Corporate Housing Factory Magazine 2023

SERVICED APARTMENTS

live.

LOOKING FOR A HIGH QUALITY APARTMENT?

work.

CONTEMPORARY SERVICED APARTMENTS IN AMSTERDAM, ROTTERDAM, THE HAGUE AND EINDHOVEN.

“WITHOUT OUR TEAM’S FLEXIBILITY AND RESILIENCE, WE WOULDN’T HAVE MADE IT”

dream.

GOING GREEN, TOGETHER

leading menswear retailer with top italian brands and the best service

www.oger.nl

OGER AMSTERDAM

P.C. Hooftstraat 75-85

(+31) 206 768 695

OGER DEN HAAG

Noordeinde 4-6

(+31) 703 658 982

OGER ROTTERDAM

Kruiskade 63-65

(+31) 104 114 964

OGER ANTWERPEN

Lange Gasthuisstraat 7

(+32) 322 368 88

09

WORD OF WELCOME

by Eva Valkhoff

Colophon

THIS MAGAZINE IS AN ISSUE OF CORPORATE HOUSING FACTORY B.V.

Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b

1082 ME Amsterdam

+31 (0) 88 1169 500

info@corporatehousingfactory.com www.corporatehousingfactory.com

PUBLISHED BY ZUIDAS PUBLISHERS

WTC Amsterdam

Strawinskylaan 151

1077 XX Amsterdam

+31 (0)20-3620993

info@zuidaspublishers.nl www.zuidaspublishers.nl

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Romy Lange

EDITORS

Romy Lange

Celine Boute

Brigitte Oosterhuis

ISSUED BY Zuidas Publishers

DESIGN

Imageau - Emiel Brouwers & Rachel Huigevoort

PHOTOGRAPHY

Caily Bobbie Jo

PRINT RUN

5,000 copies

Copyright © 2023 Zuidas Publishers.

All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.

20

HOUSING GROUP

A perfect first landing for anyone relocating to Europe

23 TRAVEL

100 ML goodies

10

INTERVIEW

MICHAEL BERENDSEN & JOUKE BAAIMA

Owners Corporate Housing Factory

15

BE SOCIAL Social updates

16

HOW TO GET SETTLED As an international

24

CORPORATE FOODIES

We share one of our favourite recipes plus our favourite restaurants in The Netherlands!

27 COLUMN

A day in the life of Alexandra Kinsella, Service Desk supervisor

18

PROPERTY Favourites

28

GOING GREEN, Together

By Greg Shapiro ‘The

After the success of our 5-year anniversary issue (how has it been 5 years?!), we are thrilled to connect with you once again in print.

I’ve come to believe that it’s the spirit that defines our company and its labels. Building most of them from scratch, it has required creativity, vision, perseverance and most importantly, teamwork. Because in the end, it all comes down to us, working side-by-side with our unceasing enthusiasm and commitment for providing the perfect temporary stay. Who could have imagined 10 years of hard work would lead us to where we are today?

An opportune moment to pause and look back on the strides taken and challenges faced. As we are and have been living in rather peculiar times (I won’t cite the details here), one of the things we’ve surely learned is how paramount it is to more regularly slow down and take the time to reflect on how we’re living and working, as individuals and as a company. I’m sure that, like me, you sometimes can’t help but ponder the true state of the world around us. Most of all, who would have imagined that it ended up being a global pandemic that would transform the way we fundamentally live, travel and work?

Auspiciously, we have proven to be agile. As far as sustainable hospitality goes, there is a lot we can still achieve and have accomplished over the past years! We have been thinking about our means of travel and transport. How can we work towards championing responsible business travel? Thinking about our sourcing habits. Where do the products we use in our apartments come from and what are they made of? Thinking about global hiring, (green) relocation trends and housing in the Netherlands. What’s new and how can we help solve some of the housing issues?

Eva Valkhoff

These are the questions we have been asking at Corporate Housing Factory. Because, while we are successful, financial success is not the sole yardstick against which we measure ourselves. Instead, we are driven by what we can do to bring positive change with things we do. Whether it’s through sponsoring one of the charities we believe in (see page 30), ‘simply’ finding the right solution for our clients’ needs, a new environmentally-friendly housing project we’re passionate about, or placing people – rather than profit – at the heart of our business. Don’t get me wrong: we can hardly claim to be the greenest company on earth; the point is, we grow with the times, and have done so throughout. Environmental topics and social inclusivity might be all the rage today but being environmentally mindful and inclusive has been part of our DNA from the start. Which is one of the primary reasons why I’ve been proud to work for this company no less than 7 consecutive years!

As we now navigate our way into an unknown future, we know that caring about how we live and work – with each other – is essential in shaping a (business) world that is sustainable! On to the next 10 years!

Eva Valkhoff - Head of Marketing

Thank you for joining us in celebrating Corporate Housing Factory’s 10 th anniversary, dear friends!

Michael Berendsen and Jouke Baaima

“IT’S AMAZING TO SHARE THIS ADVENTURE WITH OUR TEAM”

This year, Jouke Baaima and Michael Berendsen are celebrating Corporate Housing Factory’s tenth anniversary. Since they founded it ten years ago, the company has grown into a veritable empire. How do they look back on that period, and what does the future hold for their company?

Corporate Housing Factory has been around for ten years now, and in that time you’ve built up an impressive company. Looking back over the past decade, what are some moments that stand out?

Jouke: “Building up and growing our team, for sure. We started out with six people and since then have grown to a workforce of thirty and three different divisions. That’s a testament to their hard work and innovation. It’s just amazing to be able to share this adventure with other people and to scale this mountain together.”

Michael: “Absolutely. But also the maturity we’ve achieved in this phase is pretty amazing. Whereas in the early days we were really pioneers, now we’ve seemed to reach seniority in the eyes of the market and get requests from major corporations and market players. That’s a compliment for our entire team.”

Jouke: “Yes, it really is all thanks to their hard work. And so are the two other divisions we have set up, which are really more like start-ups within our company. It’s a great combination to have that maturity to fall back on whilst at the same time being able to carry on pioneering and just seeing where that takes us.”

The organization has grown tremendously and yet you’ve managed to stay a tight-knit team. What’s your secret?

Michael: “I think it’s the values we formulated from the outset. And maybe because we started with just six of us, which made it a fairly intimate group – like family. Of course, some people have left the team since then. But those who stayed and joined over the years do really feel like part of that family. They feel at home, I suppose.”

Jouke: “That’s it, and we’re authentic. We’re all focused on serving clients. We’re commercial, of course, and at the end of the day we want to make a profit, but above all because that is how we can keep growing as a company. What matters more than anything is serving client demand. That’s our DNA, and if you look back at the small team we started out with and compare it to where we are now, then, yes, those values and that familial feeling have continued rippling out.”

The vibe here in the office always seems so friendly and laid-back, but of course you’re all working hard, too. How would you describe your company culture?

Jouke: “One of our company’s core values is that we are professional, yet personal. When you find that balance, it’s an incredible combination.”

Michael: “Absolutely, and people recognize that, too. I hope, and I honestly think, that our clients see us as a well-oiled organization. Everything works. People see our values and family-like culture reflected in everything we do and they really value that.”

Jouke: “We also try to keep pace with changes and be forwardlooking. That’s not to say we want to be the coolest kid on the block. We just want to find our fit in the market based on the standards and values that matter to us. A while back we were at an event and an industry heavyweight came up to us. He commented on how well we pulled through the pandemic and how much he admired the fact that we already have new projects in the works. It was a brilliant compliment and brought home that, oh yeah, we’re not doing too bad!”

Jouke Baaima Michael Berendsen

The pandemic has indeed been one big obstacle in recent years. How was that period for you?

Michael: “Not always easy. It was the first time we had to let some of our team members go. It was really rough, because they were terrific people but just happened to be the last ones to come on board. We did what seemed best, but it was difficult. And meanwhile, our top priority obviously was serving clients. We started doing even more tailor-made, and, thanks to that and despite everything else, occupancy stayed pretty good. Purely because we listened to our clients and supplied what they asked for. So, more desks to let people work from home? No problem. Remote home tours by video call? Done. Without our team’s flexibility and resilience, we wouldn’t have made it.”

Jouke: “We were also very transparent about it along the way, towards our team and externally, towards clients. It’s never a nice feeling to have to let people go, but we talked it through extensively and were very honest about it. Even the financial part. We shared everything so the whole team was involved. And that then made them more creative, offering suggestions to help. It was really amazing to feel that we were all in this together.”

Michael: “If we had taken an alternative approach, it could have gone very differently. I think we did a good job pushing through.”

What are you plans for the coming years? Expansion? More cities?

Michael: “Haha, spot on. We can’t just sit around. So, yes, we’ll definitely be adding a new city and adding things in cities where we operate already. Besides that, we are also looking at new markets and beyond the Netherlands, because clients often ask if we can help them out in other countries. And, of course, we are rolling out and expanding our new divisions, including Corporate Housing Living. These are all exciting developments.”

Jouke: “Corporate Housing Living basically arose from demand for flexibility in offering longer-stay housing. It will let us operate and supply the full range of demand in lots of locations. We can’t wait to see how the coming years play out and how we can continue serving our clients.”

Text: Romy Lange & Tessa Burger - Photography: Caily Bobbie Jo

“WITHOUT OUR TEAM’S FLEXIBILITY AND RESILIENCE, WE WOULDN’T HAVE MADE IT”

Come and indulge your senses at Sea Palace, the renowned floating Chinese restaurant located in the heart of Amsterdam. With its stunning pagoda-style architecture, Sea Palace is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

We invite you to try our famous Beijing duck. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why. Our chefs use only the finest ingredients and take great care to ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor. In addition to our duck, we also offer a wide selection of

Dimsum, which are small, bite-sized portions of Chinese cuisine that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re in the mood for steamed buns, dumplings, or crispy spring rolls, our menu has something for everyone.

At Sea Palace, we take pride in offering our guests an unforgettable dining experience, with exceptional food, impeccable service, and a truly unique atmosphere. Come and see for yourself why we are one of Amsterdam’s most beloved restaurants.

You have made the move. Congratulations! But what now? You’re in a country and city that’s most likely entirely new to you, and you’re ready to begin your new adventure. First of all, try not to feel overwhelmed. To help you get settled, we’ve lined up some useful tips.

Make your home your own

HOW TO get settled AS AN INTERNATIONAL GO

OUT AND EXPLORE

Obviously, one of the biggest and most exciting perks of being an expat is the opportunity to explore new places around the globe. Whether you have visited your new hometown before or it’s your first time here, doubtless you’ll have loads to discover! Exploring your new surroundings, finding your personal hotspots and taking in all the new sights and sounds is not only an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, it can also help you adjust. It’s a good way to track down all the nearby essentials and amenities such as supermarkets, cafes and gyms as well. Plus, by walking around your new neighbourhood you’ll find the closest parks and nature to go to unwind!

Sometimes, all you still need to feel completely at ease somewhere is a little personalization or a touch of home. Even if you’re living abroad for only a limited period of time, treat your home as if you’ll be living there indefinitely! Think of it as your place to decompress after a long day at work and turn it into your own little safe haven. Of course, Corporate Housing Factory has made every effort to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible, but feel free to add personal touches to make your home your own. Looking for some decorative pieces or objects to brighten your space? Don’t forget to check out Marktplaats, an online platform where you can score great second-hand items and truly unique ornaments!

LEARN THE LANGUAGE

Sure, most Dutch people can speak English and like to think they are good at making internationals feel welcome, but it’s always nice to have a handle on the basics. Though English is widely spoken here, you’ll be amazed at how much speaking Dutch will help you in everyday interactions and getting around. For example, not all train journey information is always available in English, which can make exploring the country tricky. And let’s not forget that knowing some Dutch will also make daily chores like grocery shopping a whole lot easier!

Put down your phone…

Yes, we know you’re eager to tell everyone back home about all your new experiences. But don’t get so caught up in it that it interferes with meeting new people. Old friends won’t disappear just because you invest some time and effort in new people! And, if you miss chatting with someone in your own language, try connecting with other internationals through Facebook groups and meet-ups. They are a great way to build relationships in your new country while still feeling connected to home.

Get your comforts

Just because you’re in a different country doesn’t mean you have to miss out on everything from home. Who says you can’t watch your favourite TV shows abroad? Or eat and drink the things that taste like home? Or honour traditions from your country that help soften the move? In other words, figure out what comforts you, what will help you settle in and what will ease any lingering homesickness.

Property favourites

Corporate Housing Factory offers spacious serviced apartments in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Eindhoven. Always conveniently located with easy access to the city center, main business areas, airports and public transportation. Find your match!

GERSHWIN AMSTERDAM

HARTJE GENT EINDHOVEN

HARTJE GENT EINDHOVEN

GERSHWIN AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

HOGE DUIN THE HAGUE

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM

NEW ORLEANS ROTTERDAM

NEW ORLEANS ROTTERDAM

NEW ORLEANS ROTTERDAM

GERSHWIN AMSTERDAM

HOGE DUIN THE HAGUE

HOGE DUIN THE HAGUE

HOGE DUIN THE HAGUE

OUSING GROUP

THREE LABELS, ONE SOLUTION

Directors Jouke Baaima and Michael Berendsen took on the corporate housing activities of Vesteda in 2013 and, together with their team, formed the Corporate Housing Factory (its first brand) under the premise: ’It’s time for a third flavor; hotel, house or Serviced Apartment’. Filling the gap between a rented residence and a hotel room.

Since then, they expanded on what was already in place and offer an even broader range of apartments, services, and brands! The HSNGGRP’s combined knowledge of the real estate market, relocation and the hospitality sector turns out to be a winning combination.

Our purpose is to provide a perfect first landing to anyone relocating to Europe for a shorter or longer period. Our brands have a widespread appeal to anyone travelling for business in Europe. When you blend all our labels together, the net result is that we’re able to service any company or individual (business) traveller coming to or travelling through Europe throughout the entire cycle/purpose of stay. From short to long stay, we’ve got you covered.

www.hsnggrp.com

WHATEVER THE PURPOSE

Since 2013, we’ve provided business travel accommodation for businesses of all sizes as well as for individual business travellers. We’ve built up an extensive range of serviced apartments across the Netherlands, as well as a platform for serviced apartments with 60+ partners in 20+ locations. Our brands appeal to a wide audience of modern-day (business) travellers, with clients spanning a wide range of industry sectors, from IT and finance to entertainment. Whatever the purpose, we will work with you to find the best solution.

WELCOME AT OX & BUCKS

AN EVERYDAY HOTSPOT FOR BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

Located at the heart of the business district at the WTC Amsterdam, Ox & Bucks is a unique venue, perfect for any occasion. Whether you need to prepare for a meeting with a cup of coffee, enjoy a lunch with colleagues, have something to celebrate or unwind with a cocktail after a long day at the office, Ox & Bucks is the place.

OPEN FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY FROM 8 AM - 10 PM |

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR MENU

Top

RESTAURANTS

RIJSEL – AMSTERDAM

An institution in Amsterdam, this restaurant grew out of a passion for French cuisine with a nod to Flanders. It takes its name from what the Flemish call the industrial capital of Northern France, Lille – that is, Rijsel. All the dishes are no-nonsense, affordable classics. Formidable!

Eva van Zijl and Miquel Daale work at Corporate Housing Factory and are familiar faces on the team. Both love food and discovering fun new eateries. Here, we share one of their favourite recipes plus their favourite restaurants in The Netherlands!

VILLA COUCOU – THE HAGUE

It’s hard to believe you’re not in France in this charming restaurant with a gorgeous garden. All the dishes and drinks are inspired by France, and there’s even a pétanque pitch in the wine cellar. What more could we want?

VANDERVEEN – AMSTERDAM

Expect the unexpected at this restaurant. The fare is funky and creative, almost everything is homemade and the flavours are refined, in a laidback ambience that’s pure enjoyment.

KETELHUIS – EINDHOVEN

Occupying an old industrial building in Eindhoven, this hotspot serves up good times in the form of wood-fired pizzas out on the terrace, a lazy lunch or a delicious three-course meal. And they know how to mix a cocktail! Take a seat at the special cocktail bar to enjoy their surprising creations.

DE GOUDEN REAEL – AMSTERDAM

Inside a listed building dating from the Dutch Golden Age is a superb family restaurant with loads of history. Boasting one of the capital’s largest wine collections, they serve a menu that changes each month.

DE WATERGANG – AMSTERDAM

This tiny restaurant in the heart of Amsterdam oozes character. Wooden tables and ochre hues in an intimate setting create the illusion of dining in the living room of an elegant historic building along the canals.

WIJMPJE BEUKERS – AMSTERDAM

You’re always welcome at this friendly eatery – without reservations! The kitchen squad puts together a new menu every week, using fresh, local products and a generous helping of spontaneity.

Eva van Zijl and Miquel Daale

RIJKS – AMSTERDAM

Dining at this restaurant adjoining the Rijksmuseum is a truly aesthetic experience, inspired by Dutch ingredients. The chef and his team borrow from the broad palette of international flavours that have coloured Dutch cuisine through the centuries, earning them a Michelin star in 2016.

Breaded chicken

by Miquel Daale

Main course

Serves four people, 90 minutes to make

• 2 kg chicken leg quarters

• 78 ml Indonesian sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis)

• 78 ml Indonesian salty soy sauce (ketjap asin)

• 120 ml BBQ sauce

• 1½ onion

• 6 garlic cloves

• 2 cm piece of fresh ginger

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1½ tsp sugar

PREPARATION

1. Submerge the chicken leg quarters in a big bowl of cold water.

2. Wash the chicken with vinegar or lemon.

3. Refrigerate the chicken for around 30 minutes.

MARINADE

4. Process the onion, garlic and ginger together.

5. Add the sweet and salty soy sauces, BBQ sauce, salt, black pepper and sugar.

CHICKEN

6. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator, add the marinade and combine well.

7. Refrigerate for around another two hours.

8. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and drain off the marinade.

9. Put the breading in a large bowl. Add the chicken and cover well.

10. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (10 minutes).

PUTAINE – ROTTERDAM

This floating restaurant is located in the world’s largest sustainable office building, on the water opposite our New Orleans tower. It is fine dining that combines delightful flavours with a dazzling location.

• Breading

• Lemon (or vinegar)

• Vegetable oil

11. Heat some oil in a casserole dish and fry the chicken until golden-brown.

12. Cover the casserole dish and place in the oven for 30 minutes.

Tip: Serve with rice or bami noodles.

Get inspired and check out our team’s favourite recipes: corporatehousingfactory.com/favourite-recipes

Tap Water. Make Magic.

Discover the new sustainable shower sensation: refillable Foaming Body Wash with soothing aloe vera. Fill the bottle with tap water and our concentrate, and create your own magical, rich foaming shower experience. The timeless glass bottle is designed to refill endlessly. Concentrates reduce water transportation, packaging waste and, therefore CO2 emissions.

Shop at Marie-Stella-Maris, van Baerlestraat 34 or Keizersgracht 357. Or discover at one of our partners Zuidas Apotheek, Gustav Mahlerlaan 635 or Douglas, Beethovenstraat 22. marie-stella-maris.com

A DAY IN THE LIFE of Alexandra Kinsella , Service Desk Supervisor

I joined Corporate Housing Factory five and a half years ago and love my job. The best thing about working at the service desk is that no two days are alike. You have to take each day as it comes, and every day brings new challenges.

My workday starts at 8 am. I am usually the first one in the office, and my first order of business is caffeine. While sipping my coffee, I boot up my PC and review my appointments for the day, checking if any new residents are scheduled to arrive in Amsterdam or another of our locations that day. From 9 am to 10 am we hold a morning meeting with the whole office, and after we meet with our housekeeping teams to run through the next three weeks’ arrivals. Are there any arrangements we need to take care of? Extra bed? Child’s crib or cot? Pets coming along? Do residents have other specific requests? This way, we know we’ll have everything shipshape when they arrive. And then our team also has its own tasks: quality-checking apartments and making sure they are clean, scheduling appointments with tradesmen for repairs, responding to resident queries and handling their requests, administrative tasks, placing orders and, of course, our most important job as a service desk: welcoming and checking in new residents, giving them a tour of the building and helping them settle in and feel at home!

The great thing about our work it that you can build a genuine bond with residents. Just recently, one of them gave me a bunch of tulips! Or they might drop by with chocolates or other treats, and feel sad when check-out time comes around.

When they give us good reviews, such as: “The staff were friendly, welcoming and always available to help out with any questions or concerns I had” or “The staff went to great lengths to cater to my wants and needs”, it is a wonderful reward for the work we do!

Alexandra Kinsella - Service Desk Supervisor

Alexandra Kinsella

At Corporate Housing Factory, high-quality apartments and top-notch service go hand in hand with a sustainable lifestyle. That’s why we are proud to share how we combine these two, as well as some tips on how you can contribute too.

GOING GREEN SAVE ENERGY by living in our apartments

Avoid chemicals and plastic by cleaning eco-friendly

To give our guests a warm welcome, we always provide a recycled cardboard box filled with eco-friendly home essentials, such as dish soap without harsh chemicals. In our apartments, you will also find vegan body wash and shampoo from Marie-Stella-Maris. This brand only uses refillable bottles and supports clean water projects. With these products, you can clean your apartment (and yourself) while avoiding chemicals and plastic.

All of our apartments have an energy label A and are designed to save as much energy as possible. For instance, they are fitted with WKO-systems, storing hot and cold water in the ground, and equipped with energy saving appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. So just by living in our apartments, you can already contribute to a greener society. Easy as that!

LOWER YOUR PAPER-USE BY SURFING ONLINE

We provide all information to our guests online: via email, our website, QR codes and the Guest Portal. We print as little as possible, and if we do, we use recycled printing paper. Including the magazine, you’re reading right now. Spending (too) much time online is, in this respect, not something to feel sorry about.

REDUCE YOUR FOOTPRINT BY LOUNGING ON THE SOFA

We consciously opt for high-quality furniture made of recycled materials while decorating our apartments. Our mission is for all furniture to last a long time. For instance, our DSW Vitra chairs are made from recyclable thermoplastics and therefore have a very limited carbon footprint. Lounging on these chairs is never a guilty pleasure!

For every check in we donate £1 to plant a tree

We donate to HomePlan as Key Sponsor, to help build a house for people who need it the most

This means that checking into your new temporary home contributes to restoring the planet and helps a family in need.

IT4KIDS, OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN

Children will play a major role in the transition to a more sustainable society. That’s why we are a proud sponsor of IT4Kids. IT4Kids collects used hardware from companies and donates its value (on behalf of the contributor) to charity projects committed to creating lasting opportunities for children, such as self- confidence, cooperation and discipline. Children are the future.

Warm Sweater Day, sweaters for cold days

On the annual Warm Sweater Day, we put on a warm sweater and lower the heating to reduce carbon emissions and raise awareness about global warming. We even got our team some vegan, PETA approved and limited-edition CHF sweaters. They are also very popular to wear at home (and during e-meetings), and obviously on other days than Warm Sweater Day!

HomePlan, homes for everyone

Offering people a home is the essence of our company. We truly believe that everyone deserves a home, and that’s why we work closely with HomePlan. For every check in, we make a donation for the construction of a house in Latin America or Africa. Attached to the door key, our guests can find a QR code that links to a webpage that explains everything about our joint efforts.

WORLD CLEANUP DAY, OCEANS FOR FISH

Together we can eliminate plastic pollution from the world. That’s why we participate in the annual World Cleanup Day organised by the Plastic Soup Foundation. This is a global social action program aimed at combating the global solid waste problem, including the problem of marine debris.

JUST ONE TREE, FORESTS FOR LIFE

Forests are the lungs of our planet, and essential to all life on earth. That is why we support Just One Tree. For every check in made with Corporate Housing Factory, we donate ₤1 to plant a tree. Just One Tree is active in many African countries as well as Indonesia, Brazil, Haiti and Nepal, and creates forests for life.

Going green is not something you can do alone. That’s why we have teamed up with a diverse selection of charities and initiatives.

DO YOU WISH TO CONTRIBUTE to a greener society too?

It might be easier than you think. CHF-colleague and ‘chef sustainability’ Lisa Gritter shares her best tips on ways to make your expat life more sustainable.

1. SING (AND SAVE) IN THE SHOWER

In all apartments, a door hanger with a QR-code can be found in the bathroom. By scanning the QR code, you’ll find great sing-along songs on Spotify. These songs are no longer than four minutes, so when you belt out those last notes, it’s time to turn off the tap.

2. ENJOY THE LUXURY OF TAP WATER

Dutch tap water is among the best in the world. This might be new to you, if you’re used to buying bottled water. Now that you’re here, you can save many plastic bottles (and money) by drinking our delicious water straight from the tap.

3. MAKE SHARING A SOCIAL EVENT

Sharing is caring! Limiting your own food waste is always a great idea, but you could take it a step further. Share any leftovers with your neighbours, for example. You might even make new friends. Via apps such as Too Good To Go you can also buy unsold products that would otherwise end up in the trash, with a great discount.

4. SURPRISE YOURSELF IN THE KITCHEN

Eating less meat is a great way to reduce your footprint. Dutch supermarkets have lots of affordable alternatives to offer, such as ‘The Dutch Weed Burger’ that’s made of seaweed. And if possible: always opt for local and organic products.

5. GIVE NEW LIFE TO VINTAGE STUFF

As an expat you might be here for a short stay. What better way to give your apartment a personal touch than by buying decorations in a thrift shop or on online marketplace Marktplaats.nl? When you’re leaving, make sure to give those items a new life again.

6. GET AROUND LIKE A DUTCHIE

What else is as healthy, quick and joyful as riding your bicycle around town? Don’t miss out on this typical Dutch experience. Stormy day? Public transport is also very well-planned in the Netherlands.

7. REMEMBER TO RECYCLE

For recycling, it’s important to separate your household waste. We have different bins for plastics, glass, paper and everything else. In all of our apartments and in our office, we have waste disposal programs, making it as easy as can be.

Lisa Gritter

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR CORPORATE Travel Adventure

As frequent business travellers, how does our sales team prepare for trips?

Nayton Craig and Marijke van der Neut regularly travel to international conferences and trade fairs together. Most frequently to London, to top up on inspiration on global mobility, corporate travel and corporate housing. By now, they’re pros at packing. We wanted to know: What’s their pre-trip prepping routine? And what are their top tips?

Marijke: “Attending conferences abroad tends to involve long days where we’re on our feet all day, so I always pack a pair of trainers.” Nayton: “I started using a standard list, which keeps me from having to put too much thought into packing.”

SUNSHINE!

Nayton: “Last year we went to a summer conference in Seville, where it was gloriously warm. The meetings were mostly outdoors, in the park. I had to switch gears a bit! I left the usual suits at home and packed more lightweight wear.” Marijke: “Sunglasses were obviously a must for that trip.”

Sunglasses

Nayton Craig & Marijke van der Neut

Travel light

Marijke: “I found something ideal at SKINS Cosmetics”, Marijke continues. “They let you put together a sample set of five fragrances for 22 euros. They also throw in a 10 euro voucher for your next in-shop purchase. That way, I don’t have to lug a big bottle around. I always bring some nail polish as well.”

Twister

Nayton: “My hair routine is a bit different than your everyday routine. To get my hair in the right shape, I use a product called a curl sponge. The sponge is a real travel essential for me, an item I cannot go without (much like my passport)

Down to business!

Nayton: “Since we’re talking business trips, aside from the beauty and personal care products we always bring along our laptops and power banks. It’s also good to have a universal power adapter, because the system is different

Souvernirs matter

Marijke: “My kids can have a hard time with my frequent trips abroad. Telling them I’ll come back with cool souvenirs always manages to put a smile back on their faces. And I never fail to deliver!

It’s like having your own private tutor for the integration exams

Need to prepare for your integration exams? Register for the online self-study courses on InburgeringOnline.nl now from €8,95 per month.

For corporate packages contact: info@inburgeringonline.nl

TRAVEL gadgets

Comfortable Stays WITH SERVICEDAPARTMENTS.NL

Whether you are travelling for business, relocating, or just want to enjoy a workation: ServicedApartments.nl provides the best-equipped accommodation to ensure you have a comfortable short stay. Renting these apartments makes travelling easy, starting from the short application process, through to weekly cleaning services, and accessibility to a wide range of facilities.

DETERMINE WHERE YOU WILL TRAVEL

The properties offered on ServicedApartments.nl are located all over the country, with the main focus on economical hubs and bigger cities. When choosing where to book your serviced apartment, consider the distance you will need to travel to work, to drop off the children at school, and… to places you will visit regularly.

SPOT YOUR IDEAL ACCOMMODATION ON OUR MAP

ServicedApartments.nl has a new feature allowing you to find the best matching accommodation. You can now spot our apartment rentals on the map with our “search and book” module. Tick off your requirements: anything from parking spaces, a bathtub, a gym, pool and sauna, an elevator, or pet friendly accommodation, and our system will narrow down the

search results for you. Of course you can always expect an excellent internet connection in your new apartment.

WHERE WILL YOU SPEND HAPPY HOUR?

Don’t forget to plan out how you will spend your free time. If you are working remotely, you might fancy staying in the Hague which is a stone throw away from Scheveningen Beach. Perhaps exploring historical cities is more your thing? An obvious destination is Amsterdam, but Utrecht and The Hague are filled with incredible architecture. Looking for modern dining after work, and high-class entertainment? Rotterdam is your best bet! Or, why not be adventurous and visit Groningen, Nijmegen or Maastricht? ServicedApartments.nl offers recidences in over twenty cities in the Netherlands and beyond...

NEED MORE ASSISTANCE?

You may have very specific needs regarding your accommodation. For those of you requiring a more tailormade, personal service we have a special (online) submission form. Fill in all the details, and we will get back to you with the best matched apartment options in no time.

+31 (0)20 723 3490

info@servicedapartments.nl

www.servicedapartments.nl

THE SEVEN wonders OF THE DUTCH WORLD

by Greg Shapiro ‘The American Netherlander’

India has the Taj Mahal, Rome has the Colosseum, and the Netherlands has: The Entire Country. Well, at least the 26% that was created by Dutch people. First, there was the sea - and the Dutch said “Let there be land.” Why isn’t the Netherlands included in the Seven Wonders of the World? Maybe it’s because - as much as Dutch people like digging - they dislike bragging. Or, in Dutch: ’Scheppen goed; opscheppen niet goed.’

Text: Greg Shapiro • Photo: Adrie Mouthaan

1. SCHIPHOL AIRPORT

Every time your plane lands at Schiphol, just imagine the conversation going on in the cockpit: “Schiphol Tower, we are descending to ZERO meters above sea level. That must be the runway, right?” Wrong. The average runway at Schiphol Airport is three meters below sea level. “Schiphol Tower, is it true that the name Schiphol translates to ship graveyard?” Yes! That’s what you find when you build up dikes and pump out the lake. Every time a plane lands safely it’s a modern miracle.

2. THE AMSTERDAM CANALS

This enormous outdoor museum does qualify as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. Dutch culture treasures the concept of “Maakbaarheid”, or Achievability. Historically, Dutch people have treated their natural habitat as something like a Lego base plate. This is why so much of the Dutch landscape looks like it was made out of Legos: Straight piece here, straight piece there. The time when Dutch people could finally afford curving pieces? They’re still talking about it.

3. THE MAESLANTKERING

The Port of Rotterdam is protected by this massive storm surge barrier, and the guided tour is worth it. Each one of these two sea gates is about as big as the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Yet in Paris, if you want an Eiffel Tower t-shirt from the tourist shops, you can find one easily. But in the Netherlands, can you find a Maeslantkering t-shirt anywhere? NO. Instead, what do most Dutch tourist shops feature on their t-shirts? The marijuana leaf. Why doesn’t the Maeslantkering get more credit? Somebody must be smoking something.

4. AFSLUITDIJK / DELTAWORKS

It’s a tie. The Afsluitdijk was created after 1916 flooding was so bad the Dutch built the biggest dike ever. The Deltaworks were created after 1953 flooding was so bad they sealed off all of Zeeland. Yes, storms and flooding are getting more extreme, but personally I’m just looking forward to what the Dutch will build next.

5. FLEVOLAND

Dutch people got so good at building up dikes and pumping out water that they created a whole new province. The rest of the world was like “Wait, our maps say you have 11 provinces. Now you have 12? How!?” If Jesus would come back and walk on water, the world would treat it as a miracle. Dutch people would be like, “Nou ja, doe normaal. That’s like Flevoland.”

6.

AMSTERDAM CENTRAL STATION BIKE GARAGE

If you look up the word chutzpah in the dictionary, you should see a picture of this place. Not only did the Dutch build an underground bike garage - when they’re already two meters below sea level - they finished the job by putting an entire canal on top of it. It’s like watching a juggling routine, when the performer starts juggling a knife, an axe, a chainsaw… and somehow gets away with it. Every time I successfully take my bike out of that garage without drowning, I raise my arms up and say “Ta-da!”

7. NIEUWEKERK AAN DEN IJSSEL

The lowest of the lowlands, this town near Rotterdam is almost 7 meters below sea level. And you can also visit nearby Zevenbergen, whose name translates to ‘Seven Mountains.’ Its highest point? Two meters below sea level.

Maybe someday Dutch culture will start taking credit for being so awesome. But for now Dutch chauvinism is about as high as 26% of their land.

Greg Shapiro is the author of three books, including How to Be Dutch: the Quiz. He is known for his work with Boom Chicago, Comedy Central and Zondag Met Lubach.

Here are seven Dutch marvels of engineering that I think deserve more credit

Moving abroad tends to be a massive endeavour in itself, and then you have to get to grips with a whole new culture and country! Lucky for you, there are plenty of helpful tools to ease the transition. Here’s our rundown of must-have apps for life in the Netherlands.

BUIENALARM

The weather in the Netherlands is anything but predictable. That’s why an app that tells you whether to bring sunglasses, an umbrella – or (probably) both – is essential. Buienalarm answers all these questions and, thanks to its accurate precipitation chart, can even tell you whether to start biking to work now or if it’s wiser to wait another few minutes.

9292

Whether you are eager to explore the Dutch countryside by train or bus, or you want to grab the ferry for a Wadden Island weekend (highly recommended!), 9292 makes planning any expedition through the land of windmills and tulips a breeze.

TO EASE YOU INTO EXPAT LIFE

XE CURRENCY

Stuck in the Albert Heijn aisle trying to compute a price? Sometimes, it’s easier to convert it to your currency from home – so you know exactly how much a product actually costs. XE Currency gives you live exchange rates and even works without an internet connection.

THUISBEZORGD

Don’t feel like cooking? Thuisbezorgd looks up all restaurants offering delivery in your area and lets you order from them directly.

TICKETSWAP

Want to visit a last-minute concert, festival, museum, theater or sports game? Then take a look at TicketSwap! TicketSwap is a Dutch online marketplace where you can buy tickets for all types of activities. With TicketSwap, visitors can easily and safely dispose of their online ticket by offering it for 120 percent of the sales price.

TOO GOOD TO GO

Don’t let unsold food go to waste! Too Good To Go offers great deals from loads of shops, hotels and restaurants as a way to save perfectly good leftover food. If you’re lucky, you can score a whole bag for just a couple of euros!

TIKKIE

There’s no easier app for splitting a bill or asking people to pay you back after spotting them for a meal or night out. In the Netherlands, it’s the go-to payment request app, so don’t be surprised if someone asks you to ‘send a Tikkie’.

Can guessyouwhich city this is?

CORPORATE HOUSING FACTORY IS ALWAYS WORKING ON NEW PROJECTS.

Where should we open next?

aboutCustomers

CORPORATE HOUSING FACTORY

“Congratulations on your 10 years! Corporate Housing Factory has always been there for our people, they always have a solution to temporarily house our employees. It is a comfort to trust that the quality and services will be best in class for our people year after year.”

Bouwsma

“Fast and kind service with Corporate Housing Factory! We do recommend their accommodations and service to everyone!“ Office Assistants - IMC

“We found a great partner in Corporate Housing Factory! Always on top of things, friendly, very flexible and able to perfectly fill our needs for high level apartments in Amsterdam and The Hague for our employees. Congratulations with this 10 year anniversary!”

“For many years, we cooperate with Corporate Housing Factory. They have a well-equipped network to offer the right accommodations for our employees in several cities in the Netherlands. Their staff is service oriented, friendly, to the point and they are cooperative. Their staff give our employees an appreciated welcome so that they feel at home in the apartments.”

Johan Martin de Vries - Brunel

Maria

- Liberty Global

Sanne van der Meij - Danone

KEVIN HUDSON-PHILLIPS

City you stayed in: Moved from London to Amsterdam.

Why did you move to the Netherlands?

The financial services company I work for wanted to increase their focus on investors in Northern European (Benelux and Nordics) by expanding the Amsterdam office.

How do you like it to live in the Netherlands?

Amsterdam’s cultural and social life is varied and extensive –there are world-class museums, music festivals, restaurants, theatres and sporting events. The Dutch/Amsterdam lifestyle is appealing, its (relatively) safe, its proximity to other European cities, its healthy way of life and its welcoming attitude toward foreigners.

When staying away from home for business, finding somewhere that is more than just a place to sleep can make all the difference. Why did you choose a serviced apartment of Corporate Housing Factory (instead of a hotel)? What do you see as the main advantages?

Location was crucial for me; being in an area that would provide me easy access to my office but be convenient for my search for my permanent new home in Amsterdam. Having a serviced apartment was important to me so that I could adopt my regular routine than being in a hotel would not allow (cooking, doing my own laundry, etc). The CHF property particularly stood out because it ticked all these boxes but also provided me a high quality property where I felt safe/comfortable.

Do you have anything you would recommend to other Internationals?

Be organised, ask lots of questions, be open and be ok with the fact that everything will not go perfectly. Embrace the unknown.

DAHEE WILL

City you stayed in: I live in Amsterdam.

Why did you move to the Netherlands?

I moved to Amsterdam from Chicago, Illinois on a six-month work assignment at my company, which is a trading firm.

How do you like it to live in the Netherlands?

I love living in the Netherlands! The country is beautiful, safe, and accessible. I’ve been impressed with many things about the Netherlands, from the public transportation to the Dutch people. When staying away from home for business, finding somewhere that is more than just a place to sleep can make all the difference.

Why did you choose a serviced apartment of Corporate Housing Factory (instead of a hotel)?

What do you see as the main advantages?

There are many advantages to staying in a serviced apartment like Corporate Housing Factory, and it has made a world of a difference in my move. The cozy atmosphere, safe and clean building, friendly staff, as well as having all of the furniture, washing, and kitchen supplies made the transition seamless. The Zuid location is perfect for getting around Amsterdam as well as traveling to other places in the Netherlands and beyond!

Do you have anything you would recommend to other Internationals?

I’d recommend every expat researches the local culture and customs as much as possible. Try and connect with other internationals through various groups because they are an excellent resource.

Always Something to Celebrate!

Every country has its own traditions and special holidays, and the Netherlands is no different. We’ve put together a rundown of the most important dates to mark in your calendar so you know how to party like a local.

CARNIVAL - LATE FEBRUARY

Catholic in origin, this tradition takes place in the weeks leading up to Easter and is celebrated mainly by folks ‘south of the rivers’. Essentially, it’s an excuse to dress up, build floats, parade around and drink yourself silly for days. People gather from all over the country to join the festivities. Just remember to come in costume!

KING’S DAY – 27 APRIL

This is hands down the biggest birthday bash of the year. Scores of festivals, parties and outdoor jumble markets are organized to honour the birthday of King WillemAlexander. The dress code for King’s Day is simple: orange all the way!

LIBERATION DAY - 5 MAY

This national holiday marks the liberation of the Netherlands and Indonesia from German occupation in 1945 and celebrates what it means to be free. Events include the lighting of the Liberation Flame, a ceremonial Liberation Day procession in Wageningen and Liberation Day festivals all around the country. Most are free and feature special guest speakers and rising Dutch stars.

SINT-MAARTEN - 11 NOVEMBER

Don’t be surprised if a group of chanting children with lanterns come knocking on your door asking for sweets on 11 November. No, they’re not late for Halloween. This is the traditional feast day of St. Martin, in honour of which children go door to door singing songs and collecting treats as a reward. Many places also organise lantern processions after dark, for which children craft their own lanterns.

KETIKOTI - 1 JULY

Though not as well known yet as some of the other holidays, Ketikoti is an important day for many people with Surinamese and Antillean roots. With its name meaning ‘the chain is cut’, it commemorates the abolition of slavery. It is both a day of national remembrance, when people gather in places throughout the country to reflect on the legacies of slavery, and a day to celebrate.

SINTERKLAAS - 5 DECEMBER

This is a holiday for which many people start preparing long in advance and that has children glued to the telly every evening to watch the six o’clock “Sinterklaasjournaal”

– the ‘St. Nick News’ – as the big day nears. St. Nicholas and his helpers arrive from Spain by boat in midNovember and his birthday is celebrated several weeks later on 5 December with the exchange of gifts. During that period, children put out a shoe almost every night in hopes of nice surprises, and the whole country indulges in all the tasty treats this holiday has to offer. Be sure to try some kruidnoten!

DONATE YOUR USED HARDWARE FOR SPORTS OPPORTUNITIES

IT4Kids collects used hardware from companies and donates the value of the hardware to charity projects committed to creating lasting oppurtunities for children to play sports.

Together, we create oppurtunities for children to develop #skills4life, such as self-confidence, cooperation, respect and discipline.

*We delete the date in a safe and certified manner.

www.it4kids.com

WHAT NOT TO MISS IN THE NETHERLANDS

Feel like doing some sightseeing in your new home country and looking for the hidden gems and best spots to visit? The Corporate Housing Factory team has plenty of tips! Here are their favourite day trips, hotspots, must-sees and must-dos for your expat adventure in the Netherlands.

“Eindhoven is a modern city because of bombings in the 2nd world war. However, you cannot miss the old Philips factories in the center. The Light Tower where the lamps were tested is beautiful. Of course Eindhoven is also home to the imposing PSV football stadium, again founded by Philips. Culturally you can find everything in Eindhoven, from cinemas and the city theater to the now famous music building with its great acoustics.”

Jan Verberne - Service Host

“What is a more Dutch way to sightsee in Holland than by bike? Better yet, take it easy on an e-bike. My top tip is to cycle out to Zandvoort (you won’t regret that e-bike when you hit the coastal wind and dunes out there) and map out your own route to explore the gorgeous countryside around this seaside resort. And don’t forget to check out the world-renowned Formula 1 circuit while you’re there!”

Joëlle de Kok - Senior Reservations and Sales Coordinator

Massage On Tour

Masseur Bonky Nooij, Amsterdam

Everyone working at Corporate Housing Factory has been experiencing the benefits and positive effects of Bonky’s chair massages for years. Chair massages provide less work stress, fatigue, RSI and it promotes blood circulation. Through a combination of techniques including hot stone and triggerpoint massage he achieves the best results.

Check out www.massage-ontour.nl to read more and make an appointment.

Companies can contact Massage On Tour for a free try-out!

Massage on Tour

Bonky Nooij

Rooseveltlaan 151/3

1079 AL Amsterdam

Contact

bonky@massage-ontour.nl

+31 (0)6 26 53 28 08

www.massage-ontour.nl

“If you are living in or visiting The Hague as an expat, be sure to visit the Haagse Markt, one of the biggest markets in Europe. It’s a place where many cultures meet and where you can buy fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, local delicacies and more. Also leave some time to take a stroll along the beach at Scheveningen – best enjoyed at sunset. And you simply can’t miss Madurodam, where you can discover the whole country in miniature! Is shopping more your thing? Head over to the Westfield Mall in Leidschendam.”

“For a fun-filled day with the kids, head over to Game State. This arcade chain has locations all across the country and games for all ages to enjoy. A great new addition to their range and definitely worth a spin is Crazy Tower, but familiar favourites like Crossy Road and Candy Crush also guarantee hours of entertainment. And with each game you play, you save points to trade in for cool prizes.”

“Looking for something different in the Dutch capital? Across the IJ by ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to Noord, you’ll find Pllek, an eclectic hotspot serving feel-good food and a whole lot more! They also have a packed programme of events, occasional live music and in summer an open air cinema. On lazy summer days it’s lovely to lounge at the waterside on their sandy terrace, with a zen island vibe you won’t find anywhere else in the city centre.”

“Eindhoven is one of the Netherlands’ most dynamic cities, with several high-tech companies, a thriving design culture and a renowned university. Few people know that passenger cars were also once manufactured here on an industrial scale. To learn more about Eindhoven’s automotive industry and have a fun day out with the family, visit the DAF Museum!”

Fernanda Furlanetto - Senior Finance Assistant

Cindy Dissels - Head of Operations

Priscilla Man - IT Coordinator

Amélie van den Akker - Junior Marketing Specialist

Nayton

Marijke

Renske

Miquel

Jody

Angela

Michael

Cindy

Alexandra

Marlon

Juliette

Tamara

Jeremy

Anisha Ghislaine

Marina

Priscilla

Lisa

Jan

Amélie

Jennifer

Jouke

Monique

Fernanda

Eva

Eefje

Joëlle

Corporate Housing Factory through the years…