2019 June / July www.howdo.info
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T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R I N T E R N AT I O N A L S | E I N D H OV E N A R E A
12 Expat Fair 16th June Klokgebouw Eindhoven
19 Interview Kim & Marco 28 Share the Vibe with Minha Lee (Korea)
36
Hotel The Match Welcome tot he least welcoming hotel in the world
59
Interview Eva Bellocchia An Italian volunteer at the Catharina Hospital
Are you eligible?
During our free event on 16 June we will give you all of the information you need about how to buy a house in the Eindhoven area. Are you eligible? If you have lived in the Netherlands for six months or longer and have a permanent job, you may be eligible to buy a house in the Netherlands! However, there are a lot of rules and regulations to do this. During this event, we will explain things, such as residency, contracts and salary. We will also take you through the process of buying a house in the Netherlands. https://www.abnamro.nl/en/personal/specially-for/ expats/seminar-buying-a-house.html
FEEL AT HOME in one of our new private lease cars
WHY PRIVATE LEASE? Private leasing provides you with financial security, because you pay one fixed monthly amount for the car. This is an all-in price: you only pay for fuel. You are also insured with an extensive service plan, such as replacement vehicles or roadside assistance both domestically and abroad: we handle everything for you. €
USP’s English-speaking contact person Flexible contract Fixed amount per month
PRIVATE LEASE COSTS PER MONTH* € 199,-
€ 385,-
VOLKSWAGEN up! € 349,-
AUDI A3 € 269,-
Security for clients Fast delivery Choose from all models
ŠKODA SCALA
*Costs are based on 48 months/10.000 kilometre per year.
SHOWROOM VOLKSWAGEN & AUDI
SHOWROOM SEAT & ŠKODA
Wekkerstraat 43 – 53 5652 AN Eindhoven, the Netherlands (0031) (0)40 219 7700
Meerenakkerweg 33 (Navigate to Heistraat 33) 5502 NJ Veldhoven, the Netherlands (0031) (0)40 253 7037
UDENHOUT.NL/EXPATS
SEAT IBIZA
colofon
foreword
HOWDO magazine is a bimonthly publication. Publisher Niels ter Haar Editorial Office Linde ten Broek, Chanique de Groot, Stephania Kipperman, Caitlin van der Kolk, Marielle Owen, Joost Pool, Rebekah Villon, Nicola Wood Media Advisor Stephania Kipperman, Tim Pennings
Joost Pool
Photography Eddie Mol Design Studio Bonkend Sanne Drieenhuijzen
Not a Tourist Most of our readers are here to stay for a considerable amount of time, either for work or studies. Or they’ve migrated to this ‘tiny country below sea level’ because Cupid led them here. Everyone
Distribution waiting rooms
has their own reasons. Not to worry, even if you are a tourist, flip
Tour de Ville
through to the ‘I am not a tourist Expat Fair’ article. Now organized
Contact HOWDO magazine PO box 4988 5604 CD Eindhoven info@howdomagazine.com www.howdomagazine.com
for the fourth year in a row it is becoming a bit of a tradition and very interesting to all. It informs you about working, housing and education in the Netherlands. You can enjoy a complete day of info and fun, especially if you combine it with the FeelGood Market right next door. Actually, if you are a tourist, consider booking a room at Hotel The
Would you like to receive HOWDO
Match. It is located in the center of Eindhoven and inspires and
at home?
stimulates guests to explore the city as much as possible. Also an
For € 14,50 a year you will receive the magazine once every two months. Mail contact@howdo.info for inquiries. Copyright and disclaimer
option for friends and family of internationals who are cramped for space. Fortunately, summer is here for all of us. We at HOWDO, wish you a great time! Whether you explore the Netherlands, other parts
All matrials and content is
of Europe, or have the opportunity to visit friends & family in all
protected under Article 15 of the
corners of the globe. Enjoy! We’ll get back to you in August. Have a
Copyright Act. Copying is prohibited.
fantastic summer. HOWDO!
© 2019 HOWDO magazine HOWDO magazine is not liable for the content of the columns and eventual inaccuracies and/or typographical errors.
Joost Pool
THE EXPAT’S GUIDE TO THE SOUTH NETHERLANDS EINDHOVEN • MAASTRICHT • TILBURG
ANY QUESTIONS? CONTACT US TODAY!
ZO 16 JUN 2019
ST PAUL AND THE BROKEN BONES
r +31 (0)40 238 6777
hollandexpatcenter.com
THE EXPAT’S GUIDE TO THE SOUTH NETHERLANDS EINDHOVEN • MAASTRICHT • TILBURG
SUN 16 JUNE
ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES St. Paul & The Broken Bones is a seven-man soul sensation from Birmingham, Alabama. The band's leader is Paul Janeway, a white singer who sounds like the reincarnation of Otis Redding. Together with his six companions (guitarist,
bassist,
drummer,
Hammond
organist and two wind players) he turns every
ANY QUESTIONS? CONTACT US TODAY! r +31 (0)40 238 6777
hollandexpatcenter.com
concert into a steamy southern soul party. You won’t regret checking them out! Check www.effenaar.nl for the complete program
pinboard
KIP040 Everything is freshly homemade and prepared with the best ingredients. That’s how we serve our dishes, because we love pure and honest food. We get our chicken from Izzet, a Halal butcher in Eindhoven, so everyone can enjoy it. The quality of the meat is evident from the taste! Want to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal at home? Place an order for pickup or have it delivered right to your doorstep. Edisonstraat 4 | Eindhoven | www.kip040.nl
Enjoy a wicked lunch or dinner at de Bengel! In the heart of Zeelst, Veldhoven, and in close proximity to ASML and business park de Hurk
DE WERELDWIJZER
you will find restaurant de Bengel.
Primary Education
De Bengel is known for its delicious spareribs,
De Wereldwijzer could be translated as the
burgers and satay and prompt, friendly
World wiser or pointing at the World. It offers
service. But de Bengel also has a great lunch
primary education for newcomers and a fluent
menu with a wide variety of salads, hot
transformation to the Dutch educational
sandwiches and of course tasty fried eggs and
system.
ham sandwiches. All international children in the age of 4 to We are aware that some people have limited
12 are welcome. Pupils can apply and start at
time to enjoy their lunch. Therefore, it is
any given time of the year. They will be able to
possible to order in advance (from 11:00). Then
understand, speak, read and write the Dutch
we ensure that your delicious ‘Bengel’ lunch
language within 40 to 60 weeks. After that the
is ready for you to pick up or enjoy in our
pupil can enrol in the Dutch system.
restaurant. We provide the same service for our dinner guests. Order in advance and your
For more information please contact:
dinner will be ready to takeaway. Mrs. I. van Kemenade, Of course, large groups are also welcome at de
director
Bengel, please book a few days in advance.
Pastoriestraat 88 5623 AT Eindhoven
Restaurant de Bengel Veldhoven
Tel: 040-242 7892
Heuvelstraat 4 | Veldhoven veldhoven@debengel.com T 040 230 0012
WWW.WERELDWIJZEREINDHOVEN.NL
pinboard VR 31 MEI
THE COMO MAMAS
Roots-gospel by three mamas from Como, Mississippi VR 31 MEI
JUDY BLANK
Beautiful Dutch americana singer-songwriter ZO 9 JUN
JASPER STEVERLINCK Ex Arid singer back to the bare essentials in De Rozenknop ZO 16 JUN
ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES
Una Paloma Blanca
WO 19 JUN
Sun, sea, sand, and…. school! Once again, Una Paloma Blanca is offering its intensive summer courses for those who want to learn a foreign language in between stocking up on vitamin D.
Must see southern-soul live sensation
DEAN LEWIS
Australian singer-songwriter best known for the hits 'Be Alright' and 'Waves' VR 16 AUG
NOX IN THE WOODS FESTIVAL
Outdoor Drum 'n bass festival in the woods VR 23 AUG
FUZZ CLUB EINDHOVEN 2019:
KIKAGAKU MOYO + THE SOFT MOON + ICEAGE + NIGHT BEATS E.A. The biggest benelux psych-festival back in Eindhoven
check our complete program:
www.effenaar.nl
Join one of our CEFR-based groups, taught by native speakers, and spend a week studying your choice of English, Dutch, Spanish, or German. Our interactive teaching methods include games, excursions, and plenty of speaking practice! The summer intensive course lasts for one week, with 4 and a half hours of study per day from Monday to Friday. Don’t worry, there’s also a 30-minute break, during which we’ll provide an internationally themed lunch. Want to aim higher? You can also extend your course to two or even three weeks! Our lessons are designed to maximise learning and significantly improve your skills in your chosen language. Lessons start at 10:00 daily and finish at 14:30. Check out our website for more information: www.unapalomablanca.com Una Paloma Blanca P.Czn. Hooftlaan 12 | Eindhoven
A culinary adventure right from your seat Dining between leprechauns and “the Dutch Masters”
Enjoying an elaborate dinner in a completely different world. A spectacle involving leprechauns walking on the table and soup being served with a catering can. That is Dinner in Motion. A 360 degree restaurant where taste and experience come together. You can experience this new and unique concept at the Piazza at the city centre of Eindhoven. Unique experience Playing with your senses is what it’s all about at Dinner in Motion. During this culinary adventure you and the other guests will all be seated at one long table while the most beautiful images are projected all around you. This makes for a unique experience with fitting music, special effects and surprising dishes completely in tune with the scenes of the show. Tasteful art There are no simple dishes at Dinner in Motion, only culinary masterpieces with a wink. Entrepreneur and founder Bram van der Vorst tells us: “You
11
Dinner in Motion Piazza 64 (second floor) Eindhoven T 085 303 86 94 E info@dinnerinmotion.nl W www.dinnerinmotion.nl
visit Dinner in Motion to have a night out, to be
The perfect match
entertained. Silliness is very important to us. We
The Piazza is the ideal location for Dinner in Motion,
are constantly seeking ways to offer our guests a
it is close to the train station, close to parking areas
unique experience. The combination of technology
and it is right in the center of Eindhoven. And with
and gastronomy is leading in this process. “During
our 1000m2 restaurant we can really go big! Next to
the show you will find yourself in an adventure right
the two spectacular dinner spaces we have a large
from your seat, taste the paintings of the Dutch
foyer with a bar, that way you can enjoy a drink after
Masters and be surprised by the four elements.
the show.
Have you ever eaten fire? Tasted air? A night of Dinner in Motion will guarantee you a culinary
Eindhoven being the technology city, the arrival of
expedition with a lot of show.
Dinner in Motion is a match made in heaven. The reviews of our concept are great, greater and best.
Departure times
Enough reasons to swiftly make reservations! Check
The 360 degree restaurant is open every friday and
the website for availability and prices.
saturday. You can choose from 2 different starting times. You will be dining with all the guests in an impressive space. On weekdays Dinner in Motion is open to companies and groups. They can reserve private rooms and if desired we can add a custom made intro-projection to the show. A great company outing or business dinner.
w FR GE w E T w E YO .e TI U xp CK R at ET fa S ir. nl
‘Meeting the expat community in the South of the Netherlands’ E X P A T I C A
P R E S E N T S
EXPAT FAIR & FEELGOOD MARKET SUNDAY 16 JUNE 2019 • STRIJP-S KLOKGEBOUW • EINDHOVEN SUNDAY 11 JUNE 2017, EINDHOVEN 50 exhibitors
Education for Expats
1,500 visitors
Useful presentations
10 themes
Music & Entertainment
Jobs for Expats
Food stalls
Houses for Expats
Meet like minded expats Sponsored by
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i am not a tourist Expat Fair & FeelGood Market Eindhoven
Sunday 16th June 2019 – Klokgebouw - Strijp-S,
Houses for Expats
Eindhoven
Whether you have just relocated to The Netherlands
New to The Netherlands? Looking for a job? Want
or are looking to buy your first property here, you
to learn Dutch and get involved in your local
may need help understanding the ins and outs of
community? Then come down to the Klokgebouw,
the Dutch housing market. You will find real estate
Strijp-S in Eindhoven to the i am not a tourist
agencies, relocation experts, mortgage advisers
Expat Fair & FeelGood Market; the largest event for
and notaries.
internationals in the south of the country. Education for Expats Find all you need to know about life in The
The Dutch are rightly proud of their varied and high
Netherlands in one place. Over 50 exhibitors, plus
quality education system. When you first arrive
fun workshops and useful presentations. Experts
the educational options and terminology can be
on housing, working, studying, taxes and schooling
dizzying. The Netherlands boasts many highly
will all be there, ready to share their knowledge and
regarded schools, colleges and universities with
experience with you. This year the FeelGood Market
an international perspective, many of which offer
provides even more to do; with live music, fresh
courses taught in English.
food and children´s activities. The whole family is welcome to come and explore! It’s all possible at
FeelGood Market
the i am not a tourist Expat Fair & FeelGood Market!
The Expat Fair FeelGood Market Eindhoven will
Check out an impression of the day and get your
take place outside the Klokgebouw. The FeelGood
free ticket now online!
Market is a lively event where you can rest up and relax. Enjoy live music and workshops or purchase original, handmade products from a range of inspiring businesses.
Join the Expat Fair & FeelGood Market Eindhoven and meet the Expat community in Jobs for Expats
the South, a unique combination of Business
For those internationals looking for a (new) job,
and Entertainment. Order your FREE tickets
to widen their professional network, look into
right here! And follow us on Facebook for all
further study, or start an enterprise of their own,
the latest updates!
we have the Jobs for Expats track. You can attend presentations from experienced and insightful professionals.
www.expatfaireindhoven.nl
What's the Story With: Dutch Cocoa? You probably take for granted that chocolate, like all other foods, is processed before it reaches your store shelves. But it may surprise you to know just how much processing goes into chocolate, and what the “Dutch process” is. The cocoa tree originated in the Americas, where the Mayan and Aztec people fermented the bitter seeds to develop flavor. The fermented beans are then dried and can be ground into chocolate liquor. As Europe rapidly developed a taste for this New World ingredient, the Dutch controlled almost all transAtlantic trade in chocolate, and it was distributed from the merchants in Amsterdam. In 1828, Dutch chocolatier Casparus van Houten Sr. invented the cocoa press, a hydraulic press that efficiently separated cocoa nibs from cocoa butter, producing cocoa powder that transformed how cocoa was used. Later his son Coenraad van Houten would further refine the processing of chocolate by alkalizing the powder, resulting in the product still known today as “Dutch cocoa”. Dutch cocoa is deeper in color and smoother in flavor, with less acidity and improved water solubility. Because the Dutch not only imported chocolate, but marketed it, popularized it, and invented processing methods that made it more versatile and affordable, the Dutch are largely responsible for all the chocolate we enjoy today. Now you know the story!
Did You Know They Were Dutch? Eddie Van Halen Rock legend Eddie Van Halen of the eponymous band Van Halen is actually Dutch-American. While we associate Van Halen with the decidedly California-flavored American hard rock hits of the 1980s, founder Edward Lodewijk Van Halen was born in 1955 in Amsterdam. His father was a classical musician, and his mother was from Indonesia. In the early 60's, the family emigrated to California, and brothers Alex and Eddie became naturalized US citizens. Eddie is named after Beethoven, with his middle name being the Dutch equivalent of Ludwig, and he later continued the family tradition by naming his own son Wolfgang. He and his brother Alex learned music on the piano, then switched to the guitar in his early teens, before settling on the electric guitar as the instrument of choice. Both boys were forming rock bands and performing shows as early as elementary school, before founding Van Halen in the early 1970's. Eddie Van Halen is a rock legend, repeatedly referenced among the top guitar virtuosos and most influential guitarists of all time. He has also patented several designs and innovations in the electric guitar itself, enabling it to be played in entirely new ways. And although he is an icon of a certain style of American music, it all began in the Netherlands.
4 Short articles
Kwispellezen: The Most Wholesome Dutch Trend of 2018 “Waggle reading” is the practice of helping children who struggle with reading, by having them read aloud to a specially trained dog. The dogs are attentive listeners, who do not interrupt or correct the child, and children tend to be more motivated to read to dogs and enjoy the interaction. Studies have shown that kwispellezen helps improve children's reading skills, because the children feel less pressure to perform, and because they enjoy teaching and sharing stories with the dogs. It is more effective at motivating children to learn than reading to adults, other children, or to stuffed animals. Kwispellezen was a strong candidate for Dutch word of the year last year, and has the overlapping meanings of “reading while a dog is wagging [its tail]” and “reading in order to cause a dog to wag [its tail]”. Through a partnership with Hulphond Nederland, kwispellezen sessions are available for children at the Bibliotheek Midden-Brabant, and you can learn more about this adorable trend at kwispellezen.nl or at bibliotheekeindhoven.nl. It's a fun, cute way to help children improve their reading skills, and may help to explain why there are dogs in the library.
Dutch Legends: The Pig-Faced Woman Starting in about 1630, tales of a pig-faced woman spread like wildfire through England, France, and the Netherlands. The earliest version of the tale was published in Holland in 1638, and tells the story of a pregnant Amsterdam woman named Jacamijntjen Jacobs. One day, Jacamijntjen was approached on the street by a beggar woman, asking for food for her three starving children. Jacamijntjen told the woman to leave and called her children “filthy pigs.” In response, the beggar woman said, “Are my children pigs? May God then give you such pigs as I have!” Later, when Jacamijntjen's daughter was born, she had the head and face of a pig. The story reported that the daughter (then a teen) ate from a trough and grunted for speech. This story bearsw resemblances to earlier, medieval Dutch legends, and it took northern Europe by storm. In 1639, stories began to be told in London of Tannakin Skinker, the pig-faced woman. Samuel Pepys's diary references a 1640 ballad about a pig-faced woman born in Holland who was visiting London. In the 18th and 19th centuries, stories of a pig-faced woman continued to resurface in England, Scotland, and France, each with local variations. In Dublin, local recluse Griselda Steevens was rumored to have the head of a pig. Traveling fairs and freak shows displayed mock pig-faced women. In 1814, the legend sprang up of the PigFaced Lady of Manchester Square, a story that still persists to this day. The legend of the pig-faced woman is a reflection of the belief that what a woman experiences while pregnant influences her offspring. And the pig-faced woman herself is often a tragic figure, a woman of many accomplishments and a kind, charitable nature, cursed with the face of a pig. The tragic figure of the pig-faced woman resembles the real-life story of the Elephant Man, and one single Dutch story spawned centuries of legends.
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Notariskantoor Broekmans. Your notary.
Because you’ve found your dream home
The house of your dreams is the place where you and your family feel at home. Do you envision yourself living in a house with a wide view or do you prefer to live in the heart of the city? Your notary understands that agreements between you and the bank must be properly recorded. We are happy to give you advice in Dutch or English, or with the help of an interpreter, in any other language. This ensures that you fully understand which agreements you’re making. And it will also give you peace of mind so you can look forward to a wonderful future in your new home. Your life. Your dreams. Your notary.
040 213 63 60 Like us on Facebook www.jouwnotaris.nl
Design Your Own Future
Why broadening your job search doesn’t work Be alert if you find yourself willing to do any job
Instead, narrow down your job search.
– Job search tips included.
First, think about what you really want. Let that
Finding a job and starting work as soon as possible is
be your main focus. Dare to narrow down your
what many Expat Partners strive for.
options and focus entirely on that. You will find any recruiters and hiring managers you meet much
Open to any job
more enthusiastic. They will see you as the perfect
After taking some time to get adjusted to your
match for the job. Your experience and enthusiasm
new environment, you slowly start looking for
will lead to an interview sooner.
employment. At this point, you realize your job search has taken you longer than expected, and you
Narrowing down makes it easier:
feel trapped. By that time, you’re ready to accept any
• You are more dedicated.
job. Many Expat Partners think being flexible will lead
• Your search is connected to what you’re good at;
them to a job more quickly. The opposite is true. If
that’s what people are looking for.
you start applying for jobs you don’t really want, you
• You will have more energy to press on.
will find yourself in a long-term struggle.
• People around you will remember you more easily, which can always be useful.
I’m going to explain what happens if you broaden
• It’s easier for them to support you, simply
your job search.
because they believe you.
Top 6 reasons why you should not broaden your job
Having trouble narrowing down your wishes for
search:
your next career step?
1 Searching for something that isn’t true to your
You’re not the only one. Contact DYOF if you’re
destiny will not serve you in a positive way.
finding it difficult to narrow down what your next
2 It drives you away from what you really want to do.
career step should be. When you know what you
3 You will have less experience compared to the
truly want, the chances of your job search being
competition.
successful will increase immensely.
4 Or, even worse, you will be seen as overqualified for the job.
Go to www.designyour-ownfuture.com and find
5 Recruiters will not identify you as their best
your answers. Grab the free download (called
option for several reasons.
Passport) to get started on the first steps.
6 Your job search will take longer than planned, or it may never end.
I wish you a great career abroad. -Heidi Los
17
A H I G H - Q UA L IT Y PERSO NAL APP RO ACH T O L EG A L ISSUES As one of the largest family law firms in the Netherlands, our office is home to high-quality, well-renowned attorneys and divorce mediators. We offer a personal approach to legal services across a whole spectrum of family law and/or inheritance law disputes, both to international, as well as Dutch clients. Every day we advise and represent our clients in family and inheritance law matters. Our services are based on a personal approach, never losing sight of the human dimension of a case. We are at your side in difficult times, but also when you settle in the Netherlands and want to be informed about the family law-related consequences.
If you are interested in no-nonsense advice on obtaining a decent out-ofcourt settlement or a court decision, we look forward to hearing from you. For more information please visit our website or send an email to cvandervegt@scg-advocaten.nl.
WWW.S CG- A DVOC AT E N .NL AMSTERDAM OFFICE
EINDHOVEN OFFICE
De Lairessestraat 151 1075 HK Amsterdam Tel +31 (0)88 909 49 20 Fax +31 (0)88 909 49 99
Parklaan 54 5613 BH Eindhoven Tel +31 (0)88 909 49 00 Fax +31 (0)88 909 49 99
Local Kim & Expat Marco
Local Kim & Expat Marco From a pizza date to living together
Kim Hoogendoorn and Marco Iachello recently moved from an apartment in the centre of Eindhoven to a rustic house with a garden in the "green" Veldhoven. Was it a good choice?
we are within walking distance of the Citycentrum, with a great diversity of shops and convenient for the daily groceries as well." Marco, smiling, adds: "What I certainly don’t miss are the parties at the neighbours’ till the middle of the night, then again, that is kind of normal when you
Without
hesitation,
Kim:
"Although
living
in
live in the centre of Eindhoven amongst students.
Eindhoven was great, we definitely feel at home here. We have a garden now and live in a green
Buying a house
area, so we ended up fine. Our street is a mix
Initially I thought that the preparations for buying
of internationals and locals, and our neighbors
a house would take a lot of time, but looking back,
immediately introduced us to an app, specifically for
it all went smoothly. Fortunately we had a good
our street, with Q&A’s and helpful tips. Furthermore,
mortgage consultant, who was really helpful, and
19
took us step by step through the process. I can
From a pizza date to living together
recommend that to everyone.
It resulted in a "pizza appointment" and from there things went fast. Marco, again with a smile: "It felt
Purchase agreement, appointments with the notary
good and within weeks Kim had a key of the house.
f.i. were handled efficiently, but of course, changing
It worked both ways: Kim lived in Venray and had to
houses absorbs a lot of time. So we have not been
travel 30 miles every day to go to work in Eindhoven.
"outside" enough in recent months: we like running
Now she had to drive only for 10 minutes and we had
and cycling, and we regularly went to the gym.
more quality time together."
Unfortunately, there wasn’t too much time for that, but we certainly will be picking up those activities.
Although Kim loved her job in hotel management, it
When Kim and Marco met two years ago at a meeting
was not an ideal situation. Kim: "The travelling time
of InterNations, they had no clue about how fast
was a problem, but more importantly, our working
things can change. "As a host at InterNations I meet
hours didn’t match. I had to go to work sometimes at
a lot of people and that night I also spoke briefly
6.30 AM, or returned late at night. I also worked a lot
with Kim. Later in the evening we met again and
of weekends, and had a day off during the week, but
only when the bartender told us it was time for the
then Marco obviously had to work. Therefore Kim
last round, we looked around and we saw that a lot
changed jobs, but kept working in an international
of people were already gone. So we obviously had
environment at a listed company, meaning their
more than an average chit-chat. "
working hours are better in balance.
Local Kim & Expat Marco
Volcanoes and earthquakes
Future plans
Especially the free weekends were a bonus, as
Asked if a career switch in the near future is in sight:
both like to go on a city trip. Prague, Lisbon and
"Never say never" they agree, but both are obviously
Copenhagen are no longer on the bucket list and
really comfortable with their present situation. And
a visit to the island of Lampedusa and to Bari are
although adventurous in nature, for the moment
already booked. And of course, Marco’s family in the
they love living in “small" Veldhoven. Marco's work
Catánia region (Sicily) must be visited every now and
at ASML offers many challenges, and he loves living
then. Especially the first visit Kim will remember for
and working in a country that is well organized, has
the rest of her life. Kim: "The night after we arrived
no corruption and good education
I heard a rumbling sound in the middle of the night and I tried to wake up Marco. Still half asleep he said, “I guess it was an earthquake” and fell asleep again.... The next morning we found out that the Etna volcano had erupted, triggered an earthquake and closing down all air traffic.
Concluding: it is safe to say that in their case two cultures mingled nicely, and that the delicious bite that is offered (Dutch cheese in combination with Italian sausage) is a good metaphor for how two elements from different cultures can strengthen each other.
21
A big city garden, great international food and an informal atmosphere make Berlage beloved by people from all over Eindhoven. Kleine Berg 16 5611 JV Eindhoven 040-3400036 info@berlage.nl www.berlage.nl Open Sunday to Thursday: 11:30 till 00:00 Open Friday and Saturday: 11:30 till 02:00
Do you want to live in Eindhoven?
Excellent Mortgage Advice If you want to live in Eindhoven our mortgage advisors are happy to help you examine all your options. Make a non-binding appointment with one of our advisors and also receive a ₏ 50 voucher for a dinner at Berlage. Call us at 040-2482211 or e-mail us eindhoven@hypotheekvisie.nl for an appointment. Don’t forget to mention that you saw our ad in the Howdo!
Pastoriestraat 153, 5612 EK Eindhoven - 040-2482211- eindhoven@hypotheekvisie.nl
25
A purchase broker Buying a house in current housing market can be quite daunting. Let alone in another country where you do not speak the language well or even at all. Having someone who does and is in your court can then be quite helpful. They can assist in the whole process or just parts of it. This is something that I would always advise internationals and locals to use. The purchase broker can help you understand the process here in the Netherlands. (As every country has their own way of doing things). Buying a house can be an emotional process so having someone looking with you objectively can help you decide with your head also and not only your heart. Firstly the purchase broker can assist in the preparation and looking for the perfect home. They can be present at the viewings of the properties and make a good comparison for you. They can do the investigation and arrange the technical inspection of the property, help with the negotiations. Be there for the transfer of the deed and all the official steps at the notary. They can also provide some after sales support. The houses are moving fast in Eindhoven, however there have been reports that the market has carefully been levelling out at the beginning of this year. When you are considering in buying a house please feel free to contact me so that we can discuss what we can do for each other.
Eindhoven and surrouding areas Tulip Expats Services BV +31 6 53 14 70 86 marielle@tulipexpatsservices.com
Postal address: P.O. Box 82301, 2508 EH The Hague +31 70 220 81 56 tulipexpatsservices.com
BE EFFECTIVE IN ANOTHER LANGUAGE
LEARN DUTCH AT THE HIGH TECH CAMPUS
Do you want to learn Dutch quickly and thoroughly? If you work on the High Tech Campus
Why Regina Coeli?
in Eindhoven, you don’t have to travel
·
far to do so. Language Institute Regina Coeli provides Dutch language courses
Time-tested method based on scientific insights
·
Unique method ensures that you learn
on campus. It’s easy to combine with
to speak a foreign language quickly
your daily work, and there’s a course for
and effectively
every level. Learning the Dutch language
·
and getting to know the customs of the country will help you understand the
Well-educated native speakers who delve into your situation
·
Easy to combine with your daily work
Dutch and integrate smoothly.
Visit www.reginacoeli.com/htce or give us a call +31 (0)73 684 87 90
Regina Coeili
Do you feel at home in Eindhoven? The British writer and artist Edmund de Waal wrote: ‘With languages you are at home anywhere.’ If you speak another person’s language, it is very easy to make contact. And while many Dutch people speak English, for deeper, more meaning ful contact, it helps to speak Dutch. Start with a good foundation
How to get hands-on practice?
Learning a foreign language is not particularly
•
Start a conversation with Dutch colleagues.
complicated—if you approach it the right way, that
•
Join a sports team for locals. Practice your
is. For many expats, taking weekly Dutch lessons
favorite sport and talk Dutch with your team
does not really work. When everyone continues to speak English to you, the leap to speaking Dutch in
members. •
everyday life is simply too big. You need to make sure you have enough knowledge to really speak
Find a volunteer job. Look for example at the website of ‘Eindhoven Doet’.
•
Watch Dutch television.
Dutch in practice. I’m not a tourist expat fair The easiest way to learn a foreign language is get
On 16 June, the i am not a tourist Expat Fair &
into a flow. You can create that flow by learning
FeelGood Market comes to the famous Klokgebouw
intensively for a short period of time. After that
Eindhoven’s city centre. Language trainers from
focused stretch, be sure to get loads of hands-on
Language Institute Regina Coeli will be there too.
practice and plan another study sprint later on
You can ask them all your questions about learning
down the road.
Dutch and about our Dutch courses at the High Tech Campus and in our institute in Vught. See you there!
27
Eddie Mol and Linde ten Broek meet internationals and talk about life, love, roots, dreams and more.
Share the Vibe with Minha Lee (Korea) Give life to pixels
We care for the world. We want to be an example.
to inhabitants of Eindhoven who were born and
In Eindhoven, the city of technology, design and
raised here and have seen the city grow and evolve
knowledge, it’s all about those important words
as it is now. Eindhoven is a city of innovation, but
that are even more impressive when combined.
where is its soul? Minha Lee, a doctoral candidate in
As we become more well-known, we show up in
human-technology interaction at the TU/e sat with
newspapers and magazines all over the world. This
me on the 8th floor of the world’s most sustainable
relatively young city is taking a huge step forward.
education building, Atlas. We had a very interesting
More internationals are arriving to study, work
conversation about chatbots, compassion and
and live here, bringing their knowledge, wisdom
better understanding our own life along with its ups
and rituals with them. In and around the city there
and downs. Minha opened my eyes to a completely
are hotspots where people can learn, explore and
new world that I didn’t know existed. Are you ready
take an adventurous step towards a whole new life.
for a behind-the-scenes look at Human Technology-
Accompanied by family or friends, or even alone,
Interaction and the mission of a woman who wants
they come here and start a new chapter. Their
to contribute to a digital environment that can make
journeys are usually invisible to others, especially
us all happier and healthier? Read on!
Share the vibe
29
To stand in line at McDonald’s
the world can be modeled in 3D.
Minha decided to come to the
Minha was interested in how we
Netherlands to do her master’s
try to mold technology in our own
degree in Amsterdam, and then
image and how lonely it must feel
moved to Eindhoven for a PhD
to have self-awareness as a form
position at HTI. But she was
of technology stuck in these 3D
born in Korea, and she moved to
programs. The digital world is
Romania, Ukraine, and the United
a recreation of reality, and you
States with her family when she
are the creator of the story. It
was 7 years old. Her daily life
was interesting to ask questions
during the nineties in Romania
such as who are the characters
and Ukraine was very different
that I create? Do they have a
to what she knew of her life in
life? And why do I create these
Korea. She remembers specific
characters? In the animation
but
smells, such as the smell of the
short,
through
fresh bread they made there,
House, a humanoid with a house
says, “research shows that the
something
Korean.
for a head. By peering through
most
She got a glimpse of the fall of
the windows of the house, the
the interaction you have face to
communism and could see signs
viewer can see another small
face. An article in the New York
of capitalism breaking through.
house and, in that, another one,
Times said: the richer you are,
At the first McDonald’s in Kiev,
illustrating how stuck he was
the less time you spend in front
people stood in line to enter. It
in his world. Gary committed
of a screen. Technology is not
was a big deal to eat there at a
suicide by using another form
special anymore. You can learn
special moment that represented
of physical technology to hang
via digital media but it’s more
a country in transition.
himself. After that, you can get a
valuable to learn with a real
distinctly
Minha
portrays
Gary
you
never
really
technology.
valuable
meet Minha
possession
is
glimpse of his inner world, where
teacher. You can be entertained
How do we portray ourselves
a lot more was happening than
via digital media, games and
through technology?
what was seen from the outside.
animation,
In Amsterdam, Minha completed
Do we really know what is going
real-life joys are more valuable.
her
Master’s
unpredictable,
Information
on inside of us? Do others know
You start to appreciate that more
Science and became more and
who we are? And isn’t it always
with the influx of so much digital
more interested in the fledgling
that we don’t really know what
stimuli. Digital communication
field
we see in front of us? On the one
has a lot to offer, but it is
of
interaction.
in
but
human-computer she
hand, Gary is only a character, a
commonplace. It can be made to
studied philosophy and digital
Before
digital being, and therefore he
feel warm and help you with self-
animation. The question that
cannot really “die”. So, can he
awareness. While working on the
kept
actually commit suicide?
research of Caring for Vincent:
coming
back
that,
into
her
thoughts was, how do we portray
A Chatbot for Self-compassion
ourselves through technology?
Real life joys
When she studied animation, she
In
wondered what it was like to be a
interaction
the quantitative and qualitative
everyday
life,
of
analyses suggest that human-
through
chatbot interaction can help us
character in the someone else’s
technology. We really are more
think about the future of well-
animation. Everything we see in
productive than ever before,
being.”
is
a
done
lot
robots in science-fiction movies or even in research is usually very superficial, like making a robot smile, which means it’s happy, or making it cry, so it’s sad. It becomes far more complicated when we want to add emotions like guilt, shame and humanlike imperfections to it.” In her work, Minha has to design these emotions for a chatbot, but even as a human, it can be difficult to conceptualize it. You learn what compassion means to you and what it means to the interaction, when you have to program that into technology. That’s the personal discovery, the journey you take within yourself while working on these topics.” People do have complex emotions and we’re not automatically happy or sad. There’s The fake world
a lot under the surface. For instance, the longer
When we look at the impact of social media, we see
you live, the more you come to realize what regret
that everyone posts only the best stories, pictures
and grief really mean. These emotions make us very
etc. We don’t dare share our flaws and things we
human. Yet, we don’t know how to approach that
are ashamed of or feel guilty about. But we all, as
in technology, but that’s one topic we are engaged
humans, have those emotions hidden somewhere
with in our department.”
inside us. Our recent research project led to a very interesting outcome. While communicating with
Minha: “We need to understand how we can
Vincent, a chatbot that admitted its everyday flaws,
experience these emotions better. How do we
people ended up caring about him. They preferred
portray guilt in our everyday life? How do we
a chatbot they cared about, rather than a chatbot
process it? How do you show compassion? There’s
that cared about them, like a therapist. So, if you’re
a lot of research in psychology about this and
having a chat with bot that complains and shows its
there’s also a lot of studies on compassion and
flaws and human imperfections, you can relate to
the meaning of this in philosophy. I want to utilize
it more. This care receiving chatbot with everyday
that knowledge about complex emotions when
troubles increased people’s self-compassion. Thus,
researching interactions with technology in our
the more we see suffering in technology and find
department. I want to bridge the gap between the
ourselves caring about it, the more likely we are to
fields of philosophy and psychology and the newer
be kind to it and therefore be kind to ourselves. On
discipline of human-computer interaction. One
social media, we often only see the most positive
cannot maximize the benefits of each field until one
events, but of course there is a whole host of
sees connections to other existing disciplines.”
ugliness that we don’t really show as humans. “Also, it’s important that we open our doors to When digital beings display human-like failings,
the public more often, and that our colleges and
we are reminded of our own humanity. Minha tells
knowledge become accessible to more people than
us: ”these themes have always been present in my
just our students and university staff. The TU/e and
work. I always question the way we portray human
the Design Academy are sort of islands, where a
imperfections in digital technology. And that is a
lot is happening, but you can only enter if you’re a
challenge, because as humans we often don’t really
member. Isn’t that strange? We must invite them to
show that to each other. The way we add emotions to
participate in the research and also to be critical
Share the vibe
31
of it. Research is meaningless unless it is shared. I’m looking forward to participating in initiatives that bring all kinds of people together. Thanks to the research I do, I understand more about myself and I have more self-compassion. I am not only a researcher, I am human. Here in Eindhoven, I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn more about myself and others.” “Technology can be helpful when you can’t find the words for what you’re feeling. A chatbot that tells you what happened can talk about its experience of feeling ashamed. We tend not to use words like shame or compassion. Those are deep, heavy words that we don’t often use in our everyday language. We don’t really say we felt compassion towards someone. When we have difficulties with heavy concepts, we can have technology say things in our place when we don’t have the courage or selfawareness to reflect on our own feelings. Technology can be used as a mirror to show us what is human.” “Eindhoven is booming, but how
You cannot maximize the talent that you have until you see connections to other existing talents
can we care for its soul? I wonder what will happen when we add emotions like self-compassion to Eindhoven’s technology, design, and knowledge DNA.”
Text: Linde ten Broek Photos: Eddie Mol
Eddie Mol, photographer, www.eddiemol.nl Linde ten Broek, writes and tells your story, www.lindetenbroek.nl
What being a volunteer at Eindhoven News has meant for me By Melinda Walraven – News Editor-in-Chief
I grew up in sunny South Africa and have always
Since then, I am happy to say, Eindhoven News has
been a curious person. So, journalism was the
gone from strength to strength. We have a full roster
perfect fit for me. Not only did I get to learn things,
of translators who disseminate news to the local
but I would also be able to share them with the
expat community on a daily basis. I do something for
world.
Eindhoven News - whether it’s translating articles from Dutch into English or editing other translators’
But you know the saying, “Life is what happens to
work - every day.
you while you’re making other plans”. Although I did go on to study journalism and I did get to work
What does it mean for me?
in the industry, I met the love of my life, had two children (whom I also love dearly), moved cities,
So, what has it meant for me? Working as a volunteer
got married. So, I put my writing aside for a while to
at Eindhoven News has meant a great deal for me.
focus on other things.
It has given me the opportunity to get back to doing what I love to do - writing - without having to take
And then we moved here. To Europe. Halfway across
time away from my family.
the globe. Which had been my lifelong dream. And once here, I had to try and find my place in the world
It has helped me learn the Dutch language in an
again. I knew I wanted to do something I love, but it
organic, informative way. It has also, incidentally,
had to be something that would not take me away
improved my English. It has helped me meet people
from my family. Especially my youngest daughter,
from many different countries, and make my first
who needed to adjust and settle in this new country
friends in Eindhoven along the way.
with its unfamiliar language and new ways. Working with all these different kinds of people
‘I can do that’
has also taught me to be more tolerant and understanding. Juggling different people with
One day, I was scrolling through Facebook. As one
different needs and schedules of their own can be
does. And I saw that Irene (Manager) was looking
tricky at times. I think it has helped me grow as a
for someone to help out with translations. “I can do
person.
that,” I said to myself. That was more than two years ago. And the rest, as they say, is history.
My work at Eindhoven News makes me feel useful. I know our readers gain knowledge and insight into
I started off doing a few translations a week. A few
the daily going-ons in the city. This knowledge helps
months later, Irene asked if I would be willing to
them to start participating in a city that is brand-
lead the news/translation team at Eindhoven News
new to some of them, thanks to the work we do at
as the News Editor-in-Chief. I jumped at the chance.
Eindhoven News.
I could get back to my first love - writing and sharing information in a responsible way.
Photo caption: Melinda and her husband, Michael.
33
Purchase guidance € 500,You don’t buy a home each day. It’s one of the most valuable purchases in your life. Everything is strange for you: the language, the country, the municipality but also the law. LamotMakelaars knows the market and has the
If we reach an agreement with the sellers about the
knowledge of the region.
purchase price, a purchase contract is made. We control this contract and explain it , so that there
When we go to work together, we start listing your
are no more questions and that everything is clear
living requirements. We also discuss the various
to you. It is a big purchase and everything has to be
locations in and around Eindhoven. Your budget is
100% in order.
also important an important factor. We accompany you with everything including visiting When you have seen a nice house on Funda or
the notary inspecting the property before going to
another website, we go together for a second view.
the notary. From the first moment to the last at the
We validate the correctness of the price for the
notary, we are there for you. We are also available in
house but also check in the land register whether
the evening hours and the weekend.
everything is in order. We also look at the location, how is the house situated in the neighborhood,
There is only one thing that matters to us and that
which facilities are present in the neighborhood.
is a good home for you without problems.
We then discuss our assessment with you and then we purchase a bid which we then issue for you. We
For the very competitive price of € 500,- incl. VAT
then do all the negotiations for you. LamotMakelaars Gebroeders van Doornestraat 32 | 5614 BN Eindhoven 06 574 252 97 | info@lamotmakelaars.nl www.lamotmakelaars.nl
Sip is a Trip Rebekah is Reading by Rebekah Villon
Sip is the debut novel from American Brian Allen Car.
another sense, though, it's no more harrowing than
It's classified as science fiction, but it reads more
the stories of addiction we encounter every day,
like a surrealist post-apocalyptic western, a world
and we recognize many of the behaviors, if not the
with one impossible feature that leads to an all-too-
causes.
possible future. Carr is an accomplished short story writer who has In Carr's novel, people can get high off of drinking
published several novellas, and Sip isn't a long read.
their own shadows. The effects are strange and
His brief, staccato sentences drive the story forward,
far-reaching, as addicts go to any lengths to steal
using language so spare and economical that he
shadows, and domed cities are erected to exclude
often eschews full sentences. For example, this
the light and prevent “sippers� from getting in. In
wonderful introduction to the hermit:
Book Review by Rebekah Villon “He has a passion for grass fires. His teeth are like oyster gravel. You can smell the funny look in his eyes.�
35
Game of Thrones: we spend an awful long time with characters and details that end up not being relevant to the story. Or maybe they are relevant, in a symbolic way, but the connection isn't fully
One of the things I love about Sip is the unsparing
realized. I feel Carr wanting to gather up all these
spareness. Carr doesn't indulge in the science-
loose threads of story and detail and character
fiction writer's trope of long sections of dialogue
into one climactic moment when everything comes
explaining the way the world works for characters
together... but it doesn't quite.
who should know it already. He doesn't even fully explain the world at all: the characters simply live
It is entirely possible that, despite the battles and
and move and breathe in it as the only one they've
journeys and losses and adventures, the entire story
ever known. By the time we come to the Town of Lost
is actually about Mira and her mother's addiction,
Souls, the dusty dryness, the suspicious quietness
and that she needed to go all that distance in order
on Main Street, the madness in the saloon, we
to find a way for the two of them to go forward.
realize that even though we are in the future, we are well and truly in the Wild West.
Sip is a fast read and a good story, with 3.38 on Goodreads and a lot of great reviews. The movie
Unfortunately, for me, the book doesn't read like
rights have already been picked up, and a movie
it's entirely finished. The pacing doesn't quite
version may resolve some of the pacing issues.
work, almost as though he didn't know where the
Let's hope a movie also resolves some of these
story was going when he started it. It reminds me
loose ends. The book deserves a story as sharp and
of one of the most infuriating aspects of reading
unflinching as Carr's writing.
The Match
Check in, stay out This is the fixed motto at The Match hotel. This new hotel opened in January and can be found in the characteristic “De Bergen” area in Eindhoven’s Kleine Berg. The hotel encourages guests NOT to stay inside the hotel, but to explore the city. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t pay attention to the design. On the contrary, Studio Hank created a colorful and trendy interior, while Vincent Huibers provided a lobby and rooms with edgy street art. Check in via your smartphone or iPad at the hotel and enjoy a bite at the 24/7 self-service MatchMarket. Fun fact: Every room comes with a “handy”, a type of smartphone that allows you to make calls for free within Europe, USA, Canada, India, Hong Kong and China. Above all, this is a tool with all the information a guest might need to go out and discover Eindhoven. The hotel also sends push notifications informing you of special events in town, making sure you don’t miss out on anything. The Match does not have a hotel manager, but a “Match-fixer”. Much like a concierge, but with a twist. Someone who can tell you all about the hotspots in the city and who can assist you.
See you soon at The Match hotel! Kleine Berg 43 5611 JS Eindhoven www.hotelthematch.com
37
Brittany Lavallee
39
Brittany Lavallee How a transatlantic couple found each other in the Pacific
Born and raised in Vermont, USA, Brittany Lavallee wanted to broaden her horizons. That’s why she and her friend Francesca booked a flight to Hawaii. Still within the States, but at almost 5,000 miles it is further away from Vermont than Eindhoven is. Or Geldrop, for that matter, just to name another metropole… But we’ll get back to that.
What inspired you to move to Hawaii?
Because of that, it was never really a long-distance
“Vermont, just north of New York, is a very nice place
relationship, but it did involve a lot of travelling and
to live. A bit northern European-like, but I wanted
frequent changes of scenery.”
to see more of the world, or at least the States, to start off with. Climate-wise it’s the opposite of
And now you’re here to stay?
Vermont and let’s be honest: who wouldn’t like to
“Yes, for quite some time at least. Now it’s about
go to Hawaii? We started on the Big Island, I worked
being adults and paying bills. Two years ago, I
in a clothing store and restaurant for a while, but
received my five-year permit and since then Frank
we didn’t really have much luck on the Big Island.
and I have been living in Geldrop. Even Chaz, my
Therefore, we flew to Kauai, where Francesca and
16-year-old cat, has joined us. It took tons of
I found work in a hostel. I was responsible for the
paperwork, but I grew up with him so I couldn’t bear
upkeep and cleaning of the rooms while she worked
to leave him behind. He’s the best furry companion
at the front desk. I was perfectly happy to stay there
for our little family.”
for a while and return to Vermont eventually until a young Dutchman, Frank, walked into the hostel as a
“The plan is to stay for another three to four years
guest. We hit it off immediately, but unfortunately
and then we’ll see. The States are an option, Frank
he was only there on a two-month permit, so we
would love to live there, but we’re also considering
had to part ways quite soon.”
Germany and Switzerland. Who knows, it might just remain the Netherlands. I feel very fortunate living
So, that was the end of the love affair? Or, as we say in Holland, ‘at least we’ve still got the pictures’.
here. The Dutch community is very welcoming, and
“Haha, no, but yes, we do still have the pictures.
think they’re cost efficient. Groceries are remarkably
No, I flew back to Vermont to surprise my mom for
cheaper here than in the US. Some say that the
Mother’s Day and two days later Frank turned up
Dutch are blunt, but I’d rather call it open. What you
at her house, completely unexpectedly. Both my
see, or hear, is what you get.”
everyone goes out of their way to help you out. There’s this stigma that the Dutch are stingy, I just
mother and sister immediately loved him. After that, we went back and forth several times. We’d live with
I think you’re really settling in.
my family for a few months, then Frank and I would
“I am, I’m doing my best to say the least. I try very
stay with his family in the Netherlands and so forth.
hard to learn the language, I’m at level B1 now.
What are your plans for the near future?
Eindhoven is a real expat city, in Geldrop people address me in Dutch
“Frank is pleased that the house is nice and tidy, and that I have learned to cook since arriving here! But I’d like to spread my wings a little. Of course, I will keep on improving my Dutch and maybe pick up a course in interior decorating or design again.” “For now, my life is absolutely wonderful. Frank’s family have been fantastic. They’ve helped me out and shown me around. Not just the region, but also many parts of Europe. My mom recently
It’s probably a bit easier for me than for many of
visited us, so we showed her around town and all
my classmates because they have fulltime jobs.
throughout the Netherlands. This was very exciting
With Frank’s work at ASML I don’t need to work for
for all of us, especially since it was her first trip
financial reasons, so I have enough time to do my
abroad. If she comes back again, we’d really like to
homework. I also practice my Dutch by reading
go to Italy because her family is of Italian origin.
the subtitles in English and American movies. I
When Francesca came over, we went to Christmas
do experience a big difference between Geldrop
markets in Prague, Hungary and Switzerland. I
and Eindhoven. Eindhoven is a real expat city, and
really enjoy my Dutch classes, which I will continue
everyone automatically switches to English when
until I master the language and it’s a great way to
speaking to me. In Geldrop people tend to address
meet other expats as well. Although I haven’t been
me in Dutch.”
there yet, I plan to get involved with the Hub. All options are open, but for the time being I couldn’t be happier than right here in Geldrop!”
Embrace the Dutch way of life Just to conclude, what would you say to newcomers? “Learn the basics and the language. Show everyone that you’re trying. Embrace the Dutch way of life. Get out there. Celebrate Carnival and visit (free) gatherings. Be a presence!”
Text: Joost Pool Photos: Eddie Mol
Brittany Lavallee
41
Valkenswaard We would like to introduce you to Valkenswaard.
and sports enthusiasts. But also for children there’s
Valkenswaard wants to show its hospitality and
a lot to discover!
we welcome this initiative to inform expats about everything that is going on in Valkenswaard. With
Visit a museum, make a canoe trip, go for a nice
more than 30,000 inhabitants, and including the
shopping spree or grab a drink at one of the
villagecentres Valkenswaard, Dommelen, Borkel en
terraces. Almost every weekend there is something
Schaft, it’s a Burgundian municipality in the heart
to do in or outside the village centres. Town centre
of the Dutch Kempen and the Metropolitan Region
is buzzing when the day has only just started. And
of Eindhoven. Valkenswaard has a surprisingly
a little further away, the tranquility of the most
versatile level of facilities in social, cultural,
beautiful outdoor areas awaits. In short: There is
sportive and recreational terms. The municipality is
a lot to enjoy in Valkenswaard! We would like to
a place for bon vivants, nature lovers and culture
welcome you soon.
sniffers, for fun shoppers, culinary connoisseurs
Valkenswaard
43
June 30: Valkenswaard Volkoren (Music)
Events
Like previous years, several choirs will perform along the various terraces and shopping locations in the centre of Valkenswaard. From folk songs to pop music, from ballads to rock, and everything in between.
May 30 (10.00 - 17.00 hrs): “Hemelse sferen” Be surprised by the wide range of items distributed over around 300 market booths, such as clothing, jewelry, home decoration, toys, baby articles, cleaning products and much more. Apart from all this we also have several attractions. Especially for the children we have a carousel and a scooter track.
July 28: Proost! Gerstenat Bierfestival (Burgundian) Time for beer tasting again! In town centre nineteen national and international Breweries will present their beers; by now well known for its cosy atmosphere. In addition, the “Biergondiër” offers two unique activities: Bierstachelen and Silent Beertasting, to enlarge the beer experience. June 8: “The Summer of 69” (Music)
August 8: 5th round of the 2019 UCI MTB Eliminator
“The Summer of 69” is a special edition of “Concert in
World Cup (Mountain Bike)
het Park”. Together with Harmonie de Dommelecho
As from 2017, Valkenswaard is hosting the UCI MTB
and many other local and regional artists, you will
Eliminator World Cup series. The series has an urban
enjoy a tribute to 50 years of Woodstock, based
character and welcomes Cross-Country Eliminator
on the legendary first edition in 1969. Access is
(XCE) races of the highest level. City Mountainbike
absolutely FREE! www.ameezingvalkenswaard.nl/
brings the very best of world's top athletes together
concert-in-park
on an international racing scene. The format is open to all ages, from kids to locals and professionals, both for men and women. Be part of these unique city
centre
races!
www.citymountainbike.com/
events/valkenswaard-ned-18-08-2019/
August 9-11: Longines Global Champions Tour (Show Jumping) Valkenswaard, the spiritual home of the Longines Global Champions Tour, is always a favourite with riders, owners and sponsors alike. This year, the spectacular and state of the art Tops International Arena will host the 16th round of the Tour and the Global Champions League. The superb facilities created
by
Longines
Global
Champions
Tour
founder and president Jan Tops have reached new
heights
following
a
multi-million
euro
development cementing the venue as the epicentre of equestrianism in Europe w w w.g lobalchampions tour.com/event s/2019/ valkenswaard/info/about/
Ons Kato,
www.topsinternationalarena.com
Where living becomes experience! September
8:
Flower
Parade
Valkenswaard
(Culture) Corso Valkenswaard: The cosiest Corso in the Netherlands, every 2nd Sunday of September in the streets of Valkenswaard. A dahlia Parade of 14 beautiful flower-filled cars (12 metres long, 4.5 metres wide and 6 meters high) together with show bands and brass bands from all over the Netherlands. A colourful experience for young and
A unique store with contemporary __lifestyle products and presents.
old! www.corsovalkenswaard.nl Cor Driessen Valkenswaard Marketing Our brands: Madam Stoltz, Brynxz, Qoss, Collectione, Mijn Stijl, Micmacbags, Zinvol, The Gift Label, Scentchips, Artisan Home Handwerkstraat 12 a, 5554 HP, Valkenswaard, Tel. 06-14970181 www.onskato.nl
Till August 31st Shop BTW-free! (not valid in combination with other actions/special offers.)
Corridor Mode in Valkenswaard Personal service is our highest priority
For over 40 years Corridor Mode is located in Valkenswaard town centre and specializes in men's fashion and personal service is the highest priority. Thanks to many years of experience, the beautiful collections and the professional advice of the team, Corridor Mode guarantees pleasant shopping! Corridor Mode Corridor 2 Valkenswaard For more information: www.corridor-mode.nl
MUSIC
SAT 28 SEPTEMBER ABBA FEVER - Swing back into the 70’s & Get the Abba Fever MUSIC
TUE 26 NOVEMBER SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS The Story Of The Dubliners DANCE
TUE 17 DECEMBER KIEV BALLET Carmen MUSIC
SAT 8 FEBRUARY BEATLES & BEYOND The LSB Experience DANCE
THU 26 MARCH THE SLEEPING BEAUTY The Royal Moscow Ballet
NO D REQ UTCH UIRE D
MUSIC
SAT 16 NOVEMBER DE NEIL DIAMOND MEMORIES BAND SHOW
FRI 29 NOVEMBER PEPIJN GUNNEWEG The Great Wonder (try out) MUSIC THEATRE
WED 8 JANUARY PERCOSSA DOUBLE BILL
MUSIC
THU 20 FEBRUARY THE ROD STEWART STORY Some Guys Have All The Luck MUSIC
WED 8 APRIL A TRIBUTE TO CREEDANCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL
hofnar.NL
MUSIC
THU 30 JANUARY RAÌCES CUBANAS Raìces Cubanas on tour 2020 MUSIC
FRI 6 MARCH ADELE PROJECT Someone like you DANCE
SAT 9 MAY KNOT DANCE Acrobatic Dance Theater
Eindhoven News 10th anniversary
21 September 2019, Eindhoven News 10th anniversary celebration! For 10 years, Eindhoven News has been keeping internationals up to speed on what’s happening in the Brainport region through their online platform. That means millions of people have read their news articles, received an abundance of background info on expat life, and attended the thousands of events they’ve publicised. Since 2009, on all weekdays you have been able to find the news updates on this website in English, to make sure that you as a not-yetDutch speaker, also know what is happening in town. Connecting cultures is the mission of Eindhoven News; hundreds
A day for everyone: single,
of international volunteers saw the importance of this quest and
family, young and older,
contributed to this cause from 2009 till now because all experienced
international and local!
the benefits of this news and info service at first hand. With the support of many other people and organisations we have reached this
21 September 2019
milestone.
The Hub, Vestdijk 25, Eindhoven 14:00 to 00:00
And now, 2019, behind the scenes, an event team is busy preparing a great day of festivities. Of course, for all.
You! Yes you! En jij ook! You are invited!
Free entrance but donations on the day are highly appreciated to fund our foundation. You can find more information on our website www.eindhovennews.com
The full programme will be announced later but to give you a sneak peek: there will be a formal part with talks and dialogues with remarkable
For participation, contribution or
people who you really would like to listen to. The seriousness will be
exposure for your organisation
balanced with ‘connective games’: to motivate visitors to get to know
before, during and after, contact
each other. International food from different cultures, spectacular
eindhovennews@gmail.com.
stage shows, a kids corner and after all the activities there will be music from different DJ’s to dance the night away. Oh yes and a lottery
We are looking forward to see
of course, so you won’t go home empty-handed.
you on 21 September!
47
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Column Expat Center
49
Meeting new people isn't easy, but it doesn't have to be difficult By Olivia van den Broek-Neri
Everyone can remember when someone said ‘hello’ to them for the first time. It is as though you felt part of the city when you are recognized by someone else; like you belong. And everyone needs that feeling of belonging. When you are new to a city, that doesn’t happen too often, because you have to meet people before anyone can recognize you. It isn’t always easy to meet new people. How do you meet new people? If you are working, you can meet people at your office. What if you do not work? How do even begin? It is not as if we are school-age children playing on the yard with fellow classmates who are the same age as us. You can’t just go up to someone and ask them to hang out. Or could you? But I digress. These are the times when social media connects, but also puts limits on our social activities. Why is it that we feel attached to our mobile phone, but cannot interact with someone in person? For one thing, it takes some guts to go out and meet people! Even for someone who is an extrovert like myself, there are times when I do not want to go up and introduce myself to strangers at an event, but the payoff can be handsome. There are plenty of opportunities to meet new people in Eindhoven! Joining a club or an organization is a great way to meet new people. Whether it is a sports club, a volunteer position or a club exclusively for internationals. Whatever it is, go and at least check something out! You may meet some nice people as a result, but in the least, you put
Tip: If you are new to the
yourself out there!
Eindhoven area, please join our next Welcome Evening on Friday,
Before you know it, you will begin to see familiar faces while out
June, starting at 18:30 at The Hub.
running errands, or someone will say ‘hi’ to you at the grocery store. I still smile whenever that happens. It’s nice to know people, and it’s
Register via
always nice to get a smile from someone!
www.hollandexpatcenter.com/ events/
Almonte and International School Eindhoven make a great team Founded in 2004, Almonte has become the largest basketball club in Eindhoven, with 350 members, of which more than 250 are actively playing. The members choose the combination of sporting ambition and sociability. Outside the competition there are various social activities: every season Almonte organizes club parties and clinics.
Geert Warrink is volunteer at the basketball club and
It's an original shirt from the Indiana Pacers. I still
The teams play from regional level to national
have to frame it and hang it on the wall."
(top sports) level. The flagships of Almonte of this
season are the women’s team 1 , playing at national
Unfortunately, the particular garment will not be on
level in the Promotion Division, the women’s
display for long, because the club most likely has to
team under 20 that play at a national level in the
move to Sports hall De Mortel in Achtse Barrier, next
Eredivisie, and the Men’s team1, also playing on
year. Recently Almonte got this devastating news
national level in Second Division.
confirmed: the Eckhart sports hall where the club
has played for as long as anyone can remember,
also the manager of the sports hall. Asked about the history of the club, Geert immediately shows a jersey from Rik Smits. Smits once started playing basketball at Almonte, but grew up to become the best paid Dutch professional athlete of all time. "I got this jersey from his father," Geert says proudly. "His granddaughter plays basketball here as well.
Almonte and International School Eindhoven
will most likely be demolished and replaced by a
different countries and cultures and often have
primary school. This means the end of an era for
different views on how sports should be played. The
the club.
directness in which Dutch people communicate can feel a bit confronting sometimes. Geert: “For that
"For us, this is very bad news," says Margreet van
reason, it’s a good thing we (like other clubs) have
Putten, chair of the club. "We probably will lose
a trust contact counselor available. This person is
members." We have many parents who volunteer
the first point of contact for anyone who comes
here, but we’re very worried if the youth of our club
across unwanted behaviour and feels the need to
will have to cycle for six kilometers, they may not
talk about it.
remain members. When the children leave the club, so will the parents. And those volunteers are vital
Geert views this collaboration as an enrichment.
for the club. Besides that, the players will simply
“For the club, working together with ISE means a
miss the hall because there are valuable memories
very welcome addition for new members and it
there. Not to mention the special atmosphere and
gives ISE the opportunity to bring students closer to
sound the hall has.”
the Dutch community”. Therefore both parties hope and count on the fact they will be working together
Cooperation with International School Eindhoven
for years to come. Their goal being the introduction
Robbert Wuisman has been teaching P.E. at ISE
of a new ISE team at Almonte every year.
for seven years, he is also the sports coordinator. Robbert explains: "At our school a school year
Robbert : “We are very happy with the connection,
consists of three terms of three months, each term
and it gives our students alternative ways of
we focus on another sport. A big advantage of
participating in sports. In Europe there are many
this system is that kids get introduced to multiple
exchanges between international schools and this
sports. As a school we feel it is important that
is definitely the case in sports. I am already looking
children join a sports club if they like a particular
forward to our trip to Switzerland where teams from
sport. Unlike f.i. the United States where sport is
17 different schools will competing”.
mostly organised through the school system, kids in Europe join sports club from a young age. An
If you have an interest in visiting an Almonte
additional advantage is that international kids have
game or if you would like to help this active club
an easy way to integrate in Dutch society. With that
as a volunteer please contact Geert Warrink at
in mind we contacted basketball club Almonte in
almontewedstrijdsecretaris@gmail.com
Eindhoven a few years ago and this resulted in a girls team of only ISE students, but playing under the Almonte name. Now three "ISE Wolves" teams play at Almonte, with another team on the way next season. Fun comes first, for as well Almonte as ISE, sadly this is not the case for all the teams Almonte competes against. Geert: “We completely agree with ISE’s standpoint to strive for sports to add to a child's education, but sometimes this may clash with the attitude of other teams that only play to win. Almonte and ISE members come from many
51
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Learn Dutch and live like a local Eindhoven is like a global village. People come together from all corners of the world and work together on smart solutions that make a difference. Speaking English will help you get around but speaking Dutch will allow you to blend in like a local. At STE Languages our well-trained natives will make you feel at home and know exactly what you need to make big improvements in your progress. By attending our small group courses we can help you take those first steps! Interested in joining?
Why STE Languages?
Feel confident in speaking Dutch Stop worrying and start enjoying
Small groups
Learn from each other in a supportive atmosphere.
Personal approach
Tailor-made training based on your personal needs
Skilled trainers
Qualified trainers that love to work with world citizens
Learn when it suits you
Before work, during lunch break, after work or even on Saturday and during summer
Visit www.ste.nl, mail to info@ste.nl or just give us a call: +31 (0)40 - 245 28 60
ZUID-AMERIKA MALEISIE
g
MALEISIE
53
"Speaking the language helps with everything" The added value of a Dutch language course Sometimes they have travelled there for love, sometimes a job is the reason. More and more internationals are finding their way to Eindhoven and not only to work but also to live and to build a life, and that means getting to know a new language. How do you deal with that? Two internationals talk about their experiences.
"The Dutch prefer to speak Dutch"
"Speaking the language is important for integration. That applies to everyone. Even if it is not necessary for your work, it is still a good idea to learn Dutch. Speaking the language helps with everything from shopping to boot camps. The Dutch are friendly and easy to communicate with but I notice that they prefer to speak Dutch. So keep practicing the language. Do your homework, read a book or watch a Dutch television program. Search for something that interests you, then you can keep it up more easily. " Julianna Feron, Hungary Consultant Global Sourcing, Brunel
“It feels a bit like home"
"For me, STE is more than just a language school and the trainers are more than just teachers. They help you with everything, even if it is not directly related to the curriculum. Furthermore, you have a lot of contact with students of different levels. That has a stimulating effect because you can directly see your own development and that of others. This is where my life in the Netherlands started and I am grateful for that. It feels a bit like home. " Rodolfo CastaĂąon Juarez, Mexico
ZUID-AMERIKA ZUID-AMERIKA INDONESIA
MALEISIE
Growing plants is easy, healthy, and makes the world a little more beautiful. It's also a very Dutch thing to do.
How Does Your Garden Grow? By Rebekah Villon
Sunny days are upon us, and the Dutch are eagerly sweeping their walkways and setting up their tuin meubelen to enjoy summer weather. From sidewalks to terraces to windowboxes, the urban gardens of the Netherlands are an essential part of life here, and this thriving greenery helps to make Eindhoven the beautiful city that it is. However, growing plants in the city goes far beyond
act of planting something and watching it grow is
simple beautification. There are a lot of reasons
inherently hopeful and optimistic.
to devote a few centimeters to cultivating plants,
Gardening helps the environment. The Netherlands
indoors or out, and some of them may surprise you:
strongly supports the creation and maintenance of sidewalk gardens (geveltuin), that ubiquitous little
Gardening lifts depression. Studies have shown
strip of greenery in front of buildings. These little
that growing plants significantly reduces depression
gardens add beauty and serenity to city streets,
and improves mood. Gardening is naturally relaxing
and help to boost the population of honeybees.
and stress-reducing, and the act of nurturing plants
Throughout
and seeing them grow and thrive has been shown to
supporting initiatives to create more geveltuin and
help relieve anxiety and depression. Some studies
plant pollinator-friendly flowers.
also indicate that soil bacteria itself may help to
Plants clean indoor air. Believe it or not, indoor air
boost mood, and psychologists theorize that the
quality can actually be much worse for your health
the
country,
cities
are
actively
How does your garden grow?
• Spider plants. Spider plants, or Chlorophytum comosum, are great houseplants for people who don't want to take care of houseplants. They are one of the best house plants for cleaning the air, are lowmaintenance and forgiving of poor care and lighting conditions, and grow rapidly and attractively. For cat owners, a few nibbles of this plant can actually be healthy for a cat, with the same benefits as wheatgrass, so they are a popular choice among cat owners. • Herbs. If you have a sunny window sill or window box, herbs are an incredibly simple way to have a thriving little garden. Herbs smell amazing, and bees and pollinators love their fragrant flowers. Rosemary, mint, thyme, sage, parsley, and oregano are all incredibly easy to grow and hard to kill, provided they get adequate sunlight. Herbs are incredibly good for you, with vitamins and trace minerals the body requires, and having your own garden gives you the freshest organic herbs all year long, for free. • Native plants. There are few remaining plant species native to the Netherlands, since the country has been so heavily cultivated for so than
outdoor
air
pollution.
long. However, more and more attention is being paid to preserving
Granted, if your apartment is
these local plant species. Local plants are not only an essential part
as old and poorly insulated as
of the country's landscape and heritage, but they are a vital part of
mine, there isn't much difference
the natural ecosystem, as part of the food chain for local insects and
between indoor and outdoor
wildlife. Seek out the beautiful yellow flag iris, the checkered lily, the
air, but there are houseplants
common daisy, or the pretty little Robert Geranium to contribute a
that are extremely efficient at
little bit to the natural ecosystem.
removing all kinds of harmful gases from the air, including VOCs from plastics, cigarette smoke, and artificial fragrances. Houseplants are a great way to not just cover up indoor air problems, but produce cleaner, healthier air. Even if you live in an apartment, and think you don't have a green thumb, there are so many beautiful,
low-maintenance
plants that can improve your mood and health. Here are some great plants for citydwellers to enjoy.
55
Bourgondisch Eindhoven The ‘Stadswandelpark’ at the Kiosk is the place to be from June 7 to June 10, 2019. No Xcuse is the organizer of this culinary event, where several local restaurants will spoil you with specialties from their kitchens. Among them are Stadspaviljoen, De Bengel, Oriental Greenhouse, Smaaktheater Dertien, Saffraan, La Dolce Vita, Dommel 18, Holland Casino and Lobster & Ox. From Asian to Italian to the Persian kitchen, and everything in between, culinary bites will be accompanied by a good glass of wine, a beer, a cocktail or a soda. While you enjoy good food, drinks and, hopefully, good weather, you will be entertained by various artists. Culinary events have been held at this location for almost 25 years, under the name Eindhoven Culinair. This year will be the first ‘Bourgondisch Eindhoven’. Burgundian is a lifestyle; enjoy life to the fullest. And that’s what we’ll do during this weekend. Even the younger ones will have a great time in our special VIP Kids area! On Friday 7 June we’re open from 18:00 until 23:00. On Saturday and Sunday, we’re open from 14:00 until 23:00 and on Monday from 14:00 until 22:00. We hope to see you there! More info at www.bourgondischeindhoven.nl
Bourgondisch Expat Eindhoven Center
57
WTC·E Golf Open @Best Golf! Thursday 20 June 2019
Photography: Reportage Fotografie Annie van Schayk Meet thé Golf Course of the Year 2018: Best Golf! A beautiful 18-hole course with course-loop combinations, water features, a hilly terrain and a challenging program. Do you want to expand your network and enhance your golf skills? Get acquainted with an ambitious network for entrepreneurs: World Trade Center Eindhoven!
Program 1 – WTC·E Golf Open Experience Best Golf 11.00
Registration for the 18-hole course & welcome drink
11.30
Start of the golf competition!
13.00
Registration for the Clinic & welcome drink
13.30
Start of the Clinic!
16.00
Meet & greet with drinks and snacks
18.30
Enjoy the TOP Business Dinner!
21.00
Finish
Program 2 – Experience Best Golf 17.00
Registration & welcome drink
17.30
Experience Best Golf on golf cars
18.30
Enjoy the Top Business Dinner!
21.00
Finish
Registration Do you want to discover Best Golf? You’re also welcome to partcipate in this dynamic event. The participation fees are €65 for the WTC·E Golf Open & €29.50 for the Top Business Dinner. For further information please don’t hesitate to send an email to info@wtce.nl
Location Best Golf, Golflaan 1, Best
Interview Eva
59
Text: Joost Pool Photos: Eddie Mol
Eva Bellocchia An Italian volunteer at the Catharina Hospital
Born and raised in Turin, Italy, Eva Bellocchia knew from the age of six that at some point she wanted to move ‘up north.’ “At the time, we had a Swedish neighbor, and from the stories she told me I knew I wanted to live in the north of Europe. As you can tell, I didn’t get as far as Scandinavia, but I am very glad to have ended up in Eindhoven.
to, and I couldn’t get any of the Italian specialties. Luckily, we, a group of four Italian women, had found an Italian shop just across the Belgian border that we would visit every two months. Besides that, it took me some time to adapt to the early darkness during the winter. And I wasn’t used to the fact that you have to make an appointment with somebody to ‘drop in’ for a cup of coffee… Other than that, everything in Eindhoven was a pleasant surprise to me!”
Such as? “I had cycled in Turin, but Turin wasn’t really bicyclefriendly then. Now I can ride my bicycle just like a Dutch person, with shopping bags hanging from my handlebars and all that. I like to watch people eating and walking at the same time. You don’t see that in Italy. But I am especially pleased with the openness, or directness, of the Dutch people.
‘At the reception you see a thousand faces a day' How did you end up in the ‘not so romantic’ city of light?
What you see is what you get. And I love carnival
“It isn’t Paris, I’ll give you that, but it is the city of
Holland. It is so inviting for a nice walk or bicycle
light, and it was romance that brought me here.
ride. Which does actually bring me back to a few
Sometime in the nineties I was holidaying in Spain
things I miss. From our home Turin, we could be up
and met a wonderful Dutchman, Robbert, who
in the mountains skiing within 45 minutes. Turn the
worked for Philips Medical Systems. We fell in love
car the other way and you’d be at the sea in an hour
and in 1997 I came to Eindhoven.”
and a half. And I miss my parents, of course.”
Did you have trouble adjusting to life in the Netherlands?
I’m sure you do. How did they react to your migration?
“Of course, there are things you have to get used to,
“My parents found it difficult, but they absolutely
things that surprise you and things you find difficult
love my husband. They’ve been here a few times and
at first. Grocery shopping was a bit of a thing in the
Robbert and I go back two or three times a year.”
early days. Shops closed earlier than I was used
and King’s Day. I really appreciate the nature in
Interview Eva
You’ve been here for 22 years. What have you been up to all that time?
What do you do at the Catharina Hospital?
“To be honest, I haven’t been here all that time.
point of contact for people entering the hospital.
From 2005 until 2018 we lived in Belgium because
That could be either the patients or their family
Robbert wanted a detached house, and houses
and friends. You see a ‘thousand’ faces a day so to
were cheaper there. But my life, my friends, my
speak, and I find it very rewarding. I calm people
work was always in Eindhoven. I’m not exactly a
down, show them directions, hear their stories.
job hopper, I remain very loyal to my employers,
There are many emotions involved. There is often
because I’ve always really enjoyed the work I was
joy in the hospital. Babies are born, people recover.
doing. I spent many years working for Philips and
Others are nervous for tests or an operation and
after that I worked at Kentalis for eight years where
get better again. At the same time of course, sadder
I was a facilities employee. Kentalis is a foundation
things happen as well. You must be able to deal
for children, zero to eighteen years old, who suffer
with a mix of emotions that can literally switch from
from autism, or are either deaf or blind. It is such
one minute to the next. But I can advise anyone
rewarding work that I decided to remain in the care
with some time on their hands and at least a basic
provision sector to become a volunteer at Vitalis
command of the Dutch language to become a
and the Catharina Hospital.”
volunteer at the Catharina Hospital. Whether it will
“I work in the reception area, so I’m really the first
be at the reception desk or in one of the many other departments. I, for one, am proud to represent the
‘It is so rewarding to work in the hospital’
hospital at its front door!” www.catharinaziekenhuis.nl Volunteer center: T 040 239 67 77
61
Authentic Thai cuisine in Eindhoven
Dining ~ Takeaway ~ Quick Bite St. Bonifaciuslaan 1 ~ 5643 NA Eindhoven ~ 040-737 02 07 ~ www.kingthai.nl
Be
yo
urs
elf,
be international
, b e D ut
ch
International School RISE
SALTO is starting up a new school concept: SALTO International
You can enrol your child by
School RISE. With our new multilingual primary school concept we
filling in an enrolment form
believe we have found an inspiring balance between traditional
on our website:
international education and Dutch education.
salto-internationalschool.nl
In January 2019 our school will open its doors for children of the
location:
age of 4 and 5 (Kindergarten). Subsequent in August 2019 we will
Reigerlaan 3
open a complete primary section (ages 4-12).
5613 CD Eindhoven
We strive to support our students in becoming bilingual/
(At a later point in time we will
multilingual children who will have the option to either continue
move to another location near
their education at an international secondary school or a Dutch
the city center of Eindhoven)
secondary school after they graduate from SALTO international School RISE.
Daycare ‘t Parelbosch
kinderdagverblijf ‘t Parelbosch www.parelbosch.nl info@parelbosch.nl T 040 256 9090
't Parelbosch Daycare Pasqualinistraat 10 De Waghemakerstraat 1-B Eindhoven T 040 256 9090 info@parelbosch.nl www.parelbosch.nl
63
Yes, I do!
Happy wishes
Perhaps you know these words, they were written
But first back to the text above this article.
long long time ago for the bride-to-be. Rituals and
According to these words the bride has to wear on
words with a lot of symbolic content. Rituals can
the wedding day something old, new, borrowed and
add something precious to a marriage. And although
blue. And put a silver sixpence in her left shoe. All
I can imagine that a lot of people do not want to
this is supposed to bring more happiness and love.
follow those old rituals and want to add something
Something old means continuation. Something that
contemporary to it, I believe it is good to honour
comes from the mother or (great) grandmother that
them and to keep them alive for our heritage.
is passed on to the bride. In this case she can wear
Eindhoven is a city full of internationals and I am
a ring, or other jewelry that belonged to a woman
very curious to find the rituals and traditions of all
that was very happy in her marriage. Something new
these cultures. As a wedding officiant I meet a lot
stands for optimism and a new future, a new chapter
of internationals and talk about their traditions and
in life. I think this is not difficult to find. She may
the way they want to celebrate their big day. It is
wear a new dress, new shoes, a new bag, underwear.
always a great honour to hear stories about people
Something borrowed will give a bright, wealthy
that fell in love. I would like to write about it and
future. You can borrow something from your best
share it. I asked my colleague wedding officiant
friend, your sister, or anyone who is happy. This item
Ellen Schoumacher to enrich these stories with
will bring happiness. Blue is a symbol of modesty
special drawings.
and faithfulness. She can think of something blue in her lingerie, in a ring, a necklace. And then the myth about the sixpence in her left shoe. I can imagine
Wedding
65
Something old, something new Something borrowed, something blue and a silver sixpence in your shoe Tekst: Linde ten Broek Drawings: Ellen Schoumacher
that it is not the most comfortable part of this old
everybody was having so much fun and all dressed
saying but they say it will bring her abundance and
at their best. The couple enters the party dancing.
financial safety‌
Shadn shared another interesting tradition where the bride-to-be is locked in the house of her family.
Shiny happy people
The groom has to pay before he may enter the
And now last but not least I want to share something
house. It is these kinds of rituals that we are looking
really lovely. It was a Friday evening and Ellen and I
for! So, if you have stories for us, please share them.
had an appointment with Rania and Shadn.
We are thrilled and looking forward hearing from
We had never met them before but it was obvious
you!
that those two shiny people sitting in front of the information desk were them! Two young people
So, if you want to share some wedding rituals with
who met each other at the engagement party of the
us, you are more than welcome. Please send an
sister of Shadn. He is from Syria and she is from Irak.
email to me: info@lindetenbroek.nl and share why
They did not tell us much but for sure the love was
this ritual means a lot to you. We love to meet you!
in the air. They both do not know what is happening to them, they cannot find words that describe their feelings
In this column Yes, I do! Linde ten Broek, wedding
for each other. And perhaps it is a bit too early
officiant and soulstoryteller, www.soulstories.
to talk about marriage, they have found Love in a
nl and Ellen Schoumacher, wedding officiant and
way they never experienced before. Shadn tells
visual storyteller, @ellentekent, share stories about
about the big engagement party of his sister where
international wedding rituals.
Agenda June/July 7th – 10th June BOURGONDISCH EINDHOVEN Stadswandelpark www.no-xcuse.nl 12th June ENGLISH COMEDY NIGHT The Hub Eindhoven www.thehubeindhoven.nl 17th June EXPAT FAIR & FEELGOOD MARKET Klokgebouw www.expatfair.nl 18th June DUTCH NIGHT The Hub Eindhoven www.thehubeindhoven.nl
SAT 1 JUNE
21st June EXPAT SPECIAL Dinner in Motion www.dinnerinmotion.nl
Björn van der Doelen Bless me, Father, for I have sinned
pop | singer-songwriter | Americana
MON 3 JUNE
Katia & Marielle Labèque Stavinsky’s Rite of Spring classical | 4-handed piano
FRI 17 JUNE
30th June UNITY FESTIVAL Urban Sportpark Eindhoven https://www.facebook.com/UnityFestivall
Slagerij van Kampen Toccata da Fuga pop | percussion
MON 10 JUNE
Caravan
5+
A kids concert investigtating different styles of music kids
SAT 15 JUNE
Woodstock
One night of peace & music pop
WED 19 JUNE
27st June Music With Strangers The Hub Eindhoven www.thehubeindhoven.nl
Hania Rani
neo-classical | pop
tickets available at muziekgebouweindhoven.nl Tel: 040 244 20 20 (Mon - Sat 13:00 - 17:00)
5th July PUB CRAWL The Hub Eindhoven www.thehubeindhoven.nl
agenda Kids agenda Sunday 2 June CLASSICAL FESTIVAL ON THE CAMPUS TU/Eindhoven
Sunday 16 June FEELGOODMARKET Ketelhuisplein Eindhoven
FROM SATURDAY 8 JUNE TO MONDAY 11 JUNE VIKING FESTIVAL preHistorisch Dorp Eindhoven
Saturday 29 June CHILDREN’S ART CLUB Van Abbemuseum Eindhoven
Monday 10 June NATIONAL CASTLE DAY
Saturday 29 June and Sunday 30 June KOMMUS CASTLE FESTIVAL Kasteeltuin Geldrop
From Wednesday 12 June to Sunday 16 June STRATUMSE FAIR EINDHOVEN
MORE INSPIRATION: www.kidsproof.nl/Eindhoven
Parktheater 20 May, 20:00 LES 7 DOIGTS DE LA MAIN / 7 FINGERS RÉVERSIBLE
BAR RESTAURANT ROZENKNOPJE Music * Comedy * Movies Lunch * Dinner * Drinks Historic bar close to the center Open 7 days a week 12.00 PM - 02.00 AM Kitchen open 12.00 PM - 22.00 PM Every Friday: vinyl DJ's Every Wednesday: Live music Every Monday: Shared Diner Check our website for full program!
www.rozenknopje.nl Hoogstraat 59 | Eindhoven
29 May, 20:00 BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN’S BORN IN THE U.S.A. 1 June, 20:00 THE MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTEE 4 June, 20:00 NEDERLANDS DANS THEATER 1 - SOL & PAUL XXX 6 + 7 June XARAH VON DEN VIELENREGEN & EL TIGRE BLANCO - CLUB SALVADOR 2019 13 June JAKOP AHLBOM COMPANY - LE BAL 14 June STEPHEN SHROPSHIRE - CANTATA NEW 2019/2020 PROGRAM AVAILABLE NOW! Check out the program at Parktheater.nl Our ticketing staff will be happy to assist you on 040 - 211 11 22
UNITY MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL Daylight Foundation is a non-profit organization and its main objective is to promote togetherness and a peaceful society by bringing different individuals, cultures and nationalities together through sports, entertainment and fun activities. In
a
rapidly-growing
international
city
like
Eindhoven, we believe it’sessential to create an opportunity for different nationalities to get together, interact and connect with each other. We aim to provide a platform for peaceful coexistence. UNITY Multicultural Festival is for everyone, no matter what their ethnic or cultural background is. It’s for all our international communities and, of course, Dutch people. For young and old. For all layers of society. To provide easy access for everyone, we think it’s extremely important to make entrance free of charge. This is a cultural event with lots of activities such as sports, live music, workshops, children’s activities and multicultural food stands. UNITY Multicultural Festival takes place annually, and June 29, 2019 will be our 3rd edition. For an even more successful outcome at this year’s festival, we have secured a new location at Urban Sportpark Eindhoven with a contract for next 5 years. This new location offers more and bigger facilities, as well as additional activities such as Survival Run Eindhoven and calisthenics. We want to reach out and invite even more international communities, groups and local businesses. We don’t just offer a passive invitation, we actively encourage the community to come and take part.
BOOK NOW: 040 - 760 0179
SPA - BEAUTY - FACIAL - MASSAGE MANI/PEDI - SAUNA - GIFTS & MORE www.agua.nl - Wilhelminaplein 17 - Eindhoven
REPAIR SERVICE FOR MACBOOKS, TABLETS, AND SMARTPHONES Dillenburgstraat 11c | 5652 AM Eindhoven T. +31 (0)40 287 0700 | info@repairlab.nl www.repairlab.nl
EXPAT FRIENDLY
BIKESHOP
Learn Dutch! Course program online end June. NEW coming season English spoken courses! Early Bird discount throughout the month of July. Courses start in September. Volksuniversiteit Eindhoven Tongelresestraat 146A | Eindhoven Check our website: www.vu-eindhoven.nl
SHOWROOM SALE REPAIR
We are the allround (e)bike specialist in Veldhoven / Eindhoven and we supply Urban transport Solutions for you and your family. You are welcome!
Visit us for new or used bikes! Veldhoven Heemweg 2, 040 2558540 Eindhoven Bisschop Bekkerslaan 6, 040 2558545
www.vmgfietshuis.nl
Expat Center Interview
Pragati Singh, Welcome Desk volunteer at Holland Expat Center South By Olivia van den Broek-Neri Volunteers man the Welcome Desk at Holland Expat Center South in Eindhoven. These people volunteer their time and expertise to help other internationals who have recently moved to the Eindhoven area. Each of them has their own story as to why they came to Eindhoven and what their plans are for the future. For this issue, we spoke to Pragati Singh.
What’s her advice for newly arrived internationals? “I would advise them, first of all, to visit Holland Expat Center South”, she says. Her second piece of advice is for newly arrived expats to attend a Welcome Evening! “If you’re going to explore [Eindhoven] yourself, it’s going to take you days”, Pragati says. “But with the tour you get to see it all in one go with a local!” Having lived in Sydney, Switzerland and Calgary,
Initially a retail merchandiser by profession, and
Pragati enjoys her new life in the Netherlands.
later a teacher, Pragati is currently a volunteer at the
“What’s the best thing that I like about the
Expat Center. When we sit down for our interview,
Netherlands? It has lovely weather,” she says. She
she points out that she has been living in Eindhoven
offers an explanation: “In the Netherlands, whatever
with her husband and daughter for almost exactly
the weather is you can go out and walk”. In India,
a year.
with a temperature of 40 degrees, you cannot go for a walk.” She quickly follows that up with another
Pragati first contacted the Expat Center when a
reason she enjoys living here: “Eindhoven has lovely
friend told her about a Facebook post asking for
people!”
volunteers for the Welcome Desk. “I was talking to one of my friends and she had seen an opening on
“I have a small community that I joined called
Facebook for a volunteer job, and at that time – that
NICE: North Indian Community of Eindhoven, and
same minute – I sent an email, and here I am!” she
whenever they have questions, they come to me,”
says.
she says. “I might not know the answer, but I know where to look for it!”
Working as a volunteer “The Eindhoven I knew before volunteering here,
Holland Expat Center South is a non-profit
and the one I know now, are totally different!”
government agency. There is no charge for our
Pragati says. “Helping the expats who come to
services and no appointment is required. Our office
ask questions has helped me as an individual.”
is open from 09:00 until 17:00.
Does she ever see the newly arrived internationals she has welcomed outside of the Expat Center?
Vestdijk 27a, Eindhoven
“Yeah, sometimes, because Eindhoven is not very
+31 (0)40 238 67 77
big!”
info@hollandexpatcenter.com
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