The signs are almost imperceptible. But we see them. The employment market is growing and opportunities for internationals looking for jobs in the Netherlands are increasing… incrementally perhaps, but we see the trend. Here at ACCESS, there is a slightly higher turnover in our volunteers. From within our own volunteer network, more people are finding … Continued

There is no doubt; a relocation or expatriate assignment to a new country is often exciting, an adventure of sorts. However, it does not affect all involved equally. When the thrill or adrenaline of planning, arriving and settling has worn off, a stark reality can overwhelm even the most intrepid of adventurers. Some will thrive … Continued

As a lawyer specialized in family law, I have often witnessed that the only option is to end a marriage or cohabitation, at least at the stage I finally meet the couple. Unfortunately, I have also experienced how devastating a divorce can be. Reason enough to always try to create a new focus among my … Continued

The center of Leeuwarden is cozy and manageable in size – the one time we got lost lasted about 20 seconds – and the people are very friendly. At the end of the market day, we witnessed how the owner of a market stall had prepared a big package of unsold foods, which he pressed … Continued

Young professionals are moving to the Netherlands, attracted by opportunities to start a career at some of the major companies in this country. At the same time, there is a need for trained talent in today’s challenging employment market. Consequently, employers are actively looking for trainees, apprentices and graduates from all over the world. Obviously, … Continued

In the world of wine & food pairing there are good restaurants, better restaurants and superstars. In the latter category we have the ultimate example in the harbour of Scheveningen. Chef Niels Schavemaker is one of a rare breed; not only is he a real connoisseur of fine and rare wines, he is also a … Continued

Imagine a restaurant that serves only organic food and wine. You can arrive by car, bike, on foot or by boat. You can sit at leisure while the kids burn tons of energy in the play park next to the restaurant, or have them join you for a few tasty dishes. Utopia? No it’s called … Continued

As mentioned on page 30, Leeuwarden is one of Europe’s Cultural Capitals this year, which will be celebrated not only in the city itself, but throughout the whole province. Once you are in Leeuwarden, where to eat and sleep? Post Plaza of course. After being decommissioned, the Post & Telegraafkantoor, as it was once called, … Continued

By Sevi Christoforou & Nannette Ripmeester There are currently abundant job opportunities in the Netherlands but, as with every country around the globe, there are some cultural norms that you have to take into account in order for your job search to be successful. Navigating the nuances might seem complicated at first but becoming aware … Continued

By Alette Vonk A German friend of mine came to work for a car company in the Netherlands. She was to head a relatively small production unit and expected that it would be fairly easy to manage this team of around 15 employees. To her frustration, however, it proved to be much harder than she … Continued

Taking Away the Sting of Insecurity As mentioned elsewhere in this online issue, there is no doubt that the Netherlands offers top-quality healthcare. Various studies are cited, to which we can add the following: according to the Healthcare Access and Quality Index (based on mortality from causes amenable to healthcare; in other words avoidable or … Continued

As notary publics, we are often involved in the highlights, but also in the low points, of our clients’ lives. Such as divorce. A hotchpotch of rules, treaties and regulations applies – which requires the need of a lawyer who is specialized in international divorces to guide their clients through the whole process. Unfortunately, many … Continued