ACCESS Winter 2016

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

30 years

Turn on to Dutch TV 2016

Winter

In this issue | TV habits of the Dutch | Building trust in healthcare | Dutch bread: The new sexy | The wonderful world of the stroopwafel | Pioneering our Patron Programme |

Setting the Standard

Working at Zein International Childcare ‘‘So much more than just a job’’ Are you interested in working for a truly unique International Childcare organisation, looking after children from all over the world?

Zein Childcare is the leading provider of English speaking childcare services in the Netherlands, offering Day Care, Pre-School, After School Care and Holiday Care across multiple locations in The Hague. We work both independently and in partnership with key international schools, delivering a specially designed award-winning approach that focusses on the uniqueness of growing up in an internationally oriented environment.

Interested?

Visit the ‘Working for Us’ section on zeinchildcare.nl for the current vacancies and details on who qualifies to apply.

Due to continued growth Zein International Childcare has a range of exciting career opportunities available. Across the different childcare services, we offer full time jobs as well as flexible and part time options.

Series of Zein Academy training sessions

Attractive salary and pension plan

Internal promotional opportunities

Internationally diverse colleagues

Letter from the editor

Dear ACCESS readers PHOTO: RUDI WELLS FOTOGRAFIE

My relationship with Dutch TV started the minute I began my expat life, arriving at Schiphol wearing tall rain boots and shuffling three extra-large suitcases. To my surprise, on the other side of Customs was a camera crew greeting me to my new country.

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

You see, while he waited for me to arrive, roses in hand, my boyfriend was interviewed by Joris Linssen, host of Hello Goodbye, a reality show featuring people saying – you guessed it – ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ to loved ones at the airport. The show is wrought with emotion, ­telling of couples coming together at Arrivals, families separating at Departures.

The ­emotional turmoil of terminals: a simple concept that the Dutch people have been in love with this past decade. (By the way, apparently our personal love story was not ­emotional enough to put on air —or maybe it was the blue rubber boots?)

What was your first impression of Dutch television? Do you enjoy any of the top picks Cathy Leung describes in our cover story? A popular ‘reality’ show? A dating competition or talk show? Also find out from Molly Quell about Dutch people’s TV habits, opening a gateway for us to get to better know our Dutch neighbours.

…on the other side of Customs was a camera crew greeting me to my new country

When you’re done with the couch-potato tales, get inspired by Patrick Mulligan’s article on Dutch dance, an inspiring world sure to move you! Carolyn Vines confesses her love for Dutch breads, and in an exclusive illustration just for us, Gemma Gahan shares her challenge to figure out some unrecognisable everyday tools that the Dutch swear by.

Steven Ecott slows us down, inviting us to chill out and warm up like the locals on the island of Bonaire, a paradise once part of the Dutch Antilles where nowadays donkeys, ­flamingos and Dutch supermarkets make up the landscape.

Finally, a big thanks to our volunteer contributors, loyal readers and partners for your ­support this year. Here’s wishing you a prosperous and peaceful 2017! Share your memorable holiday experiences with us on facebook.com/ACCESS-Netherlands, or write to us at ­editor@access-nl.org.

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 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 Beeld en Geluid

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.

Jocelyn & Cathy, seabass creatives

Liselore Chevalier, Pieter Henket, Tourism Corporation Bonaire,

Contributors Steven Ecott, Gemma Gahan, Elizabeth Joss, Cathy Leung,

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

@

Olga Mecking, Patrick Mulligan, Molly Quell, Deborah Valentine,

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

4 | ACCESS | AUTUMN 2016

Olivia van den Broek-Neri, Carolyn van Es-Vines

Join ACCESS on

Winter 2016 Vol. 29 No. 4

20

12

Circulation: 4,000 Also available online at: magazine.access-nl.org

Contents 7 ACCESS News Pioneering our Patron Programme 9 What’s On for Winter 12 Cover Story You think Dutch sandwiches are odd? Try Dutch TV 20 Arts & Entertainment Dutch dance: a reflection of us 24 International Community Say what?!

29

27 Review The wonderful world of the stroopwafel 29 Education Pre-school with a

41

purpose 32 Dutch Lifestyle Serious and silly TV habits of the Dutch 35 Health & Wellbeing Building trust in healthcare for internationals 38 Food Dutch bread: The new sexy 41 Travel A touch of warmth in winter: Bonaire 44 ACCESS Classifieds the orange pages

27

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 | WINTER 2016 | 5

International Community | Partner feature

On Sunday, 5 February 2017, The Feel at Home in The Hague Fair will celebrate its 10th edition.

More than 4,000 visitors attended the event in The Hague City Hall earlier this year and

performances, chosen specifically to Welcome Internationals to The Hague (WITH). These special events will all take place in the 36 hours surrounding the Fair - a showcase of the great variety of entertainment The Hague has to offer to all sections of our diverse community.

appreciated the unique ambiance created by dynamic programme of activities, entertainment, workshops and seminars.

Welcoming Internationals to The Hague No other expat event in the Netherlands engenders quite the same sense of community as The Hague Feel at Home Fair, where nearly half of the stands are local sports and social clubs or volunteer organisations. These groups exhibit free of charge and relish the opportunity to advertise their activities, network and recruit new members.

Not only for newcomers

As you might expect, around a fifth of our visitors last year were newcomers to the Netherlands, but perhaps more surprisingly, over a third had lived here more than 10 years! What these two groups had in fair@thehagueonline.com common was a desire to learn more about interesting www.feelathomeinthehague.com things to do and events and activities happening in their region.

WITH: 36 hours of culture and performance

The 2017 Feel at Home Fair will be at the heart of an exciting offering of cultural events, promotions and

6 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

Events range from Children’s Museum night on Saturday to Beats and Beethoven, a special contemporary performance by The Hague’s Residential Orchestra at the Paard, The Hague’s hip concert venue. On Sunday there will be a Radio West Concert in the Nieuwe Kerk while the CaDance Modern Dance Festival will run the whole weekend alongside English Theatre productions and special inter­ national shows and performances in many of The Hague’s best known shops, galleries and squares.

The Feel at Home Fair is also working with some of The Hague’s top hotels and restaurants to Welcome Internationals from outside the region who wish to make The Hague a destination for that weekend.

So mark your calendar now: 4 - 5 February 2017, a great weekend to meet with friends and share in the discovery and enjoyment of the great city of The Hague. « PHOTOS: MAARTENEVENHUIS

the combination of 150 diverse exhibitors with a

ACCESS News

Pioneering our Patron Programme

Companies large and small invest a lot in attracting the best ­talent for their industry. They increasingly appreciate the need to support their new staff members and their partners and families, beyond the initial arrival and settling phase. ACCESS has proven in its 30-year history that it is a reliable, trustworthy and unique partner for this purpose. Our volunteers have themselves been through the expatriation process. It is their experience, empathy and understanding that can be of immense help to newcomers.

PHOTO MARTHA V COSTA

In the last five years especially, ACCESS has risen to the occasion of supporting government services to welcome and help settle i­­nternationals. We have become partners with the expat desks of The Hague, Utrecht, Amsterdam and most recently Leiden.

Today, we are poised to build on that expertise and reach even ­further into the community through international employers.

During our Anniversary event, recently held at the American School of The Hague – where ACCESS all started – the Chair of ACCESS, Gary Hays, announced

The ACCESS Patron Programme is an opportunity for international employers to invest in us. Doing so ensures that ACCESS is available to support HR departments and their employees, at all times, through a comprehensive offering of services.

From answering questions through our Heldpesk, providing FAQ Guides on our website, facilitating a Counselling Service Network for in-confidence consultations, or producing our print magazine, everything ACCESS does serves the international community. The internationals who enter the Netherlands benefit from a richer and more ­successful integration with ACCESS by their side.

Our Patrons serve as models to the commitment to international employees. We salute and thank CB&I, a founding member, for pioneering this programme with us. For details about how the Patron Programme can serve your company, contact Deborah Valentine, Executive Director of ACCESS, at edirector@access-nl.org «

the launch of a new initiative.

The ACCESS Patron Programme is an initiative targeted to supporting international employers welcoming new international

expatriates, and supporting model of serving n of its 30th ACCESS is a unique In commemoratio nds Foreign the Netherlands. internationals in support of the Netherlashare the are grateful for the us to capture, and Anniversary we lly in (NFIA) for allowing in 30 years, especia Investment Agency tion. Much has changedhaving expats help expats organisa our of less, history nonethe tion availability, terms of informa do. we what of remains at the heart

The story of ACCESS ACCESS is a unique mod internation als in the Nethel of serving and supp Anniversa orting expa erlands. In ry we are triates, commemor grate Investmen ation of its t Agency (NFIAful for the support 30th of the history of ) for allow our ing us to captuNetherlands Foreign terms of infor organisation. Much re, and share has changed mation availa the remains at in 30 years bility, none the heart of , especially what we do. theless, having expa in ts help expa ts

ACCESS is grateful for the support of the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency for helping us capture our history in The story of ACCESS: a ‘Dutch’ model for supporting expatriation. Download your free copy on our History page of the ACCESS website: www.access-nl.org/about-access/about-access/history.aspx “We reside in a humble recognise country, yet s and globalisation. embraces the trem a nation of progress, inviting, welc The Netherlands is endous good that can one that a leadi come from oming and narrative.” settling inter ng state when it come nationals into the every s to Mandie van day der Meer-Dan ielski, Edito r ACCESS www.acces Magazine s-nl.org helpd esk@access

-nl.org

employees to the Netherlands.

that of progress, one country, yet a nation can come from “We reside in a humble es the tremendous good that it comes to recognises and embrac ands is a leading state when everyday Netherl the globalisation. The and settling internationals into ing inviting, welcom e Editor ACCESS Magazin narrative.”

Meer-Danielski, Mandie van der www.access-nl.org nl.org helpdesk@access-

The story

a ‘Dutch’ mod

of ACCESS

el for supp

orting expa

triation

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 7

Internationally Excellent British Curriculum and IB programmes for ages 3-18

Join us for our

Open Day 8 Feb 2017 Contact: admissions@britishschool.nl +31 (0)70 315 4077

Internationally British

www.britishschool.nl

www.feelathomeinthehague.com *

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SUNDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2017 11.00 - 17.00 THE HAGUE CITY HALL

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Welcoming Inte

A meeting point and fun day out for internationals and like-minded locals to share information and experiences about what makes them “Feel at Home in The Hague�

Partners and Sponsors

*when you pre-register on our website

What’s On

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

www.bandofliberation.nl (Dutch only)

5k Santa Run

Dickens Festival

www.toerisme.groningen.nl/en/events/ santa-run

www.dickensfestijn.nl/english-information

10 December - Leiden

17 December - Groningen

If, like us, you thought this was a convention for people with military-themed t­attoos on their body, then make this event an educational experience.

Showcased by the Dutch army band “Band of Liberation”, the Christmas tattoo will include military music and theatrical demonstrations steeped in military t­radition. The program includes both Dutch and international corps who will perform to an audience of 1,200 people, promising an enthralling and engrossing experience of lights, sound, and action.

Going for a run might not be high on your list of priorities in these cold winter months, but pull out your trusty Santa suit and you’ll be good to go! The 5k Santa Run in Groningen is a great event filled with music and good cheer to keep you going as you cover the streets of the northern city with fellow bearded runners. Of course, there is an incentive on top of the satisfying physical exercise: once you cross the finish line, you’ll be ready to join the celebrations for a Christmas party in Grote Markt.

Peter Lindbergh: A Different Vision on Fashion Photography www.kunsthal.nl/en/exhibitions/peter-lindbergh

Until 12 February - Rotterdam This exhibition opens the doors on Peter Lindbergh’s extensive work in the field of fashion photography and reveals how he helped shaped the image of a strong willed and real ­contemporary woman. His black and white photographs have “defined the course of fashion photography since the 1980s” and feature some of the most recognizable names in fashion: Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss… The list goes on – and so does this incredible peek into the man’s creative process, through prints, polaroids, storyboards, contact sheets, and personal notes. A must-see for lovers of fashion and photography.

PHOTO: GERARD DUBOIS

International Military Christmas Tattoo

17-18 December - Deventer Love seasonal markets, but bored of the usual fare? Then the Dickens Festival is the place to be if you fancy hailing in the Christmas holidays with some good old fashioned Victorian cheer. This Christmas market is brought to life by characters from Dickens’ work and traditions from 19th century England, with both people in elegant costume, street roaming drunkards, and choirs filling the city with the sound of Christmas past. Why not make a stay of it and enjoy everything the beautiful historic town of Deventer has to offer?

Valhalla Festival www.valhallafestival.nl/2016

17 December - Amsterdam Magic, mystery, and music come together at a festival like no other. Valhalla Festival combines music and circus into a huge night party in Amsterdam, where it promises to “redefine the very meaning of normal”. Not for the faint of heart, those of you with a sense of adventure and fun will find the international line-up and huge venue likely to satisfy your thirst for the surreal in this strange, musical, winter wonderland.

PHOTOS: PETER LINDBERGH COURTESY OF PETER LINDBERGH PARIS GAGOSIAN GALLERY

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 9

What’s On

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

InterClassics

Food Soul Festival

www.ic-tm.nl/en

www.foodsoulfestival.nl

27-29 January - Amsterdam

PHOTO: INTERCLASSICS

There is no better combination for a ‘gezellig’ day out than good company, good food, and good music. You provide the company, Food Soul Festival has the rest: food trucks with offerings from across the globe, a wine bar, craft beers, and live soul music. Amsterdam’s Kromhouthal will be filled to the brim!

The event introduces you to fellow food lovers and ‘levensgenieters’ sitting across from you at a communal table.

12-15 January - Maastricht

Eurosonic Noorderslag www.eurosonic-noorderslag.nl/en

Snowball Winter Festival www.sneeuwbalfestival.nl/english

11-14 January - Groningen 28 January - Utrecht Eurosonic Noorderslag consistently sells out each year, and with good reason.

It is the biggest platform for European music, featuring over 300 artists from across the continent and notably kicking off the careers of recent successes such as Hozier and Aurora. As well as concerts, it also hosts 150 panels, keynote speakers, interviews, and workshops.

Rather than a festival, it’s more of an international music conference and n­etworking event, frequented as much by industry professionals as by members of the public. A definite must on the music calendar.

10 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

While we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to music festivals in the Netherlands, the Snowball Festival ­certainly stands out. Not to be deterred by winter temperatures, the event encourages a ski-wear dress code, or at least a few layers and grandma’s knitted sweater, so you can enjoy both the amazing selection of electronic music and outdoor winter-themed activities.

Four stages, international acts, and the renowned Dutch electro vibe make this winter party one of the best and most humorous around.

IMPRO Amsterdam www.impro-amsterdam.nl

23-28 January - Amsterdam Improv theatre is acting of the most spontaneous nature: no script, and ­everything is made up on the spot! At IMPRO Amsterdam, you’re guaranteed 100% original theatre performances that you, the audience, can influence as they go along. The best at the craft will be present to blow you away with humour, wit, and drama. While you’re at it, why not try your hand at a workshop yourself? IMPRO could help you connect with yourself in a way you’ve never had the opportunity to before.

PHOTO: ROBIN STRAAIJER

Feast your eyes on some of the most gorgeous classic cars around at this crossroads of timeless style, class, and motoring. Last year’s edition attracted just over 29,000 Dutch and international visitors to its offering of cars, spare parts, and ‘automobilia’ of the highest order.

The 2017 edition is themed after Ferrari’s 70th birthday celebration… So maybe try saving some of that Christmas money to put towards the big purchase you always dreamed of!

What’s On

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

www.stedelijk.nl/en/exhibitions/ ed-van-der-elsken-camera-in-love

4 February - 28 May 2017 Amsterdam Ed van der Elsken is cited as “the most important Dutch photographer of the 20th century." This retrospective covers his huge body of work, spanning across multiple mediums, such as prints, books, slides, and films. Renowned for his groundbreaking photobook Love on the Left Bank, capturing the gritty romanticism of post-war life. This never-seenbefore exhibition is a journey alongside a great artist and thoughtful observer of the human condition.

Chocoa Festival

Abafazi: African Sunset

www.chocoa.nl/events/chocoa-festiv

www.impactentertainment.nl/shows/ details/1617-abafazi

22-26 February - Amsterdam Chocolate lovers should head to the Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam for a festival promoting sustainable and good quality chocolate. Chocoa highlights the challenges of global chocolate production while inviting you to taste new flavours, concoctions from top patissiers, and learn about the journey cocoa ­follows from bean to bar. A pleasure for your taste buds but also your conscience, Chocoa is the perfect way to engage with your food while deriving as much enjoyment from it as possible.

Universum Theo Jansen www.strandbeest.com/events.php

PHOTO: WIM LANSER

Ed van der Elsken: Camera in Love

16 February-7 May 2017 various locations Abafazi brightens the gloomy winter with a performance full of sunshine and rhythm, during which the audience is encouraged to stand up, dance and clap along. For this show music isn’t only about listening, it’s about moving and connecting with the people around you.

A wonderful way to experience music with a sense of community. Enjoy and discover various types of traditional instruments from the African continent such as the icolongo flute or the stringbased uhadi.

PHOTO: ROBIN STRAAIJER

Delft Blues Festival www.delftblues.nl

17-19 February - Delft

18 November 2016 - 5 March 2017 - Delft Theo Jansen’s mystical strandbeest glide across sandy beaches like sentient living creatures. Having just returned from a journey around the world, these sculptures of whimsy and ingenious engineering are back home at the Museum Prinsenhof. Made only of tubes and powered by wind (and a little imagination), Jansen’s species are a sight to behold.

The exhibition pulls together threads of fantasy and reality, bringing these beasts to life, showcasing texts, genetic codes, experiments devised around these unique creations.

Explore Delft to the sound of great blues, in the warmth of its best cafés and restaurants during the yearly Blues Festival. Held across the city in various locations, it’s a brilliant way to get to know the city intimately while nursing your musical ear and a pint of craft beer.

The entire city joins in with workshops and film screenings. Plan your route in advance so as not to miss anything!

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 11

Cover story

You think Dutch sandwiches

12 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

are odd? Try Dutch TV Whether you own a television set or not, the cultural significance of certain television programmes in the Netherlands means it’s worthwhile acquainting yourself with them. If you do own a TV set, then you also have an in-home Dutch language tool; turn on the subtitles (press 888) for the local programming and you get a useful learning aid that many newcomers swear by. Writer and broadcaster Cathy Leung explores the extremes and delights of the Dutch television landscape.

BY CATHY LEUNG (tweets @cathycentral)

What do the Dutch like to watch on TV?

The ratings provider Stichting Kijkonderzoek (SKO, television ratings service) keeps track of the most popular television shows in the Netherlands for us but, like most cultural sectors, there’s more to it than just numbers. I’ve picked out a range of shows to suit all tastes, to give you a general picture of the iconic Dutch television productions, from low-brow to high-brow.

The favourites

PHOTO: HANS-PETER VAN VELTHOVEN

Boer Zoekt Vrouw

This most-watched show of 2015 has become fun­ damental to Dutch pop culture, with over 4 million viewers switching on to watch the season’s final ­episode. (One of my faves.)

Story so far: On air since 2004 (based on a format from a Swiss show), this dating show matches up the country’s lonely farmers with willing singles, a selection of whom get to stay on the farm and test out country life. In 2016 there was a well-received international edition featuring farmers from the US, Zambia, France, Canada and Romania.

Star of the show: Yvon Jaspers, a warm and likeable TV presenter with the necessary sensitivity for emotional moments.

Where and when: Sundays at 20:23 on NPO1 (KRO-NCRV) Goede Tijden Slechte Tijden

Every country needs a good soap opera, and this is the Netherlands’ main offering.

Story so far: Set in and around a fictional Dutch town, Meerdijk, and following the lives of certain families there who seem to get more than their fair share of sexual intrigue, murder and more. The town has even seen an Ebola outbreak.

Star of the show: Particular mention has to go to the character of Lucas Sanders (played by Ferry Doedens) whose wedding to policeman Menno Kuiper (played

by Dave Mantel) was the first ever gay wedding on a soap opera and attracted worldwide attention.

Where and when: Monday to Friday at 20:00 on RTL4 Talk to me

There are a lot of talk shows in the Netherlands, ­perhaps a throwback to the Dutch polder model of consensus decision-making, sitting around a table » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 13

Cover story | You think Dutch sandwiches are odd? Try Dutch TV

One friend apparently watched all the way through a rare occurrence. Indeed, during the episode with Op de Beeck, local Twitter feeds erupted with the hashtag #VerliefdopGriet (trans: #inlovewithGriet).

Where and when: Every summer, three hours on Sunday nights from 20:15, on NPO2 (VPRO)

PHOTO: RTL

De Wereld Draait Door

I felt there really wasn’t any need for yet another TV talent show...

I was wrong, so wrong. together, usually with refreshments. There’s Pauw (formerly Pauw and Witteman before Paul Witteman retired), and one of the few talk shows hosted by a woman, Jinek, presented by Eva Jinek. Here are my preferences:

Yes, it has the ubiquitous round-table chats with guests, but with live music and cheeky bloopers to spice things up a bit. It’s filmed in front of a live audience at the Westergasfabriek complex in Amsterdam.

Story so far: Only on air since 2012, De Wereld Draait Door has fast become popular – though critics have sniped that its format has begun to grow stale already.

Star of the show: The rock-star like host, Matthijs van Nieuwkerk. However, serial parody producer, Sander van de Pavert from The Hague-based Lucky TV also has a weekly spot on De Wereld Draait Door and in the October run-up to the US elections, he made an international splash with a video mash-up of Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton in a duet of “I’ve Had the Time of My Life.”

Where and when: Monday to Friday, 19:00 on NPO1 (VARA) RTL Late Night

Zomergasten

This show always creates bit of a buzz each year when the host and the guests are announced, and in my own social circle it’s definitely generated a few “water cooler” moments during its short season.

Story so far: Created in 1988, Zomergasten allows key figures in (mostly Dutch) society to curate an evening of television, clips and film with a live long-form studio interview.

Star of the show: In 2016, the episode with the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte attracted a lot of attention across the country. It seemed unprecedented that a sitting prime minister would take part in this style of marathon live interview. However, my sources tell me that the best episode in a long time was with Belgian author Griet Op de Beeck on 21 August 2016.

14 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

To get the latest on current events, sports, entertainment and to get to know the movers and shakers here, tune in to RTL Late Night before bedtime.

Story so far: A daily talk show, this one filmed in front of a live audience at Brasserie NH Schiller on Rembrandtplein in Amsterdam.

Star of the show: Host Humberto Tan (pictured left) is known for his non-judgemental listening style and in 2016 he won the Sonja Barend Award for the Best TV Interview, which was with four survivors from the attack on the Bataclan music venue in Paris. He also won the Zilveren Televizier-Ster award for Best Presenter in the Netherlands 2016; this, despite coming under criticism for his style when the show first began.

Where and when: Monday to Friday, 22:30, RTL4

For the whole family Family-friendly television in the Netherlands doesn’t get better than this.

Story so far: A loose quiz-show format on the natural world, with audience members and BNers (bekende Nederlanders, or Dutch celebrities). Together the teams and the audience have to do things like “guess the animal” and “guess the animal poop”. Filmed in a studio set transformed into a jungle (see photo right).

Star of the show: Host, the charming young Dr. Freek Vonk, is a snake specialist who also sells out his own live nature shows at the Heineken Music Hall.

Where and when: Saturdays at 20:25 on NPO1 (BNN/ VARA)

PHOTO: ANNEMIEKE VAN DER TOGT

Super Freek Show

The singing competition with the enormous spinning chairs during the blind auditions.

Story so far: Back in 2010 at the show’s start, I know I felt there really wasn’t any need for yet another TV talent show. I was wrong, so wrong. The voice of Holland was an immediate success and is now a worldwide franchise.

Star of the show: The coaches seem to change nearly every season, but it’s still hosted by Martijn Krabbé and Wendy van Dijk, who have been with the show from the start.

Where and when: Fridays at 20:30 on RTL4 How is the Dutch television industry organised?

The domestic Dutch television industry can seem a little confusing at times; there’s a myriad of players and the field is changing all the time. Is VPRO a broadcaster or a producer? The same can be asked for VARA. What’s the difference between NTR, NOS and NPO? What happened to Nederland 1, 2 and 3?

And why is there an RTL 4, 5, 7 and 8, but 6 is SBS? Public broadcasting

Essentially there are three main public broadcasting channels, NPO1, 2 and 3 (previously known as Nederland 1, 2 and 3 or NED1, NED2 and NED3).

PHOTO: TALPA

The voice of Holland

Together these are the equivalent of the UK’s BBC or the US’s PBS, hosting some of the highest quality ­television programmes. However, in the Netherlands these free-to-air public channels are a shared platform for a subset of separate public broadcasting “associations”, such as VPRO and VARA as well as the independent NTR. The broadcasting associations »

Honourable mentions he staple of the TV diet all over the world is the evening news, and in the Netherlands this • T“sit-down” moment comes at 20:00 for NOS Journaal (NPO1), with more analysis at 22:00 during the longer format Nieuwsuur (NPO2).

On Sundays, the sofa is reserved for football at 19:00 with NOS Studio Sport Eredivisie (NPO1).

Groot Dictee: A charming national spelling bee.

Heel Holland Bakt: the Dutch version of the Great British Bake Off. Ik Hou van Holland: a celebrity game show testing celebrities on their national general knowledge, hosted by Linda de Mol. (RTL4)

• • • •

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 15

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Cover story | You think Dutch sandwiches are odd? Try Dutch TV

t­ elevision programmes since 2014 on SALTO, Amsterdam’s public access broadcaster (pictured left). broadcastamsterdam.wordpress.com Commercial TV

PHOTO: BROADCAST AMSTERDAM

Dutch television includes several commercial channels like Net 5, the RTLs, Veronica, etc., which run a combination of local Dutch programming and imports. On all of these channels you might find shows or films in English with Dutch subtitles.

What you definitely don’t get: your favourite show from home dubbed over with Did Dutch voices. Phew!

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operate on a membership basis, a system with r­eligious and social origins, whereas NTR is an i­ndependent organisation.

now..

On 2 .­ Octob e r 1951 first te , the levisio n bro from adcas the N t etherla nds took p lace in ­ B ussum .

Another confusing area: the daily Nieuwsuur programme is a co-production between the household brand NOS and NTR. Also, unlike the BBC, surprisingly the public channels do run advertising between their programming, although there is a cap on the income they can receive from this and a show is never interrupted for an ad break; they are only shown in between shows.

Though it’s not always evident whilst watching them and there are some crossovers, the three public channels have different themes for their content: NPO 1 covers news, current affairs, sports and family content; NPO 2 is for arts, culture, politics, news, current affairs and religion; NPO 3 focuses on young people and innovation.

You can also watch regional public broadcasting, depending on where you live. In Friesland, for ­example, the local TV channel even broadcasts in the Frisian language. And Broadcast Amsterdam has been running locally-themed English-language

Cable TV

Most people in the Netherlands watch digital television via a cable provider. Cable providers have an enormous amount of channels to choose from, and flexible ways in which to watch their content. Like many internationals, I appreciate cable TV because it enables me to watch television from home, in my case the BBC. Our cable provider also allows us to watch all the channels from a computer or smart device, which is quite handy – when your husband wants to watch football and you want to watch a movie – you can pack him off to the bedroom with an iPad. One noteworthy channel is the premium film channel Film 1, which has been running since 2006, and since 2015 has been run by Sony Pictures Television.

I’ve been watching films on Film 1 for a few years now, and it offers a fairly good and up-to-date range of films that I dip into from time to time, more so than with our old Netflix account. As an example, from November, Oscar-laden film The Revenant was added to their programming, about 10 months after its cinema release in the Netherlands.

Dutch exports

Though actual Dutch TV shows don’t tend to get exported overseas, the formats themselves have been big business for many years, as we have seen with » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 17

Jack and the Beanstalk (5+) 3­4 Feb 2017

one and only

A Christmas Carol 9­20 Dec 2016

The English Theatre in the Netherlands!

Cover story | You think Dutch sandwiches are odd, try Dutch TV

Dishonourable mentions nything with Paul de Leeuw and Gordon in it. Gordon which is his full showbiz name is also • Aknown affectionately as “Goor”―was a member of the Toppers band and he currently has a chat show of his own after co-presenting with his sidekick Gerard Joling (“Geer”) for many shows. Gieren met Goor (“Roaring with Goor”, on RTL 4) brings on two guests per show to look back at their careers in a humorous light. Paul de Leeuw, also a singer, has been on Dutch television for over 30 years and is associated with the Eurovision Song Contest. These two are not to everyone’s tastes, and not to my own, but it does seem there is a loyal following in the Netherlands for this particular style of entertainment. Case in point: my Dutch husband disagrees with me about Paul de Leeuw.

There are reality shows galore, always aiming to shock and push boundaries, one of the most recent being Adam Zkt. Eva (“Adam searches for Eve”, on RTL 5), a naked dating show, the format for which has already been syndicated worldwide. But even for the Dutch, the very latest show, Get the F*ck Out of My House (RTL5), may be a step too far. The show puts 100 people in a house suitable for four, with only enough beds, toilet paper and bread for four.

Those who make it to the end of the 60-episode series get whatever is left of the household pot, up to €100,000.

•

(“New to the Netherlands”) and so far they have funding for one year. Online you can watch a specially curated range of programmes from various broadcasters.

Brought about after an idea from VPRO boss Lennart van der Meulen to help refugees assimilate into Dutch culture, Net in Nederland is a great tool for all newcomers to the Netherlands. There are also plans to make shorter clips of programmes. As Bernadette Slotboom, Director of Net in Nederland, says, “A lot of people in our target audience watch on their mobile or on a tablet… They don’t have the patience to watch all shows out [sic], so I think we are going to change our programming to much shorter items.”

What is the future of Dutch TV?

The Voice. The success probably started in 1999 with Big Brother, where contestants spend months living in a house in isolation with cameras filming them throughout, while the voice of “Big Brother” gives them regular tasks to perform in return for “treats”.

One housemate is evicted each week according to a public vote. The show now has over 54 franchises globally. Though the producer, Endemol, is itself now part of the Endemol Shine Group after its merger with the UK’s Shine TV, it has kept its ­headquarters in Amsterdam.

Endemol made further headlines back in 2011 when there was a call-out for contestants to take part in Mars One - where they would be sent to the planet Mars in 2025, and filmed during the process, much like Big Brother. Since then, budget disparities have stalled the production, with Bas Lansdorp, the Dutch CEO of Mars One, talking with other television producers to make the series.

In recent years there have been plenty of reorganisations and cutbacks, and there may well be more of this to come. Public broadcasting particularly has seen huge reductions in funding, and―many still mourn the loss of the world service part of Dutch public broadcasting, including Radio Netherlands Worldwide. This year RTV Noord Holland reduced their output to one hour of new programming per day, which made the news (ironically?). Commercial companies like SBS have also made layoffs this year.

Given the relatively small market in which they operate, and the changing way in which we, the audience, consume our media, it’s likely the future and breadth of Dutch television will be challenged. In the meantime, enjoy the wide variety of entertainment and information on offer on Dutch television. Get familiar with famous faces, and take advantage of the opportunity to pick up the language. Dutch TV is a window into the culture like no other. «

A way to learn the language

About the author

In April 2016, a new project launched to share Dutch television programmes online with English and Arabic subtitles. The project is called Net in Nederland

Writer and broadcaster, Cathy Leung, is based in Amsterdam where she heads up Broadcast Amsterdam, a media non-profit.

Cathy tweets for fun @cathycentral.

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 19

Arts & Entertainment

Dance as a performative art form emerged in this tiny northern European country only after the Second World War, much later than in other dance centres such as Milan, Paris, London and Moscow.

BY PATRICK MULLIGAN

Dutch dance: a reflection of us Despite its modest size and short history, however, the Dutch dance world has it all, from classical ballet to modern contemporary and everything in between.

And perhaps because of its short history, unlike those other cities, dance in the Netherlands is less restrained by the expectations of historical precedent.

This is not to say that the classics are dead. On the contrary, one of the most celebrated Dutch choreographers, Hans van Manen, “the Mondriaan of dance” (pictured page 23), who turns 85 this year, often speaks about the importance of connecting to tradition. But there is ample space for experimentation, making dance in the Netherlands more exciting, more diverse and more interesting to both dancers and audiences alike.

The big four

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h-bor n ball et r Marie Taglio credit ni is ed as the fir st to dance en po inte in 1832.

dance

PHOTO: PETROVSKY AND RAMONE

20 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

Egalitarian is a word often used to describe Dutch society. The Dutch dance world can be seen as a microcosm of that mentality. There is no single heart of Dutch dance and there is very little ­pretentiousness. While Amsterdam is home to Het Nationale Ballet – one of the top five classical ballets in the world – and The Hague home to Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT) – one of the most innovative-world-class talent can be found in all parts of the country. Arnhem, in the east, is home to Introdans, a company whose motto Iedereen kan dansen (“Everybody can dance”)

echoes this egalitarian sentiment. Rotterdam in South Holland is home to Scapino Ballet, the oldest Dutch dance company, founded in 1945, and the first dance company in the world to focus on producing performances for children. (In the 90s, they changed their DNA to produce ­modern performances for adults.)

These are the big four (part of BIS, or Basic Cultural Infrastructure for institutions), and all of them tour extensively, both at home and abroad.

Training grounds

World-class dancers can be found training at your local dance studio, sharing space, ideas and inspiration with aspiring amateurs and the general public.

Perhaps no place exemplifies this aspect of the Dutch dance world better than Chassé Dance Studios in Amsterdam, the largest dance studio in Europe with eight studios under one roof offering hundreds of classes in all types of styles.

Now in its third season, Chassé Dance Studios is the realization of a dream to renovate Chassékerk, an old church that had fallen into disrepair, and to repurpose it to provide a community space for people to mix and mingle. Lauri Schep, Artistic Director, believes this vision has been a success and credits the power of dance as a common language capable of breaking down barriers and bringing people from disparate backgrounds together. (www.chassedancestudios.com) Tim Persent, a veteran of the Dutch dance world currently with LeineRoebana, who trains at Henny Jurriens Stichting (also based at Chassékerk), agrees, but thinks that the power of dance goes even deeper, tapping into a primal need to simply move our ­bodies. Even if we can’t speak the language, it still feels good to move no matter who you are.

Upcoming performances Nederlands Dans Theater www.ndt.nl/en/ Spirit Walking 8 - 14 December 2016; Scenic Route 2 February - 8 April 2017 Het Nationale Ballet www.operaballet.nl/en Coppelia (for ages 4+) 10 December 2016 – 1 January 2017 Made in Amsterdam 11 – 25 February 2017 Introdans www.introdans.nl/introdans-en/ TUTTI Until 16 December 2016; Hurray for Hans (for ages 6+) 21 January – 28 May 2017 Scapino www.scapinoballet.nl/en PABLO Until 8 March 2017; Holland; Le Chat Noir 18 March - 11 May 2017 ICK Dans www.ickamsterdam.com/en/ PARA | DISO Revisited 17 January - 23 February 2017 De Dutch Don't Dance Division www.ddddd.nu/english-2/ Alice in Winterwonderland 25 December - 28 December 2016 Ballet Blue(s) 1 March - 21 April 2017

scene, be prepared to see a reflection of yourselves: extremely diverse, talented and open to cultural exchange. This is the hallmark of dance in the Netherlands, and what has enabled a country of this size to claim a large presence on the global stage.

At NDT, for example, their 45 dancers represent 21 nationalities. The award-winning artistic duo of Paul Lightfoot and Sol Leon are from the UK and Spain, respectively.

This international foundation not only reveals itself in the company’s performances, which feature styles and influences from around the globe, but in the upcoming schedule. Of the 200 shows offered every season, 120 are abroad! If you miss them in the Netherlands, catch them in New York, Athens or Montreal. The same can be said for Het Nationale Ballet whose 76 dancers represent 24 nationalities, and who at the time of this writing are touring in both Mexico and Spain.

Melting pot

That concept of universality is principal in the Dutch dance world. Indeed, to the international community living in the Netherlands interested in exploring the

Why the Netherlands?

Why so much international talent? For one, dancers who work for one of the BIS companies can » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 21

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Arts & Entertainment | Dutch dance: a reflection of us

Dance provides a platform to make meaning through the madness–not to escape it, but to confront it

Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, according to Rachel Beaujean, Head of the Artistic Staff at Het Nationale Ballet and a former dancer, is the opportunity for dancers to put their artistic mark on a piece.

Such collaboration between dancer and choreographer is rare in places like London or Paris, but not uncommon at Dutch dance companies.

Staying relevant

Attending a performance really is a multisensory experience. There are the dancers, who with set, ­costume and lighting specialists provide the living, breathing masterpieces for our eyes to devour. But there are also the musicians, sound engineers, choreographers, and the theatres and studios themselves, making lasting impressions. Completing this already rich experience is the cosmopolitan crowd: dapper, hip, young, old, male, female, black, white, straight, gay. The only ties that bind are curiosity, and a recognition that dance is important and must be kept alive.

PHOTO: TAMAS NAGY

actually make a living. Another reason is all the ­festivals hosted here every year. Holland Festival, Julidans, and Cinedans, to name a few, attract dancers, choreographers and filmmakers from all over the world. They come to share, to learn and to network in the hopes of making that connection that will take them where they want to go, which in many cases, means staying in the Netherlands. In addition to festivals, there are several renowned schools of dance: Royal Conservatory in The Hague; National Ballet Academy in Amsterdam; and CODARTS in Rotterdam.

Perhaps not since its post-war infancy has the work of these artists been more essential. To paraphrase NDT choreographer Paul Lightfoot, in a world going mad, dance provides a platform to make meaning through the madness not to escape it, but to confront it and provide the necessary space to pause and reflect. If you have ever felt exhausted by turning on the news and seeing the worst in society, go see a performance, cleanse your palate and witness beauty. «

About the author Patrick Mulligan is a bi-coastal American expat living/working in Amsterdam with his wife and daughter. To read more of his writing, visit soggygardener.squarespace.com

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 23

International community

Say what?!

Will you speak Dutch with me?

TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS

BY GEMMA GAHAN

1

3

2

4

About the author Gemma Gahan is an artist, crafter, and storyteller based in The Hague. Find her illustrations at Ginger’s Atelier: www.facebook.com/gingersatelier

24 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

5

6

Ever had a misunderstanding with a local? Having a hard time getting the Dutch to talk to you in their language? We’ve been there too! ACCESS volunteer Gemma Gahan shares her stories about the everyday trials of settling in to the Netherlands.

Mystery gifts

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ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 25

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Review

The wonderful world of the stroopwafel If you’re a sucker for sweet stuff then

The wonderful world of the stroopwafel by Lineke Eerdmans and Ulrike Schmidt should be your next read. This luxurious coffee table book is something to savour – from cover to first bite.

Go on a journey of the history of this round, sticky waffle, taking you all the way back to 7 th century Scandinavia when the Vikings were fed stroopwafel fuel.

BY ELIZABETH JOSS

Forget store-bought sweets. Learn how to re-create your very own warm and syrupy stroopwafels at home with an original recipe but also variations thereof, using chocolate syrup, or by baking biscuits using a similar recipe. And for those with gluten intolerance – have no fear! This book shows you how to make them without.

by Ulrike Schmidt y hand to know

are e of? t a h mad So w they

AFEL ROOPW !

VE A ST COURSE N'T HA YOU CA RUP) OF OP (SY THAT INCED UT STRO NV HO CO IT W EN YOU ARE EV WHEN LE ST BE OP E H. S TAST SOME PE AS DOUG WAFEL SYRUP STROOP STER MUCH TTER, CA USE AS S L IS BU PERHAP SENTIA , WITH ALSO ES ON NNAM THEN OF AND CI A. AND SUGAR VANILL -FRESH, OF RM H FA LY A TOUC ST EFERAB AND LA EGGS, PR FLOUR. COURSE ALITY LOVE… OD QU LOT OF SOME GO LOVE. A LEAST, T NO BUT

What Eerdmans and Schmidt demonstrate is that the stroopwafel isn’t necessarily a standalone edible (often for consumption on the sly, of course). Forget Paleo diets of the past. This is

one versatile waffle that can be used very creatively: melted goat’s cheese in stroopwafels; creamy stroop­ wafel-crumble soup; stroopwafel parfait; and various other, mostly unthinkable yet mouth-watering recipes.

Moreover, what makes the book particularly special are the personal stories of stroopwafel entrepreneurs around the world. Discover how pastry chefs from Pakistan to the Pacific are making this waffle big business. Also read Dutch pastry chef Jan Anker’s story and learn about his secret recipe dating back to the 1810 Kamphuisen siroopwafel. (The book’s second edition, issued last October, includes a new article about a baker in the US: Gezellig Cookies.)

It’s not just the decadent centre that makes The Wonderful World of the Stroopwafel a winner. The cover design comprises up-close photos of the cookie; golden typeface; a golden bookmark as well as diamond-patterned waffle print on the inside – adding an air of sophistication to what is otherwise known as the poor man’s biscuit.

Consider The Wonderful World of the Stroopwafel a delightful gift for the upcoming festive season. Pair this book with a packet of fresh stroopwafels for the ultimate wintery delight for that special someone. «

About the author Hard cover | 204 pages De Vrije Uitgevers ISBN: 978 90 8179 046 8 facebook.com/wafflelujah

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

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 27

Education | Partner feature

Activity Groups for young and old The German International School The Hague takes great effort in creating a home away from home for its students and their families. What better way to achieve that goal than with the many Activity Groups available to the DISDH community?

Through these activities, new acquaintances are made, friendships are intensified, new skills are learned and a window of new hobbies is opened.

070 354 9494 www.disdh.nl

After-school activities provide students with a healthy balance from their daily classes and give them the chance to pursue their own personal in­terests and talents. It can be particularly rewarding for a student who may not excel in the classroom to have the opportunity to shine at one of the many activities at the DISDH. Be it acting in a school play, participating at a science fair, taking part in a judo demonstration or playing an instrument in front of a large audience, each student is encouraged to find their niche, develop and enjoy.

Students from different classes and ages are brought together, opening their minds to new ideas and gaining a chance to meet new friends. Younger students

28 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

learn from older students and in turn older students take on a role of responsibility within the group.

This experience intensifies the feeling of one big family which is so cherished at the DISDH. The diverse groups are run by qualified instructors and teachers in German, English or Dutch, giving students the opportunity to put their acquired language skills to the test. In addition, Language Learning Groups in Spanish, Dutch, French, Russian and English make up an important part of the after-school activities. Lessons are offered both for native speakers as well as those interested in learning a new language.

Parents are also welcome to participate in the various evening groups including choir, yoga, volleyball, dance fitness and instrumental ensembles, giving them the chance to become more connected with the school and make new contacts and friends in their new world away from home.

The offering varies from year to year and follows the trends and interests of its students and parents.

DISDH is always interested in expanding the selection of activities and welcomes new ideas from young and old for young and old. «

Education

Pre-school with a purpose In the Netherlands, parents interested in early education or day care for their children are faced with a smorgasbord of choices. But how to make the right decision? And, above all, how to make sense of all the options available? What is the difference between voorschool (pre-school) and peuterspeelzaal (playgroups), for example? What do these options have to offer that regular day care doesn’t? And what do pre-school curricula look like?

BY OLGA MECKING

A positive start

AND MANDIE VAN

Although Dutch law strictly enforces compulsory education for all children between the ages of five to 18 years residing in the Netherlands (regardless of nationality), the Dutch government recommends that children start their school education from the age of four at basisschool (primary school). Attending

DER MEER

a formal programme before this age is not a requirement. However, many families – Dutch and international alike – rely on a kinderdagverblijf or kinderopvang (day care centre) or a pre-school for their toddlers and young children. Traditional day care is a fine option for care and for play, but increasingly, parents expect more learning options for their little ones.

“Toddlers and pre-schoolers need positive early learning experiences to help their intellectual, social and emotional development,” says Tracy Tigchelaar, Director of Marketing & Business Development at Zein International Childcare in The Hague. Tigchelaar says that Zein tailors their international pre-school curriculum to provide ­“positive and observable development. It builds ­independence and confidence,” she says — traits you may have noticed are of particular imporDid tance in the Dutch culture, where from a you k now.. young age children are encouraged to The D .­ utch v e ­zipper their own coats, straighten up rsion Sesam of e Stre e t (Sesam their toys, and ride their own bicycles. straa t) has been running o n TV s ince 1976.

PHOTO: NAOYA FUJII

The international focus

While early childhood development is beneficial to all youngsters, some day care and preschool centres focus especially on the needs of international children, sometimes called Third Culture Kids or Cross Culture Kids. Zein states that intentional teaching of socio-emotional competencies is particularly important for such children and that » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 29

PHOTO: PARKER KNIGHT

Education | Pre-school with a purpose

PHOTO: SEATTLE PARKS AND RECREATION

such a curriculum “…is a key success factor in bringing up happy, well-rounded young people. There is a demonstrated link between young children’s social-emotional competence and their cognitive development, language skills, mental health and school success,” says Tigchelaar.

About the child benefit If you are living in the Netherlands and/or are employed and pay Dutch income taxes, then you are entitled to kinderbijslag (child benefit). To find out how to apply, download the ACCESS Guide “Your child”, about the education system in the Netherlands, one of the top 10 downloads from our site! access-nl.org/about-access/access-publications/guides.aspx

30 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

“Through these competencies Zein aims to support children’s social and emotional development – equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes which will help them succeed in their friendships, school and home lives and as members of the wider community.”

Peuterspeelzaal: preparation for primary school

Another option besides day care (international or otherwise) is the peuterspeelzaal, meant for children ages two to four, which prepares them for basisschool.

Children who go to peuterspeelzaal (also abbreviated as PSZ) learn emotional as well as social skills, and a lot of attention is paid to Dutch language development.

Tracy Hamilton Brown, an American mom living in Haarlem says, “I sent [my children] there because

although it is not part of our basisschool, it is in the same building, and I wanted my daughters to already know other children who will attend their basisschool before joining Group 1. Of course in general I send my kids to PSZ… so they can learn proper Dutch.”

(Group 1 is the first year of primary school, equivalent to kindergarten.)

Hamilton-Brown says, “It’s a nice bridge between crèche and Group 1. It’s more like school in terms of activities and structure, and they take little field trips and follow themes.”

There are several helpful criteria to pick the best PSZ. Location is definitely an important aspect. Some PSZs are located at the school your child may attend later, while others are located at day care centres.

Because there may be long waiting lists, availability will also play a role.

Voorschool: an alternative for young learners

Some day care centres are called voorscholen, with a curriculum meant for children who need extra support with their language skills. Voorscholen and PSZs are similar in programme and methodology, with the voorscholen putting additional emphasis on language development.

Annebet van Mameren, an education expert who helps international families find the right school in the Netherlands, explains the difference between these two institutions: “Usually voorschool is more structured and the children prepare for primary school in a playful way. The focus is on Dutch language acquisition and social skills. The teachers have a dedicated diploma as a preschool teacher.”

The voor- en vroegschoolse educatie (also known as VVE) means “preschool and early school education”, but actually refers to helping children with language delays. Children can get a recommendation (sometimes referred to as an ‘indication’) for a VVE programme but the classes take place in one of the voorschoolen or PSZs.

Press-school terminology asisschool: primary or grammar school, ages four to 11, both public and private, Dutch and • binternational. inderbijslag: child benefit for those living in the Netherlands and/or are employed and pay • kDutch income taxes. inderdagverblijf or kinderopvang: traditional group day care, up to age four, usually private • kcompanies, Dutch and international. inderopvangtoeslag: reimbursement provided by the Dutch Tax Office in the form of child• kcare allowance; is income dependent. k leuters: young children between three and six; often refers to children in Groups 1 and 2 • (kindergarten years). p euters: toddlers, two-and-a-half to four years old.

• peuterspeelzaal: dayfrom care educational programme, ages two-and-a-half to four. Some • will have only morning orwith afternoon options, not entire days. oorschool: day care with language-learning educational programme, referred by family • vdoctor or consultatiebureau (child health clinic), ages two-and-a-half to four. en vroegschoolse educatie (VVE): preschool and early school education with focus on • vl­aoornguage learning, extending into Group 1 and Group 2, ages two-and-a-half to six; requires recommendation.

Children following the VVE programme and the voorschool programme play and learn together.

The daily activities are the same, but children recommended for VVE attend four days a week so as to ­better develop their language skills. Van Mameren says, “Previously, every child who didn’t speak Dutch at home got an indication [to follow VVE], but this is not the case anymore.” International children can still go to voorschool for free for two half-days per week, and pay for two additional days if they would like, provided there is space.

While early development options can seem like a maze, there is hope for parents. With the right knowledge, parents can find their way and help their children thrive, so they may transition into primary school smoothly and confidently. «

About the author Olga Mecking is a writer who lives in the Netherlands with her German husband and three children. When not writing or thinking about writing, Olga can be found reading, drinking tea and reading some more. www.europeanmama.com

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 31

Dutch Lifestyle

Serious and silly

TV habits of the Dutch Dutch television today reflects the legacy of its relatively short history. Strong government support for broadcasting created an audience for serious programmes, but the famous Dutch tolerance also led to a roster of weird reality TV.

BY MOLLY QUELL

Despite having one of the shortest work weeks in the world, the Dutch are less likely than their European neighbours to spend time with friends or family.

According to Eurostat, only 9.6% of the Dutch see their friends once a day, compared with 45% of Greeks. And it isn’t just those southern Europeans; 17.3% of Belgians report seeing their friends daily.

Programming preferences

The Dutch are a TV-viewing people, clocking in at over three hours per day. They do watch less TV than their Italian (262 minutes per day) and Polish (260 minutes per day) neighbours but not by much.

The Dutch, on average, consume of 239 minutes per day, according to the 2015 International Communications Market report from Ofcom.

sed its Philips showca at the n first televisio trecht U in Annual Fair .

38 in 19

32 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

Worldwide audiences most asso­ciate Dutch television with reality show blockbusters like The Voice and Big Brother which had their start in the Lowlands.

(Read more about popular shows in the cover story, pages 12-19.)

But before anyone criticises the Dutch for their couch-potato habits, take note that due to a quirk of Dutch TV regulation history, the Dutch spend a much larger percentage of their time watching high quality news shows and documentaries.

In fact, the most popular TV show in the country remains the 8 o’clock news on public broadcaster NOS. Dutch households spend

around €20 per month on a TV package, more than they spend on cheese per month (closer to €10).

Dutch television was founded on a model of pillarization. According to Hans Beerekamp, television critic for the NRC, all of Dutch society fit themselves into pillars. “If you were Catholic, you read Catholic newspapers, joined a Catholic football club, you even

went to a Catholic butcher,” he says. “When radio came, it threatened the status quo so the various groups formed broadcasting groups.”

That model continued when the first Philips television sets came onto the market.

HBO Netherlands will as cease operations here , rry (So 17.

20 of 1 January, s!) fan es ron Game of Th

There are a minimum 12 minutes of commercials per hour, not including stations’ self-promotion.

For nearly 50 years, all programming on Dutch ­television was made by public broadcasters who grew out of these pillars. In 1989 the first commercial broadcasters were permitted but the previous 50 years left an enduring legacy. “Dutch television has higher quality educational programs, more ­documentaries and more programmes about art and ­culture than you see in other countries,” says Beerekamp. You’re more likely to find your Dutch colleagues talking about De Wereld Draait Door around the water cooler than The Voice.

But don’t underestimate powerhouse John de Mol, the man behind reality shows such as Big Brother and Utopia. “As a result, the Netherlands is one of the ­biggest exporters of television formats in the world,” says Beerekamp. In fact, many of De Mol’s programmes lose money in the Netherlands but he makes up the difference selling the success shows abroad.

cantly lower than the three sets owned by their North American counterparts but about the same as in Germany and Belgium, according to TekCarta, a technology industry research organisation.

Unsurprisingly, home TVs are generally found in the living room and in the master bedroom. But this too will change, as more and more TV is found online and younger Dutch people forgo TV ownership for watching Netflix on their laptops.

Despite the changing TV landscape, it’s doubtful Dutch television in its current form will disappear.

Huub Wijfles, professor of Journalism and Media History at the University of Groningen, says, “During the course of human history, there has never been a form of media that has died.” So don’t worry, you’ll have years to come of your Boer Zoek Vrouw fix. «

Changing landscape

Despite their public broadcasting legacy, the Netherlands isn’t immune to the cord-cutting happening in other nations. According to Sonny Duijn, a researcher at ABN Amro who recently c­onducted a study on television watching habits, 7% of TV-watching was online in 2015. But that number is expected to rise to 25% by 2025.

“The younger generation is used to watching YouTube on their phones,” says Duijn.

Even though TV-watching may be the most prevalent leisure activity in the country, Dutch households only own, on average, two television sets. This is signifi-

190,000 Ultra HD TVs were sold in 2015.

In 2014 that number was 50,000 and in 2013, just 900.

About the author Molly Quell is an American journalist who lives in Delft and works as the international e­ditor for Delta, the TU Delft campus magazine.

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 33

Law | Partner feature

New EU rules limit mortgage options for expats On 14 July 2016, as a result of a new directive from Europe, the so-called “Mortgage Credit Directive (MCD)”, the Dutch Civil Code has been amended. What does this amendment mean

after h­aving worked abroad, wish to buy a home in the Netherlands. Dutch expats wishing to let their home in the Netherlands can also become the victim of the new regulations. At certain banks, after the end of their term, they must repay the loan and enter into a new loan.

exactly – especially for expats?

Possible solutions

BY MARJET VAN

Wage received in euros

YPEREN-GROENLEER

The objective of the MCD is to protect expats who do not receive their wage in euros, but do have a mortgage in euros. The directive sets out that the bank is obliged to warn the customer regularly if the exchange rate of the currency in which the ­customer receives his or her wage plunges. In that case, the customer is entitled to continue the mortgage in a different, more advantageous, currency.

AND MARIE-CHRISTINE VELTKAMP-VAN PAASEN

No longer a mortgage for expats

The banks view this periodical monitoring duty – and the exchange risk they bear if the client converts the mortgage into a different currency – as an unacceptable burden.

The result is that the banks are no longer willing to grant mortgages to expats who are not getting their wages in euros.

070 361 5048 www.gmw.nl/en

34 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

Affected expats

Various groups of expats are now no longer able to buy a home.

This includes expats working in the Netherlands for international or­ganisations who are being paid in dollars, or Dutch people who,

The effect of the MCD seems to contradict its intention. The banks are currently diligently looking for solutions. They vary from a change in legislation (but in that case the EU Member States must first receive more discretionary powers from the European Commission), to the introduction of a national register listing all mortgages in foreign currency, and a third party who takes over the monitoring and obligation to warn from the banks. Offering more attractive conditions is also being considered, for example by permitting higher repayments during times of substantial fluctuations. For the moment it is uncertain what this search for a suitable solution will ­produce. «

Health & Wellbeing

Did you k now..

Abou .­ t€

5,700 is spe nt althca r e per perso n per year.

(CBS)

on he

Building trust in healthcare for internationals Research conducted in 2013 by ACCESS together with International Health Services resulted in 500 responses from internationals living throughout the Netherlands. The report provided important information to those in the healthcare industry, revealing, for one, how patients feel about their doctors.

BY OLIVIA VAN DEN BROEK-NERI

“We as Dutch GPs always thought that we did okay,” says Dr. H.A.A. Rullmann, General Practitioner at SGE International. However, the research showed that 30% of internationals trusted their General Practitioner (GP) and 40% did not. “Your GP is the

gateway to Dutch healthcare,” says Dr. Rullmann.

“If that trust isn’t there, then it all falls apart.”

To meet the needs of the "international"

Because of the demand for high-quality healthcare for internationals, the municipality of Eindhoven and the Holland Expat Center South approached SGE to open a healthcare centre for internationals in Eindhoven, where approximately 15,000 inter­ nationals live.

The Eindhoven Corporation of Primary Health Care Centers (SGE) has already been providing primary healthcare in Eindhoven for more than 30 years, serving more than 80,000 patients. Now they were given the task of opening a centre for internationals.

SGE recognized that they must do more than just add “international” to their name to truly serve the inter- » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 35

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Health & Wellbeing

national community. In order to address the needs of this group, SGE created an international panel.

This panel consists of professionals from various backgrounds and from different countries including Canada, Iran, China, Greece, and the US. “I’m extremely proud to be involved with the SGE International,” says Canadian Vicki van Eeghem.

SGE requested information from each panel member, including their experiences with healthcare in their own country as well as in the Netherlands.

“They wanted to know how the Dutch healthcare ­system could be enhanced in different ways,” says Van Eeghem, whose dental background made her a good fit for the panel.

Resources SGE International, Strijp-S Videolab 4.042, Torenallee 20, 5617 BC Eindhovenv Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8:00-17:00. www.sgeinternational.nl Dr. Rullmann offers presentations at the centre for the international community about the Dutch healthcare system.

International Health Centre The Hague, Jan van Nassaustraat 125, 2596 BS The Hague Open Monday – Friday, 8:00-18:00. www.ihch.nl ACCESS Counselling Service Network consists of licensed professionals – psychologists, ­mental health counsellors, and social workers from different cultural backgrounds.

They offer a variety of expertise and practice in English and several other languages. www.access-nl.org/about-access/what-we-do/counselling-service-network.aspx Get your free ACCESS Guide “Healthcare in the Netherlands” here: access-nl.org/about-access/access-publications/guides.aspx

Adjustments for the learning curve

Having a limited knowledge of Dutch healthcare can increase the level of distrust that internationals have in the system. The international panel suggested that SGE International needs to be understanding and must take time to explain things in English. As a result, SGE International takes more time with each patient. Instead of the standard 10-minute appointment, patients get a 20-minute appointment.

“For an international who is new in the country, and who does not understand the healthcare system, 10 minutes is too little time,” explains Van Eeghem.

Of course internationals have more questions about the healthcare system than a Dutch patient might.

“What happens if you have friends or family visiting and they fall ill?”, for example. Or, “Why can’t I get a yearly check-up?” Common complaints among the community also include the requirement to obtain a referral from the GP to see specialists. The Dutch system is complicated for newcomers, and the healthcare providers at SGE International want to guide them through it, to make it is easier to understand and to accept. “We’re trying to bridge the gap,” says Dr. Rullmann. Everyone who works at SGE International also completes cultural training.

“Dr. Rullmann can translate your medical expectations from your culture into a Dutch context,” says

Simon Curtis, a British expat and SGE International patient. Curtis goes on to explain that Dr. Reullman’s international background also helps her to relate to the patient, and that she is able to use English medical terms. “When you’re ill, you’re in a vulnerable position,” says Curtis. “To be able to speak English helps!”

More initiatives

SGE International also supports a brand-new initiative called the International Peer Support Network of Eindhoven (IPSN). The IPSN is a group of inter­ nationals passionate about supporting their peers in the Eindhoven area. They will organise support groups, workshops, events and a mentoring programme. Such initiatives are what will help the international community to thrive in the Netherlands.

“We want people to be able to advocate for themselves,” says Van Eeghem. « www.ipsneindhoven.wordpress.com

About the author 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.

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 37

Food

Dutch bread:

The new sexy Recently, I asked my Dutch brother-in-law, whose hobby it is to run cooking workshops in The Hague area, why there are so many types of bread in the Netherlands. Without hesitation he responded with that no-nonsense quality I’ve come to know and love about the Dutch: “We eat a lot of bread, and we like variety.” I waited for something more profound, but to no avail. For him it is that simple.

BY CAROLYN VINES

PHOTO FRANKLIN HEIJNEN

38 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

Indeed, bread is baked into Dutch culture. It is so ingrained in daily life that mothers let their babies teethe on fresh bread crust. By the time kids finish nursery school, they’ve earned their smeerdiplome, which qualifies them to spread butter or Nutella

on their bread all by themselves and sprinkle hagelslag over it. Now this feat is not to be taken lightly as it is an important aspect of the zelfstandigheid (independence) that Dutch children grow up with.

Grain has always been an abundant natural resource here, and of course windmills, a reliable means of processing grain, have defined the Dutch landscape.

“What is bread made out of ?” my brother-in-law asked rhetorically. “Water or milk, salt and yeast.

Just like anywhere else in the world, we make do with what’s readily available.”

Rising appreciation

But there must be more to it than that. I grew up in the American Midwest, also known as the nation’s breadbasket for its wheat and oat fields. Yet I never ate fresh bread. Ever. Growing up, I knew of one ­bakery in the vicinity. My mother went there to buy donuts. She bought bread at the grocery store where there were two choices: brown Roman Meal and white Wonder Bread, so-called because, as my Dutch husband lovingly joked, it’s a wonder it stayed fresh for three weeks.

Here in my Dutch village, Voorschoten, there are three bakeries. I buy my bread at Verhoog where I enjoy a variety of fresh white bread: farmer’s, milk, water and tiger white. Whole wheat (volkoren), multigrain (meergranen) and yeast-free (desembrood) breads are equally well represented. Then there’s the whole range of ­specialty breads with exotic names like Waldkorn, dark forest, Tuscan country bread and Gildegraan, for which I couldn’t come up with a decent translation.

The practical Dutch have wisely responded to the demand for alternatives to wheat with a wide range of spelt bread. Even Turkish and gluten-free breads are dotting bakery shelves as of late.

Although it wasn’t love at first sight, I was drawn to those freshly-baked loaves untouched by the blades of a slicer. My affection blossomed upon learning that thick-sliced bread is a clever way to get finicky children to eat more.

Proper etiquette

Roelie van Buuren, who runs the kitchen at a major health insurance company, enlightened me on the unwritten code of bread etiquette.

White is the go-to bread for grilled cheese and peanut butter (though not together). Even the staunchest believer in the nutritional superiority of whole wheat bread abides by the code and eats his uitsmijter (fried egg with meat or cheese) on white.

Stokbrood (baguette) is usually an appetizer and is the only bread eaten with (herbed) butter. Knakworstjes (canned sausages) must be eaten on soft, white buns while pistoletjes (hard rolls) are firm enough for egg salad and soup. Robust, dark breads are reserved for aged and stinky cheeses Did you k the Dutch are so fond of. now..

Brood .­ me Regional favourites

ans b read a nd je me a n s sandwich.

Boter ham is a slice o f brea d.

brood

Becoming acquainted with all the ­different types of bread is like discovering the various facets of a potential lover. Van Buuren proclaimed, “Bread lives in the Netherlands,” and that each province is known for a distinct bread attests to that. Ten o’clock coffee time in Zeeland is enjoyed with a bolus, a sinful cinnamon bun with butter slathered on top.

Friesland is known for its suikerbrood (sugar bread) while Breda has its worstenbroodjes (sausage rolls).

Every year on 3 October, Leiden commemorates its victory over the Spanish during the 80 Years’ War with raw herring and a slice of white bread. Even when temperatures don’t allow ice skating on natuur­ ijs (frozen canals), ­wintertime menus everywhere boast warm, hearty erwtensoep (split pea soup) accompanied by rye bread.

Although eating bread is a must according to my brother-in-law, the Dutch have found a way to elevate bread from the mundane to the sublime. To me, it’s downright sexy. «

About the author Carolyn Vines is an author and Certified Professional Coach. She is a member of the ACCESS Trainer Network. Find her online profile at etimy.com/coaches/life-coaching/carolyn-van-es-vines

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 39

Education | Partner feature

Learning Dutch through watching television At the International School of The Hague we provide Dutch language and culture classes to all our primary school students. We believe that it is important for students to learn the language of the host country and to learn about the Dutch culture.

BY JULIETTE VAN EERDEWIJK, PRINCIPAL AT THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF THE HAGUE

TV to spark an interest

In our lessons we use programmes from Dutch television and clips from “Jeugdjournaal” (Youth News) to discuss important cultural events, such as the King’s birthday, Prinsjesdag, etc. However, we are aware that our limited number of lessons is just the tip of the iceberg and an attempt to spark an interest into understanding the Dutch language, the Netherlands and the Dutch people.

Watching at home

070 328 1450 www.ishthehague.nl

Another tool that parents have in order to promote a better connection with the host country is to watch Dutch television. For international students to become more fluent in the host country’s language, watching television is an enjoyable and playful way to be exposed to the sounds and structures of the language as well as the culture and the sense of humour of the country. Through these programmes children also pick up a variety of customs: how to approach people; the body language that is appropriate; the way Dutch people interact and respond to events; the way they celebrate but also how they mourn and pay their respects.

Connections in the community

Besides staying inside and watching television, of course the best way to connect to the Netherlands and its people is to go out there and interact! When

40 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

children watch a programme in Dutch they will have an automatic connection with children from the neighbourhood or a club. Being able to discuss favourite television programmes or cartoons watched by their peers will help them to find talking points and common interests, allowing them to practice their Dutch, make connections and interact in a natural way. It is easy for a child to say “Did you see yesterday’s cartoon where …” as a conversation starter.

An enjoyable discussion will roll out of this shared experience.

Besides staying inside and watching television… go out there and interact!

Besides hearing the sounds and structures of a language, and picking up customs, there is also a much deeper understanding that is created for a child when they watch television. When a child is able to start connecting their mother tongue and another language through the medium of television, a much greater understanding of both their own language and culture and the host country’s language and ­culture becomes evident.«

A touch of warmth in ­w inter: Bonaire The nights are well and truly drawing in, and the cold nips at our nose and cheeks.

But in between all the rain, grey sky and snow of winter is an opportunity to glimpse into a world where the sun never stops shining, and skies are always as clear as the water they hang above. Welcome to Bonaire.

PHOTO: TOURISM CORPORATION BONAIRE

PHOTO: DENNIS BEENTJES

Travel

BY STEVEN ECOTT

Tiny Caribbean paradise

Nestled just north of Venezuela, Bonaire is miniscule compared to its tourist-powerhouse neighbour the Dominican Republic, and with a population of about 18,000, it’s a far cry from the busier sandy resorts that surround it. Bonaire joins Aruba and Curaçao as a part of the Dutch “ABC Islands”, and has been a part of the Netherlands since 1814, when the AngloDutch treaty led the British to return the islands after the Napoleonic War. » ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 41

He spoke to me about what life was like on this tiny dot in the Caribbean and why tourists are attracted to it.

PHOTOS: TOURISM CORPORATION BONAIRE

The slogan of the island’s tourist board is “Once a visitor, always a friend”, and it’s this friendly, relaxed welcome that immediately jumps to mind whenever any northern-hemisphere habitant thinks of a Caribbean island.

Jan Hendrik Smit, originally of South Africa, worked and lived on Bonaire for five months, helping to develop a tourist plan to carry the island forward.

“It is the unique blend of untouched nature,” says Smit. “Pristine underwater environment for unequalled diving and snorkelling; quality, good weather year-round; and the distinct and exclusive brand of true Bonairian tranquillity…”

It goes without saying, the sheer natural beauty of Bonaire is a huge attraction to many, and it’s not surprising. As Smit mentioned, the untouched splendour of the island really is impressive, and just by flicking through pictures on the internet, it was hard not to get the urge to pack a suitcase and get the first flight there.

Diving… and donkeys

The stats on this tiny paradise ear-round average temperature: 27.5°C (81.5°F) • YIsland 18,905 • Bonairepopulation: sq km (113 sq mi, including the small island off the coast, Klein Bonaire) • comparedis 294 to its sister island Curaçao, size 444 sq km (171 sq mi). from the Netherlands to Bonaire as the crow flies: 7,815 km • DNistance resource: Salt. Bonaire was at the centre of the Dutch salt trade centuries ago.

• Theatural mineral remains one of the island’s main exports today. ocal languages: Papiamentu and Dutch • LFormerly part of the Dutch Antilles, Bonaire is a special municipality within the country • of the Netherlands since 2010. Curaçao and Aruba are autonomous countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

370,000 tourists visited in 2015, including cruise ship, air, and pleasure craft visitors, according to CBS (Statistics Netherlands).

•

42 | ACCESS | WINTER 2016

René van de Meent of the Netherlands, who visited Bonaire 11 years ago, describes the island as an “exciting diving paradise”. In fact, the island boasts more than 89 dive sites. Everyone I spoke to about the island talks about these precious waters.

Carolina de Aramburu of Venezuela recently went diving there and says, “Blue warm waters, and numerous amazing diving sites await you... Fish are abundant and you can spot turtles, octopuses and rays.” De Aramburu says the islanders are “really well prepared for divers.” She notes that since the waters

Travel | A touch of warmth in w ­ inter: Bonaire

around the entire coastline of the island were declared an underwater National Marine Park in 1979, any water activity like swimming, diving or snorkelling requires the purchase of a marine park tag (about €20 for divers and €8 for other users, according to a recent Google search). “All diving sites on the route are marked with a yellow stone and you can literally walk into the water to the diving site,” says De Aramburu.

“Just a warning, donkeys roam freely on the island and routes could be very rough,” she adds. In fact, her husband, Luis Nouel, says, “Bonaire is a doubleD destination: Diving & Donkeys!”

For the non-divers, Bonaire also offers kayaking through mangroves, exploration through caves, a donkey sanctuary, a visit to a goat farm, a working distillery offering rum and Cactus Liqueur, and of course, full relaxation on white-sand beaches.

“Another must-experience… is the glass bottom catamaran that takes people on a variety of voyages around the island,” adds Smit.

main economic activity. However, there is a major difference between Bonaire, Aruba and Curacao in that, over the past 40 years, Bonaire has progressed along the low road in terms of tourism development, contrary to the mass… approaches of Aruba and Curaçao, whose tourist numbers are presently at multiples of between seven-12 times those of Bonaire.”

Bonaire seems to be an island somewhat behind when it comes to identifying and exploiting revenue streams, and as a result the small population has struggled to compete with their neighbours.

Take it easy, as the locals do

When you explore beyond the historical relics and around the cruise ships – and past the Albert Heijn and Jumbo supermarkets offering stroopwafels and other Dutch favourites – you’ll find the island serene and leisurely. “Bonaire offers an unhurried, peaceful, and tranquil holiday experience,” says Smit, “an unquestioning acceptance by a warm and friendly people, and a feeling of being safe and looked after in one of the few remaining truly eco-friendly environments. …The pace is slow.”

Remnants of history

For those looking for a bit of history, it is worth noting that there are still remnants of the island’s sad past in the form of slave houses. In 1633, the Dutch took possession of all three of the ABC islands, making Curaçao a centre of the notorious slave trade, whilst Bonaire became a plantation island of the Dutch West Indies Company. The houses that were constructed were barely big enough to stand in, and yet these lowly dwellings became ‘home’ for up to six slaves that worked the land. These small boxes stand as a ghastly, yet important, reminder of human depravity at its worst and are a must-see part of Bonaire’s history.

Van de Meent agrees. His advice on enjoying Bonaire? Take it easy, go with the flow of the island’s chill mentality. He says, “Take in some sun, dive, smile.”

The paradise of Bonaire seems like it could in reality be more of a problem when it comes to the future, but there is no denying the sheer beauty and draw of an island where your best accessories are flippers and a snorkel. In a world with phones and screens that never stop, maybe a dose of Bonaire could be the cure for the winter blues? «

A humble tourism industry

Bonaire hasn’t pushed tourism aggressively, which isn’t to say tourists are not welcome. Smit explains, “Like most island destinations in the Caribbean, the Bonairian economy has embraced tourism as the

About the author Steven Ecott is a freelance journalist based in the UK, with a dream of moving to the Netherlands. Follow him on twitter: @stevenecott

ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 43

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also available on our website.

COS RENTALS

email@psychologicalguidance.com

COS Rentals is located only a 10-minute

For all other inquiries, please send

walk from The Hague Central Station,

an email to us at helpdesk@access-nl.org

ideal for your meeting point. Facilities are versatile and well equipped for a

Sincerely,

wide range of activities. We have different types of spaces to accommodate

ACCESS Editorial team

small, medium and large groups for receptions, seminars, concerts, meetings and workshops. www.cosrentals.nl 070 3280816

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ACCESS | WINTER 2016 | 45

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