towards vocational training, there are four MBO levels (middelbaar beroepsonderwijs), the highest lasting three to four years and generally starting from age 16. This programme prepares students for jobs with higher responsibility while also opening the gates to higher education.

One such level-four programme is the International Hotel and Management School in The Hague (part of the ROC Mondriaan), established in 1995 in response to the international community’s request for a vocational programme in English. This fouryear programme covering all aspects of Hotel Management is fully taught in English and has 220 students of 27 different nationalities. Marian A. Crone-Keogh (Tutor HRM and Internships) says, “The school distinguishes itself with its international focus, international internships and choice of languages including Mandarin and the requirement to pass examinations in the Dutch language. The school partakes in international competitions and has an exchange programme with a school in Beijing.”

Which pathway to choose?

The higher education pathways are varied to suit every need and interest. Visit schools’ websites and attend the open days for the best way to acquaint yourself with the programmes and life at these institutions. «

About the author Nancy Kroonenberg, with a career in international education behind her, volunteers on the ACCESS Amsterdam Helpdesk and as an Assistant Editor of ACCESS Magazine.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 39

Education | Partner feature

Learning technology: Developing professionals of the future Technology in 3 to 18 education offers exciting possibilities to support and enhance meaningful learning opportunities. However, technology alone, or access to it, doesn’t automatically engender great learning. So, how do we make it work?

The use of mobile devices allows them to record their own voice or sound effects, insert acting film clips of their class, design artwork linked to the story, and ultimately, to become a published author!

Increasing complexity

Technology topics for Year 7 onwards increase in complexity using real-life experiences to promote understanding. The BSN’s India project, a cross curricular topic, enables students to become virtual travel agents: Google-mapping travel routes and ­distances, budgeting transport via key websites, ­culminating in students capturing their learning to teach their peers.

Engaging learners

Students engage best when technology activities link to topics, giving projects an extra dimension.

In Year 2, students at the BSN explore “Favourite & Traditional Tales”, such as Robin Hood. As part of the English curriculum, they learn about story ­settings, structure, vocabulary, and they engage in role-play to understand how characters and story ­elements connect.

Admissions Department 070 315 4077 admissions@britishschool.nl

40 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Once the stories are familiar, alternative digital versions are created. Via iPads and PCs they learn how to combine digital tools such as pen, text, image, video and sound recording. Combining original ideas and media brings a magical dimension.

Other projects include movie trailers to explain ­science topics, virtual game design, and being transported into a historical setting through the use of a green-screen. There’s no boundary to the creative means by which students can exceed expectations and author ideas.

The future is bright

Today’s learners will become the professionals of the future. Recently we have begun to focus on the projected skills required for the 2020 to 2030 work­ place. The World Forum’s Top 10 Skills for 2020 cites problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity as the top three, followed by emotional intelligence, negotiation and cognitive flexibility. By learning to make good choices and build social skills, BSN students will be well equipped to play key roles in designing the digital landscape of the future. «

Arts & Entertainment

Still ‘in style’ 100 years later

Defining De Stijl

De Stijl—‘the Style’ in English—is an early 20th-century art and architectural movement that abandoned natural form in favour of total abstraction. The movement was a sharp break from other contem­ porary art in the Netherlands at the time, such as Art Deco and the Amsterdam School of architecture.

Anne de Haij, a project leader at The Hague’s Gemeentemuseum, describes those as “heavy” because of their use of brick walls, curved lines, and ornamentation. De Stijl is instead “light” with its vertical and horizontal lines and simple colour scheme. The founders’ vision of a modernised world prioritised universalism over individualism, and this new style was the basis for transforming the human environment.

If you live in a Dutch city, you may have noticed a big use of primary colours and straight, bold lines on posters, advertisements, and storefronts this year. In 2017 the Netherlands is celebrating the centenary of the De Stijl artistic movement with a sweeping programme called “From Mondriaan to Dutch Design.”

Museums are curating special exhibits, consumer brands have seasonal De Stijl-themed products, and some popular parks have been landscaped with a De Stijl design. This year is the best chance to become more intimate with this part of Dutch cultural history, and ACCESS is here to help you learn its ins and outs.

PHOTO: MAURICE HAAK & JENNY AUDRING - TEXT UND BILD

BY KELLY MERKS

“Abstract art was the way for De Stijl artists to modernise the arts, and with this art, [modernize] the whole society and world they lived in,” says De Haij.

De Stijl is one of a few avant-garde art movements that rose from the turmoil of World War I. Mondrian was visiting the Netherlands in 1914 when Germany and France began fighting. The Netherlands’ neutrality provided safety. Instead of returning to Paris, he moved to an artists’ colony near Hilversum, where he collaborated with Theo van Doesburg and Bart van der Leck. Together their aesthetic senses and philosophies became more concrete; they favoured universalism over individualism, balance in colour and visual weight over symmetry. They visualised a movement that conveyed harmony and order for post-war societies, in architecture, industrial design, and even music.

“This is quite an optimistic approach to both the arts and the future, which could only rise in a ‘safe’ environment,” says De Haij.

The roots of a movement

De Stijl is perhaps most associated with painter Piet Mondrian. Born Pieter Mondriaan, Jr., in Amersfoort, he studied at the Dutch Royal Academy » ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 41

PHOTO: MAURICE HAAK & JENNY AUDRING - TEXT UND BILD

Arts & Entertainment | Still ‘in style’ 100 years later

…appreciates Van Doesburg’s “very progressive social philosophy that every individual deserves beauty and quality of life”

Stamping the ocassion Even PostNL is in on the fun. Check out the new series of stamps featuring works by Mondrian, Van Doesburg, Rietveld, and Oud. www.collectclub.postnl.nl/ postzegelvel-100-jaar-de-stijl. html

42 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

of Visual Arts before moving to Paris in 1911. To better integrate into the Parisian avant-garde arts scene, he dropped the second ‘a’ in his family name, marking a personal and artistic departure from his Dutch roots. Here he became intimate with different artistic movements—most importantly, Cubism, made famous by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.

In 1917, Van Doesburg printed in Leiden the first e­dition of a magazine called (surprise!) De Stijl, marking the movement’s official establishment. It was the first publication completely dedicated to abstract art.

Van Doesburg had previously lived in Tilburg, where he ruffled local bourgeois feathers with avant-garde parties that showcased art his friends had created.

He used De Stijl to expand the ideas about modern art that moved around this Tilburg circle of friends.

Mondrian used the publication to promote his ideas about art, too, and is where he first used the term “neo-plasticism.” This term is almost synonymous with De Stijl, and is both an artistic mode—plastic arts are those that manipulate a medium, such as painting and sculpture—and to a style that uses only the most fundamental forms of basic elements, such as primary colours and straight lines.

Though De Stijl began as a Dutch enterprise, the movement spread its wings as Mondrian moved to Paris, London, and New York; Van Doesburg carried its torch to Germany to attract young talent interested in Bauhaus and Constructivism, two art disciplines adjacent to De Stijl.

Mondrian, Van Doesburg and Van der Leck are ­recognized as founders of the De Stijl movement.

However, Van der Leck departed the movement in 1918 after disputes with Mondrian. The next year architect and designer Gerrit Rietveld joined the troupe and opened his own furniture factory.

Mondrian and Van Doesburg split over ideological differences in 1924. The era of De Stijl officially ended after Van Doesburg’s death in 1931.

De Stijl would see limited success during the artists’ lifetimes. The emergence of Abstract Expressionism in the early 1940s overshadowed De Stijl’s public recognition. The works would not be taken seriously until the 1960s, when Minimalism renewed appreciation for geometric abstraction.

How Dutch cities are celebrating

Because the four chief De Stijl artists were born in either Utrecht or Amersfoort, these cities are the heart of the celebration, holding exhibits and events throughout the year. Many of Utrecht’s events centre on Rietveld’s architecture, while Amersfoort goes ­all-in for hometown hero Mondrian. The cities’ joint ­programme is rich with activities for all ages and abilities. Join themed walking and cycling tours, ­concerts, and hands-on workshops: www.destijlutrechtamersfoort.nl/en/programme

In recent months The Hague has received coverage in international art and architecture publications for their Mondrian-inspired art outside City Hall. Dubbed “the largest Mondrian painting in the world,” the temporary outDid you k door installation could be the most now..

Rietve .­ ld Sch elaborate nod to De Stijl in the entire röder in Utr H o use echt is country. the o De Stijl U N

ne World ge sit e.

Herita

“Every city emphasizes a different aspect,” says Matthijs de Groot, a project leader in The Hague. “The Hague has the world’s biggest collection of Mondrian, so we focus on him.” De Groot helps implement the city’s Mondrian window dressing scheme, which provides toolkits of black tape and adhesive colour blocks for businesses of all sizes to decorate their storefronts.

The city has distributed 800 toolkits so far—350 went in the first day and a half!

ESCO

PHOTO: MARTHA VIERIA COSTA

Beginning 3 June, The Hague’s Gemeentemuseum will feature more than 300 Mondrian works in its “The Discovery of Mondrian” exhibition. Here, says De Haij, visitors will discover that he was “more than ‘just’ primary colours and abstract compositions.” www.gemeentemuseum.nl Leiden, which touts itself as the birthplace of De Stijl, is presenting a forward-looking exposition.

From 2 June-27 August, Museum De Lakenhal ­presents “Open Air Museum De Lakenhal. 100 Years after De Stijl,” featuring inspired abstract works by 20 international and Dutch artists.

Former Tilburg City Council Member Veerle Slegers is a De Stijl enthusiast who for years has been lobbying local government to get interested in the movement’s Tilburg roots. This year she finally gets her wish: the city is throwing a series of soirees as a nod to Van Doesburg. Slegers not only appreciates the aesthetic, but also Van Doesburg’s “very progressive social philosophy that every individual deserves beauty and quality of life.” www.destijltilburg.nl (Dutch only)

Find other cities participating in the “Mondriaan to Dutch Design” celebrations at www.mondriaantotdutchdesign.nl «

About the author Kelly Merks is a geographer, writer and Texan living in The Hague. When she isn’t thinking about tacos or sneaking food to the neighbourhood alley cat, she’s probably hanging out in her garden with her husband. You can connect with her at @flaneurie.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 43

Law | Partner feature

What happens to Fido?

In 2005, a Rhodesian Ridgeback named Paco caused a royal controversy. Dutch Princess Margarita was brought to court by her ex-husband, who wanted the court to award him visitation rights with the dog. What does Dutch law say about pets during divorce?

Perhaps you started out your relationship by adopting an adorable puppy together, but now the relationship is ending. What happens to man’s best friend?

Property dispute

BY THIJS SARNEEL

070 361 5048 www.legalexpatdesk.nl

44 | ACCESS | SUMMER 2017

Dutch law treats your pet, whether it has fur, feathers, scales or otherwise, as a part of the household property.

While the Dutch legislative authority is very careful in its wording regarding animals, for the purposes of settling a divorce, legally, the dog is the same as any other household good. This means there is no legal framework for visitation rights with a pet, like those with a child. If the pet is considered joint property, ownership will be awarded during the settlement process to one of the parties. And you might think your pet python is priceless, but such a snake would be given a value in the property settlement.

Should you or your ex-partner be unable to bear the thought of taking the couch but leaving Puss the cat behind, you can arrange for joint ownership.

Sharing ownership of the cat would be similar to sharing ownership of the house. You and your ex-partner can negotiate when each of you has access. It’s also possible that, if you brought little Puss into the relationship, you may be eligible to keep your cat after the relationship ends.

The best interest of the pet

Recently, however, a court in Limburg ruled that the best interest of the animal should be taken into account when determining custody. Animal experts advised the court that multiple homes for, in this case, a dog was not ideal. It’s not clear what ramifications this ruling may have on other divorce settlements and whether or not this will be the start of a new trend in pet-related divorce settlements.

Princess Margarita’s ex-husband was denied visitation with Paco since, as a dog parent, no matter how much he loved his four-legged friend, is not eligible for parental visitation under Dutch law.

If you want to ensure that your pets (and all of your other assets) are cared for during a divorce, lawyers at the Legal Expat Desk can assist you.

We are specialised in family law for internationals living in the Netherlands. We can answer your questions regarding divorce, parenting plans, asset allocation and much more. Get in touch with one of our lawyers in our Family, Inheritance and Estate Planning today. «

Photo Contest

Our view

We’re proud to present the winners of the ACCESS Magazine Our view Photo Contest.

This edition’s photo contest theme was Animal Life.

2nd Martha Vieira Costa.

Photo taken in The Hague.

3rd 1st Renee Lamoureux.

Photo taken in Posterholt.

Lei Yang.

Photo taken in Rotterdam.

Your picture here?

The deadline for entries for the Autumn contest is Monday, 24 July, 2017, 23.59 Central European Time.

The theme is Generations.

How to enter Find full contest rules on the ACCESS website. Enter “photo contest rules” in the search bar or go directly to access-nl.org/about-access/access-publications/our-view-photo-contest-general-rules-instructions.aspx

Thanks to our sponsors ACCESS is grateful to our supporters for donating the prizes.

ACCESS | SUMMER 2017 | 45

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How to buy a house in the Netherlands..

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