The XPat Journal Spring 2010 Issue by XPat Media

The XPAT JOURNAL Spring 2010 issue

Contents

IN THIS ISSUE 3

From the Editor

4 60

From the Point of View of... Stephen Pegg Hold Your Head Up High

INTRODUCTION INTERVIEW

EDUCATION

Getting an Education in the Netherlands: From Primary to Ph.D. International Education References Pursuing a Mission The Many Elements of ‘Leren’ at the International School of The Hague Hidden Treasures of a Webster Degree International Education at the Rijnlands Lyseum International School of Amsterdam Solid Foundation, in the Past and for the Future ROC Mondriaan - Poised for the Future

Study-Related Tax Benefits

18 24 26 28 30 31 32

14 20 23 36 38

TAX

BANKING

ABN AMRO: Giving International Clients Support in a Language They Understand

THE REGION

A Brave New World: Game Industry and Education in Utrecht New Expat Service for Companies in The Hague

Bringing Knowledge Migrants to this Banana Republic The Hidden Costs of Intercultural Misunderstandings

40 46 54

Château, Chapeau Diary of Events No Tip-Toeing, Please

Art Diary

54 58

LEISURE

ART

SPORTS

GiroMania! Amsterdam Hosts Italian Extravaganza

EVENT

The Hague Jazz, Great Music, Plenty of Choice

ABC Spring Top 5

64 66

Bicycle Mania Photo Contest Expat of the Year Awards

Cooking Unites

RECOMMENDED READING CONTEST

COOKING COLUMN

Things to Do to Get a Grip on Dutch Literature... Funny You Should Ask About... Education vs. Wisdom

SERVICE

THE XPAT JOURNAL

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Global markets

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Global properties Global news Global culture

Global sports

Global music

Global business Global investments Global style Global opinion Global arts

Be a global thinker. Every day.

Offer valid for new subscribers resident in the Netherlands and expires December 31, 2010.

Save 68% on home delivery. Call 0800 022 5158 and quote code XPT9.

letter from the

The XPat Journal ® The premier magazine for expatriates in the Netherlands Published quarterly since 1998 Volume 13 Number 1 March - May 2010 ISSN 1388 932 X PUBLISHED BY The XPat Journal c.v. Bert van Essen Van Boetzelaerlaan 153 2581 AR The Hague, the Netherlands Tel.: +31(0)70 306 33 10 Fax: +31(0)70 306 33 11 E-mail: info@xpat.nl Website: www.xpat.nl EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stephanie Dijkstra E-mail: editor@xpat.nl CONTRIBUTORS Shirley Agudo, Stephanie Dijkstra, Patricia van der Hut, Nette Menke, Suzanne Schreve, Angela Tweedy, Deborah Valentine, Hayley Wakenshaw, Tijmen Wisman, Pierre Wind ADVERTISEMENT INFO The XPat Journal c.v. Tel.: +31(0)70 306 33 10 Fax: +31(0)70 306 33 11 E-mail: sales@xpat.nl TRANSLATIONS Across Borders, Driebergen GRAPHIC DESIGN Studio Ferry Bridié BNO, The Hague PRINTED BY Koninklijke De Swart, The Hague SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe for € 19.50 per year visit: www.xpat.nl For subscription service, change of address, termination and back issues, e-mail: subscriptions@xpat.nl © 2010 The XPat Journal c.v. All rights are reserved. No part of The XPat Journal may be reproduced or used in any form without permission in writing from the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at the time of going to press. However, the publisher and writers cannot accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information included. The content of The XPat Journal is not intended to serve as legal, immigration or tax advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with professional advisors for advice concerning specific matters.

Editor

Doing interviews for The XPat Journal gives me the privilege of meeting some wonderful, fascinating, insightful people. One of the great things that you learn when conducting these interviews is that, eventually, most people find their place in this world - be it by following a straight path from the minute they can crawl, to the long and laborious road over mountains and through valleys. This time, I had the special joy of meeting Stephen Pegg, who teaches four subjects in the bilingual program of a high school just outside Utrecht. Here is a man whose path in life led him through alleys, over bumpy roads, and on highways, and brought him to a job for which he is exceptionally well suited - precisely due to the course his adventures took. Yet we would be naïve to think that he has found his final destination; Stephen is a man who was born to learn every day of his life and to let his knowledge always lead him to someplace new where he will be able to share his life lessons to the benefit of others. A few years ago, I met someone who was on the path to where he was at the time of the interview from the moment he could toot - the oboe that is. As a young child, Alexei Ogrintchouk already showed great talent and through sheer force of will and musical gift he made his way from Russia to the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, winning a number of awards along the way. Other people have been given a shove by fate, such as Tasoula Georgiou-Hadjitofi, for whom a series of traumatic events as a young girl growing up on Cyprus pushed her into a life worthy of a Dan Brown novel, as she went in search of justice and her country’s cultural history. All of these interviewees have a story to tell and a gift to give - be it wisdom, compassion, passion, inspiration, talent, or a drive to do what’s right. Which makes every interview not only an adventure, but also a reminder of the fact that there are a lot of wonderful individuals out there who take away your cynicism about the fate of this earth. Which brings me to my own, modest, slice of life’s lesson for today: if you’re feeling blue, and the skies are grey, and the newspapers are depressing, and CNN is running that same discouraging story for the umpteenth time - why not grab your raincoat and step out into the big wide world in search of a seemingly ordinary person who, if you ask a few pertinent, or soul-searching, or thought-provoking questions, might turn out to be a font of wisdom and wit to brighten your day and your view of the world. And, if you see someone in need of a little soul-boost, don’t hesitate to share the good things that you have distilled from life either. I once heard someone ask: “What’s worse, a half-empty glass, or a half-full one?” To which the other answered: “It depends on what you are afraid of.” “Huh,” said the first. “But the glass is still the same.” “Exactly,” said the second. Whether the world is a good place or a bad place, depends on your point of view. And sometimes it takes a simple insight to change your perspective.

VISIT WWW.XPAT.NL THE XPAT JOURNAL

INTERVIEW

PHOTOGRAPHY ELLEN GROOTES

In the articles entitled “From the point of view of...”, we tell the story of an expatriate who is living in the Netherlands. In each edition, we interview an expatriate, each time from a different country and each time in a different position (the person who was placed here by the employer, came here on his or her own initiative, the partner, the family members, etc.) For this issue of The XPat Journal we interviewed Stephen Pegg, teacher of, a.o. Drama at a Dutch

bilingual high school in Zeist. When we raise our children, we hope to spare them the pain

impressive,” he observes. Then he moved back to England,

and heartbreak that life will inevitably bring. We want to stand

where he had a part in a West End show (On Your Toes), as

at all crossroads with them, and steer them in the right direc-

well as in a few productions of the Tricycle Theatre. “I also did

tion. We want them to recognize their own potential and to

voice-overs, commercials, some modeling. I even had small

go after getting the absolute most out of it, without hesitation.

parts in TV shows, such as Eastenders, and Young Sherlock

But the wisest, most valuable people often turn out to be

Holmes - but still nothing very significant.” During this time,

those who had to do this all by themselves. They take what,

aside from working at the restaurant The Pheasantry in King’s

at first sight, might seem to be the wrong road. Or, at the very

Road in the evenings, Stephen also worked at an antique

least, a long, long detour. They go for the excitement of a life

store on Pimlico Road, in Chelsea, from 1985 to 1989. “The

shared with people whose life, perhaps, has no real direction.

store, which I managed for Richard Mills, was at Holbein

They exasperate the ones who love them by veering off on

Place, right in among the shops of Nicholas Haslam, Nina

another course, just as their promising future seems within

Campbell and David Mellor. This was a time when interior

reach.

design shops were really taking off and it was wonderful to

But who are we to determine what our child’s future is?

be a part of that.”

And why is it that our full potential has to be quantifiable in terms of salary, corporate position, and degrees? We declare

Stephen smiles wistfully and says; “But the reality was that

that all we want is our child’s happiness - and then we go

I was a waiter, waiting for a part. And that was very pain-

about mapping a rigorous preparation for a life that is so full

ful. Theater is my love. I had been to the Central School of

of achievement that it leaves little room for fulfillment.

Speech and Drama in London and had friends in the Royal Shakespeare Company who were very successful, while I

And we really do mean well.

was not. So I forced myself to be honest with myself; was it going to happen for me? Because if it wasn’t, then it was

Stephen Pegg, at the tender age of 15, took responsibility

time to make a change.” Having worked too hard and partied

for his own life. Not because his parents weren’t there, didn’t

too hard - “My life revolved around being the life and soul

love him, or didn’t mean well. Stephen had his own inner

of the party” - Stephen lost his job with the antique store.

guide, whose voice he chose to listen to.

Deciding it was time for substance in his life, he went to

In 1978, when he was 15, Stephen came to Amsterdam

Kingsway College to get his secondary school diploma, and

to approach a Kibbutz agency, where he arranged to stay in

then on to London University where he studied History of Art

a kibbutz near Haifa for a year. At age 16, he went back to

at the School of Oriental and African Studies. Always in for

England, where he got his first ever job in theater, working

a new adventure, Stephen also became a butler. “This gave

with Chicester Festival Theatre, in Sussex. “I did small roles,

me access to the most interesting people and houses,” he

in Much Ado About Nothing, Terranova, Old Heads Young

gives a shy grin, and confesses: “There is a part of me that

Hearts and a few other productions,” he tells. Having dis-

suffers from grandiosity. My job as a butler totally appealed

covered the theater, he went to Los Angeles, where he went

to this - but it also paid for my art history studies. This was

to acting school at UCLA’s CalArts, while working at Carroll

in the late 80s, early 90s and I worked at a lot of corporate

O’Connor’s restaurant Ginger Man. His life in the US took

and high-brow events, in my penguin suit, hosted by anyone

him to Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York, where he

from the Scottish Office’s Ministry of Agriculture to Princess

did advertisements, bit parts and walk-on jobs - “Nothing too

Margaret at Kensington Palace.” Yet also this life had him

THE XPAT JOURNAL

From the Point of View of...

Stephen Pegg

INTERVIEW

back in the party scene. Determined not to let this happen

one there was speaking English - for my benefit. It was very

again, he put this aspect of his life behind him, and in an

embarrassing. I decided that if I was going to integrate into

aim to help others make a change too, he went to prisons

society, I had to learn the language. So I enrolled at James

and institutions to talk with drug and alcohol addicts, both in

Boswell Institute in Utrecht, a brilliant language school, and

England and abroad. In the meantime, he graduated with a

got my Staatsexamen Nederlands als Tweede Taal. Around

degree in History of Art.

that time, I was invited by friend to come a give a guest lecture at the school she worked for and I loved it so much

“When I got my degree in History of Art, I had a partner who

that I was reminded that this was something I had always

was a barrister, whose father was also very high up in the

wanted; to become a teacher. In London, I had decided

legal world. It was all very respectable, and my friends told

against it, because 17,000 students graduated per year from

me that as I was - as they summed up - eloquent, articulate,

the Institute of Education and that didn’t seem very promis-

outspoken, and convincing,” his voice lilts with light self-

ing. So I decided to go back to school to get my Education

deprecation, “I should become a barrister too. I decided to

Master’s.” First he needed a master’s degree in a subject

convert my Art History-degree into a law degree and followed

he was going to teach. “I decided to get a Master’s degree

a conversion course at the BPP Law School in London. I did

in Art History. I followed the course in Dutch and the first

the three-year program in one year; it was very intense, and I

couple of weeks I felt I was in over my head. At the Boswell

drove myself to the limit, but I made it through. I was accept-

Institute, I had managed fine, conversing in Dutch - with

ed into Bar School at Lincoln’s Inn, and did my pupilage. It

other non-Dutch students. But studying in Dutch among

was what I knew my parents had been waiting for. I was the

Dutch students is a different story! After I got my degree, I

prodigal son, who had returned home and was successful.”

went to IVLOS Teacher’s Academy in Utrecht, where I did the

Stephen pauses here, and stares into space for a while. “I

BITEP program, which qualifies you to teach at bilingual and

was sitting behind my desk during my second pupilage one

international schools.”

day when I decided; ‘this is not what I want from life. This is what other people want from my life.’ I left my desk, walked

Stephen now teaches at the Christelijk Lyceum in Zeist. “I

home, packed a small bag, went to the airport, and boarded

love the school,” he remarks. “It is a beacon of culture and

a flight to South Africa, where I did the Thelma&Louise thing;

I have enterprising, diligent, hard-working colleagues, who

driving across the country, and doing a lot of soul-searching.”

have joy for what they do. Here I teach Art & Culture (CKV),

He pours us a cup of tea and comments drily: “My father was

Drama, Theory of Knowedge (TOK) and Art, Craft & Design. I

exasperated. There I went again, 38 years old, throwing away

have the freedom to write my own program and I get to work

my life, as far as he was concerned.”

with kids - which I love doing.”

“I came to the Netherlands for a while, and worked for

If anyone is qualified to work with kids, one could argue,

Michael van Gessel, who is a landscape designer. This

this would be Stephen Pegg. Been there, done that is an

allowed me to travel across the world, working with him on

incomplete summary of what his life has been like. He knows

his projects. Through him, I met my partner, Pascal.” Stephen,

what it is like to be a teenager and to feel that you are mis-

clearly moved, takes a moment to search for words. “I believe

understood. He knows how tempting the big wide world is,

in synchronicity. I have traveled a lot, been to a lot of places,

with its charms and illusions, promises and let-downs. He

met a lot of people. But in Pascal I have found someone

understands what makes a teenager tick, and how to redirect

who loves me for who I am; my eccentricities, my friends,

them away from temptation and towards realizing their poten-

my madness, my zest for life. My good points and my bad

tial - taking into account their dreams and what more there is

points. Together, we have bought a beautiful little farm house

to the world, other than the corporate jungle.

and I can scarcely believe my good fortune. I have risked a lot, achieved a lot, lost a lot. But that, after all the unusual

“I believe in people who are a life source, who give you

roads I have taken, I am allowed to buy my dream house and

energy. And I believe in selflessness; in putting yourself

live there with the person I love - sometimes I am at a loss

towards helping others. And in humility. People tell me how

for words. I only wish my mother, who passed away last year,

knowledgeable I am, how educated. But I feel very modest

were here to enjoy this with me. I miss her very much and feel

about that. The things I know are a coincidence of life. How

the absence of her presence every day.”

can I be lauded for what life has taught me? I don’t want to be judged by what I say, I want to be judged by what I do; shar-

In 2003, after having been together for a year, Stephen and

ing everything I have learned. I want to use my experience to

Pascal went out to dinner in Amsterdam with mutual friends.

make a difference in other people’s lives.”

“We were all sitting around a table and I realized that every-

THE XPAT JOURNAL

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education

Getting an Education in the Netherlands:

From Primary to Ph.D. When you move to the Netherlands with children, there is at least one big decision you will be faced with; what school do you want to send your child(ren) to? Do you want to send them to a Dutch school, to an international school - or do you hope to find a so-called

nationality-based school, such as German, French, or British? A lot depends on what your further plans are when your stint in

Preparing for University

the Netherlands is through; will you be going back, will you be

If it is likely that your child will (want to) go to university in

moving on to another country? Or perhaps you plan on staying

your home country, then your best bet would be to find out

here indefinitely. Another important question is; what are you

whether there are any national schools from your home country

child’s academic capacities? And, what are his or her plans

here. As there are so many different types of international /

upon graduating from school? A practical matter is, of course,

nationality-based schools in the Netherlands, we would be hard

where will you be living; are there any non-Dutch schools

put to provide you with information on each and every one of

nearby? And then finally, to what degree do you want your child

them. We therefore advise you to contact the various interna-

to integrate into local society?

tional schools for more information on their program (for a list of all international schools in the Netherlands, visit the follow-

International Schools

ing website: www.sio.nl, of Stichting Internationaal Onderwijs,

In the Netherlands, you have a choice between sending your

the International Education Foundation). You can also find their

children to a Dutch school or to an international school. There

addresses through the websites listed at the end of the chapter.

are various ways for your children to get an international (or at

If there are no schools that offer your home country pro-

least, bilingual) education here, being the following. You can

gram, check whether the school you want to send your child to

send your children to a(n):

offers the ib (International Baccalaureate)-program, as almost

1. nationality-based international school: in the Netherlands, you

all, if not all, universities accept the ib-diploma. Particularly the

can choose between at least German, French, English,

international schools and the Dutch schools with an ‘interna-

American, Iranian, Japanese, Polish, Indonesian and Korean

tional stream’ are likely to have this program. You can find an

2. international school: there are several international schools.

overview of the schools that offer the ib-program on www.ibo.

These schools offer the option of obtaining an ib-diploma, see the following paragraph

org. Another option would be to send your children to a fully

3. school with an ‘international stream’: these schools have both

Dutch school. This will qualify them for a Dutch university, and

a Dutch and a parallel international program: this way, your

chances are that if they want to go to a university in another

child goes to the local Dutch school in your neighborhood,

country, all they need to do is pass an aptitude (and language)

where he or she follows an international program. This could

test. Of particular interest would be if your child were to follow

be an interesting option as it allows the children to become

the bilingual program (TTO), in which case the English-language

part of both the international and the local community of

aptitude requirements for studying abroad would likely be

peers

implicitly met.

4. a dual-language school: an increasing number of Dutch sec-

ondary schools also offer tto; tweetalig onderwijs, or

Fees and Taxes

dual-language education in which some of the courses are

The fees of the various non-Dutch schools vary considerably.

offered in Dutch and others in English. This is, of course,

In order to obtain information on these fees, please contact

only an option if your child already speaks Dutch.

the schools in question. Many companies pay or reimburse

THE XPAT JOURNAL

the tuition fees for expat children, and the payments and

interested in a study that will provide you with more practical

reimbursements are exempted from income tax. However, it is

experience, by means of traineeships, then your best bet is a

important to know that (reimbursed) tuition fees for attendance

university of professional education, also referred to as HBO.

at an international stream of a local school are not always

hbo-bachelor’s degree programs are longer, due to their

tax-exempt. Tuition fees and taxes are a complicated issue,

focus on practical experience, requiring students to follow in-

as there is also the 30%-reimbursement ruling, under which

company training.

tuition fees are deductible (though, again, not for all Dutch

Upon completing a HBO-study, you are awarded a Bachelor’s degree in a particular field, but not a Bachelor’s of Science or Arts. In the case of a wo-bachelor’s degree which is obtained after three years of study - this is a Bachelor’s of Science of Arts. The same distinction is made for master’s degrees, which take one to two years to obtain.

Tuition The

institutions

offer-

ing higher education in the Netherlands are divided into government-funded and government-approved.

Study-

ing at a government-funded institution will cost anywhere upwards from € 1,600 a year, for eu/eea-students. Non-eu/ eea students generally pay higher fees. The tuition fees schools with an international stream!) to be taken into account.

at government-approved, but not funded, institutions can cost

To be brought entirely up-to-date on this issue, we advise you

anywhere between € 1,200 and upwards of € 15,000 or more,

to contact your tax consultant.

depending on the length and level of the program. As of last year, the Netherlands government no longer funds study

University-Level Education / Ph.D.

placements, occupied by non-eu/eea students. Nonetheless,

What are the options for a university-level education? This is a

tuition fees in the Netherlands can be considered reasonable,

question that can arise either because your child has graduated

compared to international education options in other countries,

from secondary school, or because you yourself have come

while the level of education is excellent.

to Netherlands to study - either as a young student, or as an accompanying spouse.

Grants

The options are myriad. On offer in the Netherlands are more

There are specific grants for EU-students, North American

than 1,450 English-language courses, ranging from complete

Students, or Asian students. Other grants, for students from

bachelor’s and master’s programs to short two-week courses,

Asia, Africa, Latin America and Eastern Europe, include the

as well as Ph.D.-programs. Visit www.studyinholland.nl for an

Netherlands Fellowship Program, mena Scholarship Program,

overview of your options, which include Arts and Humanities,

and Libertas Support Fund, and - for all students, regardless of

Agriculture, Medical and Health Sciences, Mathematics and

their nationality - there are the Erasmus Mundus, hsp Huygens

Computer Science, Tourism, Law and countless more.

Program, Ford Foundation, Jean Monnet Fellowships Program

Specific to the Netherlands is the split in the type of

and Tempus. To find out more about these scholarships, and

university-level education available. For those more interested

whether you qualify, visit www.grantfinder.nl. Also contact your

in getting a ‘traditional’ university education, there are the so-

university in the Netherlands to find out whether it has a grant for

called WO-universities, of which there are 12. If you are more

international students, as some have their own grant programs.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Loan Tuition Fees

Those who have refugee status or are asylum seekers and are

If you are an eu/eea national (listed below), but do not qualify for

starting a higher education can approach Stichting uaf Steun-

Studiefinanciering, you can receive a loan to cover your tuition

punt (www.uaf.nl, in Utrecht, 030 252 08 35) for more informa-

fees. In the case of legal tuition fees paid in connection with

tion on the possibilities of a grant. On their website, click on the

a government-funded institute of higher education, the total

little British flag in the top left-hand quarter to access a leaflet

annual amount of the loan is € 1,565 (for some or other reason,

listing the conditions you must meet.

the amount for the academic year of 2009-2010 had not yet been listed on the website). In the case of tuition fees paid in

Studiefinanciering

connection with a non-government-funded institute of higher

If are younger than the age of 30 and are starting your stud-

education, you can apply for a loan for the total amount of fees,

ies at a university or university of higher education, you have

up to a maximum of five times the so-called legal tuition fees.

a right to so-called Studiefinanciering, which is made up of a

To qualify for this, you must meet the following conditions:

basic grant, and additional grant, and an interest-bearing loan.

you are between the ages of 18 and 30

You receive Studiefinanciering during a period of four years (for

you are from: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech

some studies, such as medicine, the period during which you

Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany,

receive the grant is longer), after which you are allowed to take

Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lat-

out a loan for an additional three years. The basic grant and

via, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway,

additional grant will be converted into a ‘gift’ if you successfully

Poland, Portugal, Rumania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Swe-

complete your studies within ten years - the name for this is prestatiebeurs, or ‘achievement grant’.

den or Switzerland l

The basic grant does not depend on your parents’ income,

you are enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited course at a funded or recognized institute of higher educa-

but it does depend on whether you live at home or not (it is

tion or university

lower if you do). The additional grant does depend on your par-

you have a Burgerservicenummer (citizen service number)

ents’ income. On top of these two grants, you can take out the

you have your own bank account in the Netherlands

studiefinanciering loan. Once you have completed your stud-

you have completed a ‘Restitution of tuition fee’ form, to be

ies, you pay back the loan, including interest, over a maximum

downloaded from www.ib-groep.nl.

period of 15 years, paying back a minimum amount per month.

Five Years of Legal Residence Studiefinanciering for Non-Dutch Nationals

As of May 9, 2005, any citizen of the eu/eea or Switzerland

If you are a non-Dutch national, legally residing in the Nether-

who has legally resided in the Netherlands for a period of five

lands, you have a right to Studiefinanciering if:

years (with interruptions not exceeding six months) is entitled

l you

are an eu/eea national and work(ed) in the Nether-

to a study grant (Studiefinanciering) or contribution in the study

lands during at least 32 hours a month (either on a tem-

costs. All you need to do is submit proof that you have been

porary contract, permanent contract, on call, free-lance or

living here for at least five years.

self-employed) - check the website for further applicable l

l l

rules

In short, like many countries, the Netherlands has a wide range

you have a type i (temporary) residence permit issued on a

of choices for those seeking an education. From kindergarten

variety of grounds (for an overview, please visit the site of

through Ph.D., you can get your entire education in English,

the ib groep)

while there are primary and secondary schools available in

you have a type ii (permanent) residence permit

several other languages as well. What seems to be reasonably

you have a type iii (temporary) residence permit or type iv

specific to the Netherlands is the option of obtaining a bilin-

(permanent) residence permit, for asylum seekers

gual secondary education as well as the option of attending

your parent(s) or partner is an eea-citizen and works here

the international stream of a Dutch school. These are not only

at least 32 hours per month (either on a temporary contract,

rather unique, but also quite attractive, as they allow you the

permanent contract, on call, free-lance or self-employed)

best of both worlds. All in all, be sure not to overlook all the

you or your parents (on your behalf) have already received a

options available to you, from primary to Ph.D., when looking

study allowance at an earlier point in time.

into obtaining an education in the Netherlands.

eu/eea nationals who do not qualify for Studiefinanciering, can, however, apply for a tuition fee loan, to be repaid upon completing their studies, see the following paragraph.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

For useful education references see page 16-18.

t: 06 147 60 597 e : m o n i q u e @ q u a l i t y r e n ta l s . e u w w w. q u a l i t y r e n ta l s . e u

Language

learning

for life

The BSN Language Centre is a dedicated department of The British School in The Netherlands, providing quality language courses for adults and children. Dutch Language Courses all levels • NT2 exam training • Dutch for business • private tuition • in-company courses • intensive summer courses

English Language Courses general English • Cambridge exam training • business English • in-company courses • CELTA • private tuition •intensive summer school for adults & children

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www.britishschool.nl

Tax

Study-Related Tax Benefits In these economically turbulent times it may be a good idea to take up a study and see if you can expand your knowledge and improve your opportunities on the labor market. As following a study can be an expensive endeavor, the Dutch tax authorities have created a substantial tax advantage that may give you that last nudge towards taking

the plunge and going back to school. If your study meets certain requirements, the expenses

ing the terms of repayment of the loan will be sufficient too. This is also the case if, for instance, your parents gave you a loan to pay for the study, but transferred the money directly to the training center or university. In this case, you will have to deliver proof by means of a written loan agreement between you and your parents. If your employer has contributed to your tuition fee, you can only deduct the amount you have paid yourself.

Definition of Study Expenses Besides the tuition fees, the costs of books and syllabuses are also eligible for tax deduction. The following expenses are excluded from deduction: l

cost of living, such as expenditures in connection with housing, food, beverages, and clothing

rent for study space, including inventory

travel and overnight expenses, including excursions. If you have bought a computer, the depreciation of the

incurred are tax-deductible. These requirements are:

computer is tax-deductible. In general, a computer has to be

the study or course is followed for the purpose of improv-

depreciated over a period of three years, taking into account

ing your position on the labor market

a final value of 10% of the purchase value. This calculation

you (or your fiscal partner) have borne the cost of the stud-

can also be used for second-hand computers. For instance, if

ies yourself.

you buy a computer that is one year old, you can write off the

computer in two years.

Improving Your Position It is not necessary for your study to actually result in a better-

Thresholds and Limits

paid job, as long as it is likely that by following this study you

Study expenses are deductible insofar as they exceed a

will be able to find a good position on the Dutch labor market.

threshold of € 500. The excess is deductible up to a maxi-

Not every study will be considered an improvement of your

mum of € 15,000 per year. For those who follow an expensive

opportunities. The courts, in judging the importance of learn-

course it may therefore be worthwhile to pay the tuition fee in

ing Dutch, following a course in fast reading, or taking driving

two or more instalments over two different years in order to

lessons, have ruled that these courses are too general to

fully benefit from the tax advantage.

qualify and that the related costs are not tax-deductible.

If you are older than 18 and younger than 30, you can opt for an exemption from this maximum amount of € 15,000 for

Bearing the Costs

a period of 16 calendar quarters, in which case the entire

You have to prove you have borne the cost yourself. This can

amount of study expenses can be offset against your income.

be proven, for instance, by means of a bank transfer from your

The threshold of € 500 remains applicable.

account. If you have taken out a bank loan to finance your

studies whereby the bank transferred the loan directly to the

Government Allowance

training center or university, a statement from the bank regard-

In some situations you can be eligible for a provisional gov-

THE XPAT JOURNAL

By Patricia van der Hut

ernment allowance for your study expenses, the so-called

also applies to study expenses. For instance, if you incurred

Studiefinanciering. This allowance is initially granted as a loan.

study expenses, your partner may be able to deduct these

If you complete your study successfully, the loan will be con-

on his or her tax return, rather than carrying forward the

verted into a tax-free gift. If you terminate your study unsuc-

expenses. This can be profitable if your partner is in a higher

cessfully, the allowance will be formally transferred into a loan.

tax bracket than you are.

If you are eligible for Studiefinanciering, you cannot deduct the actual expenses you have made but only fixed amounts

Averaging Your Income

that are set by the government.

Especially when you have followed an expensive course, your

The study expenses you have made are not tax-deductible

taxable income in the year the expenses were deducted may

in the year incurred, but in the year that the government allow-

be quite low compared to following years. You can then file a

ance has been formally transferred into a loan or a tax-free gift. If the allowance becomes a tax-free gift, the threshold of € 500 is increased with this taxfree gift.

No Income What if you have followed a study and incurred tax-deductible study expenses, but didn’t have any income? In that case, you can submit an income tax return and declare the study expenses you have made. Since you didn’t have any income during that year, the balance of your tax return will be negative. This loss will be carried forward indefinitely to the next year you do have a positive income. It is possible to submit tax returns retroactively over a maximum period of five years. This means that, if you incurred any

request to have the income over three years averaged. The

study expenses between the year 2005 and now, you will be

taxable income of these three years will be added up and

able to submit a tax return and claim the relief. If you have

divided by three and the income tax due will be calculated

already submitted your tax returns, you can request a retroac-

over this average income. If the difference between the actual

tive adjustment of the final tax assessment - to a maximum

income tax you have paid in those years and the tax on the

of seven years.

average income is more than € 545, you will receive the surplus as a rebate. Averaging your income is only possible if

Fiscal Partnership

the income tax returns for these years are definite and have

Under Dutch tax law, married people are automatically con-

been settled.

sidered fiscal partners. As of 2010, people who live together and have children or are joint owners of a house are also

As you can tell, the tax situation for students is well worth

automatically considered to be fiscal partners.

looking into, even if you have already completed your studies.

If you are not married but have shared a joint household for more than six months and are both registered on the same

Be sure to seek professional advice, so that you can enjoy the maximum benefit.

address, you can opt, on your tax return, to be considered fiscal partners. If you and your partner are fiscal partners, certain elements of your income tax return can be split between both

Patricia van der Hut is partner at Finsens in Amsterdam. She can be contacted at 020 - 623 44 47 or pvanderhut@finsens.nl.

your returns in order to achieve the maximum benefit. This

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Banking

ABN AMRO:

Giving International Clients Support in a Language They Understand Rick Scholten has what many would consider a dream job. In an office that lies right smack in the middle of the Schiphol Airport complex, he offers ABNAMRO’s international clients tailor-made financial services - accompanied by a view of hundreds of airplanes coming and going every day, a background of 25 languages, and an almost daily smorgasbord of exotic

“W

dishes brought in by his international team.

“What gives me so much pleasure in my work, is that, in my

of connections, in combination with the fact that we are the

opinion, the ABN AMRO bank simply offers its international

only bank that has a completely English-language website,

clients the best formula. Through the years we’ve grown to fill

make our bank a logical choice for expats. And I don’t mean

the niche we are in. When the bank was founded, its aim was

a website with a few English-language pages that, when you

to serve the international market. Multinationals that came to

click on a link for more information, redirect you to a jungle

the Netherlands opened an account with us - even though

of Dutch gibberish. No, we have somewhere in the vicinity of

their own national bank often had a branch office here too.

1,500 pages on the Internet, in English, including information

And with these companies, came the employees, who opted

on mortgages, regulations, insurances - you name it.”

to open a private account with us as well. Thus we acquired

A few years ago, the ABN AMRO decided to specifically

our extensive group of clients among the international busi-

target the international client market. They opened a 24/7

ness world, but also in the diplomatic world. There was never

telephone line, trained an expat staff and opened an expat

one particular moment in the past on which the bank decided

center. On a good day, they had 20 calls. “Clearly, there was

‘we are going to aim for the expat market’, but our history

something lacking in this concept,” Mr. Scholten smiles. “We

THE XPAT JOURNAL

had the expats, our market was growing, yet no one seemed

When an expat comes to the Netherlands, he is the center of

interested in our service center. Once we discovered that what

a triangle of parties: the relocation company, the employer and

they were looking for was personal contact and that the e-mail

the bank. And one of the first bureaucratic requirements he

traffic was on the increase, we decided to change our con-

must meet is that of a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), or Citizen

cept. We now offer personal account managers and extensive

Service Number. Without this, his employer cannot pay his

international support.”

wages, and he cannot pay his taxes, arrange insurance, open a bank account, or arrange a credit card. And the employer

Every bank will claim that they offer international support.

does not pay the relocation company for their services. “We

So what distinguishes the service that ABN AMRO offers,

meet the needs of our clients, making it possible for them to

from that of other banks? “We have two offices, one here at

open an account, arrange a credit card, and arrange con-

Schiphol and one in The Hague. In this office alone, there are

sumptive credit - so that they can take care of any immedi-

50 people who, among them, speak 25 different languages.

ate needs that require cash. And while we’re doing this,” he

The majority of these people are second-generation immi-

adds, “we keep an eye on that the Burgerservicenummer is

grants, who not only speak their native language and Dutch

actually arranged. Once this has been done, our client has

fluently, but are also well at home in the Dutch culture as well

met the most basic requirement for functioning in this country

as in their native culture. This means that they understand

and is well on his way to having all the necessary paperwork

not only the language that is spoken to them, but also the

completed.”

culture behind the needs of their clients, and the differences that might exist between what their clients are familiar with

The International Clients Desk has sent an informational pack-

and how things work here. Our office in The Hague offers the

age to local ABN AMRO banks, informing them of the services

same depth of support.”

they provide to expats and requesting them to forward any

How about the fact that the expat office is located at

new clients to their desk. “Of course, if you live in the bigger

Schiphol, in an external building; don’t the clients find that

cities, chances that you will find an office that has experience

inconvenient? “In fact,” Mr. Scholten answers, “this is the per-

with expat matters are reasonably great. But if you visit a

fect location. Our clients, remember, are expats or diplomats.

smaller office in, say, Goirle, they won’t be able to offer you

Most of them fly home several times a year; for vacation,

the services that we can. Not because they aren’t good at

to visit the grandparents, to celebrate national holidays, to

what they do, but because expats is not part of what they do.

attend meetings. We have meeting facilities both outside and

And welcoming expats and providing them with service while

inside the customs area, where we can meet with our clients.”

they are here, is one thing. But how many local banks know

He adds: “Of course, we are not limited to this location; we

what to advise an expat when he leaves the country again to

meet with our clients wherever it is most convenient for them.”

live somewhere else? Do they know that a year-round travel insurance is only valid if you live here? Do they know that

This year, as a result of the merger between ABN AMRO and

there are limits, in other countries, on the type of investment

Fortis Bank, the two banks will be consolidating their expat

you are allowed to make? Do they know whether or not you

services. “This is a great opportunity,” Mr. Scholten remarks,

can ‘export’ your pension plan? And do they know whom

“to learn from each other’s experiences. We might have the

the expat should contact in their new country of residence?

greater client base and the more extensive services, but you

Most probably not. And we feel that it is important to help the

can never assume that you know everything better and there

expats, also when they leave. Not only because this is in their

is no better moment to combine experience and knowledge

best interest; it is in our best interest too. Because if we make

than when you bring together two knowledgeable teams such

a mistake, we pay too. And what good does that do anyone?”

as ours.” In short, Mr. Scholten summarizes: “If you want to position “Time is money,” Mr. Scholten observes. “And I’m not talking

yourself as the best on the market, then it is one thing to claim

about our bank. I mean that our clients, either companies or

that you cover all bases. You have to prove that you are worth

private clients, don’t have a lot of time to spend reinvent-

the label; the best, the most extensive and the most customer-

ing the wheel. Particularly the knowledge migrants, rapidly

friendly.” And judging by the 50 employees sitting behind their

becoming our biggest group of private clients, have come

desks in the office: the most fulfilled.

here to work - hard. When they trust us to arrange things for them it saves them a great deal of worry and time - and once we have proven to be a trustworthy and capable partner, we

For more information on ABN AMRO’s services for international clients, please visit: www.abnamro.com/internationalclients.

develop a valuable relationship of trust.”

THE XPAT JOURNAL

International

Education References ORGANIZATIONS

P.O. Box 95001, 1090 HA Amsterdam

List of Dutch Schools www.scholenlijst.nl

Endepolsdomein 150,

Visa For Students

6229 EP Maastricht

www.study-visa-holland.nl

Tel.: 043 387 08 08 - www.msm.nl

INTERNATIONAL HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTES

Nyenrode Business University

Tel.: 020 568 87 11 - www.kit.nl

Straatweg 25, 3621 BG Breukelen Tel.: 034 629 12 91 www.nyenrode.nl

Mauritskade 63, 1092 AD Amsterdam

The Ministry of Education, Culture And Science (Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap)

Maastricht School Of Management

European University Laan van Meerdervoort 20,

Rotterdam Business School

INTERNATIONAL HIGHER EDUCATION

2517 AK The Hague

Kralingse Zoom 91,

Tel.: 070 360 44 79 - www.euruni.edu

3063 ND Rotterdam

Europe Business Academy

Tel.: 070 412 34 56

Nuffic, The Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education

www.minocw.nl/english

For information on higher education

www.europe-ba.eu

Tel.: 010 452 66 63

Rijnstraat 50, The Hague. P.O. Box 16375, 2500 BJ The Hangue,

www.rotterdambusinessschool.nl

Delftweg 65, 2289 BA Rijswijk Tel.: 070 305 02 61

Kortenaerkade 11, The Hague, P.O.

Rotterdam School of Management Burgemeester Oudlaan 50,

Association For Public Education (Vereniging Voor Openbaar Onderwijs)

Box 29777, 2502 LT The Hague

Fion

3062 PA Rotterdam

Tel.: 070 426 02 60,

The Federation of Institutes for

Tel.: 010 408 22 22 - www.rsm.nl

e-mail: nuffic@nuffic.nl,

International Education in the

P.O. Box 10241, 1301 AE Almere

www.nuffic.nl

Netherlands: www.fion.nl

Tel.: 036 533 15 00 - www.voo.nl

Saxion Hogescholen with locations in Deventer, Apeldoorn

Nuffic Publications

The Hague University

and Enschede

Informatie Beheer Groep

See the complete list of Nuffic´s

Johanna Westerdijkplein 75,

www.saxion.nl

P.O. Box 30151, 9700 LB Groningen

publications in English:

2521 EN The Hague

Tel.: 050 599 77 55 (general info) -

www.nuffic.nl/publications

Tel.: 070 445 88 88

University Of Phoenix

www.thehagueuniversity.nl -

1e Riviumstraat 1,

www.ib-groep.nl

WEBSITES

www.haagsehogeschool.nl

2909 LE Capelle a/d IJssel

Informatie Beheer Groep

Study in the Netherlands

www.uop.nl

Productgroep Studiefinanciering

www.studyinholland.nl

HES Amsterdam School Of Business Fraijlemaborg 133,

050 599 80 36 (diploma recognition)

Tel.: 010 288 63 40

International Schools

1102 CV Amsterdam

Tiasnimbas Business School Utrecht

www.intschools.nl: National

Tel.: 020 523 64 29 - www.hasb.nl

Kromme Nieuwegracht 39,

P.O. Box 30154, 9700 LE Groningen Tel.: 050 599 77 55 - www.ib-groep.nl

Hbo-Raad

organization for Dutch schools with

Information on the higher professional

an international stream

ISS, Institute Of Social Studies

Tel.: 030 230 30 50

education and the universities

www.sio.nl: Stichting Internationaal

Kortenaerkade 12,

www.tiasnimbas.eu

of professional education in the

Onderwijs (International Education

2518 AX The Hague

Netherlands

Foundation) website with a list of all

Tel.: 070 426 04 60 - www.iss.nl

Prinsessegracht 21, The Hague

international schools

Tiasnimbas Business School Tilburg

Inholland University

Warandelaan 2, 5037 AB Tilburg

The Official Masterguide

with locations in Alkmaar, Delft,

Tel.:013 466 86 00 www.tiasnimbas.edu

P.O. Box 123, 2501 CC The Hague www.hbo-raad.nl

3512 HD Utrecht

for a complete overview of the

Diemen/ Amsterdam, Haarlem,

The Royal Tropical Institute (Kit)

master’s degrees available in the

The Hague and Rotterdam

An independent center of knowledge

Netherlands.

www.inholland.com

and expertise in the areas of

Internet:

International graduate school of the

international and intercultural

www.theofficialmasterguide.nl

University of Twente

cooperation

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Tsm Business School

Hengelosestraat 583,

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

7521 AG Enschede

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Tel.: 053 489 80 09 - ww.tsm.nl

De Boelelaan 1105,

Technische Universiteit Eindhoven

1081 HV Amsterdam

Den Deloch 2, 5612 AZ Eindhoven

Tel.: 020 444 77 77

Tel.: 040 247 91 11

www.vu.nl

www.tue.nl

Tel.: 0317 477 477

Universiteit Leiden

Technische Universiteit Delft

Anthonie van Dijckstraat 1,

www.wageningen-ur.nl

Rapenburg 70, 2311 EZ Leiden

Julianalaan 134, 2628 BL Delft

1077 ME Amsterdam

Tel.: 071 527 27 27

Tel.: 015 278 54 04

Tel.: 020 679 78 40

www.leidenuniv.nl

www.tudelft.nl

www.britams.nl

Universiteit Leiden Campus The Hague

Universiteit Twente Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede

Amsterdam International Community School

Wageningen University & Research Center

British School of Amsterdam

P.O. Box 9101, 6700 HB Wageningen

Webster University

THE RANDSTAD AREA

Boommarkt 1, 2311 EA Leiden Tel.: 071 516 80 00 www.webster.nl

Lange Houtstraat 5 - 7,

Tel.: 053 489 91 11

Primary School

INTERNATIONAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

2511 CV The Hague

www.utwente.nl

Uiterwaardenstraat 263,

Mondriaan International Business School

Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam

Tel.: 0317 477 477

Burgemeester Oudlaan 50,

www.wau.nl

Helenastraat 11, 2595 HA The Hague

3062 PA Rotterdam

Tel.: 088 666 54 17,

Tel.: 010 408 11 11

Open Universiteit Nederland

Tel.: 020 577 12 40

e-mail: business@rocmondriaan.nl

www.eur.nl

P.O. Box 2960, 6401 DL Heerlen

www.aics.esprit-sg.nl

Tel.: 070 302 10 76 www.campusdenhaag.nl

www.rocmondriaan.nl

1079 CR Amsterdam

Wageningen Universiteit

Tel.: 020 642 82 46

P.O. Box 9101, 6700 HB Wageningen

www.aics.esprit-sg.nl

Secondary School Wodanstraat 3, 1076 CC Amsterdam.

Tel.: 045 576 28 88

Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen

www.ou.nl

International School of Amsterdam

Mondriaan International Hotel & Management School

Comenuslaan 4, 6525 HP Nijmegen Tel.: 024 361 61 61

The Open University

Sportlaan 45, 1185 TB Amstelveen

Koningin Marialaan 9,

www.ru.nl

Lange Houtstraat 11,

Tel.: 020 347 11 11

2511 CV The Hague

www.isa.nl

2595 GA The Hague Tel.: 088 66644 44,

Rijksuniversiteit Groningen

Tel.: 070 360 74 43

e-mail: ihms@rocmondriaan.nl

Broerstraat 5, 9712 CP Groningen

www.open.ac.uk

www.rocmondriaan.nl

Tel.: 050 363 91 11 www.rug.nl

International School Almere Sas van Gentlaan 6, 1324 CT Almere

Open University in Europe

Tel.: 036 845 35 00

Eldon House - Regent Centre -

www.internationalschoolalmere.nl

Mondriaan International Tourism & Leisure Management

Universiteit Maastricht

Gosforth

Helenastraat 15, 2595 HA The Hague

Minderbroedersberg 4 - 6,

Newcastle-upon-Tyne - NE3 3PW

European School Bergen

Tel.: 088 66633 50,

6211 LK Maastricht

England

Molenweidtje 5,

e-mail: leisure@rocmondriaan.nl

Tel.: 043 388 22 22

Netherlands co-ordinator, tel.: 0044

1862 BC Bergen N.H.

www.rocmondriaan.nl

www.unimaas.nl

191 284 1611

Tel.: 072 589 01 09

www.open.ac.uk

www.europeanschool.nl

UNIVERSITIES

Universiteit Utrecht Lundlaan 12, 3584 EA Utrecht

OU Business School

VSNU

Tel.: 030 253 91 11

Walton Hall - Milton Keynes

International School Hilversum ‘Alberdingk Thijm’

The Association of Universities in the

www.uu.nl

MK7 6AA England - R. Ensor,

Emmastraat 56 - 58,

tel.: 020 412 19 62

1213 AL Hilversum

Netherlands, internet: www.vsnu.nl

Universiteit van Tilburg

E-mail: r.ensor@open.ac.uk

Tel.: 035 672 99 31

Universiteit van Amsterdam

Warandelaan 2, 5037 AB Tilburg

www.open.ac.uk/netherlands

www.klg.nl/ish

Sarphatistraat 104,

Tel.: 013 466 91 11

1018 GV Amsterdam

www.uvt.nl

Tel.: 020 525 91 11 www.uva.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

Violenschool International Department

2592 XH The Hague,

International School Eerde

tel.: 070 315 40 40

Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen

The Japanese School of Amsterdam

Rembrandtlaan 30,

www.britishschool.nl

Tel.: 0529 45 14 52 - www.eerde.nl

Karel Klinkenbergstraat 137,

Tel.: 035 621 60 53 - www.ipsviolen.nl

American International School of Rotterdam (Aisr)

International School Maartenscollege

Tel.: 020 611 81 36 - www.jsa.nl

Rijnlands Lyceum Oegstgeest International School

Verhulstlaan 21, 3055 WJ Rotterdam

Rijksstraatweg 24, 9752 AE Haren

Tel.: 010 422 53 51 - www.aisr.nl

Tel.: 050 534 00 84

Stichting The Japanese School of rotterdam

www.maartenscollege.nl

Verhulstlaan 19, 3055 WJ Rotterdam

1213 BH Hilversum

1061 AL Amsterdam

Apollolaan 1, 2341 BA Oegstgeest

Rotterdam International Secondary School (Riss)

Helen Sharman British School

Elckerlyc Montessori Primary School With International Stream

Blijberg: Dutch and International

Lottingstraat 17, 9406 LX Assen.

Departments, Gordelweg 216-217,

Tel.: 0592 344 590

Le Lycée Français Vincent Van Gogh

Klimopzoom 41, 2353 RE Leiderdorp

3039 GA Rotterdam

www.britishschool.nl

Scheveningseweg 237,

Tel.: 071 589 29 45

Tel.: 010 466 96 29 - www.blijberg.nl

Tel.: 071 519 35 55 - www.isrlo.nl

Tel.: 010 422 12 11 - www.jsrotte.nl

2584 AA The Hague

Joppenhof

Tel.: 070 306 69 20

Wolfert Van Borselen

Kelvinstraat 3, 6227 VA Maastricht

www.lyceevangogh.nl

American School Of The Hague

Bentincklaan 280,

Tel.: 043 367 13 35

Rijksstraatweg 200,

3039 KK Rotterdam

www.joppenhof.nl

2241 BX Wassenaar

Tel.: 010 46 735 22 / 46 603 22

Le Lycée Français Vincent Van Gogh

Tel.: 070 512 10 60 - www.ash.nl

www.wolfert.nl

International School of Maastricht

Uiterwaardenstraat 60a,

International Department of Haagsche Schoolvereeniging

OUTSIDE THE RANDSTAD

Nijverheidsweg 25,

Tel.: 020 644 65 07

6227 AL Maastricht

www.lyceevangogh.nl

Nassaulaan 26, 2516 JT The Hague.

Afnorth International School

Tel.: 043 367 46 66

Tel.: 070 363 85 31

Ferdinand Bolstraat 1,

www.ismaastricht.nl

Indonesian School

www.hsvdenhaag.nl

6445 EE Brunssum

regional international school

Rijksstraatweg 679,

Tel.: 045 527 82 20

Humperdincklaan 4,

2245 CB Wassenaar

www.afnorthschool.com

5654 PA Eindhoven

Tel.: 070 517 88 75

Tel.: 040 251 94 37

www.sekolahindonesia.nl

www.elckerlyc.net

International School of The Hague Wijndaelerduin 1,

1079 CB Amsterdam

www.riseindhoven.nl

Primary School, tel.: 070 338 45 67

International Department of Groningse Schoolvereniging

Secondary School,

Sweelincklaan 4, 9722 JV Groningen

Laan van Meerdervoort 158,

tel.: 070 328 14 50 -

Tel.: 050 527 08 18

International Secondary School Eindhoven Venetiëstraat 43, 5632 RM Eindhoven

Tel.: 070 346 10 41

Tel.: 040 242 63 35, internet:

www.iraniancommunityschool.com

2554 BX The Hague

www.ishthehague.nl

British School in The Netherlands

Maartens College International School

Admissions Office: Tarwekamp 3,

Postbus 6105, 9702 HC Groningen.

2592 XH The Hague,

Tel.: 050 534 00 84

tel.: 070 315 40 77

Iranian Community School 2517 BG The Hague

www.issehv.nl

Korean School Amsterdam Elegast 5, 1185 AA Amstelveen

www.maartenscollege.nl

OTHER LANGUAGE SCHOOLS

Vlaskamp 19, 2592 AA The Hague,

Arnhem International School

Deutsche Internationale Schule

Korean School Rotterdam

tel.: 070 333 81 11

Primary Department : Dr. Aletta

Van Bleiswijkstraat 125,

Verhulstlaan 21, 3055 WJ Rotterdam

Junior School Diamanthorst:

Jacobs School, Slochterenweg 27,

2582 LB The Hague

Tel.: 010 418 22 96

Diamanthorst 16,

6835 CD Arnhem,

Tel.: 070 354 94 54 - www.disdh.nl

2592 GH The Hague,

Tel.: 026 323 07 29,

tel.: 070 315 76 20

Secondary Department: Lorentz

Deutsche Schule Budel

Julialaantje 24, 2283 TB Rijswijk

Senior School: Jan van Hooflaan 3,

College, Groningensingel 1245,

Europalaan-Noord 16, 6021 EH Budel

www.szkola.nl

2252 BG Voorschoten,

6835 HZ Arnhem,

Tel.: 0749 549 17 76

tel.: 071 560 22 22

Tel.: 026 320 01 10

Foundation School: Tarwekamp 3,

www.arnheminternationalschool.nl

www.koreanschool.nl

Junior School Vlaskamp:

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Polish School in The Hague

Annie M.G. Schmidt's beloved characters Jip and Janneke have been Dutch icons for decades. Now you can read these simple, warm and humorous children's stories in English!

The AICS - provider of worthwhile experiences. We are a unique Primary and Secondary school located in Amsterdam, offering International education in English. We “cause” community-based, international learning for students of all nationalities, abilities and classes living in the Netherlands. We are pleased to offer:

• The International Baccalaureate

Diploma Programme (IBDP) for children aged 16 - 19 years • The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) for children aged 11 - 15 years • The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for children aged 4 - 10 years

Spui 12, Amsterdam Lange Poten 23, Den Haag www.abc.nl

• 3 hours of Dutch per week • Additional English lessons (EAL) • Activities organised by the AICS and the Dutch community

• Affordable tuition,

City of The Hague The Hague Hospitality Centre

Primary School (€ 3.900,-); Secondary School (€ 4.800,- 5.800,-)

The IBDP is an internationally recognised pre-university course of study that leads to the acquisition of the IB Diploma, offering entrance into universities and institutions of further education worldwide.

WWW.DENHAAG.COM Your first point of contact for (new) residents of the city of The Hague

Prinses Irenestraat 59 • 1077 WV Amsterdam • T: 020 - 5771240 • E: info@aics.eu

Amsterdam International Community School

THE HAGUE IS JUST A CLICK AWAY! email: xpatdesk@denhaag.com telephone: 070 353 5043, every working day from 9.00 until 17.00 hours visitor’s address: City Hall of The Hague, Spui 70 (Atrium) opening hours: Monday through Friday from 9.00 until 17.00 hours

www.aics.eu

21420_GDH_Xpat_Advertentie129x95.indd 1

Learning to be me, And the best I can be

19-02-2009 13:47:53

admissions@ash.nl

Innovative International Education The International School of The Hague Education from 4 -18 International Primary Curriculum, International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and much more...

www.ishthehague.nl

Education

A Brave New World: Game Industry and Education in Utrecht There are many features about the province

Hogeschool Utrecht, Photo Els Zweerink

of Utrecht to draw visitors and investors alike; from its landscape to its history, to its centrality with regards to major transportation networks within the Netherlands as well as Europe, to its

educational opportunities. For the business investor, Invest Utrecht, the province’s foreign investment agency, has a dedicated staff available to provide answers and assistance to those interested in setting up or expanding their European operations in the province. The province’s USPs (unique selling points) are quickly and clearly highlighted on their website, www.investinutrecht.com, and the staff at invest utrecht is more than happy to answer any of your questions and provide tailored advice, free of charge, and with full confidentiality.

Utrecht’s Rising Star In this issue of The XPat Journal, dedicated to Education in the Netherlands, it seems only fitting that the educational character of the province be highlighted. With 43% of the province’s labour force in possession of at least one post-

secondary degree, it is far ahead of the next runner-up at

ticularly relevant and interesting, namely, the game industry.

37.3%. The prestige and variety of post-secondary facilities

The adage: ‘...it does not matter if you win or lose, but how

are a huge attraction for local as well as international students,

you play the game...’ is perhaps of more relevance to today’s

and, as Ms. Ardi Eleveld of Invest Utrecht points out “...a

‘games’ than those of an earlier era. In fact, with today’s elec-

large percentage of the students remain in the province upon

tronic games, it is almost irrelevant whether you win or lose, it

completing their studies”. They do so for many of the same

is advancing to higher levels of difficulty and competence that

reasons investors choose Utrecht: its location, the opportuni-

keeps gamers going. And, in order to provide higher levels of

ties and the quality of life. Among the diverse variety of study

challenge, dazzling creativity as well as technological skills

programmes on offer in the province, one stands out as par-

are required - in playing the games, but more importantly in

THE XPAT JOURNAL

By Deborah Valentine

designing them; for play or work. According to the Fact Sheet on The Dutch Game Industry prepared by handelsroute.nl in 2009, “...the growth of the games industry in the Netherlands is enormous; 50% faster than any other industry in Holland”. This growth encompasses design, production, and distribution, as well as the educational and research facilities that support the industry. Utrecht is increasingly becoming the centre of all this, due to a variety of factors: an encouraging environment; countless educational opportunities; incubator support for

Wilhelminapark, Photo Willem Mes

one of the largest Universities of Applied Sciences in Europe specialised in Arts and Culture, which besides teaching also has an active knowledge and research organisation. One of its six research groups focuses on Games and Interaction Design. The University of Utrecht (UU) is also at the forefront of teaching and researching information and computing sciences, and is the home base for the multi-partner programme Game Research for Training and Entertainment (GATE) which aims to extend the benefits of game technology beyond the entertainment industry and demonstrate its relevance to the public sector. Added to the opportunities for studies in this field are those also on offer from Utrecht University of Applied Sciences (HU). The HKU, together with the UU as well as TNO (an independent research institute), have combined their creative talents and professional skills in the fields of computer science, information science, psychology and game design to create the Centre for Advanced Gaming and Simulation (AGS). The aim of the AGS is to create technology for effective learning and training experiences by applying gaming technology to new developers and initiatives, and relevant research projects.

the simulation of events, thus bringing the application of game technology to a more ‘serious’ level.

Students, Synergy and Creativity

The learning and research environment in Utrecht for the

Among the highly-skilled and motivated professionals contrib-

game industry is further complemented by the growth of small

uting to this upward trend many can be found in Utrecht - as

game developers who have been creating games for local and

students, researchers and entrepreneurs.

international markets. In order to support this increasing trend,

The Utrecht School of the Arts (HKU) is nationally and

the Dutch Game Garden has evolved as an incubator for the

internationally recognised for its undergraduate and post-

many small entrepreneurs in the field. Their aim: to accelerate

graduate programmes in digital and interactive media. It is

the growth of the Dutch game industry. They do this through

THE XPAT JOURNAL

The Region

Francisco in the Spring and Gaming Industry - Photo Els Zweerink

the Tokyo Game Show in the Fall of 2010.

Science and Society In many of his novels, Aldus Huxley, author of A Brave New World, explored the diverging paths of science and society. While by no means suggesting that Utrecht is that brave new world, there is a link: not in the divergence of science and society but in how science is being used to

contribute

society.

Besides the application of the advances made in the gaming industry to projects that could benefit society as a whole, such as anticipating and preparing for natural disasters through simulation games or allowing current generations to relive history through the simulation of historical events, Utrecht has one other â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;scienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;-based a variety of initiatives, such as the Developers Club, the

sector that is also a draw for the province.

Game Company and Incubator, as well as the Game Business

Time and space make it impossible to present a thorough

Centres. Together, the latter two house 13 organisations; the

analysis of the opportunities within the life sciences in this

biggest concentration of game companies in the Netherlands.

article, but as is the case with the game industry in Utrecht,

According to the Dutch Game Garden, the unique feature of

the same synergy of partnerships exists for the life sciences

the Dutch games sector is that the companies in the games

sector. Here too, academia joins with research and develop-

industry cooperate constructively - rather than considering

ment and industry to contribute to one of the fastest-growing

each other as enemies - creating an ongoing synergy, and

industries in the Netherlands, including the widest range of

making the Dutch Game Garden a natural home for like-

life sciences education in the Netherlands, the only Dutch

minded entrepreneurs.

University to offer Veterinary Sciences as a degree, and the

There are countless supportive, related game industry

National Vaccine Institute, making the province the European

partners located in and gravitating towards Utrecht, and the

headquarters of a growing number of related industries with

rate at which the industry is growing gives no indication that

plans to expand the existing Science Park as well as extend

this trend will be slowing down in the near future. There are

the incubator centre for the life sciences.

many factors that contribute to this, not the least of which are the Dutch out-of-the-box media design, excellent train-

Utrecht: not to be overlooked if your interest lies anywhere

ing and top-notch scientific research, resulting in innova-

near tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology today.

tive entertainment and excellent casual as well as serious

To further explore the opportunities, or to enquire about doing

games. Invest Utrecht is looking forward to representing

business in Utrecht, contact Invest Utrecht at 030 - 258 23 96.

this particular USP of their province at the Shanghai World Expo in May 2010 and are proud of the impression Utrecht will be making with its game companies at such international events as the Game Development Conference in San

THE XPAT JOURNAL

For a complete listing of all the Game-related websites in Utrecht, you can download Dutch Games Go Global Utrecht Edition from www.investinutrecht.com.

EXPAT Living

New Expat Service for Companies in The Hague Close Cooperation Leads to Improved Services for International Companies International organizations and companies account for 11% of The Hague’s economy. For this reason, the municipality of The Hague has set up a new Expat

Service, which opened on February 1 of this year.

keting, International Affairs, ICT and Organization and Inner City) explained that The Hague is the most international city in the Netherlands. “Consequently, we are obligated to offer our expats and their families excellent support. This is a new step in the Excellent Services program of the City of The Hague,” he said as he handed over an Expat Service Process folder to Frits Köhler, Senior Immigration Advisor of Shell International BV. This new service is the result of a special cooperation

This service is the outcome of a joint effort between the munic-

between the IND, the Bureau of International Affairs (BIZ,

ipality, the IND (Immigration and Naturalization Services), and

Bureau voor Internationale Zaken), The Hague Hospitality

ACCESS, and offers companies a less time-consuming proc-

Center (HHC), ACCESS (the not-for-profit organization for

ess for registering their international employees - by means

expats), and the Immigrations Office of the Public Service

of a simple, yet all-encompassing procedure. Alderman Frits

Department of the City of The Hague. It has resulted in a

Huffnagel gave the opening shot on Monday, January 25.

quick and simple procedure that goes beyond the registra-

Alderman Frits Huffnagel (who is responsible for City Mar-

tion of the employee in the municipal records (known as the gemeentelijke basisadministratie persoonsgegevens, or GBA). The service also includes a ‘Welcome to The Hague’ program, which offers information not only on municipal affairs, but also schools and health care. Currently, the service is offered by the Immigration Office of the City of The Hague, located on Stadhoudersplantsoen 24 in the Statenkwartier (near

the

Gemeentemuseum),

but

before the end of 2010, their offices will move to The Hague Hospitality Center in the Atrium of City Hall.

For more information, please visit: www.denhaag.nl, select English and then click on Expats and Students. Alderman Frits Huffnagel hands over the Expat Service process folder to Frits Köhler, Senior Immigration Advisor at Shell International B.V. This package is part of the renewed Expat Service of the City of The Hague that started on February 1

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

by Deborah Valentine

Pursuing a Mission: International Families and There is no escaping the glow of the pride of Dr. Martin Coles, Principal of the British School in The Netherlands, when he shares the conclusions of the recently completed

Independent Inspection of the BSN. Phrases such as “successfully meeting aims”, “confident and

the positive and diverse environment in which their education

well-planned teaching”, “school’s administration is both effi-

takes place, it is little wonder that the Inspection Report noted

cient and welcoming”, “academic leadership is effective”, and

that “Cultural development is outstanding...pupils are at ease

the regular use of “outstanding” are certainly reasons to be

with each other, and racial and cultural tolerance is evident

proud. And even though the conclusions suggest that “… the

throughout the school.”

school has no significant areas of weakness”, it is clear when

As evidence of its role in the broader community, Dr. Coles

Dr. Coles reiterates the school’s mission that they will not rest

highlights the importance of the relationship it has with local

on their laurels and will continue to “…provide a world-class

authorities and the myriad of international organisations and

education for individual students of all nationalities - devel-

corporations in the area. For, without these contacts and

oping their potential whilst encouraging self-discipline and

network, the BSN would not be able to plan strategically in

mutual respect”.

order to ensure that the quality of education is not under-

A walk through the schools which make up the British

mined by haphazard growth. Anticipating the needs of the

School in The Netherlands, a review of the school magazine

community, its aim to serve is at the core of BSN’s philosophy

BSN Insight, and the overall presence of the school in so

to “...meet the needs of the international community of The

many local, national and international activities, confirms that

Hague”, ensuring that there are no waiting lists, nor a selec-

the BSN is much more than ‘just a school’ for its 2,000 stu-

tive admission policy. The BSN is ready, for the future of the

dents, their families and the staff working at all the locations.

international community of the region as well as the future of

It has come a long, long way since its foundation in the early

its students.

1930s with four teachers and 20 students, but it continues to

An example of this willingness to meet community needs

respond and attend to the growing demand for British Inter-

is the planned English-speaking Day Care facility due to open

national education of the highest standard. The curriculum

its doors on the school’s Leidschenveen Campus early this

offered at the BSN is essentially that of the UK, which focuses

Spring. Offering a high-quality Day Care provision for 0-3

on the integral development of the person, educating the

year-olds, through the use of the UK’s Early Years Foundation

‘head, hand and heart’ of each student.

Stage programme, the centre will be run by Zein International

This broad and balanced education offered by the BSN

Child Care on behalf of the BSN - the same company that

has resulted in 90% of its students being accepted at the

provides the school’s After School and Holiday Care provision.

Universities of their first choice upon graduation, be they graduates of the UK A Level or International Baccalaureate Diploma stream. Qualified and experienced teachers recruited locally as well as from overseas - with experience in the British system as well as possessing a familiarity with the ebb and flow of students leaving and arriving - are critical to the success of the BSN. With the assistance of the student body, itself used to coming and going, and the active contribution of parents, new students are quickly welcomed and shown the way around - no lost souls roam the halls of BSN, and given

THE XPAT JOURNAL

The British School in The Netherlands consists of four Junior Schools in the Hague area (Diamanthorst, Vlaskamp, Leidschenveen) and a small satellite school in Assen. The BSN’s Senior School is located in Voorshoten close to The Hague. In addition there is an active Language School offering language courses in English and Dutch for both children and adults, including the Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA). For more information about the different locations of The British School in The Netherlands, please visit www.britishschool.nl.

For Students, the Wider Community Dr. Martin Coles

Malelaars Ass.pdf

22-05-2007

10:58:31

Malelaars Ass.pdf

CMY

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> Dutch tax returns > Corporate tax returns > Payroll > Business set-up > 30%-ruling > Tax advice

14:02:17

WE KNOW HOW TO MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME!

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21-05-2007

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As an expat you want to feel at home and settle in as soon as possible. Finding yourself a suitable house or apartment is priority number one! Due to our personal touch and extensive experience, the Rental Department will be able to find you the appropriate accommodation and advice you on all aspects of the rental market.

Time to move forward? Considering buying or selling your property? The Makelaars Associatie offers you professional advice on all aspects of real estate: selling, buying, rental, letting, property management as well as mortgages and insurances.

We have the know-how, you get the service!

Utrecht Headoffice T. +31 (0)30 - 246 85 36 Amsterdam Office T. +31 (0)20 - 403 76 80

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Stevinstraat 201, 2587 EG Den Haag T (070) 352 68 00 F (070) 352 22 61 E info@makas.nl W www.makas.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

by Deborah Valentine

The Many Elements of ‘Leren’ at the International School of The Hague At the ISH it is all about the students - not simply teaching them ‘stuff ’, knowledge, but also providing them with the opportunity to learn the skills required to make future transitions; of

countries, in life.

Established

the

early

1980s as a school for internationally mobile families living in and around The Hague, the International School of The Hague has since grown to be one of the largest educational institutions offering primary as well as secondary education in English to the ever-increasing ‘internationally mobile’ population of the greater Hague area.

International Curricula... Both at the Primary as well as the Secondary level, students at the ISH follow internationally established curricula. For the Primary level, the standards as well as content are

set by the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), which is used

to bring back supplies for the library to ensure all languages

by over 200,000 children in more than 800 schools worldwide.

within the student body have a home in the school. English

Designed and created by Fieldwork Education, the IPC was

may be the common language of study, but the ISH is more

launched in 2000 and is “...helping to engage and inspire

than aware that it is by no means everyone’s native tongue.

children of all abilities by means of stimulating, child-centred,

For the older students, 12-18 years of age, wishing to pursue

thematic, cross-curricular units of work which encourage col-

a post-secondary education, the ISH offers both the Inter-

laborative learning and address learning styles and multiple

national Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IBMYP) as

intelligences”. According to Graeme Scott, Principal at Pri-

well as the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP). The IB is an inter-

mary, “learning really is at the heart of our school, you can feel

nationally-founded curriculum which is regularly monitored

it in the corridors”. This is helped by the open architecture of

and adjusted to ensure that it meets its goal to “...promote

the school’s new facilities as well as the ‘extra’ learning oppor-

intercultural understanding and respect, not as an alternative

tunities provided at the school. Among these extras, which are

to a sense of cultural and national identity, but as an essential

central to the philosophy of teaching Third Culture Kids, are

part of life in the 21st century”. The ISH, where 80% of the

the mother tongue groups which regularly gather and ensure

student body is made up of non-Dutch passport holders, is

that children keep in touch with their own mother tongue and

a natural home for such a curriculum. Within this commu-

home country culture, and by initiatives such as asking parents

nity of Third Culture Kids, a curriculum that responds to and

THE XPAT JOURNAL

acknowledges their particular ‘identity’ is essential to their learning potential. Peter Kotrc, Head of Secondary, adds “...it is all about the students and how we can improve the learning process”.

...In a Local Setting Recognition and acknowledgement of native tongues, mixed backgrounds and mobile experiences does not mean that the ISH is an island in The Hague. Dutch is integral to the school’s curriculum, at all ages, and from its new location in Kijkduin, the school has established close ties and exchanges with many of the

NOVA Relocation, The brighter alternative Experts in providing assistance in national and international mobility of employees. We offer the following services: • Immigration Services • Destination Services • Departure Services • International Assignment Management • Move Management

local sporting facilities nearby. The ISH is by no means a ‘gated

• Consulting Services

community’ and offers its students, and their families, more than the ‘best of two worlds’; it offers the best of many, including the host country, the Netherlands. In Dutch there is one word for what in English requires three: “leren” is the verb to study, to learn and to teach. While this may be a challenge for translators - to ensure that the right nuance is captured - at the ISH it streams in well with their approach, and the experiences of its students, staff and families.

For more information about the IPC, visit www.internationalprimarycurriculum.com, about the IB www.ibo.org, and about the International School in The Hague itself, www.ishthehague.nl, or call them on 070 - 338 45 67 (Primary School) or 070 - 328 14 50 (Secondary School). Wijndaelerduin 1, The Hague.

www.nova-relo.com NOVA Relocation The Netherlands Tel. : +31 (0)70 324 25 24 - info@nova-relo.nl The Netherlands - Belgium - France - United Kingdom

THE XPAT JOURNAL NOVA Relocation Xpat journal 93x260_fev2009-def.indd 1

27 3/02/09 15:26

Education

Hidden Treasures of a Webster Degree In reality, a picturesque setting and old world charm should not be high on the list of selection criteria for a post-secondary education. Yet, if these are added to the list of strong academic reasons for selection, then Webster University’s Leiden Campus has found a formula, and location, to make pursuing an undergraduate or graduate

degree in English as rewarding as possible.

ally do business. Among its international campuses is that of Leiden, located between The Hague and Amsterdam, in a city that boasts housing the Netherland’s oldest university, the University of Leiden. Here students can pursue undergraduate as well as postgraduate degrees in Arts and Business Administration.

Academic Inspiration Lecture groups are small and the lectures are given by a faculty made up almost entirely of practising professionals in their fields, allowing students not only personal interaction, but access to the active knowledge and experiences of these faculty members who teach because they love to and are motivated to give back what they have learnt and experienced. Course programmes can be pursued here or at any of the many Webster campuses in Geneva, London, Vienna, Cha-am (Thailand), Shanghai, and the US, thus providing

Webster University, an accredited US university based in St.

students with broader views and dynamic debate. To further

Louis, Missouri, has as its mission to “...ensure high-quality

boost the appeal of Webster in Leiden is the fact that some

learning experiences that prepares students for global citizen-

of their degrees carry dual accreditation - in the Netherlands

ship and individual excellence”. As part of this mission, inter-

as well as in the US - thus providing Dutch citizens with local

national campuses have been set up overseas and throughout

student benefits.

the US itself to provide students with the opportunity to learn

Essentially a business-oriented university, Webster’s is “...

and to discover the global world in which they will eventu-

passionate in (its) conviction that being a business leader is not just about having a broad understanding of business. It is also about people”, which explains the emphasis placed on topics such as communications, people skills and personal development. Based on the Liberal Arts tradition of the American educational system, undergraduate students are required to cover a broader range of subjects before focussing on their chosen area of study. As a result, the diversity found among the professions, as well as backgrounds, of the faculty mirrors that of student body itself. Of the 350 students currently enrolled in Webster’s undergraduate and graduate programmes, 30% are from the US, 30% carry Dutch passports and the rest, 40%, represent 40 other countries. Among the faculty are artists, authors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, marketing managers, media communications professionals, composers, psychologists, designers, and more, each providing their unique expertise. Interacting, through study and social activities with students as well as faculty from around the world and from all disciplines, enhances Webster’s attraction.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

by Deborah Valentine

Webster University, Leiden

Opportunity and Flexibility

By choosing an inspiring location, providing a dynamic form

Bachelor students follow a full-time study programme, which

of learning, welcoming students from around the world, offer-

can be started or completed in Leiden or at any of Webster’s

ing experienced-based teaching, and being attentive to the

Study Abroad campuses. For masters-level students, a full-

needs of its students, it is safe to say that Webster University

time, one-year Global MBA can be pursued through a struc-

in Leiden is truly pursuing its mission, “...to enrich the lives of

tured programme offered at five of Webster’s international

global citizens by offering a flexible, innovative and practical

campuses. Alternatively, for the professional balancing work,

education in a culturally diverse setting.”

study and home life, Webster’s has been providing a parttime programme to accommodate their schedules. Besides lectures in Leiden, lectures are now being offered at the WTC in Amsterdam as well.

For details about the programmes available at the bachelor as well as the masters level please visit www.webster.nl, or call 071 - 516 80 00. Webster University, Boommarkt 1, Leiden.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

by Deborah Valentine

International Education at The Rijnlands Lyceum in Oegstgeest International education has many forms and different connotations as well as implications for students and teachers alike. At the Rijnlands Lyceum in Oegstgeest (RLO), it is embodied by a faculty and student population that embrace each other’s diversity in its

most positive manifestation. Tagged as offering an international education with a Dutch

ence of the international students, but also of their Dutch

Touch the school has created and continues to foster an

students. Difference and diversity are not ‘issues’ at RLO,

environment in which learning goes far beyond the class-

they are simply facts of life, and the intermingling of the

room.

students in non-academic programmes and after-school

Centrally located for residents of Amsterdam, Haarlem,

activities creates a cosmopolitan and dynamic environment

The Hague, Wassenaar and Leiden, the Rijnlands Lyceum

which Mr. Mathijs Hekkelman, Head of the International

Oegstgeest has a tradition of breaking borders, offering

School, believes prepares students better for the world

something new. As a Dutch secondary institution, it was

ahead of them, and makes for a more memorable all-round

founded in 1936 by Leiden University professors who were

educational experience.

dissatisfied with the quality of education available in the

In total, there are 1,300 students at the RLO, spread over

area and who wanted to offer secondary school students

their Dutch (600), Bilingual (450) and International streams

greater possibilities for reaching excellence. Continuing

(250). In order to teach in the international and bilingual

the tradition of providing new and challenging environ-

departments, non-native English speakers are required to

ments to students and teachers alike, it was one of five

obtain a level of English which is at least at Cambridge First

schools worldwide in the 1990s that developed and piloted

Certificate level. The 12 native English speakers on the fac-

an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme

ulty teach in both the international as well as the bilingual

(IBMYP) for children between the ages of 11-16. This pro-

steams. In keeping with the high standards imposed by the

gramme feeds into the IB Diploma Programme, which has

IBO, IB faculty members are regularly sent on training pro-

been offered at Rijnlands Lyceum Oegstgeest since 1983

grammes organised by the IBO in order to ensure that they

and prepares students (16-18 years of age) for acceptance

meet the benchmarks set for each subject.

to universities worldwide. An IB education is not based on

For students for whom English is not their first language,

any one national education system, but rather combines

the RLO provides additional English language support and

the best elements of many and is constantly and consist-

in some cases exempts students from a second language

ently monitored by the IB Organisation (IBO) for quality and

requirement. Each applicant is reviewed individually on the

relevance.

basis of his or her academic history and at what level they

The availability of an international education in the

want to enter the school. For those entering the IB Diploma

Netherlands has been on the rise for many years, and for

Programme, Mathijs Hekkelman states they must be inde-

many reasons. The increase in international organisations

pendent learners of English, given the requirements and

and corporations coming to the Netherlands has led to an

standards of the programme.

increase in demand for education by the families accompanying the internationally mobile employees. To meet this demand, Rijnlands Lyceum in Oegstgeest made a conscious decision to develop an international stream within the same physical environment as their Dutch activities in the belief that this would enhance not only the experi-

THE XPAT JOURNAL

For more information about the Rijnlands Lyceum Oegstgeest please contact them at 071 - 519 35 55 or admission@rijnlandslyceum-rlo.nl, or visit www.isrlo.nl. International School Het Rijnlands Lyceum Oegstgeest, Apollolaan 1, Oegstgeest.

Education

By Angela Tweedie

Thinking on a Higher Plane: The International School of Amsterdam A longstanding collaboration between The International School of Amsterdam (ISA) and a world-renowned project from the Harvard Graduate School of Education is shedding light

on thinking processes. Fostering creative, effective thinking is an obvious goal for any educational establishment, but ISA has gone one step further, to set up a “culture of thinking”. ISA first became involved

in the Project Zero research network in 1998, when several

teachers

attended

Teaching for Understanding summer seminar at Harvard. Each year more teachers attended

these

seminars,

and in 2003 the school was invited to participate in Harvard’s Visible Thinking Project, an

course in schools”. The benefits of people thinking, individu-

initiative to develop students’ thinking skills and deepen their

ally and collaboratively, means we can share and build on our

learning by making their thinking ‘visible’. A culture of thinking

individual strengths. Ritchhart says that there is a “dynamic

was born at ISA. “We did not realise how transformational it

interplay” between an individual’s understanding and the

would be,” says Lisa Verkerk, 5th Grade teacher and Project

group’s - the “group’s understanding can lift up and support

Zero Coordinator at ISA.

the individual’s”.

Dr. Ron Ritchhart, senior researcher at Project Zero and

According to Lisa Verkerk, a culture of thinking exists for

author of Intellectual Character, What It Is, Why It Matters

all members of the school community. “It’s an ethos which

and How to Get It (2002), has offered a Cultures of Thinking

should benefit students, teachers, parents, administrators and

Seminar at ISA twice yearly since 2004 for both staff and

other participants. By providing opportunities for discussion

visiting educators. For Ritchhart, a key premise of the Visible

about teaching, thinking and learning, a school-wide culture of

Thinking approach is to seek ways to uncover and document

thinking can exist from Kindergarten to Grade 12.”

students’ thinking so it can be discussed, reflected upon, and pushed further.

Creating a culture of thinking in the classroom has “powerfully enhanced” students’ thinking and learning at ISA. “It

Dr. Edward Greene, Director at ISA, says, “We encourage

helps the students become aware of their own thinking and

curiosity, creativity, and a passion for learning at the school.

has pushed it farther,” says Stephanie Martin, Kindergarten

But most of all, the school aims to develop the habits of mind

teacher, adding: “Although knowledge and skills are valu-

that lead to deep levels of knowledge, understanding, and

able, learning how to think is vital for our students in a world

empathy.”

flooded with information”.

Ritchhart argues that “any time people come together and learning occurs, cultures are created,” so a culture of

To learn more about ISA and Project Zero go to www.isa.nl.

thinking can exist at the “football club, in the office and of

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

Solid Foundation, in the Starting this fall, Nyenrode Business University in Breukelen will be introducing a tailormade English-language programme for mid-level professionals preparing for (international)

management functions. Compact, concrete and to the point, the Foundations of

porations such as KLM, Shell, Unilever, Phillips, and Akzo who

International Management (FIM) is a year-long course tailored

sought to create an educational institute for young, talented,

to meet the needs of young executives on the verge of pro-

internationally-oriented students. The goal remains to provide

motion or interested in further preparing themselves for an

an extensive business education experience which strives to

international career.

bridge the gap between â&#x20AC;&#x153;...academic rigour and daily business practiceâ&#x20AC;?.

Focus and Application The Foundations of International Management-programme offers the framework of key business and management knowledge and is structured in such a way as to allow working executives to combine their studies with their current career. The programme is broken down into three blocs covering the essence of international management: Financial Analysis & Value; Team Leadership & Organisational Effectiveness, and Strategy & Market Leadership. It is characterised by an innovative combination of solid academic theory and practical application. Each bloc concludes with a Business Encounter in which Guest Lecturers are invited to speak - inspiring entrepreneurs, executives and CEOs from international organisations, who contribute to discussions about critical international business and management issues. Each session within each bloc has an assignment on a related topic which is used as the basis for an international consultation or plan to be presented in order to attain the Certificate of Participation. Spread over 15 weeks and taking place every other weekend (Friday to Saturday), the entire programme can be completed within a year, and can be embarked upon on one of three start dates in September 2010 or January or April 2011. With small group sizes (max. 25 participants) and access to Nyenrodeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business and alumni networks, participants are ensured an interactive business experience that will benefit them long into the future of their careers.

Prestige & Experience Nyenrode Business University was established in 1946 as a private university, the only one in the Netherlands, offering graduate-level programmes in general management, accountancy and controlling. Rooted in the business sector, Nyenrode was initiated by the captains of industry of leading Dutch cor-

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Nyenrode Business University, Breukelen

by Deborah Valentine

Past and for the Future One of the important pillars of the University is that of its

Nyenrode’s commitment to high-quality programmes is

research and knowledge centres, one of which, the Executive

reflected in its position on several global ranking scales for

Management Development Centre (MDC), offers non-degree

business education. In the 2008 Financial Times Ranking for

management programmes, such as the FIM. The research

European Business Schools, Nyenrode ranked 28, out of 65,

carried out by Nyenrode’s faculty is of immediate, practical

and in 2009, Nyenrode achieved the first position in the Finan-

relevance and is actively supported by the business communi-

cial Times Global Ranking for Executive MBA programmes in

ty. Its involvement in actual and current trends and practices,

terms of career progress. Furthermore, in the same year, its

combined with its solid foundation as an educational facility,

Master’s in Management (MSc) was rated as the Netherlands’

has allowed Nyenrode to create a programme which is cur-

top academic master’s programme.

rent, based on expertise, responsive to the current demands of young executives, and provides access to highly qualified experts on the faculty.

For more information about the Foundations of International Management contact Ms. Sanne Zweers on 0346 - 291 469, e-mail: s.zweers@nyenrode.nl , or visit www.nyenrode.nl/fim.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Education

By Deborah Valentine

ROC Mondriaan Poised for the Future Increasingly, employers are recognising that the importance of ensuring employee performance lies not only in theoretical knowledge, but also in

competency-based, practical training.

welcome them back as young professionals, transformed... almost a metamorphosis.” It is not the possibilities alone of Mondriaan that surprise; its role in forging international relations with institutions overseas and what this offers the students, in terms of internships and learning experiences, as well as what it offers Mondriaan itself, in terms of institutional recognition, is also remarkable. In its advisory role to the City of Istanbul, Mondriaan shares its expertise and experience in developing ‘work-based learning’

Vocational schools which have traditionally provided job-

programmes and policies for equivalent schools in Turkey. In

specific skills are also moving with the times and since the

Beijing, students who were studying Mandarin at Mondriaan

1990s have been broadening the scope and content of the

were able to follow a programme allowing them to exchange

programmes they offer.

knowledge, culture and industry skills with counterparts in

The trades or industries for which they prepare students

China. For a select few, ten to be exact, this meant a three-

are also evolving, and with them the skills required. At ROC

month internship at the Holland Pavilion in Shanghai during

Mondriaan in The Hague a foundation in competency-based

the World Trade Expo in 2010. Here students will be involved

teaching allows the institute to be a prime supplier of young

in a variety of functions from VIP care, to serving, cooking and

executives of the future, and a stepping stone to further edu-

being ambassadors for the Netherlands - applying the skills

cation for those interested in pursuing a higher degree.

they have learnt at Mondriaan.

More Than Meets the Eye

Multiple International Streams

As with the art work of Piet Mondriaan, the ROC Mondriaan

From its inception, in 1995, the International Stream at

in The Hague offers much more than meets the eye. It is one

ROC Mondriaan has been demand-driven; the then growing

of the largest providers of vocational training in the Nether-

international community of The Hague was looking for more

lands, and in The Hague offers a series of English-language

options when it came to non university-level English-language

International Stream programmes for students 16-17+ years

higher education. Due to the combination of a growing inter-

of age. What is striking about the programmes is that

national community, as well as the increasing ‘internation-

graduates of Mondriaan are often able to attain a university

alisation’ of the Dutch educational system, the programmes

Bachelors’ degree within 1-3 years after completing their

available have since expanded and increased in number - at

studies. Prerequisites vary from university to university, and

Mondriaan and elsewhere.

from country to country, but Marian Crone, Tutor in HRM and

The first of the courses offered by Mondriaan in the Interna-

responsible for International Placement, proudly states that

tional Stream were those of the International Hotel & Manage-

it is one of the options and that an average of 65% of their

ment School (IHMS). These courses focus on the Hospitality

students take advantage of this. Students can continue their

industry, an industry which currently employs approximately

studies in the Netherlands at Universities of Professional

215 million worldwide! The four-year programme equips grad-

Education in English or abroad from the UK to Australia.

uates to enter a broad variety of positions within the hospitality

Some students go on to obtain a masters´ degree. For those

industry from Front Office, Food and Beverage departments to

students for whom further study is not in the cards, following

Sales & Marketing, Finance and HR. While students have to

their studies at Mondriaan allows them fulfil junior manage-

learn how to cook and serve as part of their study in Interna-

ment positions straight away. According to Olaf Weissman,

tional Hotel & Management, their end focus is on the business

Department Manager of the Mondriaan International Hotel

management - purchasing and ordering; health and hygiene,

Management School “...we see young students leave, and

law, creating a Business Plan, etc. As well as, of course,

THE XPAT JOURNAL

modern languages, which are essential for this industry. For

A Future for Everyone

students with a flair and love for cooking and a desire to

The line differentiating vocational training from education, in

pursue such a career professionally, the IHMS is introducing

the sense of the liberal arts, is slowly becoming less clear. As

a new two-year Chef’s Course in the fall of 2010. Besides the

times change so do the skills required for a future career or

intensive and practical experience students gather in all these

profession - as do the forms of preparing for these. Not eve-

areas during their overseas placements from Europe to the US,

ryone is suited to pure academic study, just as not everyone

the Caribbean and Australia, they are also able to display their

is suited to pure vocational pursuits. ROC Mondriaan provides

skills in Mondriaan’s own Restaurants and Hotel (Front Desk as

a stepping stone from which careers can be launched or the

well as the five rooms) and Conference areas.

spark for further study ignited. Either way, what it offers has

Graduates of the Mondriaan International Business School

something to reveal and something to be discovered. What it

(MIBS), which also offers a four-year programme specialised

offers are opportunities for the future of each and every one of

in marketing and communication, are ready for a future in

its graduates. Whichever way you look at it, the International

both the public and private sectors, or as young entrepre-

Stream is a good start for an international career in Business,

neurs themselves. According to Jarijn Nijkamp, Manager of

Hospitality, and the Tourism and Leisure industries - each a

MIBS, the programme is growing exponentially and many

growth industry in its own right.

graduates continue their studies at a university level or apply their entrepreneur skills immediately. A more recent addition to the International Stream at Mondriaan is the International Tourism and Leisure Management (ITLM) programme in which students spend half a year in the classroom, and half a year on a placement. Graduates have the added advantage of receiving two diplomas upon completion of their studies: a Dutch Diploma as well as the International BTEC (Business & Technology Education Council) Diploma, which is equivalent

For more information about any of ROC Mondriaan’s International Stream programmes, visit their website www.rocmondriaan.nl or call the relevant departments: Mondriaan International Hotel & Management School (IHMS) 088 - 666 44 44 (including new Chef ’s Course) Mondriaan International Business School (MIBS) 088 - 666 54 17 Mondriaan International Tourism & Leisure Management (ITLM) 088 - 666 33 50

to A Levels (UK).

THE XPAT JOURNAL

EXPAT Affairs

Bringing Knowledge Migrants to this Banana Republic For years, the process surrounding the legal entry of expats in the Netherlands was a generous

feeding ground for irritation.

On their website, the IND announced on November 4 of last year that the change in fees would be introduced on November 15. Those who had entered into a contract with the IND to make use of the accelerated procedure were informed of this change by e-mail on November 13. Being as how some of these companies bring in in the vicinity of 100 knowledge migrants annually, this entails an substantial increase in costs. 20% of

The process took forever, it was costly, its various stages were

the respondents have indicated that, as a consequence, they

to be carried out by different parties, and family members often

will be reducing the number of knowledge migrants they bring

had to wait months to follow their expat ‘emigrant’.

in this year.

The Dutch government, realizing how much the economy of

The ARPN, a non-profit organization that represents the

this country would benefit from an influx of highly-skilled peo-

interests of relocation companies such as NOVA Relocation,

ple, introduced changes - step by step. Family members who

Settle Service, and Personal Relocation, serves as an interme-

succeeded in submitting a complete application together with

diary between its members and those government organiza-

the expat were guaranteed the same (shorter) processing peri-

tions, and spin-offs thereof, that are involved in relocation. Their

od. IND Service Desks were opened, offering centralized sup-

aim is not only to keep their members up-to-date on new devel-

port and procedures. The concept of the knowledge migrant

opments in the tax and bureaucratic world surrounding expats,

was introduced in 2005; anyone earning a particular minimum

but also to provide the IND, municipalities and expat centers

income could be considered a knowledge migrant, eliminating

with valuable feedback regarding the needs and experiences of

the need for a work permit and allowing the employer to send a

the relocation companies’ clients; multinational organizations

request for an Authorization Temporary Stay (MVV) to the Dutch

that bring in anywhere from 1 to 100 knowledge migrants a

embassy / consulate abroad (if an MVV was required at all).

year. Says Paul van der Smissen, president of ARPN, “Raising

Also their partners did not need to apply for a work permit. The

the prices of the required documents by 300% is not a mat-

procedure was made even more attractive: employers could

ter of adjusting the price to accommodate for inflation. There

enter into a contract with the IND that made it possible for them

is no reasonable explanation for this increase in price other

to access application forms online. This so-called accelerated

than that the government is free to make this decision. Who

process helped the IND process the requests within two weeks.

says that our clients will not feel this? Companies that bring in

In the first year, after the introduction of the new regulations,

100 knowledge migrants a year face an increase in costs of €

1,600 employees acquired knowledge migrant status. By 2008,

50,000 a year. During the current economic crisis, our country

6,800 knowledge migrant visas were issued - an increase of

needs more knowledge migrants not fewer. Companies are

approximately 400%. In 2009, due to the economic crisis, this

already cutting back, for economical reasons, on the number of

number went down by 25%. Already, these numbers were

knowledge migrants they bring in - the last thing they need is to

threatening to negatively impact the Dutch economy. It was at

face in increase in costs of, on average several thousand euros

this point that the government decided to increase the costs

a year! And then to blithely remark that these companies won’t

related to the entrance visa and the authorization temporary

even notice the difference... as if we live in a banana republic.”

stay of a knowledge migrant by 300%. Their argument was: the

ARPN has sent a letter of protest to the Standing Commit-

employers won’t really notice. ARPN, the Association of Relo-

tee of Social Affairs and Employment and Justice, with a copy

cation Professionals in the Netherlands, decided to do a survey

to the IND and the State Secretary of Justice. “So far, they’ve

among its members’ clients, which include companies such

acknowledged reception of our letter,” Mr. Van der Smissen

as KLM, Nokia, Ericsson, DHL and Logica, to find out whether

remarks. “Let’s hope they think this through better and realize

they truly didn’t object. 68% answered that they did not think

that they are not acting in anyone’s best interest.”

the raise in the related fees was fair. Of the 27% who though it was fair to raise the fees, 100% answered that the amount by which these had been raised was unfair.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

For more information on ARPN and its members, visit www.arpn-relocation.org.

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VAN DORP VERHOOG RENTALS Tel. 088 – 3 52 51 03 www.vandorpverhoog.nl

Groot Hertoginnelaan 166-II, The Hague Fully furnished apartment 70m2 on the second floor with terrace; modern kitchen and bathroom. Close to shops, public transport and international organisations. Rental price € 1,375 inclusive of utilities and internet.

Property Management and Housing Agents Amsterdam Living de lairessestraat 107 | 1071 nx a’dam the netherlands | t +31 20 6760788 info@amsterdamsemaatschappij.nl www.amsterdam-living.com

VAN DORP VERHOOG RENTALS Tel. 088 – 3 52 51 03 www.vandorpverhoog.nl

PERSONAL SERVICES FOR EXPATRIATES We offer a complete range of services and support for foreign nationals coming to live and work in The Netherlands. Our services are based on flexibility, individual attention and unrivaled experience. Specialized in work permit and MVV applications. Available through bookshops and:

Internet: www.personalrelocation.nl Email: linda@personalrelocation.nl

PERSONAL RELOCATION Mollenburgseweg 88 4205 NB Gorinchem

Tel. +31(0)183 - 622 903 Fax +31(0)183 - 628 525

The Hidden Costs of Intercultural Misunderstandings

THE XPAT JOURNAL

By Leo Salazar

What is culture costing you? Due to the rapid increase in globalization, the frequency with which company employees interact with national cultures other than their own has increased dramatically over the past year. Companies that ignore intercultural dynamics among their employees are running a huge risk - miscommunication,

inefficiencies and, potentially, the loss of talented people. These conflicts are very often rooted in basic value percep-

It has been clearly demonstrated that the vast majority of

tions, and are therefore hard to grasp. Even though most

companies that have introduced a proactive and comprehen-

people equate cultural differences with what they see on the

sive corporate training program enjoy long-term benefits that

outside - the symbols, rituals and visible behavior - these are

far outweigh the initial investment of time and resources in

often determined and driven by what is not seen. Issues such

the training.

as emotions, perceptions about oneself and the world, and the norms and values that define one’s culture, are what shape

The Human Side of Enterprise

and drive the visible behavior. Although the roots of a conflict

Leadership,entrepreneurship and personal development are

may be known, it remains difficult to properly address these.

the themes of training institute De Baak. At the center of these

For organizations that are active in the international arena,

abstractions is the individual. Stripping away the superficiali-

the benefits of at least becoming acquainted with the visible

ties, they find the leader, the entrepreneur, the person seeking

aspects of a different culture have long been clear. One only

to cultivate abilities and gain relevant insight. This process is

has to visit the average airport bookstore to see evidence of a

a decidedly personal endeavor, its essence is unquestionably

small industry that thrives on teaching travelling executives the

human.

tips and tricks of business etiquette in various countries. Yet

De Baak is dedicated to the human side of enterprise. Their

the deeper, invisible aspects of culture are frequently glossed

commitment is to the individual: to helping people become

over or ignored. Often, they are neglected for budget-related

their most effective selves and to meet their potential. They

reasons or due to the lack of a clear plan on how to approach

explore with them - and help them to reveal - the depth and

the problem. And this despite clear evidence that ignoring

richness of their talents. In doing so, they allow the individual

the friction that can occur when two cultures meet can lead

to become an agent of change, growth or innovation within

to costly failures: technology projects that are discontinued

their organization, thus creating a stronger, more resilient

when the skills and competencies of the local staff are not

organization that can contribute to forming healthy societies.

acknowledged; massive investments in product launches in

De Baak is an initiative of the largest employers’ organiza-

new markets that fail because the cultural aspects of the new

tion in the Netherlands; the VNO-NCW. Thanks to their his-

market have not been taken into account; new international

tory and continuous development, De Baak is considered a

executive staff appointments that are turned back because

leading training institute in the Netherlands. Their method of

they offend the host country’s culture; or even the abandon-

teaching appeals to the intellect and the imagination, as well

ment of entire merger plans because insufficient attention has

as to the pragmatic and creative sides of human nature. De

been paid to the ways of doing business in the host country.

Baak offers both ‘open’ and tailor-made programs to both

Even at the most basic level of communication there is still

(international) individuals and companies. Individuals can par-

the risk of cultural conflict. For example, in the world’s busi-

ticipate in a broad selection of international programs, events

ness language, English, a simple, seemingly innocent phrase

and one-on-one coaching. Organizations are offered custom-

can contain what comes across as a value judgment. For

ized programs, from large management development projects

instance, very basic business terms such as “effective”, “effi-

to short one day-workshops. And, for society at large, they

cient”, “on time”, or “respect” can have dramatically different

foster dialogue through events such as ‘Meet the World’, that

meanings in different cultures. Not taking these differences

address issues ranging from social responsibility and diversity,

into account can create serious misunderstandings, thus

to globalization and sustainability.

reducing the effectiveness of the manager, or the functioning of the team.

For more information, visit www.debaak.com. THE XPAT JOURNAL

Leisure

by Tijmen Wisman and Suzanne Schreve

Château, Chapeau

Limburg Rises Up From the South, But What Lies Buried at Its Feet? The easy meadows and slow-moving cows that exemplify this tiny backyard of Europe might just get a bit boring after a while. But, when spring breaks through, most of us are already yearning for summer holidays in Europe’s front garden. Lush hills, pastoral towns, medieval churches and stately Châteaux down south lure us in like honeybees. But don’t be fooled by

the caravan trail, we have a down south as well and it’s called Limburg. Granted, the sloping landscapes alternating with woodlands,

Château St. Gerlach and its Baroque church with original

winding roads, trickling rivers and soft-spoken accents do not

frescoes unique to the Netherlands.

seem to represent what you might think of as being Dutch, but

The story actually began some years earlier when a medi-

it just so happens that a long time ago, we were wise enough

eval knight, Gerlach, suddenly had an epiphany. After years of

to keep a little wedge of Belgium to ourselves. We fought

delving into frivolous pleasures and violent tournaments, Ger-

long and hard for it, 80 years to be precise. And what we kept

lach decided he had merely been feeding his own ego. With

still resonates of a past long gone. That’s one reason to visit.

equal fervor, he rid himself of all his wealth, built a church,

Another reason is Château St. Gerlach. Just read on, there are

became a hermit and lived out the rest of his life in a hollow

many more reasons to come.

tree. Religious admiration had people from far and near flock-

The One About the Hermit and the Boy

asked for his blessing. Not that he would actually give it to

Driving down from the Randstad, you’ll notice straight away

them all. Especially knights with long hair still reminded him of

when you’ve crossed over into southern Limburg; this land

his own grim past, and the story goes that he would cut their

of rolling countryside on Maastricht’s doorstep with castles,

hair off before breathing a single word. After Saint Gerlach

Roman remains and vineyards is different from any other

died in circa 1165, his popularity only increased and it was

province. And it’s nice to be able to call this the Netherlands,

decided that for the many visiting pilgrims, a monastery was

especially when it feels as if you’ve just slipped into France.

to be built. It was the year 1202, and since then the estate,

This however, does not apply to the village you will be

comprised of the monastery, church and a farm, underwent

crossing through on the way to the Château, even though

several changes of ownership and severe damage during the

the countryside is dotted with rustic towns. If you’ve already

turbulent years of religious wars. In the late 18th century, the

seen the pictures on their site, or on the opposite page, you

complex switched hands again from Spanish sovereignty to

wouldn’t expect a rather dull street with a couple of bland

Dutch rule, which meant the nuns were forced to leave and

houses to be the leading village up to the Château. I would

the monastery was converted into a noble residence. From

even go as far as to say it might dim your curiosity to see

here, the residence slowly disintegrated into ruins until finally

what’s beyond. But when you do turn that corner and find

its last inhabitant could no longer afford the upkeep and gave

yourself at the electronic gate waiting to be let in, it is pretty

the estate away to the council of the neighbouring village of

amazing to know that what once started with a holy oak tree

Houthem.

some 800 years ago, has now flourished into the majestic

ing to hear the hermit’s advice, to the point that even knights

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Enter a man with a vision. As a boy, Camille Oostwegel

Geuldal, Limburg

had played on the estate during the residence’s silence, when

down to the orchard at the back of the estate, you can hear

nature was seeping back into the building as trees surged

the rush of a little river filtering romantically through spring’s

through the roofs and moss bled through the stones. Since

musical choir.

then, he’d dreamt of restoring the estate to its former glory,

While wading through fresh grass with local birds of prey

which led to his handing in his first proposal in 1979. Sure,

flying overhead and little robins tweeting alarm calls, we

buying a fairytale castle, even if it is decayed, may still be the

immediately set out to explore Ingendael, the nature reserva-

stuff of dreams. And unless you’ve won the lottery, you’re not

tion that is wrapped around the side of the estate. With res-

going to snap it up for a snip. But for Camille there are ways

taurant picnic basket in tow, we set out on one of the walking

to obtain a piece of the champagne lifestyle without robbing

routes set out by the hotel. The main path leads us through the

a bank. From a young age, he’s lived his life according to the

forest along an old gravel pit, which has become a safe haven

motto; “anything can be fought, all can be won”. It took him

for many amphibians, as is evidenced by the loud squawk-

a while, but finally in 1995 the project was to be realised. The

ing which echoes in our ears. The path winds up and down

restitution of the monastery, the farm and the church became

guided by buzzing insects, which seem to team up at various

one of the most expensive restoration projects of the 90s. And

intersections for a surprise mass attack. While I kung fu fight

out of the ruins rose a luxurious hotel with amongst many fea-

my way through, Tijmen tries to escape by jumping a fence,

tures two restaurants, an award-winning Kneipp spa, a beauty

failing miserably, so I’m left trying to nurse his scratched leg

salon, a herb and rose garden, an orchard, a small vineyard

while he hobbles back to the Château. In desperate need

and a natural park.

of some relaxation, we dip our toes into the pool and sweat it out in the steam rooms of the Kneipp Spa. Restored and

Château St. Gerlach

refreshed, we make our way to the restaurant and en route

For all its architectural elegance, Château St. Gerlach has a

stumble upon Philip Geervliet, the managing director of St.

comfortable plainness that makes it seem almost homelike.

Gerlach. He tells us a little bit about the opening years of

Driving up to the hotel, a sprawling English lawn adorned with

the estate. In less than ten years, St. Gerlach has already

sculptures by different artists ease your way in. At the back of

become nationally and internationally renowned, something

the hotel, masses of basil, thyme, mint and rosemary perfume

that became clear when it was visited by George Bush Jr. in

the herb garden and a vigorous growth of roses planted in

2005, turning the hotel into the best-secured building for the

symmetrical French-style flowerbeds peek out from behind

time being. Famous people visiting are no exception, nor are

a sturdy stone gate flanked by hedges. Following the smells

they the focus of the Château. For that reason, there is the

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Leisure

main restaurant and the Bistrot de Liège. Both restaurants

borders on the herb garden. Our advice: take your coffee out

are situated in the former monastery, but where the Bistrot is

for a walk and find your own quiet spot amongst the flowers.

informal and rustic, the main restaurant is beautifully flamboyant, with art deco lamps and sturdy wooden stairs set against

What Lurks Beneath

an early 20th century décor restored to resemble its original

From the Château, there are several gorgeous cities to visit,

interior decoration. We have been invited to the latter, where

notably Maastricht, Limburg’s capital at only a stone’s throw

four canapés, four courses and four different types of wine

away. But underneath Maastricht, a seemingly dormant world

await us. Much time is spent on selecting the right combina-

has woken up to tourists and after breakfast, we are on our

tion of ingredients, either grown on the estate or produced

way to find out why.

locally. There are plans for creating an own brand, while there

Our destination, a little hut around which several groups

is already a lovely special editions publication Joie de Vivre,

of people have gathered, mainly resembles a chip shop gone

on the different Châteaux owned by Oostwegel and the variety

popular. Although there’s no grease in sight, the situation

of specialty dishes they serve. As could be expected, the food

does provide food for thought, as everyone seems to be a lit-

and the service are impeccable, and a reason in themselves to

tle nervous. This proves to be contagious and soon results in

visit - but we’re also sleeping in the now-famous Bush room.

an atmosphere reminiscent of an elementary school trip. The

It is, to say the least, an unexpected and weird experience to

reason for our titillating nerves lies buried beneath our feet. We

know that George Bush slept in the same bed, used the same

have arrived at the marl caves of Limburg and we are going

shower and, well, you get my drift. Either way, we sleep on

to bike them. Over centuries, these caves were created by the

a bed of roses and are pleasantly surprised by the fact that

extraction of marl, resulting in a stone maze of 70 km, making

breakfast is served till 11. The breakfast room, or the sunroom,

them the largest underground corridors of Europe. Still spin-

Château St. Gerlach

THE XPAT JOURNAL

ning from the spiral staircase that has taken us forty meters

into a side road that ends in front of a fence. Behind it awaits

below ground, we are welcomed by our guides who accom-

a subterranean chapel, which was in use during the French

pany us to the bikes. First we are given safety instructions.

occupation. Several paintings glowing yellow in candlelight

Everyone must remain in the group, every so often we must

adorn the walls of this tiny chapel. The place exudes a mysti-

check that the group is indeed complete, and at all times,

cal atmosphere emanating both peace and conflict. This feel-

we must wear our helmets. As soon as we are underway, it

ing finds its origins in history. During the French occupation,

becomes clear that this isn’t your average Saturday morning

the French government demanded that all officials, including

bike ride to the baker’s. It is completely surreal. While we ease through narrow corridors, it soon feels as if we are little blood cells gliding through Mother Earth’s veins - on a mountain bike that is. But safety before madness. This is not a competition, so we can take it all in at a leisurely pace. In front of me, Suzanne rides, every so often calling out “duck!”. I might have been looking up for a flock, if it weren’t for the difference in our length, which becomes painfully obvious to me as my helmet scrapes the ceiling of the cave twice. Halfway through the trip, our guide leads us

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Kapel Sibbe

the clergy, swore an oath of allegiance to the French republic’s

the back. If you want to know the finer details of this little

regime and an oath of hatred against the monarchy. For many

piece of engineering, take a walk alongside Arnout Sluijs-

clergymen this was one demand too far and some of them

mans, who co-owns one of the last three family-run firms still

decided to continue their services underground.

operating today. Arnoud, who’s just in the middle of giving his

The marl caves have had their use over the years. At St

cousins a tour, tells us that his company provided the marl

Peter’s in Maastricht, the caves also served as a hiding place

used for the restoration of Château St. Gerlach. At one point,

for many pieces of art during WWII. But foremost, the caves

Arnaud comes running up with a bucket for his nephew. The

were and still are used for the extraction of marl. It is proc-

bucket holds a diverse collection of many different kinds of

essed in blocks and at the next stop the guide shows us how

teeth. In the late Cretaceous period, about 65 million years

this is done. Nowadays, one person can handle three blocks

ago, Limburg was a shallow tropical sea. Towards the end of

a day, but before chainsaws were invented, this still labor-

the 18th century, a skull with big jaws full of sharp teeth was

intensive chore allowed for the production of only one block

discovered in the quarries of St. Peter. When, in 1794, the

per person per day. Hacking out the front and sides isn’t so

French revolutionary troops occupied the city of Maastricht,

much the issue as making sure you break it off straight from

the French promptly confiscated the fossil and abducted it to Paris. The skull fell into the hands of Baron George Cuvier, a famous anatomist, who discovered that it was the fossil of

Château St. Gerlach

the mesh lizard. The mesh lizard is one of the puzzle pieces in

Joseph Corneli Allée 1 - Valkenburg aan de Geul Tel.: 043 - 608 88 88 - Fax: 043 - 604 28 83 info@stgerlach.com Toll-free number 00800 - 525 48 000 www.chateauhotels.nl (site in English, German and French)

evolution and was an important tipping point for philosophies concerning creation, adaptation and the extinction of species. It is therefore understandable that the Natural History Museum in Maastricht extended a request to loan the skull for an exhibition in 2009. It is also understandable that the French were suspicious and reluctant to transfer the skull back to its

ASP Adventure

original finding place. But for Camille, who’d become aware of

Tel.: 043 - 604 06 75 - info@aspadventure.nl www.aspadventure.nl For a day-visit to Maastricht, don’t miss out on: Bookstore Selexyz in former Dominican Church & Monastery: High-arched painted ceilings drape around three floors of books. It will mesmerize you.

the dispute, it was just another hurdle to overcome. He wrote a letter to Paris with copies to both ambassadors, which partly influenced France’s final agreement to the loan. To recall his earlier quote; anything can be fought and all can be won. There are many ways and places to visit the caves. You can climb, abseil, or simply walk - each approach has its own value and itinerary. If you want to bike them though, ASP is

Classic French onion soup at Restaurant Jean La Brouche. Crusty croutons sunk deep into Gruyere, thyme and onions.

the company to take you and the chip hut is the place to be. When we’ve resurfaced, night-time already looms on the hori-

Boutique shopping, a feast for the femmes. Maastricht’s hidden couture stretches along the alleyways. Dig deep and you will find!

zon, but before we leave the Château, we take a quick hike to the top of a meadow overlooking the estate and Geuldal. Breathing in the final bit of south Limburg air, we watch the

Natural Historic Museum, South Limburg’s flora and fauna spread out

endlessly enchanting panorama spread out beneath us. The

over time. Modern expositions reveal history’s teeth...

soft yellows and dark red of the estate deepen in color while the shadows of wild Konik horses dance in the last sunrays.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Leisure

XPat Reader’ Offer Spring Wellness Package

Overnight stay in a luxury hotel room l Generous breakfast buffet l Delicious three-course dinner in Bistrot de Liège l In the morning, you are treated to various Kneipp treatments at S.P.A. & Wellness St. Gerlach, whereby you are welcomed by you therapist who goes through your treatment program with you while she treats you to a smoothie. The program will include the following: l Extensive ‘ready for summer’ body scrub l Water treatment l

During the course of the morning you will be served a fruit salad l In between treatments: free use of the indoor Roman pool, sauna and Turkish steam bath. l

The price of € 210 p.p. is based on an occupancy of two persons per room. This package can be reserved between March 22 and June 14, 2010, by calling 043 - 608 88 88, or contacting info@stgerlach.com Please mention XPat Reader’ Offer

The BSN is a leading British international school. With four campuses in The Hague area we are a thriving and supportive expatriate community made up from over 80 nationalities, offering a stimulating learning envrionment and the highest standards of education for children aged 3-18 years.

Their

future is

The l Internationa Choice

Admissions: 070 315 4077 www.britishschool.nl

our focus Your child. Their future. Our School.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

informati contact:

For more on

Leisure

Events Diary: Spring 2010 The list of events contained here is only a selection of the many activities, shows, exhibitions, etc. taking place in the Netherlands between March and May. We do not pretend to be complete, but we do hope this list offers you an interesting and varied selection. For a more extensive list of happenings, we recommend that you visit: www.holland.com. erlands Dans Theater II, where young tal-

The Master Pianists Series

ents are trained to become professional

The Master Pianist Series first took place

top-class dancers. Nederlands Dans

in 1987 and is organised by Riaskoff

Theater II is also the place where cho-

Concert Management (RCM), an inter-

reographers take their first steps. Like

nationally renowned management office

Lightfoot León and Alexander Ekman

of classical musicians, including pian-

did. The couple Paul Lightfoot and Sol

ists, conductors, violinists, cellists and

León belong to the ‘top of the crop’ of

various chamber music ensembles in the

choreographers who sprouted up after

Netherlands, Europe and worldwide. This

the generation that brought forth Kylián,

particular series is one of the most pres-

van Manen, Forsythe and Ek. As house

tigious in the world and is sure to guar-

choreographers of Nederlands Dans

antee top-notch performances. This, in

Theater, they have, over the past years,

combination with the famous acoustics

built up a body of work which shows that this duo’s remarkable creative process produces exceptional and awardwinning

ballets.

The

young Swedish multitalent Alexander Ekman works all over the world and expresses his art in varying forms: from choreographies

and

films to art installaPhoto: Joris Jan Bos

Show: True to II Nederlands Dans Theater 2 This programme offers you an evening with three Lightfoot León pieces, a new creation by the young, unconventional choreographer Alexander Ekman and live music by Holland Symfonia. The programme title True to II refers to Ned-

THE XPAT JOURNAL

tions for internationally renowned museums.

Dates: through April 10 Location: various locations throughout the Netherlands For more information, please visit: www.ndt.nl

Arcadi Volodos

CPC Walk , Photo: John de Pater

and ambiance of the Big Concert Hall of the Concertgebouw, has contributed to

International Tango Festival Nijmegen

and creation between the musicians and the dancers. On Thursday, fusion day,

the fame of this series. The series also

In March, Nijmegen will be trans-

the famous Tango electro band Tang-

includes at least one young, promising

formed into Buenos Aires on the River

hetto will give their concert, while on

pianist per season and constitutes for

Waal! The 7th International Tangofestival

Friday, the traditional presentation of the

them an important step towards a great

Doble Ocho will transform Netherlands’s

winner of the tango music Contest will

career. This year’s performances include

oldest city into a Tango-City, celebrating

take place. Saturday, GRAN NOCHE will

master pianists such as Grigory Sokolov,

the 200th anniversary of the Republic of

make your feet tired but happy and leave

Krystian Zimerman, Rafal Blechazc and

Argentina. Preceding this event will be a

your ears longing for more music. On

Arcadi Volodos. If you are unable to

special concert given by tango-legend

that evening, Puro Apronte will make you

attend a particular concert, be sure to

Juan Carlos Caceres on March 13, in

dance non-stop, accompanied by well-

check out www.uitburo.nl, to see if you

the Spiegeltent. There will also be a

known Bandoneon player Michael Reil,

can catch a performance at some other

film and documentary archive exchange

and there will be a special fusion floor

venue!

between the Joris Ivens Foundation and

with DJ Arthur. Then, after a few hours

the National Argentinian film Archive.

of sleep, the tango café will offer another

Dates: through June 20 Location: Concertgebouw, Amsterdam For more information, please visit: www.meesterpianisten.nl

Tango Extremo will kick off the tango festival on March 17, with their theatre show Carnaval de Buenos Aires. Also the Tango Fusion Music JAM will take

The Fortis City-Pier-City Walk

place that day, offering an interactive

The City-Pier-City Walk is an internation-

experience and process of improvisation

live music experience, followed by the farewell salon.

Dates: March 17-21 Location: various locations in Nijmegen For more information, please visit: www.doble-ocho.com

al semi-marathon that takes place annually in The Hague, attracting over 18,000 participants every year. The course is flat, fast and traffic-free. The race begins in the city centre, heads out to the pier at the coastal resort of Scheveningen and then returns to where it started. There is also a 10km fun run and other recreational walking and running events varying in distance - also two for kids. Participants in the race are encouraged to give a donation to Right to Play, an international humanitarian organisation that brings sports and play programmes to disadvantaged areas around the world.

Date: March 14, 10 PM - 4 AM Location: The Hague To sign up visit: www.fortiscpcloop.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Leisure

photo Angela Sterling

Queen’s Day in Amsterdam

Theme & Variations

the majestic grace of St Petersburg with

Four choreographers who are histori-

his own fluid and emotionally charged

Remembrance Day and Liberation Day

cally interconnected: George Balanch-

dance vocabulary.

The Netherlands has its own way of

ine, Hans van Manen, William Forsythe and David Dawson. Whereas Van Manen (1932) and Forsythe (1949) have always acknowledged their debt to their illustrious predecessor George Balanchine

Dates: April 7-20 Location: Het Muziektheater Amsterdam, Amsterdam For more information, please visit: www.het-nationale-ballet.nl

(1904-1983), the work of David Daw-

and celebrating the country’s liberation from five years of German occupation. Unlike most countries, it sets aside two days to mark this event, Remembrance Day and Liberation Day (all the events

son (1972) clearly reveals the impact

Queen’s Day

are broadcast live on television and

of Forsythe. Showcasing no fewer than

Throughout the Netherlands the Dutch

radio). A national ceremony is held in

two Dutch premieres, this programme

celebrate the (former) Queen’s birthday,

Amsterdam, with a memorial service at

brings together these four generations

known as Queen’s Day, with the party of

the historic Nieuwe Kerk in Dam Square,

of dancemakers.

the year. Boosted by the arrival of over a

followed by the laying of wreaths at

In creating Theme and Variations

million people, Amsterdam holds an inter-

the foot of the national war memorial

(1947), Balanchine paid homage to the

nationally-renowned street party, which

by the Queen, members of parliament

glitter and magnificence of the Court

goes on until the evening of the next

and representatives of those affected

of the Tsars and to his teacher Mar-

day. The main areas of activity in Amster-

by the war. The close of the ceremony

ius Petipa, who for decades held sway

dam are Damrak, Leidsestraat, Rokin and

then signals the start of Liberation Day

over the Imperial Ballet in St Peters-

Spui. Vondelpark caters to children and

festivities, commemorating Germany’s

burg. Dutch National Ballet Resident

bands play on Prinsengracht and Rem-

surrender on the May 5, 1945. Special

House Choreographer and winner of

brandtplein. There are also parades, craft

Liberation Day events are organised all

the Erasmus Prize, Hans van Manen

shows, flea markets, children’s parties,

across the country, but two highlights

brings Two, a ballet-for-two, a genre in

bands, street theatre and fireworks. For

include the official launch of the celebra-

which he excels. This mixed bill also

those who love second-hand shopping,

tions (held in a different part of the coun-

features a Dutch National Ballet pre-

all street trade is unregulated, resulting in

try each year) and the open-air concert

miere, William Forsythe’s In The Middle,

a nationwide yard-sale.

to mark their conclusion (held on the

Somewhat Elevated (1988). Also new for the Company is David Dawson’s Reverence, specially created for the Mariinsky (Kirov) Ballet in 2005. A magical work which sees Dawson combining

commemorating the Second World War

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Date: April 30 Location: Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands

Amstel River).

Dates: May 4-5 Organisation National 4 and 5 May Committee For more information visit: www.4en5mei.nl

North Sea Regatta, Scheveningen

North Sea Regatta

weekend. On May 11, 90-100 boats will

The annual North Sea Regatta features

leave for Harwich in the 100 mile ‘Vuur-

two major sailing competitions; the off-

schepenrace’ and on May 14-16 will be

shore races in the week around Ascen-

the next race; the 180 mile North Sea

sion Day and the 4-day races off the

Race, from Harwich back to Schevenin-

coast of Scheveningen during Whitsun-

gen. The sail regatta, based around the Scheveningen Yacht Club From will take place from May 11-24.

Dates: May 11-24 Location: Scheveningen Beach and Harbor. For more information visit: www.nsr.nl

Holland Festival Innovative stage performances in Amsterdam, with opera, dance, music and theatre. The world’s most celebrated artists perform one whole month in, among others, the Stadsschouwburg, the

Tong Tong Fair, Photo Caro Bonink

Muziektheater and the Concertgebouw. The programme can be found on the website as of

texts are placed in the spotlight on a

March 3.

20,000 m2 festival site in The Hague. It is

Dates: June 4-28 Location: various theaters in Amsterdam. For more information, please visit: www.hollandfestival.nl

a combination of music festival and large

Tong Tong Fair Holland Festival

For twelve days, the Eurasian cultures and their global con-

indoor market, highlighting 3 food halls, 5 stages, presentations, workshops and artists from Asia and Europe.

Dates: May 19-30 Location: The Hague, Malieveld For more information, please visit: www.tongtongfair.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Art Diary

Spring 2010 cializes in carefully conceived experiments

Carsten Höller, Singing Canaries Mobile 2009

that play with the physical experience and the messages transmitted to the brain.In the floating room, for instance, the subtly moving walls upset your sense of balance. The division formula is used in this Swinging Spiral too, but in a spiral form. It looks like a snail’s shell, but it is a room where you can walk and test your equilibrium. The Flicker Films are another example of this sort of experiment. Almost identical successive images of African dance groups are projected side by side. The brain fills in the rest of the images and creates a moving picture in the viewer’s head. Are those real mushrooms growing from the museum floor? Where Höller is involved, you can never be entirely sure. His background as a biologist is evident in the extraordinarily true to life replicas. Birds sing-

Carsten Höller: Divided Divided

simple arithmetical formula that repeatedly

ing in the museum? Seven canaries can be

Carsten

divides the space and the objects in it into

seen and heard in a huge mobile composed of

Höller’s extraordinary installations. In the

two, creating an entity that heightens the visi-

seven birdcages. Höller has often worked with

museum’s largest gallery, with more than

tor’s experience: Divided Divided sharpens all

birds in his art in the past. He has also made

1,500 m2 of floor space, he has applied a

the senses. Carsten Holler (born 1961) spe-

a new series of extraordinarily detailed paint-

Experience

contemporary

artist

ings of birds. A rotating hotel room in the museum? During

Kandinsky and Der Blaue Reiter

the Divided Divided exhibition

Just a quick mention of the following exhibi-

anyone can spend an exclu-

tion, already covered in the previous issue

sive night in the museum. If

of The XPat Journal: In the early 20th cen-

you book a night in Carsten

tury, a group of artists caused a huge furore

Höller’s Revolving Hotel Room,

in the Munich art world. Calling themselves

this slowly rotating room in

Der Blaue Reiter (‘The Blue Rider’), the art-

the centre of the museum will

ists produced expressive, brightly coloured,

enable you to wander around

lyrical paintings which were to prompt the

the museum day and night—

development of Expressionism in Germany.

accompanied, of course, by a

The core members of the group were Russian

personal butler.This exclusive

artist Wassily Kandinsky and kindred spirit

room is already booked up for

Franz Marc.

the entire period.

Dates: through May 24 Location: Gemeentemuseum, Stadhouderslaan 41, The Hague For more information, please visit: www.gemeentemuseum.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Franz Marc, The Tiger, oil on canvas, 1912

Dates: through April 25 Location: Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, Rotterdam For more information, please visit: www.boijmans.nl

Matisse to Malevich: Pioneers of modern art from the Hermitage

Henri Matisse, The jeu-de-boules players, 1908

Outstanding works by Matisse, Picasso, Van Dongen, De Vlaminck, Derain and many other contemporaries of theirs will be seen in a magnificent display at the Hermitage Amsterdam in the exhibition Matisse to Malevich, Pioneers of modern art from the Hermitage. For this exhibition, about 75 paintings have been selected from the Hermitage St.- Petersburg, which has one of the world’s finest collections of French painting of

the early twentieth century. Apart from the world-famous French masters, such equally celebrated Russian contemporaries as Malevich and Kandinsky will be represented. These artists are seen as the pioneers of Modernism. Almost all the works exhibited are on permanent display in St.- Petersburg. Most come originally from the Moscow collections of Morozov and Shchukin. This is the first time that this extensive collection of avant-garde masterpieces will be on display in the Netherlands. The exhibition explores the origins of modern art as an art historical phenomenon, but also looks at the passion of the artists, when at a crucial moment in art history at the beginning of the last century they initiated a revolution in art.

Kees van Dongen, Lady in a Black Hat, 1908

Dates: March 6 - September 17 Location: Hermitage, Nieuwe Herengracht 14, Amsterdam For more information, please visit: www.hermitage.nl

On the Way South The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam houses an important collection of the works of 16th and early 17th-century Dutch masters. A selection of 50 of these will be on exhibit on the new exhibition floor of the Bonnefantenmuseum, and includes works by painters such as Rubens, who went south - to Italy - in search of inspiration. Others obtained their information on ‘the south’ second-hand and gave it their own interpretation. The exhibition runs chronologically from the last generation of Flemish primitive style, such as Quinten Metsys and Adriaan Isenbrandt, to the three masters of the Flemish baroque-style: Rubens, Jordaens and Van Dyck. One of the highlights will be Holy Hieronymous, by Marinus van Reymerswaele, which has just been restored.

Marinus van Reymerswaele, Holy Hieronymous

Dates: March 12 - June 6 Location: Bonnefanten Museum, Maastricht For more information, please visit: www.bonnefanten.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Holland in Full Colour, Frits J. Rotgans

Holland in Full Colour

officer with the Dutch Rhine Mission, a unit of the British army. It was

Dutch photographer Frits Rotgans is famous for his black and white

the beginning of a lengthy project: a photographic inventory of ship-

panorama photographs. Now, his colour photography is on exhibition

ping on the Rhine and other inland waterways.

for the first time.

Shipping, the port of Rotterdam and later Amsterdam were among

Frits Rotgans was known at home and abroad for the cameras

his most important themes. He photographed extensively in Rotter-

he constructed in the fifties for taking wide-angle photographs of

dam’s docklands, where economic growth was booming. The trans-

industrial reconstruction in the Netherlands. In order to test the limits

formation of the port from a shipyard dominated by cranes and ship-

of vision, he shot his pictures - bridges, pylons, cranes and the top of

ping offices into a vast area of oil refineries, petro and bulk chemicals,

Rotterdam’s Euromast - from a high vantage point. Devoid of artistic

was documented in the book Rotterdam, Stad en Haven (Rotterdam,

pretensions, he regarded himself more as a professional technician.

City and Port), 1959. Rotgans also photographed the expansion of

Rotgans started off as an amateur in the thirties. During the Ger-

Schiphol airport.

man occupation he made colour slides, the most important illegal documentation of the period in colour. He embarked on his professional career around 1950, first in Duisburg-Ruhrort as a transport

Dates: March 13 - May 9 Location: Netherlands Photography Museum Rotterdam, Rotterdam For more information, please visit: www.nederlandsfotomuseum.nl

Kate, Bob & Luca Kunsthal Rotterdam will be presenting works by contem-

National Museum Weekend

porary artist Katinka Lampe. Her painted portraits are quite

During

irresistible and appeal to the viewer’s imagination. Contrary

Museum Weekend, major

to what the title of the exhibition might suggest, Lampe gives

museums

her works neither titles nor names: this would only diminish

country will be open free

the carefully constructed distance that she wants there to be

of charge (or at a dis-

between her portraits and those who see them. It is entirely

count) as well as offering

up to the observer to come up with an appropriate name for,

visitors something out of

or make up the story behind, each portrait. Lampe portrays

the ordinary. With more

her models, who are generally quite young, with attributes

than

that somehow seem to clash with their youthful innocence: a

museums, you should be

pair of sunglasses, headphones, balaclava, a wig or a hooded

able to find somewhere

sweater. Meticulously and with a keen eye for beauty, she cre-

to spend a culturally rich

ates her portraits. Lampe does not want these to be seen as

afternoon.

an exact representation of a person, but instead as an artistic

Dates: April 4-5 For further details of participating museums, visit the Museum Weekend website: www.museumweekend.nl

concept of which the source can be traced back not only to Katinka Lampe, Untitled 2006

magazines and newspapers but also to Old Master paintings. Lampe’s work is vulnerable and distant, and both realistic and abstract at the same time.

Dates: March 13 - May 30 Location: Kunsthal, Rotterdam For more information, please visit: www.kunsthal.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

the

500

National

across

the

participating

The European Fine Art Fair The European Fine Art Fair (TEFAF Maastricht) is acclaimed as the world’s most prestigious art and antiques fair - attracting over 200 of the most eminent international dealers from 16 countries. The diversity of the exquisite pieces at TEFAF is considered beyond compare. The Fair built its reputation with Flemish and Dutch Old Masters, but today, Italian, Spanish, French, German and English old master paintings are also well-represented, together with an impressive selection of Modern Art. In addition, you will find a dazzling choice of medieval manuscripts, maps, coins, sculptures, French, English and Italian furniture, classical antiquities and Oriental and Asian art, African and South American objects, porcelain, silver, jewellery and 20th century furniture - all in one amazing venue!

Dates: March 13-22 Location: Maastricht Exposition Congress Centre (MECC), Forum 100, Maastricht For more information, please visit: www.tefaf.com

TEFAF, photo Bastiaan van Musscher

Paul Graham, Pittsburgh 2004 Lawnmower Man

Willem van Haecht, Art Cabinet with Antonie van Dycks Mystical wedding of the holy Catharina, c.1630

Paul Graham - A Shimmer of Possibility

Room for Art, in 17th-Century Antwerp

In August of 2004, Paul Graham (British, b. 1956), who had moved from

Only three paintings and several prints by this master are

London to New York in 2002, set out on the first of many trips around the

known. Nevertheless, the oeuvre of the Antwerp painter Wil-

United States to see and photograph the country for himself. This exhibi-

lem van Haecht (1593-1637) is nothing short of remarkable.

tion has been selected from the resulting series of photographic works,

His paintings present so-called kunstkamers, or art cabinets;

which Graham published in twelve volumes as A Shimmer of Possibility

interiors brimming with paintings and other art objects. Van

(steidlMACK, 2007). Each simple but structurally inventive series includes

Haecht’s painted kunstkamers combine reality and fantasy.

varying numbers of pictures, from one to more than ten, and provides a

Virtually all of the paintings that he depicted in these interiors

vivid glimpse into unheralded moments in the lives of individuals Graham

were copies of existing works by famous masters. How-

encountered on his travels. A series showing a woman eating a take-out

ever, they were never part of the same collection. Van Haecht

meal or a man waiting at a bus stop transcends its nominal subjects and

assembled them in his painted world. Moreover, his cabinets

describes aspects of life that, while ordinary, are imbued by the photog-

are full of narrative elements referring to the artistic and cul-

rapher with affection and curiosity. A Shimmer of Possibility is a call for

tural life in contemporary Antwerp.

attention to the brief, indefinite intervals of life. As Graham has said, “Per-

Van Haecht’s three known paintings are in the Mauritshuis,

haps instead of standing at the river’s edge scooping out water, it’s better

the Rubenshuis in Antwerp and in a private collection. They

to be in the current itself, to watch how the river comes up to you, flows

have never before been shown together, and will form the core

smoothly around your presence, and reforms on the other side like you

of a small exhibition that brings to life the fascinating world of

were never there.”

art in Antwerp in the first half of the 17th century.

Dates: April 2 - June 16 Location: Foam Photography Museum, Amsterdam For more information, please visit: www.foam.nl

Dates: March 25 - June 27 Location: Mauritshuis, Korte Vijverberg 8, The Hague For more information, please visit: www.mauritshuis.nl

THE XPAT JOURNAL

Leisure

No Tip-Toeing, Please “...(K)nee deep through the flowers we will stray...” suggests the song Tip-Toe Through the Tulips however you would be advised to stay on the

paths while visiting Keukenhof in Lisse.

measure 21 by 12 metres. Besides the flowers on display, Keukenhof provides something new to enjoy every year. Throughout the period in which it is open, the Pavilions offer

Aside from the fact that you are forbidden to walk through the

differing displays of specific flowers - such as the world’s

flower beds, wandering along the paths created among the

largest Lily display from May 6-16 in the Willem Alexander

flower beds is by far the best way to admire the full glory of

Pavilion, or the display of thousands of Amaryllis, Fresias

the millions of flowers on display each year.

and Tulips in the Orange Nassau Pavilion from March 19-23.

For first-time visitors, as well as the regulars, the amaze-

Not to be missed is the exhibit of thousands of orchids in the

ment that so many different, yet similar flowers exist is sure

Beatrix Pavilion during the whole period (March 18 - May 16).

to express itself in exclamations of “oohs” and “aahs”, not to

The artists who will contribute their skills to these permanent

mention countless photographs. Whether this is in admiration

as well as temporary displays will also incorporate the theme

of the artistically laid-out flowerbeds throughout the gardens,

for this year, ‘From Russia with Love’.

the fields surrounding them in a blanket of rainbow colours, or the exhibition halls in which intricate, artistic flower arrangements are displayed, Keukenhof is never visited in vain. Though the success of outdoor events generally depends on good weather, at Keukenhof, even in inclement weather, there is enough to see and enjoy.

Reasons to Return On March 18, Keukenhof will once more open its gates to welcome visitors from around the world to admire the wonders of nature as well as the art of bulb cultivation. Each year, Keukenhof has something new to see, to wonder at. China was the country of choice in 2008 in commemoration of the Olympics, and last year’s theme ‘USA, Amsterdam - New York, 400’ commemorated the landing of Henry Hudson from the Dutch East India Company on what is now Manhattan. As part of this show, the Statue of Liberty was laid out in a mosaic using more than 50,000 bulbs. In full bloom, the artistry was truly amazing. The theme in 2010 is ‘From Russia with Love’ which will be reflected in the décor throughout the gardens, such as Russian wildlife in the children’s areas, a dacha and typical Russian dolls (Matroeskas) as well as Russian landscapes. The mosaic of choice for this year will be the famous Saint Basil’s Cathedral which was planted in October of 2009 and awaits its moment of glory. The mosaic, which has been created from almost 65,000 flower bulbs, will include the towers

of St. Basil’s Cathedral on Moscow’s Red Square and will

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by Deborah Valentine

For a break from viewing the flowers there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy refreshments - and don’t be surprised if you inadvertently come across wandering musicians, or displays of Russian ballet, or the traditional National Costume Festival, for these too are an integral part of the Keukenhof experience.

A Glorious Past Keukenhof - literally translated; kitchen garden - celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2009 and is recognised today as one of the highlights of a visit to the Netherlands. Founded on the grounds of a 15-century estate, its guests today are still greeted by hosts and hostesses in period dress. The idea of displaying the glories of the Dutch spring flowers was that of a group of prominent bulb growers and exporters in 1949. In that year, the more than 200,000 visitors surprised even the organisers. Today, with more than 93 exhibitors (in 1949 there were 40) and more than 825,000 annual visitors, the 32 hectare-park with 15 kilometres of paths continues to draw young and old alike, ‘green thumb’ or not!

“Keukenhof: new every year, different each day” Keukenhof is open from March 18 through May 16 from 8 A.M. - 7:30 P.M. daily (box office closes at 6 P.M.). For more information on opening times, prices and the agenda of activities please visit www.keukenhof.nl.

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Sports

GiroMania!

Amsterdam Hosts Italian Extravaganza Buongiorno, Amsterdam! You’ll hear that a lot in the streets in the beginning of May, when the city will be hosting the start of the 93rd Giro d’Italia cycle race - this time to Rome - with a full festival week of Italian food, fashion, music and other cultural events. Appropriately dubbed GiroMania!, this Italian extravaganza will combine international allure with the intimacy of a true Amsterdam party, all centered around the bicycle as a

“H

means of transportation, recreation and competition. “Hosting the Giro d’Italia in Amsterdam is a once-in-a-lifetime

Something for Everyone

event - a festival that the visitors will never forget,”says Caro-

Major events surrounding GiroMania! include:

lien Gehrels, Amsterdam’s Alderman for Sports. And what a party it will be.

Giro d’Italia or ‘Tour of Italy’

Tropentheater, Café Pakhuis Wilhelmina, Bethaniënklooster, de Melkweg and Heineken Music Hall. There will also be a

According to the ‘I amsterdam’ organization, “The Giro

concert by the brass section of the Concertgebouw orchestra

d’Italia is one of the world’s leading long-distance cycle races.

before the start of the first and second stages of the race, at

First ridden in 1909, it has been held every year since, except

Museumplein.

during the two world wars. Like the other two great ‘tours’ -

May 7-9, Italian culinary market - the ‘Sapori d’Italia’

the Tour de France and the Vuelta de España - the Giro lasts

or ‘Taste of Italy’, on the historic Nieuwmarkt square dating

23 days and usually consists of 21 stages. The race tradition-

from 1614 - to be dubbed the ‘Mercato Nuovo’ for this occa-

ally ends in Milan, but this year is an exception. As the event

sion. De Waag, the central building on the square and now a

is celebrating its centenary, the 2010 finish is in Rome, the

popular brasserie, is part of a former city gate originating from

Italian capital.”

1488. Official opening: Friday night, May 7, 5-10 P.M.; Satur-

The official ‘corsa rosa’ (yes, the cyclists all wear pink)

May 6-9, Music festival, ‘Il Sound del Giro’, featuring Italian and Dutch music at Paradiso, BIM-huis, Trouw, KIT

day and Sunday, May 8 and 9, 11 A.M. to 10 P.M.

will kick off with individual time trials on Saturday, May 8, on

May 8, Saturday night, right after the individual time trial at

Amsterdam’s Museumplein, with a second leg on Sunday,

Museumplein: Crazy Bicycle Tour via the official Giro d’Italia

May 9, from the Museumplein to Utrecht, and the third stage

route to the Olympic Stadium, with some 4,000 Amster-

on Monday, May 10, from Amsterdam’s Zuidas area to Mid-

dammers on crazy bikes, wearing silly hats and pink shirts, to

delburg. Before and during the actual kickoff, all manner of

illustrate that Amsterdam is the number one bicycle city in the

Italian culture and merry-making will flow like a fine Italian

world… and that ‘we love a party!’ Special entertainment in

wine throughout the city. In cooperation with Italian Ambas-

the requisite Italian atmosphere will be on tap at the stadium

sador Franco Giordano, this event will combine the best of

following the bike parade and time trials.

Amsterdam with the best of Italy and is expected to attract

May 9, Sunday, 7-9 A.M., the first of an annual cycle ride

anywhere from 300,000 to 500,000 visitors to the city - offer-

over the same route as the individual time trials of the Giro

ing something for everyone: culture aficionados, sports fans,

d’Italia, for as many as 7,000 participants, including a ‘busi-

gourmands and followers of fashion.

ness ride’.

THE XPAT JOURNAL

By Shirley Agudo

May 10, Monday morning, A B2B (Business to Business) event at Zuidas for businesses and expats.

on AT5/RTV NH, featuring the election of the Amsterdam Giro ‘Kiss Miss’, starting mid-March l Theater program about cyclists and bikes, week of the Giro

Ancillary Events

d’Italia start, at de Brakke Grond

l A host of other activities surrounding GiroMania! and

l School program, ‘Bici Scuola’, with bicycle clinics at

sponsored by various organizations will take place before,

Amsterdam primary schools and the Velodrome, with a

during and after the main event. Here is a sampling:

BMX parcours, virtual biking, and a quiz about cycle racing

l Café del Giro, popular program about bicycle literature,

and cycling safety, starting in March.

weekly from the beginning of April at OBA (Amsterdam Public Library)

GiroMania! Kickoff

l Photo exhibit, symposium and school program in Amster-

In conjunction with a three-year cycling campaign called ‘Heel

dam’s Stadsarchief, De Bazel, beginning at the end of April

Nederland Fietst’ (All of the Netherlands Cycles) - a national

Óscar Freire

l A week of old Italian films and a week of new Italian films, at Amsterdam’s Filmmuseum (check schedule)

effort to encourage even more people to cycle on a regular basis - GiroMania! will kick off on Wednesday, March 31, at

l The Four Italian Madonnas, a special exhibit of four

the Olympic Stadium. On that same day, a country-wide effort

recently-restored Italian Madonnas, Rijksmuseum, April 20

will be organized to earn an entry in the renowned Guinness

through June 21

Book of Records for having one million people, including

l Sunny Skies in the Golden Age, an exhibit about the ‘Italianisanten’ (painters of Italianate landscapes), Rijksmuseum-

expats, riding their bikes from noon - 1 P.M.. To register for this event, go to www.heelnederlandfietst.nl.

Schiphol, mid-April to mid-May l Special exhibit at Amsterdam Historisch Museum

For an updated schedule of events for the entire GiroMania!

l Leontiens Ladies’ Ride, May 2, start and finish at Olympic

celebration, visit www.giromania.nl.

Stadium l Bicycle Lifestyle Events, May 7-9, World Fashion Centre, Sloten l Bike polo tournament, classic polo - on bicycles without brakes, May 8, Cruijff Court at Olympic Stadium

Shirley Agudo is the author and photographer of Bicycle Mania, a wonderful book on the Dutch Bicycle culture and a country gone “completely mad about bikes”. For more information, visit: www.bicycle-mania.nl and www.shirleyagudo.com.

l Ciao Bella, a popular Amsterdam-Italian reality soap opera

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event

The Hague Jazz

Great Music, Plenty of Choice The Hague Jazz is a perfect weekend out: great music; plenty of choice; people in all shapes, sizes and of all tastes; international atmosphere, yet also a small-town feel; big crowds; yet spacey

and pleasant.

Also Wallace Roney (1960) will be performing, with the Metropole Orchestra. Roney didn’t have an easy climb up; at age 7, he began studying with Sigmund Herring of the Philadelphia Orchestra and took lessons from Clark Terry and Dizzy Gillespie, and is the only trumpet player to be personally mentored by Miles Davis. He made his recording debut at age 14 and in 1979 and 1980 won the Down Beat Award for Best Young Jazz Musician of the Year. A few years later, he was homeless, sleeping at friends’ apartments. It was in 1985 that he started studying with Miles Davis, while in 1986 he career truly took off, leading to performances with musicians such as

Musical taste is, of course, personal, but because there is so

Herbie Hancock, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Art Blakey, etc.

much to choose from, there is always something - and then

His performance with the Metropole Orchestra is something

some - for everyone. And you know you’ve done a great new

worth looking forward to!

find when you play the CD you bought after that great new discovery, all week - and make copies for all your friends.

Unfortunately, at the time this went to print, not many other

Many will agree that one of the best new groups of last

names had been announced, but one worth keeping in mind

year was Hot Water, from South Africa. One of the ways in which you can tell that a group is a success is when everyone who sort of casually drifts into the room never drifts out again, so that by the end of the performance people in the hallways are craning their necks, trying to look around the corner, and over the heads of the crowds, to see who has them in their rhythmic grip. Also this year is a promising one, with golden oldies, such as Kool & The Gang or the irresistible melancholy, yet uplifting sound of Toots Thielemans, who will be turning 88 this year and has played with great performers such as George Shearing, Ella Fitzgerald, Quincy Jones, Bill Evans, Jaco Pastorius, Natalie Cole, Pat Metheny, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, and countless more.

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Toots Thielemans Photo: Jos L. Knaepen

Kool & the Gang, photo Silvia Mautner

Wallace Roney

is Candy Dulfer. Daughter of saxophonist Hans Dulfer, she has been gracing the stages of Dutch and international jazz and other festivals since she was a young teen, starting her own band Funky Stuff at age 14. She became well-known nationally after performing the opening act at two of Madonnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s European Tour concerts in 1987, and became internationally well-known when she was selected by Prince to perform in his video of the single Partyman. Dulfer has since played with many musicians, including Dave Stewart and the band Pink Floyd. In short, there is bound to be plenty, so make sure your agenda is free on June 11 and 12, so that you can spend a great weekend at World Forum Convention Center, by the Statenkwartier in The Hague.

For more information on the location, program and how to get there, visit: www.thehaguejazz.com.

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INTERVIEW

Hold Your Head Up High Greg Shapiro and his manager, Wouter Tenger of Barnstormers.nl, are standing outside the agreed place for the interview - which is closed. Greg, a tall, thin American, who looks the picture of composure (which is an illusion) is reaching for his cell phone to see if we can meet somewhere else. Wouter, a tall, less thin Dutchman with an open, jovial face, is looking around

him to see if he can spot a good place for a cup of coffee. The seemingly calm demeanor of Greg masks a wildly active

And if you do happen to leave it out on New Year’s Eve and it’s

and associative mind. “Put in a penny, and he’ll give you 100

spread out across your sidewalk, do you clean it up or do you

dollars’ worth,” a friend of mine would say. And never a dull

wait for the municipal services to do this? Well, obviously, the

moment.

correct answer is that you wait for the municipal services. And

Greg Shapiro came to the Netherlands in 1994 to join his

here’s another one; if you come home and smell gas, do you

high school (and Northwestern University) pals Andrew Moskos

a) open the windows; b) close the gas mains; c) call the utility

and Jon Rosenfeld, who had set up Boom Chicago - a standup

company; or d) all of the above? All of the above, right? Wrong.

comedy show that they named after their home town. “Basi-

You call the utility company. Let’s not be safe and proactive.

cally, we were townies with wanderlust, who wanted to set up

No, it seems that in this society that advocates involvement, the

a show somewhere else and then take it back home. However,

passive option is the desired one.”

Andrew was the first to fall in love and say ‘èèèh, one more

“Another one of my pet peeves is the bar that separates

year’,” Greg says mock-accusingly. “Then I fell in love in 1997

your items in the supermarket from the next person’s, once

and ended up staying for love too.”

they’ve gone past the teller. It’s like a game show. You have 30

How does his wife, Inez, feel about being married to an

seconds to pack your stuff - yourself, in bags you have to pay

American? “She hated the idea,” he says, nodding in agree-

for - and the bar is shoved over, crushing your eggs, squashing

ment with himself - or with her, perhaps? “So I took her to New

your bread, squeezing your vegetables. And in the meantime,

York, where she noted that it wasn’t all that foreign after all. At

you’re entering your pin code, instructing your kids ‘no, put that

first, she had issues with the culture of ‘how can I help you, sir?’

chocolate back, we’ve paid already’, and saying ‘yes please’

and ‘how are you today?’ Now she kind of misses it. I mean,

and ‘no thank you’ to the various other pertinent questions,

you tell me; when you call someone to ask for information, what

such as zegels, bonuspas or voetbalkaartjes...”

do you prefer; someone who says, ‘sure, I’ve got time, tell me what I can do to help you?’ or a big sigh with an implied ‘how

the regular Boom Chicago gigs. One is called Going Dutch, “a

much of my time are you planning on wasting?’ This is one of

musical Inburgeringscursus and one-man’s quest for a second

the things I try to teach in my corporate workshops and team-

passport,” and How to Be Orange; “a sort of Inburgeringscur-

building sessions; start with a ‘yes’, instead of with your doubts

sus for the rest of the world”. Greg and his manager are current-

or, even worse, a ‘no’.”

ly busy bringing a combination of these two shows abroad, for

A few years ago, Greg became a Dutch citizen too. “They didn’t call it Inburgeringscursus back then, merely Nederlands

instance in the American Mid-West in April/May this year, Hong Kong (October), Dubai (TBD), Barcelona, and Aruba (April).

als tweede taal - or Dutch as a second language. But we still

“I love it when I do a show abroad, where there are a lot of

had to learn about the Dutch Royal Family and the constitution.

Dutch expats. For years, they’ve been telling their incredulous

You can try the Inburgeringscursus online, on the Teleac site,

pals abroad about how people bring their own lunch boxes with

and it’s really fascinating to see what they think is important to

stale sandwiches to the office in Holland, and I can see them

know. For instance; how long do you wait, before bringing your

nudging their friends in the audience, saying ‘see, I told you

neighbors the birth announcement of your child? Or; do you put

that’s how things go back home!’”

your garbage on the sidewalk before or after New Year’s Eve?

Currently, Greg is doing two solo shows, over and above

THE XPAT JOURNAL

One of Greg’s most important mottos is ‘don’t wait, partici-

pate’. “If I have a cause, it is to make people vote. There are

deskundigen, or experts. We then do a live poll with the audi-

something like 110,000 English-speaking expats living in and

ence - based on the interview - and the whole second half of

around Amsterdam and most of them have no idea what is

the show we see which of the candidates can predict how the

going on in this country, let alone that they can vote, if they’ve

room has voted. It’s a great way to show the candidates how

lived here legally for more than five years. I tell them; you don’t

little they know their constituents.”

have to sit around and gripe, you can change things. Democ-

What would Greg like to say to the Dutch? “The Dutch are

racy doesn’t work if you don’t vote.” To be able to reach non-

not the type to thump their own chest. But who better to lead

Dutch nationals, Greg has his own weblog; www.thedailygreg.

the world in what the Dutch do best; finding the right balance

com, while the former anchor of Comedy Central News will also

between work, living and recreation? So I would like to say one

be the anchorman for his own news show that will bring Dutch

thing to the Dutch; Hold your head up high!” His eyes twinkle,

news in English on www.zie.nl, and is developing a show that

“…it might be the only way to keep from drowning.”

can be broadcast on local stations such as TV West or AT5. “In two weeks we have the municipal elections, so Boom

To see where Greg will be performing, in the Netherlands (On

Chicago and I have come up with a temporary new concept

March 26 or 27, Greg will likely be performing Going Dutch in

for our show; Political Party. It’s part comedy show, part talk

Het Vitus in Blaricum) and abroad, or for booking information,

show, where we interview actual candidates, ministers and

visit the Dutch website www.barnstormers.nl.

THE XPAT JOURNAL