BxlConnect - Issue 2

BxlConnect

October 2013

bxlconnect.com

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELL-BEING GOING OUT HOTELS & RESTAURANTS SERVICES LIFESTYLE LEARNING EDUCATION DEALS ADS OFFERS REAL ESTATE PROMOTIONS MUSEUMS EXHIBITIONS DESIGN ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELL-BEING GOING OUT HOTELS & RESTAURANTS SERVICES LIFESTYLE LEARNING EDUCATION DEALS ADS OFFERS REAL ESTATE PROMOTIONS MUSEUMS EXHIBITION DESIGN ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS

FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE

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ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELLBEING GOING OUT HOTELS & RESTAURANTS SERVICES LIFESTYLE LEARNING EDUCATION DEALS ADS OFFERS REAL ESTATE PROMOTIONS MUSEUMS EXHIBITIONS DESIGN ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELLBEING GOING OUT HOTELS & RESTAURANTS SERVICES LIFESTYLE LEARNING EDUCATION DEALS ADS OFFERS REAL

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Interview with Brussels Mayor Thielemans

BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELL-BEING GOING OUT HOTELS & RESTAURANTS SERVICES LIFESTYLE LEARNING EDUCATION DEALS ADS OFFERS REAL ESTATE PROMOTIONS MUSEUMS EXHIBITIONS DESIGN ART & CULTURE FESTIVALS CONCERTS EMPLOYMENT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES REAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELL-BEING GOING OUT

Dear Readers, BxlConnect is a free monthly magazine for the English-Speaking and Expat community in Brussels. Pick it up to get inspiration and ideas about activities, deals and special offers from our partners. BxlConnect is distributed at a wide range of locations throughout the city such as bars, cafes, EU Commission offices, the EU Parliament, Embassies and several other spots.

BxlConnect aims to inform newcomers and seasoned expatriates alike about useful information, resources and contacts in the city. The magazine also features exciting interviews, articles and information about key happenings in Brussels.

Please also have a look at our website: www.bxlconnect.com where you can find continuously updated information about events and promote your own events, submit and browse classified ads.

We very much hope you enjoy browsing through the magazine. If you have any thoughts or feedback, we look forward to hearing from you.

Please contact us on: info@bxlconnect.com.

With Kind Regards, The BxlConnect Team

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BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

BxlConnect

CONTENT

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

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ART & CULTURE FESTIVAL S CONCER RESTAUR ANTS TS EMPLOYM ENT SERVICES LIFESTYL FESTIVAL S CONCER E LEARNIN G EDUCAT WORK HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES ION DEALS ADS SERVICES LIFESTYL TS EMPLOYM ENT WORK OFFERS REAL ESTATEREAL ESTATE HEALTH & WELL-BE HOUSING PUBLIC E ING GOING OUT PROMOTI ONS MUSEUM NOTICES REAL CONCER TS EMPLOYM LEARNIN G EDUCAT ION DEALS HOTELS & ESTATE S EXHIBITIO ADS ENT HEALTH OFFERS WORK HOUSING N DESIGN & LIFESTYL E LEARNIN REAL ESTATE WELL-BE ING GOING ART & CULTURE PUBLIC NOTICES PROMOTI ONS MUSEUM G OUT HOTELS REAL ESTATE EMPLOYM ENT WORK EDUCAT ION DEALS ADS S EXHIBITIO & RESTAUR ANTS HEALTH OFFERS N DESIGN & REAL WELL-BE ESTATE PROMOTI ART & CULTURE ING GOING OUT EDUCAT ION DEALS HOUSING PUBLIC NOTICES FESTIVAL S ONS MUSEUM S REAL ESTATE HOTELS & RESTAUR ADS OFFERS EXHIBITIO N DESIGN HEALTH HOUSING PUBLIC REAL ESTATE ANTS SERVICES PROMOTI ONS MUSEUM& WELL-BE ING GOING OUT ART & CULTURE NOTICES REAL HOTELS & RESTAUR FESTIVAL S CONCER DEALS ADS OFFERS ESTATE HEALTH S EXHIBITIO N ANTS SERVICES TS & WELL-BE ING DESIGN ART & REAL ESTATE LIFESTYL E LEARNIN CULTURE FESTIVAL GOING OUT PROMOTI ONS MUSEUM HOTELS & RESTAUR S CONCER TS G S EXHIBITIO N EMPLOYM ENT WORK ANTS SERVICES DESIGN ART & LIFESTYL E LEARNIN CULTURE FESTIVAL G EDUCAT ION S CONCER TS EMPLOYM ENT WORK HOUSING

English - Speak bxlcing Resources, Conta cts, Deals

ISSUE 01

bxlconnect.com

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Derek Blyth’s Hidden Secrets of Brussels

Health & Well - Being

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AGAZINE

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Co-working: A forthcoming trend in Brussels

14 Housing

FREE MONTHLY M

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Interview with local expat and artist Rachel Trost

9 Employment

Any private individual or small business is welcome to place a small “classified ad” free of charge on our website: www.bxlconnect. com. You can also choose to have it featured in the magazine for a small fee.

For companies that are interested in placing display ads and promotions, we offer attractive rates and large discounts for longer term commitments. If you have any questions or would like to discuss a potential partnership, you may contact us on: info@bxlconnect.com or 02 450 00 91.

Art & Culture

Interview with the Mayor of the City of Brussels Freddy Thielemans

23 Services

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----------------------------------------------------------------BxlConnect sprl Publisher: Jonadav Apelblat jonadav@bxlconnect.com 02 450 00 91

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The organic one-stop shop in Brussels Bepositive

29 Learning

Photo Credits Cover, top right photo: Michael Chia, creatifimage.com Cover, bottom photo: Belgian Brewers – Lander Loeckx Page 18, middle photo: M.F. Plissart 2010 -----------------------------------------------------------------

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Survival Guide for Newcomers

BxlConnect Calendar

BxlConnect

ART & CULTURE

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English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Cinema - The Actor’s Studio Located at the heart of Brussels and just around the corner from the “Grand Place”, the Actor’s studio has been well known over the past 20 years as a point of reference for Arthouse films in Brussels.

The motivated team behind this picture house work effortlessly in order to put together a well-balanced program consisting of both European and Belgian films as well as an appreciation of work from other corners of the world. All the movies are shown in their original version and none are dubbed.

Small Club / Venue in Brussels. Dedicated to Jazz. Concerts from September to June www.jazzstation.be

Address: Petite rue des Bouchers, 16 17-19 rue de la fourche 1000 Bruxelles Tel: 02 5121696

AGENDA 02/10 – 20.30

Ananke

03/10 – 20.30

Jazz Station Big Band

04/10 – 20.00

Commented Listening of Jazz Records (fr)

05/10 – 18.30

De Beren Gieren

06/10 – 15.00

«Jazz en Famille» - Clarundo

08/10 – 19.00/21.00 History of Jazz Lessons - Standards 09/10 – 20.30

Marjan Van Rompay Group

11/10 – 20.00

Commented Listening of Jazz Records (fr)

12/10 – 18.00

TBA

16/10 – 20.30

LG Jazz Collective

17/10 – 20.30

«German Jazz Night» - Subtone Quintet

18/10 – 20.00

Commented Listening of Jazz Records (fr)

18/10 – 20.30

«German Jazz Night» - Frank Wingold

19/10 – 18.00

«German Jazz Night» - Pablo Held Trio

22/10 – 19.00/21.00 History of Jazz Lessons - Standards (fr) 23/10 – 20.30

Sal La Rocca Band

25/10 – 20.00

Commented Listening of Jazz Records (fr)

26/10 – 18.00

Ancesthree

30/10 – 20.30

Fabrizio Graceffa Group

BxlConnect

ART & CULTURE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Bar concErts

#5

09 > 12.2013

EvEry first thursday of thE month

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Release concert of Chrystel Wautier’s new album “Before a song” on October, 29th at 8 PM Marni BAR. Her third album is made out of original compositions in which this young Belgian singer mixes styles and eclectic influences (soul, pop, gospel, latin).

Chrystel tells us stories with her velvet voice. This new project is both minimalist and complex, refined and light, accessible and sophisticated.

Chrystel Wautier has been basically influenced by r’nb and soul music.

She has studied jazz with Anca Parghel. She finds her real musical identity in 2005 in her trio with Quentin Liègeois and Sam Gerstmans. She also appears as a backing vocal singer working with Inno De Sadjo "Afro-SoulJazz experiment", Tutu Puane "Songbirds" and "Krazy Mess Groovers". She is considered as one of the most promising singer of her generation.

Chrystel Wautier vocals Cédric Raymond piano, fender rhodes Lorenzo Di Maio guitar Jacques Pili double bass Jérôme Klein drums

thEatrEmarni.com

Rue de Vergnies, 25. 1050 Bruxelles

+32 2 639 09 60

http://www.theatremarni.com

BRUSSELS ACCESSIBLE ART FAIR

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ART & CULTURE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

6

Jewish Museum of Belgium Rue des Minimes 21 1000 Brussels Telephone: 02 512 19 63 Opening Hours: Every day from 10am to 5pm. Closed on Mondays Night showings available upon inquiry

The Jewish Museum of Belgium The next exhibition

A German passion for Jewish art – the Lammel collection From 2 November 2013 to 2 February 2014 Vernissage: 31 October 2013

Thanks to an exceptional donation and generosity by Christel and Manfred Lammel, the Jewish museum of Belgium enriched its collection of art work in 2012. These include a total of 653 objects of paintings, sculptures, books as well as posters and historical prints.

During a period of thirty years, the Lammel couple from Eifel in Germany amassed a vast collection of art and literature dedicated to           Jewish culture.

Their efforts proved a commendable spirit to conserve           and spread  Jewish culture in the aftermath of the Second World War. Due to health reasons, the Lammel couple decided to offer  our institution the collection which comprises of, amongst others,  work of art by Jewish Germans of whom emigrated to    artist,  many    artists  such    Steinhardt,   Israel. Work  of art by as Jakob Lea Grundig,          Jakob Pins an Yigal Tumarkin and many others are presented in the  exhibition.  

Singer needed: We need one singer for our pop/rock band. Most of the people in the group are expats and work for one of the major political institutions in Brussels. I look forward to hearing from you on: onthewall57@gmail.com if you are interested or would like to have some more information. Brendan

Jazz Band: We are a Brussels based semi-professional jazz band who frequently play at various functions around the city. It is a very friendly and international setting within the band. We are looking to replace one of the guitarists who will be leaving soon. If you have guitar jazz experience, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us on: brusselsjazz@hotmail.com

Shadows and Lanterns Magic of the Precinema The Autrique residence is a typical Brussels’ middle class home from the end fo the 19th century. Today the house forms the setting for an exhibition on one of the favourite pastimes of those times: magic lanterns.

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Contact: Maison Autrique Chaussees de Haecht 266 B-1030 Schaerbeek (Brussels) Website : www.autrique.be



Exhibition takes place from 6th March 2013 to 26th January 2014 Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday from noon - 6pm

Improv Group: Brussels Improv group looking for new members. Please send email to brusselsimprov@hotmail.com if are interested or would like more information about us. 



Jazz and Blues Band for all events: Perfect for all your events! Ilja Scotch’s soulful piano and vocals, and clarinet and sax ace Dan McB offer music you can listen to, dance to, and get down to. Entertainment and class. Great live music is a must for your party. We bring it - you swing it!

More info : http://www.iliasdanmcb.com

BxlConnect

ART & CULTURE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

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FREE ESTIMATES AND OTHER EN TE SERVICES:

EI L I N G

Our experienced specialists are at your service to estimate works of art,•objects•and paintings. They are mardi - dinsdag . also intervening in estates, shares, and insurance and will visit you by appointment in Belgium or abroad.

Tel. Brussels Art Auctions +32 2/511 53 24 Free estimate of your works of art by appointment every Monday between 10 -12 am and 2- 5 pm.

8 10 2013 - 19 30

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GENTUPCOMING EVENTS: BRUXELLES-BRUSSEL 21EXCEPTIONAL & 22/9/2013 SALE OF 50 PAINTINGS 28/9/2013 –FROM 6/10/2013 THE VAN BUUREN MUSEUM 8/10/2013 at 19.30h.

Een selectie Expo complète EXHIBITION from 28/9 till 6/10/2013 14-17 h. van de Van Buuren-collectie (week) 11-17 h. (W.-E.) zal worden tentoongesteld Volledige tentoonstelling in de TEL Bank+32 DEGROOF (0)2 511 53 24 info@ba-auctions.com Fleurusstraat 2

7-9, Rue E. Allardstraat

9000 Gent

Bruxelles 1000 Brussel

Une sélection de la collection Van Buuren sera exposée à la Banque DEGROOF

(en semaine / weekdagen)

(Sablon-Zavel)

14 h.-17 h.

(week-end)

(week-end)

14-17 u.

11 h.-17 h.

7

A marriage of Art Nouveau architecture and comic strip art The Belgian Comic Strip Center is located in the very heart of Brussels. It is housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building (architect Victor Horta, 1906) and opened its doors to the public on 6 October 1989. In no time this impressive museum has become one of Brussels major tourist attractions. Every year more than 200,000 visitors come here to explore 4,200 m² worth of permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Exhibitions Spread over 3 floors the Belgian Comic Strip Center proposes 4 permanent and up to 3 temporary exhibitions. All you ever wanted to know about the craftsmanship of a comic strip artist, from an idea to the bookshop, a selection of original artwork from the collections, the history of the building, and the history of Belgium’s greatest comic strip heroes: these subjects are permanently on display. Also our “Gallery” always boasts a contemporary comic strip, and there are two areas for temporary exhibits. Every year the Belgian Comic Strip Center regales its visitors with at least 4 major temporary exhibitions and 7 Gallery exhibitions.

Library One of the core activities of the Belgian Comic Strip Center is of course its library. The library conserves 90,000 titles of comic strip related literature: albums, specialized magazines, study literature, biographies of authors, etc.

Every year hundreds of researchers from all over the world come here to consult the library, since it is one of the largest libraries in its field.

7 – 9, RUE ERNEST ALLARDSTRAAT (SABLON-ZAVEL) • B-1000 BRUXELLES - BRUSSEL

External activities

T. +32 (0)2 511 53 24 • INFO@BA-AUCTIONS.COM WWW.BA-AUCTIONS.COM

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35 I

JEAN-JACQUES GAILLIARD (1890-1976)

3 000 / 5 000 €

“La corbeille de souhaits” 1936

Contact:

Huile sur toile.

Signé en bas au milieu. Signé et titré sur le châssis.

Olieverf op doek.

Onderaan in het midden gesigneerd. Op de rugzijde gesigneerd en getiteld.

73 x 59 cm.

Ernest Allardstraat 7 & 9 / Zavel 1000 Bruxelles Email: info@ba-auctions.com Web: www.ba-auctions.com

Philip Serck: 0475/704 216 Isabel Maenaut: 02/511 53 24 Eric La Pipe : 0475/41 44 92

Exposition / Tentoonstelling : 1995 Antwerpen, Campo Vlaamse Kaai, Autour de Gustave van de Woestyne. Réserve du Musée David et Alice Van Buuren, 25/9-8/10/1995.

Even if the Belgian Comic Strip Center’s is best known for the activities in its own building, there is a good reason why we call it a center.

It has always contributed to external projects that promote the image of the city and the country as a center of comic strip art. Our outside realizations include: travelling exhibitions, comic strip murals (with the City of Brussels), comic strip stamps (with the Belgian Post Office), and consultancy in various fields.

© Dr. F. Van den Bremt

- 58 -

www.comicscenter.net visit@comicscenter.net

Belgian Comic Strip Center Rue des Sables, 20 1000 Brussels (Belgium) Tel: +32 22 19 19 80

INTERVIEW

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BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Interview with local expat and artist

Rachel Trost

R

achel Trost has been a student and teacher of literature and art her whole life.

Her first exhibitions took place in Sigtuna and Stockholm in Sweden. Living in Brussels since 15 years, she has been developing her art at the Rock Academy in Etterbeek. She has exhibited in Brussels at Alfican and Art Gallery Lesbroussart.

Her new exhibition, Floating Moments, takes place at the Espace Art Gallery during 6 November – 24 November. Rue Lesbroussart 35 (between Bailli and Flagey), open 11.30 – 18.30 on Tuesday – Saturday, e-mail: eag.gallery@gmail.com.

Q: How did you start painting?

A: It started at home. As a child I liked to draw pictures. I was also inspired and encouraged by my father who was painting. Very early I also used to visit galleries and meet painters. When I started to study literature at university, I started to write myself, but I realized soon that my writing was made up by pictures so I started to feel more for painting. My first art classes were in an art studio located in a quarter which had been transformed into an artist colony.

Q: You have been living in different countries. How has that influenced your paintings?

A: Art is part of you and you take it with you to every place where you

are living. But in some way, without noticing it at once, you become influenced by a new country, in the choice of colors and motives, especially if you are painting landscapes. Moving from one country to another can be difficult but it also enriches and stimulates you and adds new layers to the painting. Climate also influences you. In a cold country you mostly paint in the atelier. I also often reflect on my painting. Why am I painting?

What can I add which hasn’t already been painted? Sometimes I even feel frustrated. When I moved to Sweden, I met a famous sculptor who asked me: Are you also in this hell? I was young and didn’t understand what he meant. Now I do.

Q: Does Brussels inspire painters?

A: Yes, absolutely. There is a good atmosphere for art in Brussels, with many artists and creative people.

Sometimes I find Brussels very surrealistic. A photographer can find a lot of interesting motives here.

Q: What resources exist in Brussels for expats to study and develop their art?

A: There are plenty of resources.

Besides the regular art academies, almost every commune has its own art school or academy, either in French or Flemish. There is no problem with English since many of the students are expats and English-speaking. There are also study circles in the history of art.

Q: How did you arrive from figurative to abstract painting? What do you want to express with abstract painting?

A: In my painting there was never a sharp difference between figurative and abstract. I started with painting landscapes, flowers, interiors and still lifes but they also expressed my own interpretation of reality. It was therefore quite natural to continue to more abstract painting and it started with the landscapes. I felt that I had exhausted the old motives and wanted to create something new. But I didn’t plan it and was myself surprised.

Abstract painting is the result of an inner process and is more emotional. I feel like in an inner journey where you don’t know the destination. It’s both difficult and exciting.

Q: Your paintings are very colorful and expressive.

A: Colors were always my strength and passion. In Brussels I realized that there are so many colors of grey.

Q: When looking at your paintings, the observer feels meditative. How do you explain that?

A: Yes, I often get this feedback. My painting doesn’t show anything concrete and still can show anything the observer imagines. The more you look, the more meditative you become. That’s also behind the name of the exhibition – Floating moments.

BxlConnect

EMPLOYMENT

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Head of Media Relations, Brussels

Account Executive Public Affairs, Brussels

Position Overview and Responsibilities: FleishmanHillard’s Brussels office is seeking an experienced Head of Media Relations to join its established international Public Affairs office.

FleishmanHillard is one of the world's leading public affairs and communications groups, with over 80 offices worldwide.

Position Overview and Responsibilities: FleishmanHillard is seeking two entrylevel consultants to join the growing Manufacturing & Industrials team of its established international Public Affairs office in Brussels.

Responsibilities include: • Build and maintain a vibrant network of contacts among the key Brussels-based journalists

The main responsibilities of both positions include: • Assisting with preparing draft reports and issue analysis

• Provide advice, internally, to the teams within the office on media relations activities and contribute, when possible, to implement public affairs and communications programmes.

• Provide operational and strategic support to the different internal teams on how best to communicate externally and internally.

• Provide media relations support to clients and, where the account is predominantly media relations, lead and/or manage the account.

• Organise, build and provide media relations training to clients.

Qualifications: • 8 to 10 years experience in consultancy, especially on the Brussels market – able to demonstrate a good grasp of the policy environment and how the EU works.

• Gathering political intelligence in support of public affairs programmes • Developing draft strategic advice and implementation of client strategies Qualifications: • A successful candidate will have: • Background in political science, and a thorough knowledge of EU policymaking processes • Experience and/or understanding of the transport, chemicals and/ or environment sectors and the issues that affect them • Commitment to the highest standards of service delivery

• Strong, proven, living network of media contacts.

• Proven record of media relations advice and activity and an excellent understanding of and engagement with social media, especially as it pertains to media relations • Excellent communication, writing and research skills • Native /near as English speaker (fluency in other European languages an advantage) • Proficient in Microsoft applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) If you’re qualified and interested in this opportunity please send your CV in confidence to Ariane van der Haegen, Director of Talent Development EMEA (ariane.vanderhaegen@ fleishman.com)

• Excellent communication skills and networking ability • Native/near as English speaker (German, French, Italian, Spanish or Dutch an advantage) with excellent writing skills If you’re qualified and interested in this opportunity please send your CV and motivation letter in confidence to Ariane van der Haegen, Director of Talent Development EMEA (ariane.vanderhaegen@fleishman. com) as well as to Sebastien De Roos, Team Coordinator (Sebastien.

DeRoos@fleishmaneurope.com)

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Bierset, Belgium E-commerce Merchandiser The E-commerce Merchandiser is responsible for e-commerce promotions and product merchandising for our client’s e-shop. Their objective is to grow sales by enhancing the visitor to order conversion rate, up-selling, crossselling and other relevant activities.

Key Responsibilities • Responsible for site analysis, merchandising strategy and tracking success metrics; • Prepare and propose new campaigns with timely implementation of approved merchandising campaigns; • Perform other tasks that include, but are not limited to: on-site search optimization, compile reports for promotions, search data and analysis of business cases, test new features, landing page and support other client needs.

Skills/Experience/Profile • Bachelor’s degree or higher; • Minimum 1-2 years merchandising experience with e-Commerce websites. To be considered for this role candidates will need to be from an e-commerce or merchandising background with knowledge of front end web functionality; • Languages: Fluent in English, able to manage technical discussions or phone calls in English.

For more information: Visit http://www.pfswebeurope.com/ or call CÉLINE MARTIN at the number: 04/364 49 80

BxlConnect

BxlConnect is a small start-up made up of a young and international team with an entrepreneurial mindset and outlook. We are now looking for a developer with strong skills in PHP and Wordpress.

If you fit the requirement, we would love to hear from you. Please send us an email to info@bxlconnect.com with your CV and a few words about yourself and your experiences. We look forward to hearing from you!

In addition, we are also looking for people to join in marketing, client relationship management and other functions. If you have strong language skills and are ambitious, driven and a self-starter with an optimistic and down to earth mindset, then we would love to hear from you.

Please send us an email to info@bxlconnect.com with your CV and a few words about yourself and why you would like to join the team.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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EMPLOYMENT

BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

10

INTERNATIONAL REACH, LOCAL EXPERTISE SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL RECRUITMENT

Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies. In Belgium, we recruit across the following disciplines: • • • • • • •

Robert Walters is one of the world’s leading specialist professional recruitment consultancies. In Belgium, we recruit across the following disciplines:

Accounting & finance Tax & treasury Legal Human resources Engineering & supply chain Banking & insurance Interim management

We provide recruitment services to national and international organisations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small and medium sized businesses.

• Accounting & finance To discover more and to view our available opportunities, visit: www.robertwalters.be • Tax & treasury Contact • us Legal Robert Walters Avenue 250 • Louise Human resources 1050 Brussels • 66 Engineering & supply chain T: 02 511 88 E: belgium@robertwalters.com • Banking & insurance AUSTRALASIA ASIA AFRICA EUROPE AMERICAS • Interim management

We provide recruitment services to national and international organisations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small and medium sized businesses.

To discover more and to view our available opportunities, visit: www.robertwalters.be Contact us Robert Walters Avenue Louise 250 1050 Brussels T: 02 511 66 88 E: belgium@robertwalters.com AUSTRALASIA ASIA AFRICA EUROPE AMERICAS

Located in the center area of BrusseIs, Flag Agency has made both fashion and advertising its core businesses.

Created in 2005, the agency represents around 300 Models, male and female.

Most of them coming from Belgium, France and the NetherIands.

Flag Agency also represents Make-up Artists (booking upon request), At h l e t e s an d Ac t or s .

Av e n u e d u p a r c 1 8 1060 Bruxelles Р/ 00 32 2 219 21 41 F/ 00 32 2 18 37 17

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EMPLOYMENT

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

A movement of volunteers serving cities in practical ways & inspiring people to be givers in this world. We believe that many people doing small things together can make a big difference in our world.

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Office: Place van Maeyl 15A, 1040 Brussels Phone: 02 / 734.35.02 Email: info@servethecity.be Web page: www.servethecity.be Facebook: Serve the City Brussels Twitter: Serve the City @stcbrussels

Currently during the day we have visits to a hospital on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 14:30 to 16:00. We serve coffee, tea and cake in the geriatric ward of Brugmann Hospital, Site Paul Brien, where many of the patients don’t get visitors and are delighted to chat.

Every Wednesday, 18:30 we connect with the various families that are living in the VUB squat, with the objective to better understand the families and their needs, to provide educational activities as learning french, to do some arts & craft activities with the children and to do a little clean-up around.

Fridays at 14:00, we have a project at FEDASIL spending time with asylum seekers there.

Currently during the evenings we have the following projects:

Every Thursday at 18:30 we are helping a group of 150-200 refugees, children and adults, all living in an old abandoned church. Volunteers will provide educational activities for the children also meet with the adults to discuss their problems.

Monday and Thursday, 18:30 at the Gare du Nord outside the main hall, ground floor, volunteers will be serving soup, coffee, tea and waffles. This is a time for chatting with our homeless friends. We hear their stories, we listen to what they need, we build relationships and leave lasting impressions on each other.

On our Weekly Serving Projects we are not serving in the weekends for the moment, but we do have Monthly Focus Days on Saturdays with the possibility to serve Asylum seekers, Children in need, Disabled, Elderly, Homeless, Victims of abuse, in various neighborhoods in Brussels. This event will gather about 100 people willing to serve Brussels from 12:00 to 17:00.

Why not become one of the 100 million Active Volunteers in Europe?

Join a campaign for human rights, to preserve the environment or simply lend a helping hand in the steps to help someone to a decent life. Make new friends and find a sense of belonging...

Your talents will be put to good use and we need you… so roll-up your sleeves!

Looking for a volunteer job in Brussels?

Check out our listing for volunteers at www. volunteeringbrussels.be or stop by and get a copy.

Make a difference! Volunteer in Brussels!

Some good examples…

Need help in defining your volunteer skills or aid in finding a suitable match between your volunteer skills and possible organisations? Come by!

Volunteers from Het Punt vzw are at Muntpunt to help you: Munt 6, 1000 Brussels (next to the Munt/La Monnaie Opera House).

Look for our team at the yellow colour-coded reception desk on the ground floor.

• Monday to Friday from 11am to 2pm (11:00-14:00 hours);

• Monday to Friday from 4pm to 7pm (16:00-19:00 hours); • Saturday from Noon to 3pm (12:00-15:00 hours).

Serve coffee, have a talk and play a game at Het Anker!

Contact: Ruben Brabers | 02 217 52 91 | ldc. hetanker@skynet.be

“Het Regenbooghuis” is looking for motivated volunteers to help organize projects such as Pride Week and World Aids Day. Contact: Jill De Wolf | 0491 56 52 25 | jill@ rainbowhouse.be

Buddynamic organizes contacts between volunteers and people who experience difficulties connecting to others.

Contact: Ellen Van Ighem | 02 514 33 01 | brussel.buddynamic@ buddywerking.be

ARTICLE

12

BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Co-working: A forthcoming trend in Brussels

B

xlConnect visited Factory Forty – an industrial conversion loft style complex where world famous fashion designer Olivier Strelli used to be headquartered. It has recently been transformed into a large co-working office site and is shared by numerous freelancers and smaller businesses that come together in a melting pot of ideas and creativity.

Co-working as a new idea took off in 2005 when Brad Neuberg used the terminology to describe his new office site in San Francisco, the “Hat Factory”, which was shared by several high tech startups at the time.

Since then, co-working has quickly gained popularity and has spread across the globe. In Europe, the trend initially made progress in entrepreneurial hubs such as London and Berlin. Given its large base of freelancers

BxlConnect

ARTICLE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

and design professionals, Brussels has also recently seen the successful opening of several co-working sites.

One of the reasons co-working has become so appreciated is that its setup encourages interaction and exchange of ideas between individuals and smaller firms. It thereby becomes a natural incubator of business development and networking whereby workers from different industries and backgrounds help each other and make progress together.

David Sdika, co-founder of knitwear label Chauncey, got the idea for a new co-working site in Brussels when he became tired and demotivated by working from home due to inevitable distractions and reduced productivity.

Furthermore, renting a “formal office” wasn’t a convenient solution due to lack of flexibility for parttime workers and minimum long term commitments.

He consequently started looking for co-working solutions but was disappointed when he found that most of them lacked the flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit that had originally made them so popular in San Francisco. He therefore decided to set up Factory Forty in an effort to reignite and encourage this way of working and lifestyle in Brussels.

David feels co-working has a high potential particularly in Brussels, given its role as the “capital” of Europe.

There is a lot of movement to and from Brussels by young professionals and expats, many of whom are freelancers, in between jobs or have joined their partners or spouses. It is important that this human capital is not wasted and that there are opportunities and flexible environments where expats can come to get inspired and be productive.

Contact: Factory Forty Rue des Anciens Etangs 40 1190 Brussels email: hello@factoryforty.be phone: 0497/94.34.74 www.factoryforty.be

Factory Forty has today managed to raise the bar and show Brussels what true co-working is all about. David Sdika has managed to create a large facility with lots of open and light space, decorated with the perfect balance of vintage furniture and touches of modern design. In addition to co-working space, Factory Forty also hosts conferences, lectures and networking events.

The garden with its a small vegetable patch and several chickens is also a nice touch and the perfect place to sit and work from during warmer days. David is constantly trying to develop and improve the concept.

For example, he recently introduced various after work activities such as barbeques and yoga sessions which have proven to be very successful. He feels that it is very important to induce a pleasant working atmosphere in order to improve the community and thereby encourage yet more exchange of ideas and cooperation between people.

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BxlConnect

HOUSING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

14

For Sale - Apartment 2 rooms + 1 maid’s room: Avenue de la Brabanconne 125 – 1030. Wonderful apartment of 120 sqm, ready to live in on the first floor of a building built in the thirties with a lot of charm and character, comprising: an entrance hall, a separate toilet, nice bright double living room of 45 m² with beautiful parquet, kitchen with basic equipment and balcony overlooking the garden, night hall, store room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, a cellar and a maid’s room on the 7th Floor (can be used as a guest room).

378.000 Euro For 25 years already IMMO ID is the reference real estate agency in the European Quarter and Brussels.

IMMO ID provides the services you deserve for buying and renting real estate in Brussels and it’s periphery.

Our dynamic team provides quality services in Dutch, English, French and optional Italian and can give you the best advice whether it is for investing or living in Brussels.

Our goal is to give you a professional and authentic service and to succeed in it.

The many satisfied clients over the years are the best proof of our professional and friendly approach.

We can give you the best advice in buying, selling, investing, renting, and help you with legal and technical advice.

We can organise and execute renovation works to your new property on your demand.

As a team we help you through all the necessary steps in all your real estate transactions.

IMMO I.D. Remi Tassaert Katia Tassaert

Nathalie Neyt Anne Lijbaert Keizerstraat 18 2800 MECHELEN Tel. 0474/24.24.48 Fax 015/41.17.27 mechelen@immoid.be

Stefan Vanhaeren Nick Nuytkens Stéphane Kaczamrek Square Ambiorix 32 - 11 b 1000 Brussels Tel. 02/231.13.54 Fax 02/231.13.58 brussels@immoid.be

www.immoid.be

For Sale – Flat furnished +/- 40m²: Square Ambiorix 30, 3rd floor – 1000 Brussels. Nice furnished flat on the third floor in a good maintained building from the seventies. Situated on Square Ambiorix and in very good condition. Lovely designed with a separate sleeping corner and corner with desk. Lovely bathroom with bath / shower, sink, washing machine and separate toilet.

Practical kitchenette with microwave, electric cooking stove, hood, sink and fridge. 155.000 Euro

For Sale – Apartment with 2 rooms in an Art Deco building: Rue de Noyer 282/bloc 2-4, 1030 Schaerbeek. A very nice and bright apartment at 4th floor with wooden floors and granito floor in the bathroom and the kitchen; in an Art Deco building with a protected façade. The apartment has a spacious entrance hall with toilet and wardrobe, a nice and bright living and dining room with beautiful wooden floors. It has two big sleeping rooms, a bathroom, a kitchen with closed terrace and storage and a cellar. 290.000 Euro

For Sale – Apartment 3 bedrooms + parking: Square Marguerite 14-15 2nd floor 1000 Brussels. Beautiful and spacious apartment of 195 m², ready to live, on the 2-nd floor with 2 entrances, cloakrooms and reinforced doors, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a large living room of + / - 60 m², office/ reception , a fully equipped kitchen, a beautiful dressing room, 3 balconies, 2 cellars and a parking place in the basement. The apartment is very well located at Square Marguérite. Price on demand

For Sale – House 2 facades – 3 bedrooms with a terrace: Rue Leon Mignon 3 – 1030 Schaerbeek. Charming renovated house,2 facades with a hall, a large living / dining room, utility room / toilet and a terrace on the ground floor. A dressing room and a nice bathroom - three cellars. a large sleeping room, space to create another bedroom. Everything has been renovated with quality materials and good taste. The house is situated in a quiet street, close to shopping, easy access to the airport, the European district, schools and major axes of Brussels. Possibility to split into two apartments. 410.000 Eur

For Sale – Exclusive apartment +/- 280 m² + garage 28m²: Rue de la loi 235 8th floor – 1040 Brussels. Exceptional apartment in a building of the 30’s in the Rue de la Loi located a few meters from the Cinquantenaire park and within walking distance of most European institutions. The apartment on the 8th floor includes a magnificent entrance hall with cloakroom, landing, two toilets, 2 bathrooms, 4 to 5 bedrooms, a large living room (or office, 36 m²) with balcony access and views of the Cinquantenaire, beautiful spacious dining room (40 m²), a smoking room or second living room, kitchen with pantry, a laundry room, many built-in wardrobes, access to a 2nd elevator and fire escape, 2 cellars and a garage of + / - 30 m² with headroom of 2.6 m and a volume of 90 m³. Price on demand

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HOUSING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

1040 Etterbeek

Sorimo Val des Seigneurs 9A 1150 Bruxelles

1040 Etterbeek

1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre

For Sale: 1.950.000 €

1180 Uccle

Ref: 1516090 Place Dumon - detached house of 480 sqm on a field of 17 ares - large living room - 5 bedrooms - office 2 bathroom - shower room - private apartment of 120 sqm - cellar - swimming pool - PEB 322 kWh/m² 1040 Etterbeek

For Sale: 1.295.000 €

For Rent: 2.800 €

Ref: 1565445 Sport city - apartment penthouse of 180 sqm living room of 65 sqm 3 bedrooms - bathroom -s hower room - cellar and parking place one car - EPC in process

For Sale: 695.000 €

Ref: 1494896 Drève de Lorraine apartment ground floor of 210 sqm - 3 bedrooms 2 bathroom - garden of 6 are south west - garages EPC in process

1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre

For Rent: 4.200 € Ref: 1527036 Stockel - house totally renovated of 350 sqm on a field of 9 ares - large living room - 7 bedrooms bathroom - 2 shower room - cave and garage box 2 cars - EPC in process

Ref: 1508957 Cinquantenaire - 2 sides house in perfect state of 400 sqm - 7 bedrooms - bathroom - 2 showers room - beautifull garden with swimming pool - PEB E- 271 kWhEP/m²/an 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre

For Sale: 1.495.000 €

Ref: 1542529 Area Trois couleurs - recent detache dhouse of 320 sqm on a field of 6 ares 5 bedrooms, 2 bathroom - shower room - Garden PEB C 122 kWhEP/m²/an

Ref: 1563552 Montgomery - house 2 sides totally renovated from 395 sqm on a field of 3 ares 73 - 6 bedrooms - bathroom -s hower room - garage - EPC in process

1950 Kraainem

For Sale: 290.000 €

Ref: 1494706 Schuman - new apartment furnished of 90 sqm 2 bedrooms - bathroom - Possibility parking place EPC in process

Tel : 02 772 80 20 Fax : 02 772 86 05 E-mail : info@sorimo.be www.sorimo.be For Sale: 1.175.000 €

15

1950 Kraainem

For Rent: 1.800 €

Ref: 1564367 Place Dumon - apartment of 150 sqm - living room - 3 bedrooms - bathroom - shower room - cellar parking place one car - EPC in process

BxlConnect

HOUSING

16

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

FOR SALE SPLENDID 470m2 HOUSE WITH GARDEN: Located in the the Quai-Saint Catherine-Beguinage area this wonderfull and splendid 470m2 five-story house, with a lovely flowered romantic garden is for sale.

Constructed in 1902 and recently technically restored.

New electricity, domotica, heating, sanitary, bathroom, a highend woodfire-place etc. The house consists of an entre-sol with garage, wine-cellar, atelier and technical space. A groundfloor with musicroom, looking out over parc, living with fire-place, original woodworks, beveled glass doors and fabulous ceiling, eating area and semi-open kitchen giving to a beautiful city garden. First floor with office, beveled glass oak-wood doors, beautiful fire place, library, working area, balcony looking onto garden.

Second floor with a large bedroom giving to balcony, a large laundry-dressing area and a spacious bathroom, again connected to a balcony giving to the garden. Third floor with two very large bedrooms, situated in a spacious romantic attic space. Access to a small unused attic. Possible roof terrace 35m2 at the back. Optimal east-west orientation. All floors are connected by a wonderfull original oak-wood staircase with both monumental and service staircases. Each floor is having its own separated toilet. The garden is silent, sunny and lovely flowered. An outdoor romantic staircase is giving acess to the sous-sol. An absolute must have.

Lots of extra potentials such as the roof-terrasse and small attic.

Visits only by appointment. contact: fvt@fabienvantomme.be +32 496 527905 Price to be discussed.

Beautiful Villa on great golf course: Beautiful villa located at Grez-Doiceau (Approximately 30 km from Brussels). Overviewing the second hole of the Golf Du Bercuit. ( Terrain 50 ares). Well equiped house with large living room and open fire place, 6 rooms, 2 bathrooms (one of them with shower, steamshower and bath), Garage suited for 2 cars, garden with pond. A must see house especially for a golfer. Phone for more information : 0032476356208. €875 000.00

5 bedroom house EU district (200m from Schuman): Renovated in 2007, double glazed, central heated, 5 bedrooms, 3 shower rooms, 1 wc, 2 reception rooms and kitchen/dining room. Small back yard. 200m² (approx). Superb location situated at Rue Jean Andre de mot 65, Etterbeek close to Schuman, Place Jourdan, Cinquantenaire, Parc Leopold. The property is currently rented for 2000 euro per month and is an ideal investment prioperty in the heart of the EU institutions. . For further info or visit; Steve 0473300710 or steve@crehanenterprises.com. €495 000

Flatwithcharacter: Flat with character comprised of: entrance hall - living / dining room (75 sqm) with fireplace, beautiful parquet - Furnished kitchen (10 sqm) with office - balcony - toilet with washbasin - large bedroom (18.5 sqm) with cupboards bathroom. Second small “night” hall: - large bedroom (15.75 sqm) with fitted wardrobes and balcony - bathroom and toilet – small bedroom (7,5 m²) with terrace. 1 car garage box + parking space - cellar (+/- 7.8 sqm), double glazed windows throughout - wooden floor throughout - access to garage via remote - reinforced door and surveillance camera - new gas boiler – modernised elevator. Address: Avenue Brillat-Savarin 97, 1050 Brussels. Mobile : 0472.597.865. E-mail: laurence.henniquiau@cor.europa.eu. €495 000

150 m² skyscraper apartment with stunning view: 150 m² luxury apartment on 24th floor (total 25) with splendid view. Renovated in 2008. Estimated value: 205.000€ (expertise in August 2012). Monthly rental income : 965 €. Free at moment of sale or possibility of extending lease. Location: Boulevard Mettewie, 1080 Brussels (near Basilique de Koekelberg). Description : reinforced door. Large sitting & dining room (43 m²) with terrace (facing west). Modern equipped kitchen (9 m²) with adjacent utility room. Large hall with cloakroom and built-in wardrobes. Bath room (8 m²) and separate toilet. Two very spacious bedrooms (facing east), the first 25.75 m² with large adjacent dressing and the second 18.5 m² with built-in wardrobe. Parquet everywhere. Possibility of creating a third bedroom. Small office space. Luxury common areas and surrounding gardens. Concierge. Basement in good condition. Possibility of renting a garage in the building. Facade embellishment work under way. Bus stop in front of building : Bus 49 (Bockstael / Midi) and Bus 84 (Beekant / Heysel). Additional public transport services nearby (82, 83, 86, Metro Gare de l’Ouest). All shops within walking distance as well as parks and sports centre with olympic swimming pool. Further information and visits: 0475.74.73.70 . €197 500.00

Beautiful and Bright Villa in Waterloo Detached villa in a very nice residential area“Quartier Versailles”. 4 Bedrooms + Living room + Office + 2 Bathrooms + Super equipped kitchen. All windows new and double glazed- with shutters. Basement, attic and alarm, Private garden + Veranda + Terrace. Close to schools, international schools, Waterloo center and Commune. Walking distance to Delhaize and other shopping areas. Tel: 0471641586, 0479345884. €460 000

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HOUSING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

17

FOR RENT To rent – EU area: Nice, quiet, fully furnished flat, 6th floor to the rear at Square Ambiorox. Living room with sleeping corner, well-equipped kitchen, bathroom with washing machine, hall, cupboards, balcony, parquet flooring. Rent: 675 € + ca 100 €. Contact: 0475 68 95 26

CHATELAIN2:bedroombrightspacious modern apartment with PARKING: Available from end of November (negotiable). Oak floors, modern fully-equipped kitchen, large living/dining room, 2 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms -1 ensuite, utility room, excellent storage, large shelved Cellar, low monthly charges. Gas. Consierge.

Enclosed parking included. Metres from CHATELAIN bars/restaurants & public transport. €1500 .

Contact owner reginabruges@gmail.com.

3 bedroom apartment Ixelles for rent (unfurnished) : Great apartment for rent in Ixelles near Flagey and Cimetiere d’Ixelles with lots of character.

Total surface 180m2: 3 rooms ‘en enfilade’, 1 master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, a small (baby) room and a big bedroom with bathroom in the basement plus a big garden (75m2). Rent includes charges and parking garage (50m down the road): 1780,- euro per month. Enquiries: +32486768236. €1 780.00/month EU area, Art deco 125 sq m apartment for rent: Unfurnished apartment 125 sq m, 3 bedrooms, 9th floor in an art deco building Breathtaking view on Brussels (Cinquantenaire), parquet flooring, semi fitted kitchen, 2 bathrooms, cellar. Rent 1250 euro/ month + 250 euro provision for charges (heating, water, caretaker, …) Possibility to rent a private garage in the building for 150 euro/month Tel : int + 33 6 77 80 50 71, €1 250.00/month

SHARING

To rent – EU area: Nice, sunny, furnished, well-planned top-roof apt with panoramic view at Brussels.

Parquet. Living room, 1 bed room with cupboards, separate equipped kitchen, bathroom, and terrace to the south. Minimum lease: 9 months. Rent: 900 € + ca 125 € in charges per month. For further information and appointment please contact 0474 - 252723 Spacious appartement 2 bedrooms near centre: Spacious apartment (125m²). Lots of light. Great location at the Place Sainctelette nearby the Canal. Walking distance from the city centre of Brussels. On the 7th floor of a splendid ‘art déco’ building (1930’s). Balcony at the front over the whole length of the apartment (12m) with a magnificent panoramic city view from the Basilica to the high-rise buildings of Brussels-North. Covered patio at the back (8m²). High quality finishing (a.o., original wooden floors). Living 48m², equipped kitchen, 2 bedrooms (16m² and 20m²), bathroom, storage and cellar.

Immediately available. Contact: 0485/932086. €1 100.00/month Luminous 1 bedroom 80 m2 apartment with exceptional views on city center: 100m from Métro Sainte-Catherine, renovated in stylish 30’s building (art déco), 8th floor (quiet), livingroom 36m2, 7m long terrasse on all BXL dowtown, rear balcony, equipped kitchen, bathroom, storages, hall. Free from now on, lease for a priori 2 years maximum, contact owner 0487/229900 or email, €850.00/month EUROPEAN AREA FURNISHED APARTMENT: Located close to the Rond Point Schumann, for urban connected, in a lovely quiet street, beautiful apartment 1 bedroom, 60 m² net floor area, furnished top design ‘all in one suite’: hall, cloakroom, ultra-kitchen open to living and dining + office area , dressing room and toilet room, internet, digital program, flat screen TV, video intercom, wooden floors throughout, communal laundry room, cellar. Transport and shops + + + Monthly charges : 150 € A MUST SEE. Exclusive Culer Associates - Brigitte Culer IPI 503728 - 0475/78 07 07. €950.00/month

Flat Mate Wanted: Street level room with double bed 4m x 4m with shared shower. 1 minute to tram which is 2 minutes to Montgomery metro, alternatively 5 minutes walk to Montgomery metro. 5 minutes to Woluwe Park, 30 seconds to Carrefour Express and 3 restaurants. Any interest please contact ed.readcutting@gmail.com or text 0486534512. €600.00

BxlConnect

ARTICLE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

18

Derek Blyth’s Hidden Secrets of Brussels

go on selling vinyl discs long after every music business expert has decided that digital is the future.

The people in this country just don’t listen.

But I cannot really complain. It means that there is one place in town where I can watch a forgotten Czech animated film or a season of short Lithuanian documentaries that would otherwise never reach our town. I might be on my own, but I am strangely happy to be here.

plants create a wistful mood, like a colonial club in a far-off country.

Rue des Grands Carmes 18 Central Brussels www.lecercledesvoyageurs.com

ROA

Styx Rue de l’Arbre Bénit 72 Ixelles

STYX I honestly have no idea how this little cinema survives. It is located in a quiet back street of Ixelles in a space about the size of a small apartment. It has two tiny screening rooms each with just 38 seats. The woman who sells the tickets sometimes has to disappear upstairs to turn on the projector.

HOTEL LE BERGER Hotel Le Berger was once a discreet rendezvous hotel where couples could rent a small room for three hours of passion. Then it closed down. But it has now been faithfully restored to its original erotic style to create one of the city’s most unusual hotels.

Twenty years ago, this city had dozens of little neighbourhood cinemas. But most of them have long gone. Founded in the 1970s, Styx is one of the last local picture houses left standing. It is a place like no other to watch a film. I have gone to obscure Norwegian films where I am the only person in the room. I sometimes look around and ask what would they have done if I had stayed at home that evening.

How can a cinema break even when it doesn’t sell overpriced popcorn or ice cream that drops into your lap? How can they dare to show a film without preceding it with 20 minutes of adverts? But that is typical of Belgium. This is a country where record shops still

The secretive Ghent street artist ROA is famous in London and New York for painting huge animals on buildings, but he is virtually ignored in Belgium. ROA’s best work in Brussels is a series of four sleeping wild boars in a narrow lane that no one ever walks down.

Rue Chaufferette 25 Central Brussels

GALERIE BORTIER The Galerie Bortier is lined with bookshops selling dusty French novels, old prints and comic books.

It lies just a few steps from Central Station, but it is almost always deserted. The wood-panelled walls and glass roof make this one of the most romantic spots in Brussels.

Rue du Berger 24 Ixelles www.lebergerhotel.be

LE CERCLE DES VOYAGEURS It lies just 30 seconds from the Manneken Pis, yet this romantic café located in a historic 17th century town house remains a secret. The bare wood floor, wornout armchairs and luxuriant potted

Rue de la Madeleine Central Brussels

Derek Blyth is the former editor in chief of The Bulletin and author of the bestselling “500 Hidden Secrets of Brussels”.

Pick up your copy of BxlConnect next month to see what exciting hidden secrets he will then uncover

BxlConnect

HEALTH & WELL - BEING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

S Sama MASSAGE CENTER

Sama Massage Center Rue Général Leman 25 (50 meters from Place Jourdan), 1040 Etterbeek.

ama Massage is your partner in all aspects of health and well-being.

This massage center, situated in the middle of the European quarter, offers relaxing and soothing massages in a respectful, welcoming and exotic environment where your body and mind are honored to the fullest.

From stressed back massages (with sciatica focus), to specialized cranial massages, Sama Massage offers wonderful tools to relieve any physical pain you may experience. In addition to the more physical therapy specialized treatments, Sama Massage also offers a wide range of more relaxing and tender treatments. Would you like to share this soothing and de-stressing experience with your partner? Chose the “duo massage”.

Special Offer for readers of BxlConnect: 15% off on any 1h treatment (expect on other promotions), valid also on duo Massages. Please call to book an appointment.

+32(0)2 324 89 47 or +32(0)488 66 77 85 www.samamassage.be

Sama Massage is open all days of the week from 10am to 9pm.

Doctor YANG acupuncture massage therapy in woluwe saint pierre: Prices: Acupuncture: 35 Euro for 40 minute, Tui na (chinese massage): 30 Euro for 30 minutes, Integrative treatment (acupuncture, massage, cupping and other treatments) to get out your stress, pain and other problems: 50 Euro for 60 minutes.

Book appointments 02-7725792 or 0484631380. Email: sshbc@ hotmail.com Address: RUE AU BOIS 292, 1150 Bruxelles. www. acupuncture-massage.be

How is Bikram Yoga practised? Bikram Yoga is practised in a hot room, heated to 40ºC, with a a humidity of about 40%. The heat facilitates deeper stretching, prevents injury, relieves stress and tension and helps detoxify the body. This is a complete system of wellness, restoration and rejuvenation. Each class is 90 minutes long. This allows the body to become accustomed to the heat, but also develops focus and determination.

Classes at Bikram's Yoga College of India Brussels are taught by a number of certified Bikram teachers, including Feroze Khan, founder of the studio and a number of other studios around Europe.

Special offer for BxlConnect readers: 100 Eur instead of 130 Eur per month (entitles you to unlimited access to classes)” For further information find us at: 207 Avenue Louise 1050 Brussels info@bikramyogabrussels.com www.fbyci.com

Personal trainer and nutritional advice: Indoor, outdoor and online personal training, strength and conditioning training, running classes, small groups 1/3, fitness testing, training programs, nutritional advice and motivation.

Brussels area with surroundings. Flexible hours, in the park, in the gym or during your lunch hour break. Whatever suits you best.

We speak Slovenian, English, German, French, Spanish, Croatian and Serbian. Decision is always yours! Please call 0473 66 36 87 or send mail to barbara.fitatelier@gmail.com

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HEALTH & WELL - BEING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

20 hatha yoga kids yoga meditation workshops teacher trainings

CROSSFIT POWER FACTORY

sampoornayogastudio.be daily yoga classes in the heart of Brussels

castleclub

Le club de tous les sports.

The sportsclub for all.

Sports is Fun

All in sports < €10/week

Du Sport en s'amusant

Accueil Welcome

La Forme Keep Fit

L'Eau Pool

La Balle Tennis/Squash

Le Resto The Resto

Castle Club - avenue de la Bécasse 16 Houtsniplaan - 1970 Wezembeek – Oppem - www.sports-valley.be - castle@sports-valley.be

HOLISTIC BODY BALANCE AND POWER YOGA CLASSES: EVER WANTED to learn YOGA in a physical, hands-on approach using your body and your breathing? (with self-compiled tracks that accompany each of your movements and soothe your mind) EVER WANTED to gain back your STABILTIY, FLEXIBILITY, CORE BODY STRENGTH, CONCENTRATION AND CALM while improving your BODY AWARENESS/CONFIDENCE? (using mainly YOGA, but also TAI-CHI and PILATES postures and moves). Contact Jean-Marc (40 Euros single coaching (at your home as well), coaching for groups of 2-4, 60 Euros). 0477 923 789 or jeanmarc.nilles@education.lu

Thai Yoga Massage: Need a moment for yourself to release stress, tension, emotion & balance your inner energies? So you should try the Thai Yoga Massage experience, a two hour deep relaxation experience that compile shiatsu, stretching & Massage. For more information don’t hesitate to contact me. I would be pleased to answer your questions. 0475799568, voie-de-traverse.com

At CrossFit Power Factory, we have one purpose: to transform you into the fittest and healthiest version of yourself among a community of people pursuing the same goal.

How do we help you reach your true potential? CrossFit. Through CrossFit, we perform constantly varied functional movements at high intensity. The foundation for these movements is found in fields such as gymnastics, Olympic- and powerlifting, kettlebell sport, rowing, running, and more. We are getting back to “basics” because the roots of our methodology are already written in your DNA. However, the ultimate key for guaranteed results will always be the intensity factor.

This is why, if necessary, we adapt our workouts to your level in order to optimize your performance. The harder you can push yourself, the greater the benefits. We provide you with the tools to improve your fitness, and you have the power to make the difference.

Are you interested to join us for a free trial session? Send us an email at info@crossfitpowerfactory.com and mention BxlConnect Contact Details: Website: www.crossfitpowerfactory.com Adress: rue d'idalie 9 1050 Brussels

Private Yoga Lessons: In the comfort of your own space, enjoy the benefits of the ancient practice of Yoga, from a cetrified teacher with 8 years of experience. All levels are welcome. It is not necessary to be already flexible to begin! For people with sincere interest and an open mind for change. Possibility to create a small group. For more information please write or call theodosiayoga@ gmail.com 0498 57 35 68

BxlConnect

INTERVIEW

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Interview with the mayor of the City of Brussels Freddy Thielemans

F

reddy Thielemans started his career working as a teacher in Germanic languages. His political involvement started in 1983 when he began working in the cabinet of Hervé Brouhon. He became an alderman for the Socialist Party in 1988 and mayor of Brussels for a brief period in 1994. Between 1995 to 1999 he served in the Brussels parliament. After the municipal elections in 2000, Freddy Thielemans again became the mayor and has since then been re-elected in both 2006 and 2012. BxlConnect met with the Mayor to discuss his work and views on expat integration into Brussels.

Q: You began your career as a teacher. What made you want to get involved in politics?

A: I think I’ve always been interested in the theoretical part of politics. I was never truly thinking of taking on a very active role and I was quite happy with simply being a member of the party and saying whatever I felt like saying. However, my father was a good friend of the mayor of Brussels, Hervé Brouhon who was in charge between 1983 to 1992. Mr Brouhon gave me a position in his cabinet which gave me my first real taste of politics in practice. From that moment onwards my life changed. I had always thought I would be a teacher until my retirement.

Q: When you came into office in 2000, what priorities did you have in terms of policies? What achievements are you particularly proud of?

A: My first priority was employment - that’s for sure.

But to stimulate employment you have to also think of a second priority, which is education. Furthermore, you can’t only focus on employment and education.

You also need entertainment, so that became a third priority.

I also worked a lot with the police force. In Belgium, as you may know, the Mayor is also the chief of

police. As the head of the police force, the thing I am most proud of is that we never had any riots similar to those in Paris, London or Genoa. Last year we had approximately 700 requests for demonstrations. It’s enormous. We have developed a good understanding of what a demonstration means, and we have a philosophy to calm people down, check on them and also make them understand that the police is not there to oppose them but also to protect them.

Q: Would you see yourself as a proponent of a structural reorganization, for instance instead of 19 separate communes, you bring them all under one umbrella and one mayor.

A: No. It could be an idea, but one has to realize that from one municipality to the other, it is not the same party that is elected. So there must be something such as a local identity. It is important that we find a balance between these local identities and the regional identity.

Q: How has the expat community, in your opinion, shaped Brussels during your time as the Mayor?

A: The most obvious change is that the standard of living in Brussels has improved. A big part of this has to do with the high salaries that expats

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BxlConnect

22

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

earn, particularly those who work at the European institutions. Unfortunately, it doesn’t mean that we got rid of poverty in the city. There are still a lot of people who are poor, and we do a lot to try to find them jobs – especially the young people.

Another thing that I have noticed is that we have more and more expats campaigning with us who are Brits, French, Germans etc. So they are getting more involved in that regard. It means that there is potential going forward in terms of political integration.

Thirdly, it is clear that Brussels has become yet more international and multicultural. We have more nationalities than New York City. This has led to a lot of contribution in art and culture as well as a large variety of cuisines. You have a lot of areas that have been revitalized, and what I particularly like about Brussels is that you can find good restaurants spread out everywhere in Brussels, which is fantastic.

Q: Do you think Brussels is sufficiently profiling itself as the capital of the EU? A: One of my regrets is that we did not flirt enough with the European Institutions. We should have definitely done more of that. One reason I feel this way is because the profile of the city is mainly imposed by

other countries. For example, the mayor of Bordeaux, with whom I spoke to a few days ago, plainly said “well in our eyes Brussels is the capital city of Europe, there is no doubt about that”. He is saying that we are the capital of 500 million Europeans, but we are a bit shy about that, which is of course a mistake.

Q: What makes Brussels a good place for expats to come and work?

A: First of all I’d like to point out that we have more theatres per head than in Paris. This is not necessarily what you would expect of Brussels, but that definitely makes it an appealing city. Secondly, when you go out, I’ve come to notice that in most places in the city, if you only speak English, you get away with it, which is not always the case in many other European cities.

Q: Finally, and perhaps most importantly, where are we most likely to see the mayor enjoy a beer?

A: Oh, well I have several places that I like and they are not necessarily all in the city center. Although I don’t have much time to go, one bar that I particularly love is L’Archiduc. It has a history but it’s still a jazzy bar. The concerts are fantastic, but the music is also absolutely superb the rest of the time.

BxlConnect

SERVICES

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

23

Are you getting ready to explore new horizons?

We are ready to assist!

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highly personalized relocation assistance “because people are precious”

+32 (0)3 605 06 50 Belgian Relocation Center

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Visit our prestigious store on 3 floors with over 18,000 British products in:

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Order flowers online and send them the same day anywhere in Belgium Belgium Flowers Online provides flower delivery throughout Belgium. You can quickly and easily send flowers for any occasion: Christmas, New Year, birthday, Valentine, birth, funeral, flowers for spring, flowers for Easter etc etc...

For more information or to place an order, please visit our website: www.belgium-flowers-online.be Special promotion code for BxlConnect readers gives you 10% off on total order amount: bxlpromo

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Everberg Store: Steenhofstraat, 28 3078 Everberg Tel: +32(0)27594979 Fax: +32(0)27592488

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Promotion code may be used one time per user and is valid until 31/12/2013.

BxlConnect

SERVICES

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

24

Belgian Beer Discovery : With over 500+ beers our tiny Belgium has the largest and oldest beer culture anywhere in the world. Only large brewers are commonly known due to their costly marketing campaigns for beers that taste little more than water.

Belgian Beer Discovery aims at promoting real Belgian tradition. On their online platform one beer producer and its brewery are described every month. People can then be given the chance to purchase and enjoy the products from the brewery. Dario and Paul, the owners of the online platform, insist on bringing to the market a real Belgian movement for better beers. Join the movement, join belgianbeerdiscovery.com

Promotion : Order a "Basic Beer Experience" pack, send us an email mentioning "bxlconnect"  and we will upgrade your order to a "Premium Experience Pack".

Only valid for packs sent in October and November.

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BxlConnect

SERVICES

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

25

Euromut Euromut welcomes you welcomes you to to Belgium Belgium It Itis isessential best health healthcare careadvice advice essentialthat thatyou you receive receive the the best and for every every andcustomer customerservice. service. We We offer offer solutions solutions for request requestand andfacilitate facilitateyour your administration. administration.

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Contactour ourBusiness Business Customer Customer Care Contact Care mail:expats@euromut.be expats@euromut.be bybymail: phone:+32 +322244 4444 44 700 700 bybyphone: www.euromut.be/expats www.euromut.be/expats

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The Dog Nanny offers dog walking and doggy day care services

04-06-2012 12:06:02

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04-06-2012 12:06:02

Rouge de Chine in the center of Lasn Contact details: Adresse: Contact details: Rue de Genleau 6 – 1380 Lasne OpeningAdresse: Hours: Rue de Genleau 6 – 1380 Lasne Monday to Saturday 10am to 6.30pm Opening Hours: Website: Monday to Saturday 10am to 6.30pm

www.rougedechine.be

Website: Telephone: www.rougedechine.be

+32 (0)2 653 80 48 Telephone: +32 (0)2 653 80 48

Email: Email: info@rougechine.com info@rougechine.com

Inside decoration, Italian and French design furniture, Asian antiques, custom-made furniture, custom-made curtains & blinds, rugs, lamps, objects of decoration.

You want your dog to get some exercise while you’re at work?

We take care of it! We pick up your dog at your place, take him to the woods where he’ll run, play, spend his energy and socialize with his peers for at least one hour.

We also provide a doggy day care service.

We are registered, insured, and recommended by veterinarians.

We cover the south of Brussels: Ixelles, Auderghem, Boitsfort, Woluwe, Etterbeek, Kraainem, Tervuren.

Visit our website! www. thedognanny.be

By showing the magazine you receive a unique discount of 10% on the furniture and objects of decoration.

Architect, for your home or office, extensions or interior design, building permit etc: Do you have plans to reshape your home or office? Thinking of alteration, renovation, extension or building something brand new? Being an architect, I will guide you in all stages: design, building permit, finding builder, contracts and execution. References of projects in Brussels and abroad available. My fee is competitive, I am up to date with green building technology. Spoken languages: English, French, Dutch, German, Spanish. Call 0499 710 797 or write info@wimjacobs.nl. See also my website: www.b-ap.nl.

Interior designer and contractor: 25 years of experience Our niche is renovation and building work. We also offer the highest quality of PVC and wood windows at very competitive prices, as well as: tiling, plastering, false ceiling, partition, electricity certification, plumbing, heating system, parquet wood work and fitted wardrobes. 3D examples can be provided. Loft conversions and insulation are our specialty, and we provide an architect’s sketch prior to starting work. A perfect finish is guaranteed, and our prices are competitive. We can provide many excellent testimonials, and examples of work can be provided. Please email:ets.denys@ gmail.com or GSM 0477/535.082 Pictures available on http:// www.intereurodecor.eu

English Skilled Handyman: NO JOB TOO SMALL. VERY EXPERIENCED AND VERY RELIABLE. References avalaible. Hanging Pictures, Curtain Poles, Sealing Sinks, Showers, Baths. Furniture Assembly, Painting and Decorating, Electrical, Plumbing, Kitchen Fitting, Gardening, Renovation & Property Maintenance. Contact Details for quick response Glenn 0498 72.38.65 glennw8@googlemail.com

YOU & YOUR FAMILY in Modern Art: The ultimate exclusive and lasting gift for birthdays and special occasions (Christmas). Stunning colourful modern art portraits by well-known German artist Wilfried Schwabe. Start your own unique art gallery at home with stunning colourful modern art portraits of yourself , your partner and your children. Surprise a friend or a good client: A unique gift to last for decades if not centuries. “ In the paintings of SCHWABE the figurative and the abstract, the recognisable and the symbolic organically and equally coexist –an unexpected integration of the artistic phenomena of the beginning and the end of the 20th Century as his paintings bring associations with symbolism of the Russian avant-garde.” (William L. Mayland, Moscow art critic, 1999). www. schwabemodernart.com. Email: wilfried.o.schwabe@gmail. com. Price: starts as from 450 €. Contact: +32 (0)479 590 145

BxlConnect

SERVICES

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

26 Jan Urban, M.Psych

Psychologist and psychotherapist, providing counselling and systemic/narrative psychotherapy. Providing autogenic training against stress-/pain-related conditions (anxiety, insomnia, headaches, hyperventilation, irregular heartbeat, pregnancy or labour pains). For English, Czech and Slovak speaking clients. Broad experience with expats of various nationalities. Specialising in constructivist and social constructionist therapies based on the latest philosophical and psychological knowledge. Licensed and registered by the Belgian Commission of Psychologists.

At Francois Bossaerts 110, 1030 Brussels. Website : www.janurban.eu BxlConnect readers who need/want a longer-term cooperation are offered 4-session and 6-session packages for discount prices.

TONI&GUY SCHUMAN 10% Discount Voucher

“Comme chez Moi” - “Like at Home”: Leaving for the WE or a longer period of time? Want a cosy home and family environment for your doggy to play, walk and have fun in? I will take care of your cuddly, canine friend on 4 legs together with mine! Long daily walks in the forest, petting and meticulous attention. Family house with fenced garden (Tervuren area), located close to the forest and Brussels! Also at short-notice: Just give me a call: 0476/71 49 48 Rent a Man With a Van ( known as ‘SimonWithVan’ within the expats community) offers: professional, friendly, no stress, punctual removal services at very competitive rates. short/long distances within Belgium and throughout Europe. Delivery services (e.g. Ikea, etc.) house, garage, attic, cellar, clearances etc. Choose from two impeccable vans: 20M3 van (see photo) which has a hydraulic lift which brings all your items safely from ground level to the van. or 10M3 van. Outside lift. Packing materials available on request. FREE QUOTE Don’t delay, call me today! 7/7 SIMON MOBILE: 0474220495 or e-mail: simonwithvan [at] hotmail.com Experienced Child Minder: Experienced mother and child minder takes care of your babies & kids. Can also help with cooking & some cleaning. No driving licence. Available whole week. English, French spoken. 0485 32 94 97.

Julie the Babysitter Julie proposes her babysitting services for children of all ages during evenings and on the weekend: 25 years old girl, post- graduated from Nottingham University (UK). Holiday camp instructor certified by the Wallonia region.

Sensible and dynamic, has a very good contact with children. Passionate about baking, dance and photography. Car owner. Bilingual English/French with good knowledge of Flemish. Plays, helps with homework, possibility of language tuition and initiation to baking. Contact : 0473/ 55 43 59 Wedding singer: To add elegance, sophistication and style to your Wedding, please allow me to put the icing on the cake of your ceremony, and sing during your wedding ceremony, wedding breakfast or reception. For more details, please call 0474 990 631 and I’ll be happy to provide more details. Make your Wedding extra special.

Live in or out Nanny/ Domestic Helper: Mature experienced, and realiable Nanny/ Domestic Helper looking for Work. I am available and flexible, can work as a live in or out. References on request. Don’t hesitate to call 0491 03 86 00 or email me edithrebs@gmail.com Dogwalker - Petsitting - Education - Training Do you need an experienced Dog Walker for your pooch or a Dog Sitter to care for him in a home away from home while you’re away? Search no more! I’ll pick up your dog in Ixelles, Watermael-Boitsfort, Auderghem, Uccle, Waterloo or Rhode-Saint-Genèse and take him for walks or keep him for you at my house. My job is to care for your pooch and make sure he has a good time during our walks in the Forêt de Soignes from Monday to Sunday. Fun with the Pack for your four-legged friend ! M. Chaoui - +32 495 754 479 - m.chaoui@ dogywalker.be - www.dogywalker.be Friendly and honest woman with excellent referencies looking for additional work (domestic help, cooking etc): Friendly, honest and flexible woman (42) is looking for additional babysitting or for keeping compagny to a person who needs help (cooking, ironing, shoppings) in the morning before 1 pm and for the week ends or evenings. Excellent french and English, very good cook, excellent referencies. call Bianca 0487.28.20.71

Relocating to Belgium, a new environment …

Be Welcome provides professional services for the expat and the company, covering all aspects of relocation in all regions in Belgium and internationally.

Our highly dedicated, personal approach will make the expat and his family feel at home!

Be Welcome offers support in : Relocation and expatriate services including immigration, work permits, visa, house search, utility connections, schooling, …

Cultural training, city trips and hospitality services Consultancy and quick scans on international mobility processes

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03/02/13 16:07

BxlConnect

SERVICES

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Community Help Service (CHS) is a non-profit organisation established in 1969. We provide information, support and mental health services to anyone in Belgium who needs help and prefers to speak English. We are committed to offering assistance, support and mental health information to the community at large regardless of nationality and taking into account individual financial circumstances.

CHS Help Line: The CHS Help Line is an anonymous, 24 hour, English language, crisis, support and general information telephone service. It is operated by volunteers, who are trained, supported and supervised by professionals. The Help Line is an English speaking service for children, adolescents and adults.

Call +32 (0)2 648 40 14. An anonymous and confidential 24 hour Crisis and Information telephone service offering advice free of charge.

Why CHS? Moving to a new country for work or as an accompanying spouse can be fraught with confusion, anxiety and complexity which in some cases can lead to culture shock and depression. This can be not only a significant personal crisis for the individual concerned, but this emotional state can have a detrimental impact on colleagues and the employer.

“Relocation experts anecdotally add that most failures of expatriate assignments are because of personal, not professional, issues, and divorce rates are higher than average…”

Robin Pascoe, author of many books for expatriates.

How CHS Helps: CHS clients come from over 50 countries. They call the Help Line, they come in for therapy, or they seek testing for children with learning difficulties or emotional problems. By contacting CHS, clients take the first steps toward understanding and adjusting to the demands life away from home may bring about. Whether it’s the working partner or their entire family CHS can provide practical guidance on living in Belgium, from finding the right school to finding a local English-speaking doctor or tradesman etc.

Help Line Volunteers: Every year thousands of adults and adolescents contact the Community Help Service (CHS) in need of our help. The HELP LINE provides an anonymous and confidential, crisis, support and information service to the English-Speaking community.

We are looking for volunteers who are: • • • • •

Good listeners Non judgmental Empathetic Fluent in English Have day and evening availability (approx. 10 hours per week)

No previous experience is necessary as following the interview process, comprehensive training and professional supervision are provided.

Please do not mention your application to anyone but those closest to you, as confidentiality and anonymity are essential.

For more information or to volunteer on the Help Line please call us on 02/647 6780 or email volunteer@chsbelgium.org

Office Volunteers: A commitment of 2 days per week is ideal. You will be part of a small team and

involved in many aspects of the organisation. A knowledge of office systems as well as a friendly, sympathetic work manner are prerequisites. Confidentiality is of course a priority.

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ARTICLE

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BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

The organic one-stop shop in Brussels

T

here’s no better time than the changing of the seasons to make new resolutions and adapt new habits. Fortunately, there’s Be Positive to help you along the way. The shop and restaurant is exactly what you might guess: a light-filled space with positive vibes, healthy food and a colorful atmosphere. The space is a far cry from the musty or austere health food stores of decades past, and the growing and diverse clientele of the store is testament to the place’s modern and cheerful ambience.

As soon as you enter the doors of Be Positive, you know you’re entering a special place that embodies a unique concept and holistic approach.

While there’s plenty of healthy food to choose from--everything from organic fruits and vegetables to energizing and detoxifying plates at the organic restaurant and tea room-there’s also a bookshop and beauty salon. The entire space is designed to be a one-stop shop for those interested in a healing and nurturing lifestyle. The place is airy and bright, occupying 360 square meters and featuring a gorgeous terrace. Be Positive is exactly what it promises: a place where health is an attitude.

While relaxation, regeneration and serenity are the main intentions behind Be Positive, affordability and accessibility are also part of owner Joseph Turkel’s philosophy. The store aims to make organic products accessible to all rather than a few elite by offering fresh, local and seasonal foods at fair prices.

The next time you’re in the mood for a warming cup of tea, a vibrant lunch, the season’s finest produce, organic products for your pet or a massage for yourself, look no further than Be Positive. The store is conveniently located at 26, Place Jourdan, 1040 Etterbeek, and is open Monday to Friday from 10h to 20h; Saturdays from 10h to 18h; and Sundays from 10h to 14h.

Contact: Be Positive Place Jourdan, 26 1040 Bruxelles Tel: +32/2/2318001 Website: www.be-positive.be

BxlConnect

LEARNING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

French classes for Expats We help you to settle more easily in your new life!

Experienced teachers Classes custom - made for you Courses adapted to your interest At your place or in our school

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Clarinet Lessons: Learn the clarinet with an independent music teacher who has wide experience of teaching international students of mixed abilities and ages, including adults. Lessons include repertoire, technique, ensemble work, music theory, aural appreciation, and tuition towards exams if required. More info at www.clarinetwithliz.com or phone Liz Walton on 0496/06.54.46

Satisfaction

Intensive classes

French Tuition: French lady, former teacher Berlitz London, provides French classes, all levels, children/adults, pls phone 02/7367148 (Schuman area). Weekends also suitable.

Small groups of maximum 3 students, 5 days, 3 hours/day, 15 hours in total, morning, afternoon, evening.

We take the time to take care of each participants.

EcoleDeLangues.be offers you French classes custom-made for you.

Private classes At your place or your work place.

Flexible schedule.

Classes are tailor-made and often updated during your training.

Group classes in companies Learn French with your colleagues at your work place.

Small groups, experienced teachers.

Flexible schedule.

Discount upon presentation of

this magazine!

0474 74 93 83

Test your level Now ! ecoledelangues.be/level-test

edlangues@gmail.com

EcoleDeLangues.be

Portuguese Lessons, Brazilian language and culture: Hello!

I’m Gabriel, 27 years old, brazilian, musician. I’ve been living in Europe since 2005. I love the study of languages and I’ve been teaching portuguese for the past 4 years. I finally found a great lesson book (Terra Brasil, ed. UFMG) witch I’m now using to support my method. Besides, I love to stimulate conversations and introduce Brazilian music to my students by making analysis of its lyrics. Most used composers: Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Tom Jobim, Vinicius de Moraes, Toquinho, Jorge Ben Jor, etc. My proposal is a delightful course which will offer the student solid knowledge of the Portuguese’s structure. My goal is also preparing the student to success at the certificate CELPE-BRAS, recognized by the Brazilian Government. I give lessons at my home (15eur/h) or at a place decided by the student (25eur). Hope to see you soon! Gabriel Address: Rue Dansaert, Bruxelles 1000.

Contact: gacaporali@hotmail.com

Piano lessons / vocal coaching: Piano www.FlandersActingStudio.com lessons or vocal coaching by an experiLocated in 1060 Bruxelles (St. Gilles) enced and professional teacher. (Eng. EMAIL : John@FlandersActingStudio.com Fr.Dutch and Germ.). Classical - Jazz - muTEL./GSM : 0498 54 20 55 sical- and pop. Children and adults - beFLANDERS ACTING STUDIO - BY AN ACTOR, FOR ACTORS ginners and advanced students. ABRSM FLANDERS ACTING STUDIO - BY AN ACTOR, FOR ACTORS or Trinity-Guildhall exams possible. ConThe Flanders Acting Studio provides intensive, ongoing training for those who want to pursue tact: 026872887 – 0478303248 acting seriously or professionally. We help actors identify blocks that prevent them from realizing Studio provides intensive, forcamera. those who want to pursue The Flanders their Acting full emotional potential at auditions, on ongoing stage or intraining front of the We use on stage and acting seriously or professionally.

We help blocks prevent them camera work with improvisation, sceneactors study, identify monologues and that scenes.

from realizing their full emotional potential at auditions, on stage or in front of the camera. We Weekly Introductory and advanced classes are conducted with a concentration on English to use Lessons to you : French and Tutoring Help train actors for the growing English European markets. We work with the deepest respect for on stage and camera work with improvisation, scene study, monologues and scenes. those of us who share and portray the most profound experiences of the human condition. in Family & Children: I am qualified to teach French as foreign language for Weekly Introductory advanced conducted with a concentration on English to Private acting, and dialect and publicclasses speakingare coaching is also available. non-native speakers of French. I give Help train actors for the growing English European markets. We work with the deepest private lessons to young children ( PreMention forportray a privatethe meeting John Flanders and toof audit Respect for thoseBxlConnect of us who magazine share and most with profound experiences the one of school and Primary), students (High our sessions. human condition.

School ), and also to their parents. I create teachings games with movies. I Private acting, dialect and public speaking coaching is also available. assist their parents in their search for a job as in their dealings with the Belgian Mention BxlConnect magazine for a private meeting with John Flanders and to audit one of our Administration. Brussels and Waterloo sessions. area. €350 for 10 hours. Invoice if requested. Cell Phone: 0496 380949, Claire Spontaneous drawing workshop Plisnier.

Serge Goldwicht 23, rue Wéry 1050 Brussels Phone : 02.644.18.07 / Mobile : +32473.50.00.72 serge.goldwicht@skynet.be Bring Your BxlConnect Magazine For a Free Trial

BxlConnect

LEARNING

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

30 Internal Combustion workshop: Internal Combustion is the second in a series of creative writing workshops run by new Brussels enterprise small hushed waves. Sunday 12 May 2-5pm. Upstairs at Sterling Books. During the Internal Combustion workshop we will explore, through readings, exercises, what drives a story. And we will find ways to get your story really moving. As small hushed waves focuses on the structure and mechanics of storytelling, this workshop is suitable for non-native English speakers, and those working or experimenting in prose, drama and screenwriting. Places are limited. To reserve your place, please call 0477 831 722 or email smallhushedwaves@gmail. com. Read about our first workshop Nuts & Bolts at http://smallhushedwaves.…

Singing Lessons: All types of voices, all levels. Shadi Torbey, Bass-baritone 0478 714 690 (for more information about the teacher: http://www.kulturkontor.de/english/shadi_torbey.html) Guitar & Bass + Music theory Lessons: A music career? Be a guitar hero? A hobby?

Dare! Lessons for Guitar: Electric/Acoustic/Classic or Bass - Music Theory lessons - Mini-workshops for Practice or for Music theory - Theoretical & practical fundamentals; hand techniques; rhythm; chord theory; all chords dictionary; chord combining; in and out scales (harmony) ; scale analysis and use; improvisation etc. - All supported by exercises and pieces of your choice in a variety of styles... And GERO: the exciting collective experience! For more info, options & prices check: www.guitar-embassy. com Tel.: 0486 177 085

Confucius Institute in Brussels Belgium-China Association n.p.o.

布鲁塞尔孔子学院 92, Avenue Paul Deschanel - 1030 Schaerbeek T : 02 803 80 33 F : 02 502 77 15 sec@belchin.be www.belchin.be

Chinese langue courses at all levels For adults and for children Chinese culture courses taijiquan / qigong / calligraphy painting / Chinese cooking workshops for schools internships in China possibility of scholarship in China Bookshop Grande Muraille Galerie de la rue de Ruysbroeck, 5 1000 Brussels Tel : 02 512 14 56 Fax : 02 513 83 73 Mail : zijun@grotemuur.be http://users.swing.be/grande_muraille/

ParlonsCuisine: Join the very special French conversation course in Brussels Who likes to always learn with books?

Under the motto "learn cooking practice French" I offer gourmet conversation classes where we cook and eat and talk French and have a lot fun doing so.

It is a nice opportunity to meet people and spend a pleasant and relaxed evening out.

If you do not speak any French and still want to take part in the cooking lessons just find 5 or 6 friends and apply as a group for cooking lessons in English. For more information please contact Catherine

www.parlonscuisine.be

Private Violin Lesson: Experienced in teaching violin for kids and adults of all levels with solid and flexible methodology according to the needs of the student. I am currently finising my master degree for violin performance at Royal Music Conservatory of Ghent. Lesson is taught in English or Flemish or Indonesian Price: 20€/h (+5€ at your place) Location available: Grimbergen, Strombeek, Humbeek, Vilvoorde, Meise, Brussels, Ghent. Contact: amelia.tionanda@gmail.com or +32473624953

Bring your photography to the next level by exploring up your creativity!

You have invested in a brand new digital camera but you are only using the camera in “Auto” mode?

You see the perfect image but when you click, the image you capture is…. something else?

All those numbers and menu on your camera is "Chinese" to you?

Join us in an international, fun and highly interactive photography workshop. The workshops are conducted entirely in English through interactive discussions, live demonstrations. No textbooks. No jargon. No sweat!

For more information : www.creatifimage.be

BxlConnect

SURVIVAL GUIDE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

BxlConnect’s quick and dirty survival guide for Brussels newcomers

Intro

Coming to a new country can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. It comes with a vast amount of administrative, cultural and social challenges. This short guide aims to provide a condensed summary of all the essentials one should familiarize oneself with when coming to the capital of Europe.

Some Useful Resources And Websites

The Brussels-Europe Liaison Office (BELO): www. blbe.be Given Brussels’ substantial expatriate community, BELO was set up in order to offer advice and assistance for dealing with various administrative and practical problems newcomers may face. They also run information campaigns and organize public debates and educational projects.

Brussels capital region, official website: www. brussels.irisnet.be The city of Brussels’ official website provides useful information on all matters that relates to life, work and administration in Brussels.

You can for example find information about your commune, how to register for voting and how to participate in communal and political initiatives.

Actiris: www.actiris.be Subscribing to Actiris gives you access to local employers as well as employment opportunities abroad. Additionally, if you are unemployed, you must be subscribed here and be actively searching for work through their services in order to maintain your rights for social security and unemployment benefits.

Infor Jeunes: www.inforjeunesbruxelles.be A useful resource and information hub for students and young professionals for finding jobs, internships, housing and practical advice.

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BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

Getting Around The City

Accommodation

Brussels used to be a city with traffic heavily dominated by cars. However, public transportation campaigns and cycle hire schemes have changed the trend in recent years. The bright yellow “Villo bikes” are a useful and healthy means for getting around the city, and the 180 stations spread out in Brussels means you will at most only be 450 meters away from a station. An annual season ticket costs €32 and can be purchased online at www.villo.be or in one of the Carrefour shops in the Brussels region. Alternatively, daily and weekly subscriptions can be purchased directly at bike stations.

The national train network in Belgium is run by SNCB/NMBS who offer a wide range of discounts to different groups in society as well as seasonal passes. More information about these can be found on www.b-rail.be. Public transportation within Brussels is run by STIB/MIVB. They operate the metro, bus and tram lines in the city. These usually run every day between 5.30am – 1am.

If you have missed that last metro home on a Friday night, nightbuses run until 3am during weekends. Another option is to use Collecto (www.collecto.org) which runs collective and shared taxis between 11pm to 6am and have a number of collection points throughout the city.

If you however cannot live without a car, there are a number of options available aside from bringing your own from home or purchasing one here. Cambio.be offers convenient car sharing solutions for those who don’t need a car 24/7. Zen Car (www. zencar.eu) is another good alternative for those with an even more “green” mindset.

Their stations throughout the city hold cars that are 100% electric.

Brussels has relatively affordable housing compared to other major capitals in Europe. You can search for apartments through numerous websites or look for a local agent in the area that you are most interested in.You may obviously also negotiate privately directly with the owner and unlike in other countries, there is no agency fee for the person renting the flat – the agencies only charge the owners. Immoweb (www. immoweb.be) is a useful resource that lists flats for rent or sale from a wide range of real estate agents.

There are two main types of lease contracts in Belgium; a longer 9 year contract and shorter leases of up to 3 years. The shorter term contracts may not be broken. However, for a long term contract, the tenant can give a 3 month notice (although an additional fee may then be charged if the notice is given before three years have lapsed). In case you are coming for a shorter stay or a business trip and prefer an alternative to hotels, there are a numerous serviced apartments on offer.

If you come from abroad without much time on hand to search for a good flat, you can benefit from the services of a relocation company that will do house viewings, reviews of rental agreements as well as other useful tasks such as registration at the municipality, car importing and general handling of the move. You can find certified relocation companies at www.eura-relocation.com.

A sometimes overlooked option for those looking to live in Brussels is to rent through the municipality. ”Régie Foncière de la Ville de Bruxelles” own approximately 2800 rental flats which are situated mostly in the city center. The rents are often much more attractive than in the private sector. In order to access their offers, you need to open a file with them which will put you in a queue (so it may take some time until you are presented with an offer). In case you are interested in opening a small business, Régie Foncière de la Ville de Bruxelles can also help you find a suitable office or retail space from a list of municipal owned commercial real estate. More information and contact details can be found on www.bruxelles.be.

BxlConnect

SURVIVAL GUIDE

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

card” (Système d’Identification Sociale) which can be presented at hospitals and pharmacies in order to receive immediate deductions. At most private medical institutions however, you will typically not be able to receive a direct deduction and instead have to send in a certificate to your insurance company.

Pharmacies in Belgium can easily be spotted given their large neon green crosses displayed outside their store. A system has been designed in order to make sure that there will always be one pharmacy open late at night in your neighborhood. At www.pharmacie.be you can the address for the current “late night pharmacy” in your area. As for choice of family doctors and general practitioners, in Belgium you are allowed to register with anyone of your choice regardless of where you live.

Deductions for social security are made by the employer from your salary at source. It corresponds to approximately 13% of your gross salary and the employer pays an additional 35% on top of that amount. As a social security contributor, you receive a “SIS

Legal, Administrative and Health related Matters

All new foreigners moving to Belgium for more than three months are required to register at their commune upon arrival.

However, expats working for the European Commission or one of the other major institutions in Brussels can usually arrange legal and administrative paper work directly through their employer.

This will typically also include signing you up for a private health insurance scheme. For others, you must pay contributions to the social security system (“Office National de Sécurité Sociale”) which will entitle you to coverage of a number of different public insurances ranging from unemployment benefits, pensions, health insurance, child benefits and work related accidents.

In addition to social security payments, workers in Belgium must also register with (and pay membership fees) a health insurance company (mutuelle/ mutualiteit) of their choice.

Culture and Leisure One of the exciting facts about Brussels is its diversity of communities. There is something that caters for each taste, the opportunity to learn a new language and meet people with different cultural backgrounds. You can therefore enjoy everything from Irish pubs scattered around in the City Centre and Schuman to African bars and restaurants in the Matonge area or numerous Asian and South American food joints spread out in the city, not to mention the local cuisine too of course.

Brussels is regarded as one of the gourmet capitals of Europe and houses 18 Michelin starred restaurants (3rd most in Europe). The Belgian beers are world famous and there are over 450 beer producers in the country which provides an exciting opportunity to discover various flavors and tastes for the beer-lover.

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BxlConnect

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

There are a number of areas for nightlife.

Besides the city center which houses many bars, restaurants and night clubs, the Flagey area has become popular with its defining Art Deco building next to the Square. Not far away from it, you will find Chatelaine with lots of restaurants, bars and a bustling food market each Wednesday. The Matonge area, which was originally a neighborhood for students from Congo in the 1950s, is now home for many other African communities too. Recent influx of inhabitants from Latin America, Pakistan and India has made it a real multicultural hub. You can find numerous bars and nightclubs as well as the culture festival “Matonge en Couleurs” each year.

As for art, culture and museums in Brussels, you can discover current and upcoming exhibitions on www.brusselsmuseums.be, an organization which represents nearly 100 museums and their activities. It also informs about other activities such as night openings and guided tours. From September 19th until December 12th 2013, many museums are opening their doors to the public every Thursday evening.

This fall, numerous events about gastronomy are particularly high on the agenda.

Money, Work and Taxation

Most bank accounts will by default provide you with a “Maestro Card” when you open a bank account.

This will likely become your most common method of payment. Furthermore, integrated into a Maestro card is the “Proton service”. It is a sort of “electronic wallet” where you can deposit money for smaller and quick transactions at shops and restaurants. It is important to note however that a Maestro Card has restricted use outside of Belgium where a Visa or MasterCard may be a more convenient solution.

Banks in Brussels are generally open on weekdays between 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm. Some banks are also open on Saturday mornings from 9am to 12 noon. For those in need of private banking services, www.abb-bvb.be is a useful resource for finding out more about the financial sector in Belgium and to consult a list of the financial institutions that

are registered with the ABB (Association Belge des banques et des societies de bourse).

Belgium’s official working languages are French, Dutch and German, although English is becoming more and more dominant, particularly within international companies, think tanks and the political institutions headquartered here. There are many different types of work contracts that can be drawn up (which will impact the length of your probation period, social security and other benefits you may be entitled to). www.employment.belgium. be is a useful resource for learning more about employment. Alternatively, for those who are self-employed or business owners, www. socialsecurity.be offers good information and advice as well.

Taxation in Belgium is one of the highest in Europe. It is based on a progressive system where higher income earners face larger marginal rates. Including social security, the total amount is usually more than 50% for a single average earner. However, taxation for expats and other non-Belgians is not straightforward.

It will typically be determined by a number of factors such your tax residency and existing double tax agreements between Belgium and your home country. As for corporate taxation, it usually ranges from 24% to 35% depending on the profitability and size of the firm. For more information, the public finance ministry (www. finances.belgium.be) should be your first point of contact for any tax related queries.

Money, Work and Taxation

BxlConnect

CALENDAR

English - Speaking Resources, Contacts, Deals and Offers in Brussels

35

The BxlConnect Calendar The BxlConnect calendar aims to gather and provide as much information as possible about key happenings and interesting things to do in Brussels within the art, drama, sports and social scenes. Below is an extract of some of the exciting events happening in October. For a more comprehensive list, please consult the online calendar on our website, www.bxlconnect.com which we update daily. Have a great month!

The BxlConnect Team

Photography exhibition at Halles St Gery From 4 to 27 Oct www.creatifimage.be/page/expo Les Halles St Gery / St Goriks Hallen 6.30pm - 9.30pm Open everyday.

Brussels Accessible Art Fair 10 to 13 Oct Steigenberger Grand Hotel (ex Conrad) 71 Avenue Louise www.weezevent.com/brusselsaccessible-art-fair-2013

12 Angry Men American Theatre Company 22 to 26 Oct, 8pm Bozar - Palais des Beaux-Arts 23 rue Ravenstein www.bozar.be

A photography exhibition by ´Creatif Image Photography,´ entitled, ‘Of Lines and Curves’

The Brussels Accessible Art Fair is one of the most influential and well-attended art events in Belgium. Every autumn since 2007, the fair invites the public to discover and buy original art straight from the artists in a beautiful and welcoming setting. The aim is to make art accessible by giving a platform to both emerging and established artists and allowing the buyer to engage directly with the artist, giving them unique insight into the artist’s world. This is a unique event in a market dominated by galleries.

12 Angry Men is the story of twelve men‚ trapped in a jury room‚ who must decide on the guilt or innocence of a young man accused of murdering his father.

Tensions run high as personalities come into conflict‚ stereotypes and prejudices are confronted‚ and societal assumptions are called into question.

Brussels marathon & half marathon 6 Oct, from 9 am, starting at the Cinquantenaire and finishing at the Grand-Place. www.brusselsmarathon.be Said to be one of the ‘101 races to run before you die’. There will also be shorter races and races for children and women.

Schedule • 9 am: Brussels Marathon • 9:30 am: Mini-Marathon 4 km Men • 9:45 am: Ladies Run 4 km • 10:30 am: Brussels Half Marathon • 11 am: 1 km Kids Run

Copenhagen at the English Comedy Club 8 Oct, 8pm Warehouse Studio Theatre 69a rue Waelhem 1030 Schaerbeek www.ecc.theatreinbrussels.com/ The English Comedy Club Presents “Copenhagen” by Michael Frayn, directed by Lyn Wainwright, a “who-dunnit” with a handy guide to the development of the atomic bomb.

Tension, guilt, suppressed emotion, nuclear physics and human drama are all bound up in this intriguing play.

Brussels Folk Club featuring Lucy Ward 13 Oct, 7pm Rue des Alexiens 67 info@theblackdoor.be Lucy Ward is an award winning 23-year old acoustic artist. She plays guitar, ukulele and concertina but considers her voice to be her first instrument. Lucy was named by MOJO as ‘Britfolk’s most vibrant and forthright new young talent’ and attracted four star reviews from The Guardian and Maverick Magazine among others. Her brilliant second album ‘Single Flame’ was released on 19 August.

O Superman - Emmanuel Van der Auwera 18 Oct to 16 Nov L’iselp - Institut supérieur pour l’étude du langage plastique 31, Waterloo Bd www.iselp.be O Superman is an exhibition in two parts (Iselp and ikob) around the themes of crime, justice and identity.

BxlConnect

Photo Contest

Send us your best photo of Brussels to info@bxlconnect.com with subject title: BxlConnect Photo Contest. We will select five winners who will receive a pair of tickets to the release concert of Chrystel Wautier’s new album at Marni theatre on October 29th. The winning photos will also be featured in the next edition of BxlConnect with a name credit of the winning photographer.

Although the original text of this classic American drama by Reginald Rose dates from 1957‚ its message still resonates today: democracy and justice cannot function without a commitment from members of society to take part in the process.

Wine tasting by Le Salon du vin de la Revue du Vin de France Le Salon du vin de la Revue du vin de France 26 Oct Tour & Taxis - Hôtel de la Poste Avenue du Port 86c Havenlaan 86c www.larvf.com Free entrance for professionals who can provide a business card. Major exhibitors, starred from the RVF’s guides and favourite wine makers of the tasting committee will present exceptional wines sourced from 60 prestigious vineyards.

Sufi Night - Morocco, Turkey and India.

26 Oct Henry Le Boeuf Hall, BOZAR. Tickets from €10 www.bozar.be Sufi Night focuses on the ecstatic music of the mystical tradition in Islam. Under the leadership of Rafik El Maai, a group of the finest young Moroccan Sufi singers opens the proceedings. Ismail Cosar, Turkey´s greatest Koran chanter, will be there with his ensemble.

Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;est un magazine.

Rue de la RĂŠgence 3, 1000 Brussels www.musee-magritte-museum.be