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Saturday, September 4, 2010.
Sunny and warm, so enjoy!
NOS: Dutch Government formation attempts failed, let's wait and see what happens next.
Don't expect too many updates, some serious shopping to do with our university girl.
September 3, 2010.
WARNING: Today around 3.45-4.00 p.m. direction St Jan Baptist School my car nearly knocked down/dead one of your children. He suddenly took a sharp turn to his left,
direction Violierenweg, without looking and not even noticing my car.
Black hair and a giant head phone, maybe that's why he didn't hear me at first.
Later he did, because I honked verrry hard. Please warn your children to be careful in Dutch traffic. ASH is offering biking lessons, please let them put those into practice!!!
Too many near misses lately due to road construction activities Deijlerweg.
Sorry for being so blunt, but please share the story with your kids. We all care for
their safety. Tnx.
Anyone lost her/his baby albino tyger phyton? The Hague police fished one out of
a The Hague canal.
Warning: according to Security.nl to receive OV-Chipcard restitution unsecured GVB, Arriva and Syntus websites acquire personal info. from its passengers.
US: I♥boobies bracelets banned in some South-Dakota and California schools, the message seems to be not refined enough.
Tip: Cherish your inspired and enthusiastic staff, according to the news not many of those around! Approx 25% hates his/her job, the rest endures it and a merely 15-20% really has a golden glow. They make a difference.
Hey, still in search of that cappuccino-making-teenager-proof secretary.
And as of today I will throw in a bonus: you'll get the cat and the rabbit!
No panic, the 15% speeding ticket fine increase has not been approved (yet).
Update: it seems now as of January 2011 the plan will be a fact, ah, again,
wait and see. Too many plans, too little action taken.
According to Dutch national newspaper De Telegraaf: This (as it seems 2 year
old threat) is what political PVV leader Wilders is fighting against.
To post or not to post? Well I decided to do so; My sincere apologies in case I am offending some of you but God did not mean religion to be like this.
It seems US crayfishes are alive and growing in The Netherlands, eating
water animals and killing water plants. Advice from experts: eat them or leave them.
September 2, 2010.
Political party CDA continues formation negotiations.
September 1, 2010.
Tip: The weekend will be sunny, dry and warmer.
Today "Ask a Curator Day".
At the moment even more tension between members CDA political party over (maybe) Dutch Government to be formed with coalition partners VVD and PVV. The party who recenty had lost the most votes is stirring, cooking and boiling during "radio-silenced" Government formation period. Journalists all over political center Binnenhof, stay put.
Yes, I know, some are copying me and are getting big bucks for doing so.
Thanks for warning me, but not to worry. You are loyal readers
.Don't expect too many updates, off to Schiphol to welcome our eldest.
Till soon. x
August 31, 2010.
Stolen from Maastricht Bonnefanten Museum. Any offside offers, better contact
your local police. If already on your fire place, seems the theft took place
somewhere at the end of 2009, still let your conscience speak (dust catcher anyway).
OMG soon "€xpat based" radio to guide you to "€xpat based" shops, etc.".
Of course, €xpat TV didn't work out, so off to find a new medium to reach out to you.
My, they sure are desperate. Taking into account that your general nac-info and
spending pattern has been screened and calculated by means of especially made
for you plastic shopping cards. Hey, part of Dutch economy drives on you people, so bottom line of all this "I♥expats" marketing-media-hysteria: Please start spending.
Reminder: not many executive/non-executive Dutch around picking up their own bill?=definitely too expensive.
Rotterdam electricity problems over now.
Warning: OV Chip Card not of any use to approx 17.500 freshmen college and
university students due to fault Trans Link Systems. What to expect: a letter, no new card and maybe a refund for paid fines. Some service.
ABC News: update on United Flight arrests at Amsterdam. Schiphol.
Anyway, don't expect too many updates today. Some serious teenager-girl bedroom cleaning to do. Her amount of clothes could supply a whole hockey team and
still "nothing to wear....." Sounds familiar?
August 30, 2010.
Tip: Eco style recalls Loxiran anti-ant spray (400 ml). The can may get rusty and explode.
Money back at your local store.
Your car tree-free? Be glad, quite a few weren't that lucky overnight.
Voorschoten: police are asking your help in car theft case Voorschoten CS De Vink,
August Friday 20th, 2010, VW Golf 36-XL-HK, 64 year old victim was pulled out of
her car by two men and fell on her head. (0900-8844).
August 29, 2010.
Apparently in need of 20.000 student dorms at Dutch student cities.
Great, now our daughter has to stay home! Just kidding. Anyone a nice room with
a view and a decent landlord available? (Leiden center if possible, but please do take your time to respond).
Lima: Anyone expecting a Dutch friend with 11.9 kilos of cocaïne?
Well, his trip has been delayed.......for a long time. Hey, greetings to Joran!
Due to the weather Vlissingen Maritiem has been cancelled, so has been Scheveningen Grand Finals Fireworks Festival.
In moments of pure dristress, while looking after the brats, feeding and clothing them,
cleaning their rooms for the %$#@!! time, bringing them to school, to their friends, to their sports, sleep-overs, sweet-sixteen parties, tv-chill evenings etc, relax and try to enjoy, because one day you'll miss the hassle, their junk and them just being in and around the house. (Do I sound old?, ha, just walking on memory lane).
US/Canada:Ford recalls 575.000 cars type Windstar (1998-2003) due to
rear car rust.
Hurricane warning for the islands of Sint Maarten, Saba and Statia.
August 28, 2010.
Just to be on the safe side: use rain check (to the right).
Do not sms while driving, 39 year old Dutch woman crashed yesterday on A28
while doing so.
Tip: never type without your glasses.
August 27-29, 2010: Cultural Uit Markt, the national opening of the cultural season.
Beware of: The Hague yellow wheel-clamps, next to East-European workers, you as expats according to a local newspaper are known as wrongly-parked-cars-offenders.
Today high water warning in Groot Salland region.
Warning: networking group Expats in Holland, quote: "to share professional & lifestyle experiences, for Executive and non-Executive expats in the Netherlands" = eager
Dutch non-expat executive members, who are dying to meet you and your potential.
Reminder: not many executive/non-executive Dutch around picking up their own bill?=definitely too expensive.
Amsterdam Stedelijk Museum temporary opened to show the public some ins and outs
on their renovation as well as two new exhibitions.
Remember that Dutch boy named Jelte? (beaten by strangers into coma).
He and his family are now near US shore on his way to undergo neurological oxygen therapy. Thanks again to the person pulling some strings at US customs.
Recent letter from Dutch Minister of Defense concerning unacceptable unwritten
code behaviour of Dutch Defense Academy (Breda/Den Helder) cadets without appropriate action taken by their superiors is causing some serious questions if
these institutions should continue to exist.
Tropical storm Earl on its way to the island of Sint Maarten.
August 27, 2010.
British Scareways.......caused undue distress.
More and more tension between members CDA political party over (maybe) Dutch Government to be formed with coalition partners VVD and PVV. The party who recenty had lost the most votes is stirring, cooking and boiling during "radio-silenced" Government formation period. Ah, que sera sera.
August 26, 2010.
Tip: Toyota recalls Corolla and Corolla Matrix (2005-2008/North America).
Edam-Volendam offers Dutch parents (youngsters between 15-19 years of age) a
total of 1500 free drug detection tests.
Help-For-Pakistan Dutch TV donation show mounted over €16 million.
No more "cheap Dutch" jokes ok?
Today more rain than during a regular Dutch August month.
Due to the weather The Hague police advises to stay home if possible.
Some parts of Rotterdam are facing electricity problems, nothing to do with
unpaid bills.
Welcome Rwanda!
August 25, 2010.
Nr 3 on his way to a student introduction event. The house is becoming (too) empty.
The Hague: According to the news a former Dutch politician recently rented a
private airplane during her vacation in Italy to attend a regular political meeting.
Costs €11.800.............A Conference Call might have been an option? According to her department no rules have been broken. No comment. Welcome to Duck City.
Update: due to all the commotion she made public the bill will be picked up privately.
Instant conscience.
August 24, 2010.
Poor Anne Frank, not only her tree went down, but now people are quarreling
over what to do with the remains, to sell or not to sell. Ah, big business.
According to the news American home owners are facing huge home sales decline.
Hey, we can relate!
In the meantime, to set their minds on other things people tend to discuss your shopping-behaviour (and potential), the weather and the new not yet formed
Dutch Government to be.
On behalf of a Friesland Revalidation Center thank you for the generous anonymous donation (€20.000).
Dutch Voluntary Baywatch Brigade warning: Red flag on the beach=no swimming due to heavy wind/dangerous currents.
ArkeFly Tuesday afternoon plane destination Canada returned back to Schiphol due to bird strike. Next flight sometime this evening.
Johnson & Johnson Vision Care recalls 100.000 boxes of "1 Day Acuvue TruEye'
contact lenses because of negative side effects (Asia and Europe only).
Please inform your friends/relatives if needed.
Welcome Syria!
August 23, 2010.
Wednesday seems to be the best day this week so far. Keep smiling.
Tip: when in doubt use rain check (right column).
Better avoid Delft today, too much water, some streets have been closed down.
Also in The Hague and Amsterdam you may get wet feet.
Ah, just stick to ironing today.
Amsterdam: famous Anne Frank tree damaged badly by heavy wind.
To outrule the abuse of their monopoly position KLM and SLM airline ticket fares to Paramaribo to be checked.
Zoetermeer police are looking for witnesses yesterday afternoon mistreatment
54-yeor old woman, Voorweg, Zoetermeer.
She died and no clue on the perpetrator. (0900-8844). m
This is nice to hear: according to CBS (=Central Statistics Office) next to the
Scandinavion countries, the Dutch (65%) trust their fellow man.
Manilla touristbus still being kept hostage. Seven persons have been released.
Update: police set hostages free, it seems nine of them died.
Last day Sail 2010. One by one during the day the tall ships will be leaving Amsterdam.
Today: Start Dutch Highschools, well, at least in Midst Holland.
Peru: Anyone of you an official Spanish-Dutch interpreter?
Dutch Joran van der Sloot trial on hold, it seems no one around to do the job.
This Fall test Dutch supermarkets to ban cash payments. Great, what about kids
planning to buy one or two items and no pin cards around?
August 22, 2010.
During Sail 2010 Fleet inspection by Willem Alexander, Queen Beatrix and Princess Máxima were present as well.
Warning: Huge increase of teenagers taken into hospitals due to Party drug GHB.
The image among youngsters of the drug as "cheap, innocent and easy to get" has
to be corrected asap.
Bye bye my dear, enjoy your student introduction weeks.
West coast of Greece, no news yet on recent 5,7 measuring earthquacke hit.
Rio de Janeiro Intercontinental Hotel held hostages set free.
Rotterdam today: Bavaria Racing City.
Caïro: from Caïro museum stolen van Gogh painting still missing.
Authorities are still searching for the painting, which goes by two titles — "Poppy Flowers" and "Vase with Flowers." (valued at around $40 million).
In case someone offers you a quick sale, better contact the police.
Amsterdam free Prinsengracht concert huge success.
August 21, 2010.
Australia, Perth: Crime investigator Peter R. de Vries (remember the Natalee Holloway-case?), released on bail for assumed trespassing
According to de Vries he was only handing over a letter and did not even enter the
house of the murder suspect of a Dutch girl in Honduras.
August 20, 2010.
Due to computer problems Eurocontrol Maastricht Benelux, Germany and the UK will endure some airline flights delay.
Yesterday aprox 300.000 visitors at Sail 2010.
NU photos: It was beautiful, delightful view, especially from the water.
Tip: The Hague Museon: September 4th, Museum Night.
According to the Volkskrant today Dutch male on trial for grooming.
Using Habbo hotel and MSN he tried to set up a date with a 12-year-old girl.
Please warn your children to be careful.
Welcome Azerbaidjan!
August 19-23 , 2010, Sail Amsterdam.
Don't expect too many updates today, till soon. x
August 18, 2010.
Dutch Giro 555 Aid Fund for Pakistan over €2,5 million.
France: Asterix visits mr Mac and the French seem not to be too pleased.
A12 chaos due to accident involving 8 cars.
Warning: States/Canada/Mexico:: Mazda recalls 320.000 cars due to power steering problems. Please update your friends and relatives.
Barcelona: Prince Carlos Hugo, former husband of Princess Irene, Queen Beatrix's sister, passed away at the age of 80.
All those students walking around in Leiden, Utrecht, Tilburg, Almere etc. are
enjoying their University introduction week.
Utrecht: Hoog Catharijne: According to The Volkskrant Dutch free heroïne project for non-curable criminal junkies has been proven succesful.
According to The Hague AD, Toute La Haye (must have been very crowded),
present at your monthly Carlton Ambassador Hotel-for expats HaGuest Card members only-cocktail hour. My, you have got yourselves some instant friends.
According to recent survey Dutch Magazine "Psychologie" 1 out of 3 Dutch worry daily.
Men worry over: 1. money; 2. job; 3. love & relationship.
And women...........1. children; 2. money; 3. health.
August 17, 2010.
OMG, according to a local news paper not only you as expats (quote: "privileged
people") are gladly registrated via your The HaGuest card, but plans are to follow
you and your nac-info world-wide as to :"guide an expat (and his wallet), as fast as possible to local (read: expensive) stores and their merchandise". And vice versa.
Brace yourselves, to start in Brussels and Genève, marketed shopping sprees
are on their way to you.
Expat Fairs, expat-TV (buy here, dine there) and now even a "The Hague expat-Sales
and PR job" has been created just for you and yes, as per today the job has
been filled.
You must be some special breed, wearing fur and pearls, chasing on your
Prada's after your brats, trying to get settled over here while doing the
@%!@@ laundry in those *&^@@ small washing machines, without becoming totally
mad and exhausted, ruining your Estée Lauder make-up and one of your many Gucci
bags, all filled with, what else, wet baby diapers.
Conclusion: it seems now you are the ones being more and more chased after.
Wow, we sure ♥ expats!
Tip: For most of you The Netherlands has not been your first location, so please
use your common sense or ask your neighbours/friends where to shop/wine & dine.
Never noticed a Zeeman nor a Digros ad in those "especially for expats"-brochures.
And hey, how many Grands-Crus can you handle at max prices?
Reminder: not many Dutch around picking up their own bill?=definitely too expensive.
This is good news: recent 2010 seal counting shows (+800) seal increase in Dutch
Wadden Sea.
Reminder: August 19-23 , 2010, Sail Amsterdam.
Thank you Bromfietscentrum Leiderdorp for a great service, chapeau!
August 16, 2010.
ANWB warns against long traffic jams this morning due to rainy weather and the end
of Summer Break.
De scholen zijn weer begonnen="Schools have started again".
Banners to focus your attention on the fact that in the midst of Holland Dutch primary schools have started again, so drive slowly please.
India: All missing Dutch have been located.
August 15, 2010.
Please warn your teenagers: Balconing extreme=plain stupid.
Bomb announcement Lourdes turned out to be fake. How sick to frighten ill and
desperate people on their journey of Hope.
As of tomorrow Amsterdam CS metro-Amsterdam Amstel metro back in operation again.
The Hague: Queen Beatrix attended together with Dutch PM Memorial ceremony capitulation Japan 1945.
Dutch headlines in a nut shell: Belgium winner Scheveningen 2010 fireworks festival,
Dutch political parties still busy with formation, one missing Dutch tourist has been
located in India and a daughter preparing for Dutch University introduction week.
August 14, 2010.
Dutch movie "Komt een vrouw bij de dokter" (=a doctor's appointment revealing breast
cancer) selected for World Film Festival Montréal. Ironicly in this week's news The Netherlands scores bad on breast cancer ranking list compared to other countries due
to nurishment and life style.
According to Academic Ranking of World Universities Utrecht University (nr 50)
scores as nr 1 Dutch University, Leiden University (nr 70) scores as 2nd best.
Old news to you, but Dutch word of the year: digital "Unfriending".
According to BBC News KLM holds out on ash cloud compensation.
Boedapest: silver for Dutch Verlinden, European Swimming Championships (100m butterfly).
A10 direction Zaanstad temporary closed due to accident. It will take some time, so better take a detour. Update: all clear now.
Warning: beware of ING internet phishing emails/ telephone calls asking you to log in.
If done so, please contact your bank a.s.a.p.
Last night baby born on the A44, mom and baby boy are doing fine.
Tip: It seems Vodaphone mobile will stop cheap €9,50 p/m unlimited internet access
as of this September 6th, 2010 (for new members) and in due time in case of
subscription renewals.
Hey Carolyn, all settled back in Houston? x
Breda/Achill: Irish Helen Grealis appeals to the public to help find her since Oct
2008 missing brother James Patrick Grealis (24). (€10.000 golden tip fee).
Any info please mail to: oldcaseteam@telegraaf.nl
(Sorry for all those unexpected ads, crawling all over the place, not my doing;
Also Breda police does not consider this a crime-case, so far).
By judges ruling Tele2 has to withdraw his cable-TV ads. The as "cheaper than the
rest" promoted €5 package turned out to be €44,95 monthly, including internet, phone and digital TV.
Reminder to newcomers: no need to pay top rental fees, prices Dutch homes are
decreasing rapidly and many rentals available.
Also that annual rent increase is quite absurd, you already are paying top prices
taking into account steady Dutch home sales drop.
Friday, August 13, 2010.
France: Dutch number plated Eurolines bus accident caused one dead and
21 wounded. Eurolines info nr: 020-5608788
Warning: Rumanian fake gold jewellry venters try selling in a quite aggressive
way their stuff on Dutch highway parking lots. Better ignore them and get rid of them a.s.a.p.
Dutch economy on the rise, yes we know, the girls went shopping............
Rotterdam Kralingse Bos: In case your teenagers ask questions: these signs will be
marking an official area where homosexuals are allowed to meet/have sex.
Tip: Tjolk diary drinks recalls all choco, choco raisin, choco banana, lemon, banana and mango drinks due to tainted contents.
As of September 8, 2010 ESTA US visiting document will cost you 14 dollar.
Overloon Zoo proudly presents the birth of a red baby panda. Congrats!
ANWB Consumers test (click on right arrow/enlarge if needed) shows not all road restaurants offer the quality they should. Stick to the end score (in red); results unfortunately not in English. If really interested, ask your neighbours to help you to translate the info you need.
NU Photo's: Nothing wrong with your eyes, it WAS a Dakota C47 you saw on the
A44 last night. On its way to serve as a prop for the musical Solder of Orange (as of
Oct 2010) it got stuck and as it seems now badly damaged.
Tip: next week be prepared for long traffic jams on your way to the ASH due to Wassenaar road maintenance/road blockade combined with start primary schools.
(in this part of the Netherlands).
According to the news Dutch economy shows slight job increase.
Great, still looking for that cappuccino making teenager-proof secretary.
Negative side effects Twitter proven twice this week. Free cash withdrawal ING banks and alleged abdication Queen Beatrix. Get a life.
August 12, 2010.
Reminder: according to European Court of Justice Ruling you're entitled to a refund
(max €600 p.p.) in case of a > 3hrs airline delay.
Your help needed: Police are looking for witnesses to catch rapist 15-year-old girl.
She was biking on her way from Leiden to Voorschoten, this Tuesday night, Voorschoterweg, between 01.30--02.30. a.m. (0900-8844).
Please warn your kids and let them warn their friends.
Beaten in coma Dutch child needs visa to enter the States for neurological oxygen therapy. According to De Telegraaf (Dutch morning newspaper) bureaucracy is slowing things down.
Hey, anyone out there with US customs connections to speed things up? Thanks.
Update: thank you for pulling some strings. The boy is leaving this month!
Need gas while travelling through Europe? This might be useful.
Warning by Dutch Financial Market Authorities (AFM): swindlers under the names
of Dupont Conseille AG and Gulf Oil Exploration Corporation Inc are trying to sell
Gulf Oil Exploration Corporation stocks.
Baby orang utang, Ouwehands Zoo, Rhenen, mom and baby are doing fine.
And....... twins for Japanese born Giant Panda (Japan Animal Park Adventure World Zoo).
"City marketing", "especially for expats"-brochures and we♥tourists (read: your euros). But how come at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Tourist Office (VVV) long rows of tourists had to wait in line this morning to be helped by one receptionist, while the rest of the attending staff was enjoying a social chat? Ai Schiphol VVV.
Dutch police seems to be going to use social website Hyves to catch criminals.
Nothing to do with your bank account, ING cash withdrawal machines yesterday o.o.o.
According to Twitter tweets free cash withdrawal seemed to be possible, but that has not been verified yet.
(Twitter? CNN reporter lost her job for doing so).
According to De Volkskrant Amsterhotel black BMW car explosion had been done probably on purpose.
Tip: Be alert for fake mails requiering you to linkin and fill-out a 06 nr.
Before you know, you're hooked on an expensive abonnement.
Welcome Malta!
You Tube: Steven Slater Jet Blue flight attendant.
India flooding: still seven Dutch missing.
I know, you are exhausted from moving over here, home sick, busy with settling
the kids into their new schools, so who cares for learning Dutch?
Even worse: Hubby enjoying his new job like nothing has happened and who has to take care of the @$@! laundry and the rest? Still, eventually, hopefully you'll realize you understand much more of this new language than you think you're capable of, by
using your common knowledge and recognizing words deriving from other languages.
August 11, 2010.
Tonight: shooting stars, enjoy!
Not only Dutch police and ambulance personnel, but now also Dutch voluntary firemen
seem to be facing more and more on the job aggression.
More and more cheap car parking competition for Schiphol Airport. Better compare
those prices.
NU photo impression Dutch Queen Beatrix today present at Sneek Sailing Regatta week.
New York: Schiphol sole owner JFK IAT/Terminal 4.
Duinrell Wassenaar promises to take action referring to its last place in Dutch
consumers TV show Radar amusement parks poll.
However some points of criticism are not be blamed entirely on Duinrell e.g. Wassenaar present road maintenance (reachability) and upgraded restaurants (higher f&b prices).
To be updated in due time. Still some work to be done on hygiene Tikibad and incidental service improvement.
North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, Hartlepool-IJmuiden, August 11-17, 2010.
Today and tomorrow FIFA delegation to visit the Netherlands to inspect bid-book
options World-Cup 2018-2022.
August 10, 2010.
Soon to be seen on New York busses.
Reminder: pending strike Spanish air traffic controllers somewhere around the end of August. No fixed dates yet, but be alert in case you are planning a trip.
Update: according to the news pending strike has been cancelled.
Leidschendam: Another witness appeared yesterday in the Charles Taylor case: Mia Farrow.
August 9, 2010.
Google CEO warns of data explosion and future without privacy. Mom rests her case.
Honda recalls Honda Civics and Honda Accords (2003 and 2004) in The States and Canada. Better inform your friends and relatives.
Warning: Liga tweede stap biscuits pulled from the market due to danger of suffocation
for young babies.
Rotterdam: No one got wounded in today's fire.
Apeldoorn, Apenheul: born twin bonobo babies Vuvu and Zela, congrats!
August 8, 2010.
Italy, Domodossola, two Dutch drowned while canyoning.
Belgium, Knocke: For sale van Gogh painting on Art Nocturne 2010 (August 7-15).
Tros TV consumers program Radar rates Dutch amusement parks.
De Volkskrant photo special Amsterdam Gay Pride 2010.
August 19-23 , 2010, Sail Amsterdam.
August 7, 2010.
Today's news will be forgotten tomorrow.
August 6, 2010.
Warning: according to Dutch Department of Health, weight reducer Green Coffee 800 may contain sibutramine and thus might cause heart problems.
Amsterdam Rembrandt Square hotel fire caused two wounded.
Sneek week, Friesland Dutch Annual Sailing Regatta (August 7-12, 2010),
celebrates 75th anniversary.
Yes indeed, yesterday Naomi Campbell was in the Netherlands as a witness
in the Charles Taylor case.
The island of Texel counts at the moment approx 540 breeding spoonbill couples,
which according to the news seems to be very rare.
Hey Iran, welcome back!
Bye dear Carolyn, have a safe trip and all the best back home in Houston. Tnx for everything.
August 5, 2010.
According to German security officials Apple devices are vulnerable to attack.
Reason Leiden CS stopped all train traffic this morning was because of an accident.
We were there on our way to Schiphol. Made it just in time to wave our eldest
daughter goodbye.
According to Dutch tour operators, many Dutch are booking last minute trips to sunny and warm destinations.
Renault recalls 26.3000 Scénic II models due to brake problems.
August 4, 2010.
Yesterday mr Bobby Hebb (Sunny) passed away at the age of 72.
Royal Dutch Open Water Life Saving Association has a quite busy season.
Check the beach flags, mind the water streams.
Hope wherever you all are right now, you and your families are fine.
Good luch with settling in your new countries, keep me posted please.
To those of you who are returning, till soon. x
Today Dutch 14 year-old Laura will start solo sailing trip around the world.
Confused? Join the club.
Thailand, Koh Chang, 50 year-old- Dutch male drowned trying to save a swimmer
at White Sand Beach.
Amsterdam Gay Pride: August 1-8, 2010.
This Saturday Canal Parade, many people will be visiting, be prepared for crowded
trains to Amsterdam.
Samos (Greece): tourists evacuated due to bushfires.
Update: all under control according to GR Reporter.
Warning: according to USCA in Spain a three day air traffic controllers strike to be expected somewhere during the 3rd week of August.
Hi Bri, all well in Tulsa? missing you son. x
August 3, 2010.
Back home, still in vacation mood. Don't expect too many updates.
Amsterdam-Utrecht train delays were due to road side fire.
Hot air balloons emergency landing were causing this evening A-28 traffic jams.
No one got wounded.
Visited the Dutch islands of Texel and Vlieland.
Don't spread the news, but the beautiful islands are relatively quiet and (depending the hotel and location you're staying) very relaxing, even during Summer.
Arrival Crabzilla in Scheveningen and to be seen in Sea Life as of this Tuesday.
Dutch headlines in a nut shell: still no new Dutch Government, this summer was warm
and wet and Dutch supermodel Doutzen Kroes is pregnant.
Wow, some headlines right?
Warning: tomorrow strike public transport personnel Belgian coast.
Dutch film The Storm received Award Stony Brook Film Festival.
Hey Lilian, all settled back in Singapore? Greetings to the family.
Your rental home is being redone as you told me. Missing you, x.
July 15, 2010.
Tip: between 9.30-10.00 a.m. world's largest passenger airplane Airbus A380 will
land at Schiphol Airport during maiden flight.
Welcome Guam!
July 14, 2010.
Amsterdam Central Station-Amstel Station metro one-month maintenance
activities seem to be cancelled.
Gelderland: Vethuizen, one dead and many wounded due to storm.
17-year-old boy drowned near the Dutch island Terschelling.
Due to bad weather Brussels Airport closed.
Still trainproblems to/from Schiphol. Calculate 15-30 minute delays.
KNMI warning: Check raincheck (right column) befor planning your outdoor
activities this afternoon. Hard wind and rain, deriving from South-West direction North-East. Update: KNMI weather alarm South-East and East.
Some more orange photo's by NU.
July 13, 2010.
Sports unites people and it feels...great!
Warning: Van Gogh Museum nor Rijksmuseum will be open this Tuesday due to
Amsterdam Museum Plein World Cup Home coming festivities Dutch team.
Amsterdam Canal tour for Orange team, so be prepared for huge crowds and lots of fun. Tip: free transportation, no charges!
July 12, 2010.
Well, Congratz to Spain, it would have been nice to win, but second ain't bad.
Too strict or not too strict? Time will tell......
Monday: Orange F-16 to accompany Dutch team to Schiphol after crossing Dutch border.
Orange Team arrived this afternoon at Schiphol airport.
Update: No Champs, but Amsterdam canal parade still on tomorrow.
Check homecoming activities.
But more attention now for politics and the the time it takes to form a new Government.
Time for....Summer Break!.
July 11, 2010.
Will you be one out of the 700 million World Cup Finals footbal watching fans?
Well, we are, so don't expect any more updates. Till soon. X
Ah, just one more item: see how sports unites people?
Dutch headlines: Orange, Orange, Orange.........and a touch of red and yellow.
As a sign of unity and sportsman ship Dutch flowers (orange flowers in Amsterdam and yellow/red ones in Madrid) be will be falling from the sky prior to The Game tonight.
NS probably works today with alternative train schedules due to repair NS rails.
World Cup hit? don't know yet, but indeed nice to watch/listen to.
Careful: burglars seem to be getting active during World-Cup finals.
D-Day, Amsterdam Museum Square prepares for Orange finals.
Amsterdam: In case you live next to a canal and you received an official looking letter
under your car wipers, better ask a neighbour to translate this for you.
Most probably the police are asking you to park your car elsewhere during Tuesday's festivities. Because if the Dutch team wins, a canal parade will be part of Amsterdam
festivities and fat chance your parked car will be used as a tribune by the cheering crowds. (just take a look at the 1988 parade).
July 10, 2010.
Black market prices ticket finals: €1500-2500.
Warning: As of today Amsterdam Central Station-Amstel Station metro o.o.o. due to one-month maintenance. Great timing for tourists. Ai Amsterdam.
Reminder: no need to pay top rental fees, prices Dutch homes decreasing rapidly
and many rentals available. Also that annual rent increase is quite absurd, you
already are paying top prices.
Warning: according to Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs better avoid flying with
Surinam Blue Wing Airlines.
2nd Day North Sea Jazz, still many Sunday tickets available on Marktplaats due
to World Cup Finals tomorrow.
July 9, 2010.
Warning: this Tuesday NS "orange time-table".
Warning: Van Gogh Museum nor Rijksmuseum will be open this Tuesday due to
Amsterdam Museum Plein World Cup festivities Dutch team. Canal tour in case they win, so be prepared for huge crouds and lots of fun. Tip: free transportation, no charges!
Code Red due to dry period.
Octopus Paul choses winner World Cup. Bet he doesnt like blue and white.
Careful: open windows may attract burglars to enter your home.
No more KLM airline seats available to Johannesburg, in spite of 500 extra FIFA
World Cup Finals tickets.
No news today in Italy due to journalists strike.
July 8, 2010.
ANWB: code yellow=very warm, careful.
Careful, too many biking accidents lately.
12,3 million Dutch watched Holland-Uruguay game.
World Cup hit?, don't know yet, but indeed nice to watch/listen to.
Again general strike in Greece; no flights, ferries and closed buildings.
Better check with your airline.
July 7, 2010.
Any plans this Tuesday? Celebration festivities Dutch team in Amsterdam.
Opel recalls latest Corsa's due to handbrake problems.
July 6, 2010.
Orange beats Uruguay. The Dutch reached the finals!
Question of the day: Where to watch tonight's game.
Former political opponents seem to be willing to form Dutch Government.
Their smell of power makes Dutch voters wonder who to trust in the future, for this
(maybe) to be formed Government would be so illogical that eveyone except themselves forsee another Government break-up in the near future.
Royal family yearly foto session in their garden before Willem Alexander and Máxima
will set off to Kaapstad to cheer for Dutch Football team.
July 5, 2010.
Tonight departing terminal 3 Schiphol passengers incheck-delay due to smoke in
luggage basement.
According to worldwide IBM survey Amsterdam nr 13 on city parking problems
world ranking list. (and in case you succeed in finding a parking spot, the fees are
very expensive).
Tripoli: Libyan fireman received local Tilburg town award for saving sole survivor
Ruben from Tripoli plane crash.
Boomerang kids: returning home after relationship-break-up.
No need to panic: first Monday of the month sirens testing, remember?
Dutch Desireé winner Miss Holland 2010.
July 4, 2010.
Dutch headlines in a nutshell: Tour de France on its way to Brussels, 1½ year old child left behind in hot car rescued, Libyan doctor who nursed sole survivor Tripoli airline crash back to health received prestigious Dutch Medal.
Dutch Beach Rescue Team utters concern over swimming capacity Dutch youth.
Less children seem to be getting their swimming certificate.
July 3, 2010.
Uruzgan, three Dutch solders wounded by roadside bomb.
Paris: due to by lightning caused damages no train traffic to/from Austerlitz
station until further notice.
AH recalls beesies after World Cup to be sent to poor kids in undeveloped countries.
Remember? Koninginnedag as well as 2010 World Cup unites the Dutch..........
According to the news 61% of the Dutch took a day off to watch yesterday's
World Cup game the Netherlands-Brazil.
ANWB warns against many people on the road: Dutch Summer Break, Rotterdam
Tour de France, Amsterdam ArenA Dance Festival Sensation White etc.
Hey Vietnam, welcome back!
Brussels: Dutch EU commissioner mrs Neelie Kroes launches social website me and EU
to share knowledge and tools between EU youngsters and compagnies/organisations.
Estonian backpacker missing in Australia. Her personal belongings were found at the beach, no more details. To be updated asap.
July 2, 2010.
Warning: To be expected thunderstorms, so do not linger on/in the water.
Louman Museum openend its doors today.
The Netherlands beats Brazil!
Think and act tropical: relax! Definitely NO ironing today.
Dutch supporters arrive at Port Elizabeth.
To newcomers: no need to pay top rental fees, prices Dutch homes decreasing rapidly
and many rentals available. Also that annual rent increase is quite absurd, you
already are paying top prices.
Dutch headlines in a nut shell: possible election fraude in Bergen op Zoom, next
week again warm and sunny, meager mea culpa Dutch National Bank Director
Wellink still not enough, 2010 World Cup great moment for shopping in empty stores
and Brian arrived safely in the States.
No water in Limburg villages Reuver and Swalmen due to mayor damage to their water supply system.
Warning: many people on the road due to Dutch Summer vacation and World Cup.
Dutch Minister Traffic and such predicts future increase Dutch road jams, wow.
Stop predicting and start acting.
Amsterdam: Brazilian tourist wounded by Australian tourist who jumped out of hotel window. Police are looking for witnesses.
July 1, 2010.
Tip: Toyta recalls Lexus and Crown models (GS350, GS450h, GS460, IS350, LS460, LS600h and LS600hL) due to possible motor defects.
A12 closed due to matrix sign board problems.
Volendam: huge fire, Spaander Hotel evacuated, no casualties.
Amsterdam Pijp: Safety Spot test to enlarge privacy while drawing cash.
If proven successful, to be implemented nationwide.
Only aplologies to DSB-clients from Dutch National Bank Director Nout Wellink not enough.
Off to Schiphol, don't expect too many updates today.
June 30, 2010.
Dutch "Amadeus" sensation in the States.
European Museum Academy (EMA) is convinced that the role of cultural heritage institutions in Europe needs to be re-defined to cope with the challenges created by societal changes, the massive availability of innovative technology and the emerging trans-national identities.
NUON Photo Award 2010.
Larry King stops nightly talk show.
Born in Artis Zoo: baby giraffe. Mom and baby are doing fine. Congrats!
(Sorry, didn't post the video because if so, you first need to watch those terribble
commercials, forget it).
Wow, Dutch Traffic Info predicts drivers hell on warm sunny summer days.
Indeed, bring a water bottle along, but hey, the rest of the world can handle
dry summers, so better stick to more important issues like great sales, not so great politics, criminals on weekend-leave and this Friday: the Netherlands-Brazil.
The Hague: Queen Beatrix to attend today national memorial service Tripoli victims.
(Live on Dutch tv Ned 1, 13.50-15.30).
June 29, 2010.
Passed away: Swatch watches and Smart cars founder Mr Nicolas Hayek.
Warning: Chaos in Madrid due to strike metro personnel and today also national strike
in Greece.
For those of you leaving this week: enjoy your Summer Break and till soon!
For those who are leaving to their new destinations: we'll keep in touch.
Thank you for your time and please remember us and those crazy orange-dressed
Dutch.
Dutch headlines in a nut-shell: warm weather (keep drinking water), assumed
suicide Dutch horeca buss. tycoon, Dutch politics and their lack of action concerning formation a new government, TNT to fire many employees in order to cut expenses
and last but not least the 2010 World Cup (read: the Dutch national football team).
Don't expect too many updates, our eldest is leaving for the States, nr two is
returning to Malta, nr three is packing for his graduation trip and nr four is rounding
up her school year.
June 28, 2010.
This afternoon early traffic peak hour due to World Cup, have you noticed? even more orange!
North America: Volvo recalls 77.000 trucks due to technical problems steering device.
June 27, 2010.
Maasvlakte helicopter crash caused 4 dead.
No casualties in Warmond fire.
Today The Hague Parkpop: one of Europe's largest free pop festivals.
Utrecht: Fire in RABO building under control now.
Amsterdam Damrak closure yesterday was because of safety precautions.
Wilders political party PVV, Dutch largest growing political party excluded from Government negotiations by other political parties.
Update: according to the news PVV now the largest political party as many disagree on how recent Dutch election results are being deliberately neglegted.
Soon: Grand départ Rotterdam Tour de France.
June 25 + 26, 2010.
This weekend it might be very crowded on the roads due to a.o. TT (Assen), Concert at Sea (Renesse), Dutch Veterans Day/Parkpop (The Hague) and A12 direction The Hague being closed due to maintenance until Monday morning.
Reminder: warm weather + sunny weekend + World Cup = avoid peak-hours Dutch supermarkets.
For those who are packing: good luck. Don't forget The Netherlands.
Bet it was better than you ever expected.
Woensdrecht: Tour de France flags with an error: ah, who cares?
June 24, 2010.
Dutch Team and High School Diploma festivities, don't expect too many updates.
Good luck with packing. Enjoy your Summer Break and for those who are leaving,
we'll keep in touch!
June 23, 2010.
The weather, 2010 World Cup, Bavaria babes, politics, Joran van der Sloot and
vacation plans. Dutch headlines in a nutshell.
Young orka seen alive in Dutch Wadden sea has been captured and sent to
Dolfinarium to be nourished back to health.
Brussels Airport warns against huge passenger/traffic crowds.
Also the E19/E40 are undergoing maintenance activities.
Ah, welcome Mexico, Philppines and Ireland.
June 22, 2010.
Warning: Oil spill near Hurghada beaches. Check with your touroperator before booking.
Closed: 2012-2014 Mauritshuis, The Hague, due to maintenance and underground
building new expo space.
Johannesburg: Today two Dutch Bavaria babes to appear in court for offending FIFA rules. Update: charges were dropped, financial agreement FIFA-Bavaria and PR stunt 100% effective.
To cut expenses Dutch Ministry of Health proposes birth control pills, walking devices
and fysiotherapy to be cut out of Dutch Health insurance package. No comment.
June 21, 2010.
UK, Sweden and Germany: Volvo recalls latest models (2010) due to gear-box problems.
According to the news OV-Chipcard considered a failure due to high price and too much hassle.
Hey Hong Kong, welcome back!
According to the news official Dutch Ministry of Defense info shows sad results
Dutch military operation in Uruzgan: 24 dead and 140 wounded (41 severely).
June 20, 2010.
Happy Father's Day!
Rome: better avoid eating made in Germany blue mozzarella cheese; confiscated by the police to be checked by the Health Department.
According to the news Dutch population appoint Wilders Party second best in polls
due to hide and seek mentality other political parties.
June 19, 2010.
Reminder: Father's Day tomorrow.
Did you notice that huge cruise ship in Rotterdam cruise terminal today?
Indeed, what a relaxing way to enjoy some private family quality time.
Snoop Dog not welcome at The Hague June 27 Park Pop so don't buy any fake tickets.
Even more Orange on the streets after today. The Netherlands beats Japan 1-0
Amsterdam hopes for municipality permission to install large TV screens on
Leidsplein and Rembrandtplein.
Makkum, so sad, 16 month-old-baby drowned in pool near her home.
Chaos on Dutch roads expected, esp the A2/A12/A27 (due to maintenance)
also direction Arnhem (pop-concerts) and direction Rosmalen (Unicef-Open).
Bottom-line: better stay home and finish your packing.
Stockholm: Dutch 6 year-old- Princess Amalia bridesmaid Princess Victoria's wedding.
Amersfoort: first bar for homeless people to offer except for beer also food and personal care.
CNN visited van der Sloot's prison.
Also exclusive Dutch Telegraaf interview with his mom.
(Ziek in zijn hoofd=mentally ill).
Dutch Wadden Sea on official World Heritage List. Well, don't spread the word.
Otherwise the quiet and beautiful islands will become too crowded.
June 18, 2010.
Orange Bavaria babes drew more attention Bavaria could ever dream of.
FIFA not too pleased and threw two of them in jail. Not too long, now the two are
resting in a 5 star hotel awaiting judges ruling.