The International School of

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE a small survival guide for living in Holland from your PTA

Several people have volunteered their time and effort to ensure the information contained in this document is efficient, effective and accurate. However, if you find any inaccuracies, or if you have suggestions for additional information, please inform the ISA PTA president who will relay your comments to the Guide‘s editor.

This booklet is not intended to be completely comprehensive. We hope to provide information to help all families, new and old, unlock the secrets, and not-so-secret information, crucial to an educational and fun experience in this new culture.

We wish you all good luck on your journey! Newcomer‘s Committee PTA (updated May 2009)

Parent Teacher Association International School of Amsterdam PO Box 920 Sportlaan 45 1180 AX Amstelveen The Netherlands

Tel: +31 20 347 1111 Fax: +31 20 347 1222

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EMERGENCY INFORMATION 01Who do you call when you find yourself in a critical situation?

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THIS LAND AND THE PEOPLE 02Do enough research and you will be impressed and amazed by the Dutch influence.

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING 04There is so much to see and do. Find out about museums, parks, zoos and more.

BIRTHDAYS 12The Dutch have a special way to celebrate.

CHILDREN 13Everything from having a baby here to options prior to their school years.

CUSTOMS 14Receiving or bringing goods in and out of the Netherlands.

DUTCH & ENGLISH LANGUAGE 14 Do you need to bother learning the ‘g’ sound without spitting all over listeners?

EDUCATION - BEYOND ISA 16The Dutch school system and educational opportunities for parents.

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES 17Addresses, phone numbers and some services they provide.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT 20All about: the Euro, PIN transactions, ChipKnip, credit cards and paper checks.

GARBAGE 21Enter the world of re-cycling and proper trash disposal.

HEALTH CARE 22Choosing your huisarts or any specialist. Hospitals and medicines.

HOLIDAYS 24Important dates recognized in the Netherlands.

HOUSING 26Should you rent or buy?

KITCHEN AIDES 27Food translations and various measurement conversions.

PERMITS 33Residence and tax expectations.

PETS 33The world for your furry (or not) family member.

POST OFFICES 33Stamps and stationary.

READING RESOURCES 34Recommended books and bookstores..

SHOPPING 36Size chart conversions and other bits.

SOCIAL GROUPS 38Kids go to school and spouses go to work . . . find out some places YOU can go.

TAXES (BELASTINGEN) 39Taxes. One of life’s certainties.

TELEPHONE 40

TRANSLATIONS 41Speak easy.

TRANSPORTATION 43 Rules of the road (and sidewalk / pavement). Car, Bicycle, Tram, Bus, Taxi and Help via Internet.

WORSHIP 51Some places where you can go worship.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 53Telephone numbers, conversion charts, & general websites on Holland.

NOTES PAGES 54Blank pages for you to jot down your additional, necessary findings.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION The emergency number for all of

the Netherlands is 1-1-2 .

State the town / place you are calling from and what kind of assistance you need (police, ambulance, fire). The operator will put you through to the appropriate organization.

If you find yourself in a critical, but NOT life-threatening situation, call the following number for police assistance: 0900 - 8844

OTHER IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS:

Police Station : 0900-8844 Foreign Police (Vreemdelingen Politie): 0900-8844

24-hour Medical Service: 0900-503-2042 (doctor) 0900-821-2230 (dentist)

Gemeentehuis (City Hall): Amsterdam: 020-552-9111 Amstelveen: 020-540-4911 EMERGENCY INFORMATION Amsterdam Hospital Amstelveen Hospital Amsterdam Hospital The VU Medical Centre Kieken Huis Amstelland The AMC Medical Centre De Boelelaan 1117 Laan van de Helende Meesters 8 Meiberg Dreef 9 1081 HV Amsterdam 1186 AM Amstelveen 1105 AZ Amsterdam Tel: 020-444-4444 Tel: 020-347-4747 Tel: 020-566-9111

Pick up a brochure about disaster relief from your local city hall (Gemeentehuis).

Sirens are tested once a month (check which day for your area). If you hear the siren at any other time, close the doors and windows of your house. If you are not at home, seek shelter inside a building as soon as possible. Do not use the telephone – keep the line clear for emergency services!

Tune your radio to the following frequencies for additional information: Amsterdam – 93.3 FM or 95.2 FM – 100.7 FM Den Haag – 88.4 FM – 93.4 FM

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 01

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THIS LAND AND THE PEOPLE

 The Netherlands is surrounded by the  Holland is not the proper or official name of North Sea to the north and west, to the country. North and South Holland are the south and to the east. merely two of the most populated of 12 provinces. The official name of this country  The Queen symbolizes the unity of the is the Netherlands. Netherlands as a democratic state.  The climate is moderate in temperature  More than half of this country‘s residents with the warmest time between June and live below sea level. September.

 The native language is Dutch, though many  Soft drugs are not actually legal. However, natives speak fluent English. It is common to law enforcement does often look the other meet people who know several languages, way when smokers are away from children especially English or German. or the elderly.

 With a population of approximately 17  The Dutch treasure their religious million people, the Netherlands is the freedom and freedom of speech. most densely populated country in all They exercise a high degree of of Europe. tolerance for diversity of opinions, lifestyles and cultures.

 The Netherlands is a constitutional  Parliament consists of two houses: monarchy, with a parliamentary system.  the Upper House. 75 members  Currently, Queen Beatrix is the Head of elected by the Provincial Council State. elected members.

 Under the constitution, ministers (not the  the Lower House. 150 members monarch) are responsible for parliament. elected by voters over the age of 18.

 If you are an EU citizen, you are allowed to vote in municipal elections under the same conditions as Dutch nationals.

 If you are a non-EU national, you may vote IF you have been a legal resident in the Netherlands for a continuous five years or longer.

 If you are a member of consular or diplomatic staff, you, your spouse and your children are not permitted to vote in the Netherlands.

 If you are an EU citizen AND a resident of the Netherlands, you may vote in the European Parliament elections as long as you don‘t vote in these elections in your native country.

 These are only the basics to voting. There are some other conditions which apply. BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THIS LAND AND THE PEOPLETHE AND LAND THIS OF BRIEF OVERVIEW YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 02

BRIEF OVERVIEW OF AMSTELVEEN RELATIVE TO AMSTERAM

 Amstelveen is a municipality and a city in the Netherlands, in the province of . It is part of the metropolitan area of Amsterdam. Until 1964, the municipality of Amstelveen was called Nieuwer-. Amstelveen has a light rail and tram connection with Amsterdam.

 The municipality of Amstelveen consists of the following cities, towns, villages and/or districts: Amstelveen, Bovenkerk, Westwijk, Nes aan de Amstel, (partly).

 Amstelveen has a population of approximately 78,000 and is considered a small town. General Websites on MAJOR DUTCH CITIES The City of Amsterdam: www.amsterdam.nl City of The Hague: www.denhaag.nl or www.thehague.nl Amsterdam.info: www.amsterdam.info Gemeente Rotterdam: www.rotterdam.info iamsterdam.com: www.iamsterdam.com Gemeente Utrechtt: www.utrecht.nl Time Out Amsterdam: www.timeout.com/amsterdam Gemeente Groningen: www.groningen.nl The Hague Visitors & Convention Bureau: Gemeente : www.vvvmaastricht.nl www.denhaag.com The Hague Online: www.thehagueonline.com BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THIS LAND AND THE PEOPLETHE AND LAND THIS OF BRIEF OVERVIEW YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 03

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS

The VVV tourist offices provide information on local activities, hotels, etc. They have information about cycling or walking routes, sailing and boating, renting bicycles, summer houses, and things to do and see in The Netherlands.

Every city has it‘s own office, so if you are visiting a town far away, contact the VVV in that town and they can provide information on the surrounding area.

Graafsebaan 133 5248 NL Rosmalen Some models include veteran cars, racing cars, antique Autotron Tel: 073-523-3300 cycles, and many more. Racing films are also shown. www.autotron.nl ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS Legmeerdijk 313 Bloemenveiling 1430 BA The world‘s largest flower auction. Aalsmeer Tel: 029-739-0062 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.vba-aalsmeer.nl

Stuurmankade 2 Boat Rental Amsterdam East Rent an environmentally friendly boat, sloop or launch SESA Tel: 020-509-5050 and tour silently and fume-free through the canals. www.sesa.nl

Bovenkerkerweg 106 1188 XH Amstelveen Cheese farm and clog factory. Tours provided. Clara Maria Tel: 029-758-2279 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.claramaria.nl

Concertgebouwplein 2-6 Every Wednesday afternoon, an entry to a lunch Concertgebouw 1071 LN Amsterdam concert is free. It starts at 12.30 p.m. Amsterdam Tel: +31 20 671 83 45 (September – June only). www.concertgebouw.nl

Montageweg 35 Gigantic indoor play land (section designated 1948 PH Dartel Dorp for kids 1-6 years old and 6-12 years old). Tel: 025-126-2626 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.darteldorp.nl

Floating Flower www.holland.com/nordic/ Corso (Floats) in cultural/flowers/ Spectacular flower parades April - September. Holland flowerparades/

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 04

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS

Stadhouderskade 78 Tours: Mon-Fri 9:30, 11:00 and 15:00. Heineken Brouwerij Amsterdam Closed Sundays and public holidays. www.heineken.nl

Waterlooplein 17 Amsterdam Sightseeing, 3-dimentional show featuring Holland. Holland Experience Tel: 020-422-2233 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.holland-experience.nl

Maliebaanstation Holland Railways Model railway displays. Utrecht Museum Open year round, days and times may vary. Tel: 030-230-6206

Jaap Eden Radioweg 64. 1098 NJ Open-air ice rink to include an indoor rink, fitness Ijsbanen Amsterdam Tel: 020 694 9652 centre, restaurant, equipment hire and lockers. Ice Skating Rink www.jaapeden.nl

Viergrenzenweg 97 Labyrint Largest and most modern labyrinth of Europe. 6291 BM Vaals Drielandenpunt Features electronically controlled waterfalls. Tel: 043-306-5945 Vaals Open April – October, days and times may vary. www.drielandenpunt.nl

George Maduroplein 1 Over 1,000 models of famous Dutch sites (canal 2584 RZ Den Haag Madurodam houses, cheese market, windmills, etc.) at 1:25 scale. Tel: 070-416-2400 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.madurodam.nl

Amstelpark 2b Midgetgolf 1083 HZ Amsterdam Midget (putt putt) golf located inside the Amstel Park. 020-404-4209

Oosterdok 2 Science and technology center exploring energy, human New Metropolis 1011 VX Amsterdam existence, communication, etc. (NEMO) Tel: 900-919-1100 Open year round, days and times may vary.

Noordwijk Keplerlaan 3 European Space Research & Technology Centre 2201 AZ Noordwijk Space Expo is a permanent space exhibit. Tel: 071-364-6446 ESTEC www.space-expo.nl Open year round, days and times may vary. ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS SIGHTSEEING: / ATTRACTIONS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 05

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS

Stationsweg 166a A landscape garden showcase of Dutch-bulb growers Kuekenhof Lisse since 1949. Open March—May. Tel: 020-4246-5555

Stichting Nationale Park The largest park in the Netherlands. Inside is Kroller- National Park De De Hoge Veluwe Muller Museum and the Beeldenpark sculpture Hoge Veluwe

Tel: 0900-464835 gardens. ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MISCELLANEOUS

Buytenparklaan 30 2717 AX Zoetermeer A skiing and snowboarding theme park. Snowworld Tel: 079-320-2202 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.snowworld.nl

Kanaalkade 60 Sail on fully equipped ship to Amsterdam, Zaanse Woltheus Cruises Schans, Alkmaarder Lake and the canals of Alkmaar. Tel: 072-511-4840 Open May – October, days and times may vary.

Nieuwezijds Kolk 29 Bicycle tours through the city or country-side and bike Amsterdam Yellow Bike rental. Tel: 020-620-6940 Open April – October, days and times may vary. [email protected]

Van der Wijckplein 16 ―Wonder world under water.‖ Sea aquarium with 1865 AP Bergen ann Zee Zee Aquarium world-wide marine life and a huge shell collection. Tel: 072-581-2928 Open April – September, days and times may vary. www.zeeaquarium.nl

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 06

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS

Purchase a Museum Card for Amsterdam and Museums in Holland

The card represents a personal pass to enter more than 400 Museums in the Netherlands!

It is valid one year and it costs €39.95 www.amsterdam.info/museums//

Oudegracht 176 Aboriginal Art 3511 NP The place in Europe to experience contemporary Museum Tel: 31 30 2380100 Aboriginal visual arts from Australia. www.aamu.nl

Kalverstraat 92 Amsterdam An impressive collection of books, maps and objects Amsterdam Historical Museum illustrating the city‘s history. Tel: +31-(0)20-523-1822

Prinsengracht 263 Museum relating to of Anne Frank and her Jewish Amsterdam Anne Frank House family who hid from the Germans in a secret annex. Tel: +31-(0)20-556-7100 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.annefrank.nl

Westelijke Randweg 201 Aviodome Schipol Airport Small museum associated with air and space travel. Schiphol Tel: 020-406-8000 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.aviodome.com

Sandbergplein 1-3 1180 EA Amstelveen Modern art museum located very near the school. CoBraA Museum Tel: 020-547-5058 Open year round, Tuesday-Sunday 11:00-17:00. www.cobra-museum.nl

Groot Heiligland 62 Museum containing collection of 17th-century works. Frans Halsmuseum Open year round, days and times may vary. Tel: 023-516-4200

Prinsengracht Houseboat Museum opposite #296 Look at the way residents live in a typical houseboat. ―Hendrika Maria‖ Amsterdam Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00. www.houseboatmuseum.nl

Jonas D. Meijerplein2-4 ―The Great Synagogue‖ became the center for the Jewish Historical 1001 RE Amsterdam Dutch Jewish community. This museum was restored Museum Tel: 020-626-9945 and is now devoted to Jewish history. www.jhm.nl ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS SIGHTSEEING: / ATTRACTIONS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 07

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS

 The bookcase at the Anne Frank House.

The Cobra museum. 

 Inside the houseboat

Dam 20 Madam Tussaud Amsterdam Wax museum concentrating on Dutch history. Scenerama Tel: 020-622-9949 www.madame-tussauds.com

Museum Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 1012 GE AMSTERDAM An interesting church in the city hidden inside Amstelkring (Our Tel: 020-6246604 a 17th-century canal house. Lord in the Attic) www.opsolder.nl ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS

National Museum of Darwinweg 2, Leiden Naturalis is the National Museum of Natural History Tel: 071-5687600 Natural History of the Netherlands www.naturalis.nl

An open-air museum that provides visitors with a Schelmseweg 89 Nederlands picture of every-day life in the Netherlands between Arnhem Openluchtmuseum 1600 and 1970. Tel: 026-3576111

Jodenbreestraat 4 A recently refurbished house of the world famous 1011 NK Amsterdam Rembrandt‘s House painter Rembrandt van Rijn, who lived and worked Tel: 020-520-0400 here from 1639 until 1658. www.rembrandthuis.nl

OPEN MUSEUM DAY All Museums in Amsterdam Have Free Admission www.iamsterdam.nl

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 08

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS

 Rembrandt The Night Watch can be found at the Rijksmuseum. 

 Van Gogh‘s Sun- flowers

Stadhouderskade 42 The country‘s national museum housing a vast Amsterdam Rijksmuseum collection of Rembrandt‘s paintings and other artists. Tel: 020-673-2121 Monday – Sunday 10:00-17:00. www.rijksmuseum.nl

Paulus Potterstraat 13 An eclectic collection of 19th and 20th century art Amsterdam Stedelijk Museum represented through paintings, prints, dance, theater, Tel: 020-573-2911 music, and cinema. Frequent special exhibitions. www.stedelijk.nl

linnaeusstraat 2 1092CK Amsterdam The Tropenmuseum illustrates how people in tropical Tropenmuseum Tel: 31 20 5688200 and subtropical countries go about their daily lives. www.tropenmuseum.nl

Paulus Potterstraat 7 Home to works by Vincent Van Gogh and his brother‘s Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam fine collection of art. www.vangoghmuseum.nl Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:00.

Zaanse Schans Schansend 11509 A country-side windmill village. Museums, restaurant, Zaanse Schans Zaandam wooden shoe factory, delft ceramics, cheese farm, etc. Tel: 31 75 6168218 Open year round, days and times may vary.

Wierdijk 12-22 A living museum with the opportunity for children to Zuiderzee Museum dress in traditional clothes and wear clogs. Tel: 022-835-1135 Opening days and times may vary.

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: MUSEUMS SIGHTSEEING: / ATTRACTIONS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 09

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: PARKS

Antwerpsepostbaan 81 Park with big swimming pools, slides, mini golf, row Bosbad Hoeven Hoeven boats, little railroad train, etc. Recreattiepark Tel: 016-550-2570 Open May – August, days and times may vary.

Duinrell 1 Attraction park. Adventures include water rides, 2242 JP Wassenaar7 Duinrell toboggan runs, playgrounds, etc. Camping grounds too. Tel: +070-515-5258 Open April – October. Days and times may vary. www.duinrell.nl

Europalaan 1 Attractions, fairy tales, and spectacular shows. 5171 KW Kaatsheuvel Efteling Voted the best theme park in the world. Tel: +041-628-8111 Appeals to all ages. ww.efteling.nl

Luttenbergerweg 22 Boat trip in a tree trunk over rapids, ending in a free Hellendoorn 7447 PB Hellendoorn fall of 12 meters; an electric theater show, Tel: 054-865-5555 Place de Paris; roller coaster and more. www.avonturenpark-hellendoorn.nl

Drunen ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING:PARKS The theme is medieval and a stage is created devoted Land van Ooit Tel: 041-637-7775 to the olden-days of dames and knights. nl.ooit.nl

Rijksstraatweg 4 Europe‘s largest playground. Recreations include 2121 AE Bennebroek Linnaeushof pedal boats, trampolines, mini-golf, space bikes, etc. Tel: 023-584-7624 Open April – September. www.linnaeushof.nl

Oud Huizerweg 2a Recreational park with swings, a merry-go-round, 1411 GZ Naarden Oud Valkeveen petting zoo, climbing balls, etc. Tel: 035-694-4223 Open April – October, days and times may vary. www.oudvalkeveen.nl

Spijkweg 30 Amusement park including haunted house, 8256 RJ Biddinghuizen Six Flags Holland moon-walk, train rides, etc. Tel: 032-132-9999 Open April – September, days and times may vary. www.sixflagseurope.com

Choose adventures speeding downwards, Slagharen 7776 ZG Slagharen turning around or swaying back and forth. Amusementpark Tel: 052-368-3000 www.attractiepark-slagharen.nl You choose and do it as often as you like!

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 010

ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: ZOOS

Plantage Kerklaan 38-40 1018 CZ Amsterdam A classic display of caged animals, plus an aviary, Artis Zoo Tel: 020-523-3400 aquarium, penguin island, and zoological gardens! www.artis.nl

J.C. Wilslaan 21-31 7300 AB Apeldoorn A fantastic park displaying a wide variety of monkeys, Apenheul Tel: 055-357-5757 many of which are running ―free.‖ www.apenheul.nl

Schelmseweg 85 Zoo and Safari Park. Contains the largest covered 6816 SH Arnhem Burgers‘ Zoo tropical forest in the world. Plus a great ―ocean.‖ Tel: 026-442-4534 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.burgerszoo.nl

Hoofdstraat 18 Noorder At Zoo Emmen, the animals live in the ―continent‖ 7801 BA Emmen Dierenpark representing their original habitat - Tel: 059-185-0850 (Zoo Emmen) you can make a trip around the world in a few hours! www.noorderdierenpark.nl

Strandboulevard Oost 1 Visit the largest marine animal park in Europe! Dolfinarium 3841 AB Harderwijk Watch the sea lions perform, pet the sting rays, relax Harderwijk Tel: 034-146-7467 on the beach or play on the playground. www.dolfinarium.nl

Beekse Bergen 1 5081 NJ Hilvarenbeek Experience a real safari, either in your own car or by Safari Beekse Bergen Tel: 013-549-1100 bus. It is possible to rent bungalows. www.beeksebergen.com

Van Aerssenlaan 49 Rotterdam Zoo Royal Rotterdam zoo. 3000 AM Rotterdam (Diergaarde Includes reptile hall, bats and wolves. Tel: 010-443-1495 Blijdorp) Open year round, days and times may vary. www.rotterdamzoo.nl

(north of Amsterdam) See landscapes that Rembrandt and Ruysdael painted. Wetlands Safari Tel: 065-355-2669 Monday – Friday, by appointment only. www.wetlandssafari.nl

Hoorn 65 Park focusing on birds. Other activities include Alphen a/d Rijn Vogelpark Avifauna bumper cars, bumper boats, slides, etc. Tel: 017-248-7575 Open year round, days and times may vary. www.avifauna.nl ATTRACTIONS / SIGHTSEEING: ZOOS SIGHTSEEING: / ATTRACTIONS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 11

BIRTHDAYS

It is the Dutch custom to bring your OWN cake in general, it is a term for having to share with others on your birthday. drinks or a happy hour. Everyone invited will usually A person‘s birthday is an important celebration bring a small gift as a token of for the Dutch. All elementary school children appreciation for the host/ have a birthday party and take a bag of sweets or hostess. goodies, or healthy alternatives like fruit or cheese, to school for their classmates. People in Turning 50 is a special birthday. the workforce are expected to bring cakes or The birthday person is said to healthy substitute for their colleagues. be seeing either ‗Sarah‘ or ‗Abraham‘ (depending on whether they are female or male). The family Often, the adults celebrate their birthdays by will often display a funny characteristic picture of opening their home to family and friends for the birthday person in the garden outside of the drinks. In general, this means you are expected person‘s house and plaster small posters on around 20:00 for coffee which will be followed several street poles, especially ones that are sure by a ‗borrel.‗ A borrel literally means ‗jenever,‗ but to be seen.

There are many places to have a birthday party besides your home. Some of the places that have proved successful in recent years with ISA families include the following:  Chimpie Champs - www.chimpiechamp.nl A large indoor playground with several party rooms to choose from.  Color Me Mine - www.colormemine.nl Parents can pre-select or children can choose any object to paint from many colors. If tableware is chosen, items are fired so that they will be safe to eat from and dishwasher safe.  De Kegel bowling alley - www.dekegel.nl. A two hour party includes bowling and a meal plus the option of a disco. Check out the following website:  De Meerkamp Swimming Pool - www.verjaardagsfeest.com www.meerkamp.nl Splash in the waves then dine in the café. It‘s in Dutch, but work your way  Rocca - www.rocca.nl. through it and find LOADS of Climbing and adventure center. suggestions!  Kinderboofe Café—. Spokk Laser Games, Noorddammerlaan 99, Amstelveen Tel. 020- 3456510  Chimpie Champs BIRTHDAYS

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 12

CHILDREN

Kinderdagverblijf (day care) is available for Buitenschoolse / Naschoolse Opvang (After children between zero and four. Arrangements school hours) cares for children after school may be made for older children (up to 12) for hours and during school holidays. Call Landelijk after school and during school holidays. Surf the Informatiepunt BSO or the Stichting internet to find a kinderdagverblijf. Locate Kinderopvang Nederland for more information. thousands of listings from searching kinderopvang on www.altavista.com. Two specific sites, both Peuterspeelzalen (Toddler groups) are for in Dutch are: the website of Stichting children between two and four years old. These K i n d e r o p v a n g N e d e r l a n d a n d groups usually meet in the morning and are www.kinderopvang.net,. connected with a primary school making the transition to school a bit easier. Gastouder (host parent) is usually a parent who opens her home to other children. Find Flexibel Kindercentrum (Flexible child center) is registered gastouders in your gemeentegids. open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You might find this center in the larger cities. Oppas (baby sitters) are often students who watch your children in your home on evenings Project is an arrangement where a certified or weekends. The best way to find a good baby teacher comes to your house and looks after a sitter is word-of-mouth from other parents who maximum of four children. are satisfied with their own baby sitter. International Women‘s Clubs often offer their Au Pair is a young person who lives with you and own Moms and Tots groups. helps care for your child(ren). Locate an au pair from a specialized organization. Check an international newspaper for this information.

Other aspects of children worth mentioning:

 You have a right to 16 weeks pregnancy  If you are living in the Netherlands or are leave which can begin up to eight weeks employed and pay Dutch wage taxes, you are before your due date. entitled to receive the child benefit (kinderbijslag). Begin this process when you  You are not allowed to work from between register your child at the city hall. four weeks before the due date until eight weeks after the baby has been born.  To ensure that your last wishes would be granted should something happen to both  During pregnancy leave you receive a benefit parents, it is critical to have a last will and equal to 100% of your wages. testament notarized by a Dutch notary. A will from another country may not be valid in The  With certain legal exceptions, you may not Netherlands. be fired during pregnancy or during the 12 weeks following the birth.

Every year ISA distributes a babysitter list for use WITHIN the ISA community. There are often responsible young adults, from your town, who will gladly watch your child(ren).

Also, ask you neighbors for references of sitters within your neighborhood. CHILDREN YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 13

CUSTOMS (DOUANE)

The tasks of the Dutch Customs Check out the following websites for further (Douane) are: information:

 controlling the import, www.belastingdienst.nl/douane export and transit of goods. Dutch Customs.  Levying and collecting import www.notaris.nl and domestic excise duties. KNB, Koninklijke Notariele  Enforcing Dutch and EU regulations. Beroepsorganisatie. www.consumentenbond.nl There are several conditions which must be met Consumentenbond. in order for some or all of your household www.cbs.nl goods to be exempt from these duties. CBS, Central Bureau voor de Statistiek. www.eigenhuis.nl The Customs agents are typically unsympathetic Vereniging Eigen Huis. and require you to prove your case. This can be www.nvm.nl a long, expensive battle - most frustrating when NVM, Nederlandse Vereniging van you are in the right, but do not have all your Makelaars. paperwork for proof.

DUTCH LANGUAGE

Do you really need to learn the Dutch language? the grocer, bus driver, gas station attendant, Maybe - maybe not. It depends on what you fellow diners, whomever you meet on the street. want to get out of this experience. Especially in cases of emergency, people tend to CUSTOMS◊ DUTCHLANGUAGE use their native language, so if you (and your Most places, especially in the big cities children and spouse) understand some words, it (Amsterdam, Den Haag, Rotterdam) have no could make a strong impact on your life. problem with the English language. If you watch BBC, CNN, MTV, and Cartoon Is it easy or difficult to learn Dutch? The answer Network you can surround your home with the depends on your dedication and also your native sounds of English speakers all day. language or other languages you have already learned. If you already know a language which is Most music uses English lyrics and you can even similar to Dutch, this new language should be find a few talk radio stations speaking the English easier than someone who knows languages which language. are very dissimilar.

It is possible to do many things in whatever your Should you choose to take the time and effort to home language is: French, German, Japanese, or learn Dutch, you have a few learning options. any myriad of other choices. You could buy a book with a tape or cd and practice at home or in your car. Install computer But, you are living in the Netherlands now and software and you could practice at your leisure. you owe these kind hosts the respect of learning Private tutors are available to come to your home at least a few words that indicate your to teach you lessons. You could sign up for generosity toward them. Learn to say lessons at a local school with a group of other Dank u wel (Thank You) and Alstublieft (please). students at a similar level. It is always nice to communicate in Dutch with

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 14

DUTCH & ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Dutch Language Courses in Amsterdam Dutch Language Courses in Amstelveen

Learn on Line Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam Beginners/Intermed/Adv. Dutch courses at this open university. Cost €75/month, 11 months Three hours/week for 24 weeks. Includes workbooks, assignments, & end- €430 of-year exam. www.volksuniversiteitamsterdam.nl www.loi.nl Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam Leise Onderwijsinstellingen Rapenburgerstraat 73 Leidsedreef 2, 2352 BA Leiderdorp 1011VK Amsterdam Tel: (071) 545 1234 Tel: 0031206261626 Tel: 28007673 Leiden Vrij University Instituut Nederlands als Tweede Taal (INTT) Four hours/four days per week for Leading institute for Dutch in Netherlands Nine weeks €760 Offers six levels at various levels with Main VU conversation, grammar & exams. De Boelelaan 1105, 1081HV Amsterdam www.intt.uva.nl Tel: 020 59 89898 INTT Spuistraat 134, 1012VB Amsterdam Tel: 0031205254642 Private Tutors

Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam Most foreigners participate in Dutch English Language Courses in Amstelveen courses at this open university. 12 weeks, 2-2 1/2 hour per week. Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam www.volksuniversiteitamsterdam.nl Dutch courses at this open university. Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam Three hours/week for 24 weeks.

Rapenburgerstraat 73 www.volksuniversiteitamsterdam.nl ENGLISH LANGUAGEDUTCH & 1011VK Amsterdam Volksuniversiteit Amsterdam Tel: 0031206261626 Rapenburgerstraat 73 1011VK Amsterdam University of Amsterdam (UvA) Tel: 0031206261626 Offers intensive summer courses and courses throughout the year. Private Tutors www.english.uva.nl University of Amsterdam 21, 1012 WX Amsterdam Tel: +31 20 525-9111

Dutch & Such www.dutchandsuch.nl Dutch & Such Voetboogstraat 22 1012XL Amsterdam Tel: +31 204200387

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 15

EDUCATION - BEYOND ISA

Upon arrival to this new country, you probably Children are not the only ones who may be interviewed at other schools, maybe even interested in spending some time at a learning considering to totally immerse your child(ren) institution during the daytime hours. into the Dutch system. The education system in the Netherlands is governed at all levels by national legislation. There are, of course, certain British Open University exceptions to this. Postbus 91496 2509 EB Den Haag In the Netherlands, children from age four to 12 Tel: 070-322-2335 attend primary school. A family has three types of primary schools to choose from: public European University schools, schools based on educational Laan v. Meerdervoort 20 philosophies or denominational schools. 2517 AK ‗s-Gravenhage Beginning at the age of 5, students have an Tel: 070-360-4479 obligation to school which means they are not permitted to leave school, even to return back Executive University to your home country, for extended periods of Bachlaan 30 time. 5707 RP Helmond tel: 049-259-9275 After primary school, the family select a e-mail: [email protected] secondary school. The primary school will make Offers accredited Bachelor and Master a recommendation for which of the three types Degrees and Ph.D degrees. Facilities in to choose. The types of secondary education the major cities. include vocational, senior, general or university preparation. NUFFIC (Netherlands Universities Foundation for International Cooperation). Following in the first patterns, there are three Kortenaerkade 11 streams of higher education. Those options 2518 AX Den Haag include: universities, universities of professional Tel: 070-426-0207 education and international education. University of Amsterdam Oude Zijds Achterburgwal 237 1012 DL Amsterdam

Universiteit Nyenrode Straatweg 25 3621 BG Breukelen tel: 034-629-1607 e-mail: [email protected] For expats looking to accelerate their Volks Universiteit Amsterdam international career. Rapenburgerstraat 73 1011VK Amsterdam Webster University Tel: 0031206261626 Boommarkt 1 www.volksuniversiteitamsterdam.nl 2311 EA Leiden Tel: 071-514-4341 BEYOND ISA ISA - BEYOND EDUCATION YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 16

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Albania - Embassy Algeria - Embassy Argentina - Embassy Anna Paulownastraat 109 B Van Stolklaan 173 Javastraat 20

2518 BD Den Haag 2585 JS Den Haag 2585 AN Den Haag Tel: 070-427-2101 Tel: 070-352-2954 Tel: 070-365-4836

Australia - Embassy Austria Barbados - Consulate Carnegielaan 4 Van Alkemadelaan 342 Blekersveld 17 2517 KH Den Haag 2597 AS Den Haag 2051 NL Overveen Tel: 070-324-5470 Tel: 070-324-5470 Tel: 023-525-2602 www.australian-embassy.nl

Belgium - Embassy Bolivia - Embassy Bosnia - Embassy Lange Vijverberg 12 Nassaulaan 5 van Bleiswijkstraat 118 2513 AC Den Haag 2514 JS Den Haag 2582 LJ Den Haag Tel: 070-312-3456 Tel: 070-361-6707 Tel: 070-358-8505 w.diplobel.org/netherlands

Brazil - Embassy Bulgaria - Embassy Cameroon - Embassy Mauritskade 19 Duinroosweg 9 Amaliastraat 14

2514 HD Den Haag 2597 KJ Den Haag 2514 JC Den Haag Tel: 070-302-3959 Tel: 070-350-3051 070-346-9715

Canada - Embassy Chile - Embassy Sophialaan 7 Mauritskade 51 Adriaan Goaekooplaan 7 2514 JP Den Haag 2514 HG Den Haag 2517 JX Den Haag 070-311-1600 070-312-3640 070-306-5061 www.ocanada.nl

Costa Rica - Embassy China-Consulate Colombia - Embassy Laan Copes van Cattenburg 46 Willemlodewijklaan 6 Groot Hertoginnelaan 14 2585 GB Den Haag 2517 JT Den Haag 2517 EG Den Haag 070-354-4675 070-350-8479 070-361-4545 www.embacrica.demon.nl EMBASSIES & CONSULATESEMBASSIES &

Denmark - Embassy Cuba - Embassy Cyprus - Embassy Koninginnegracht 30 Mauritskade 49 Surinamestraat 15 2514 AB Den Haag 2514 HG Den Haag 2585 GG Den Haag 070-302-5959 070-360-6061 070-346-6499 www.danishembassy.nl

Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Labradordreef 18 Tulpenburg 23 Koninginnegracht 84

3565 AN Utrecht 1181 NK Amstelveen 2514 AJ Den Haag 030-261-5095 020-647-1062 070-346-3753

Egypt El Savador Eritrea Badhuisweg 92 Wijnhaven 3-1 Sweelinckplein 9

2587 CL Den Haag 3011 WG Rotterdam 2517 GK Den Haag 070-354-2000 010-413-3304 070-427-6812

Estonias Ethiopia Parkstraat 15 Frederik Hendrikplein 1 Groot Hertoginnenlaan 16

2514 JD Den Haag 2582 AT Den Haag 2517 EG Den Haag 070-345-6252 070-358-6944 070-346-9754

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 17

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

French Germany Ghana Vijzelgracht 2 - Postbus 20018 1017 HR Groot Hertoginnenlaan 18 Ln Copes v. Cattenburg 70 Amsterdam 2517 EG Den Haag 2585 GD Den Haag 530 69 69 070-342-0600 070-338-4384 www.consulfrance-amsterdam.org www.duitse-ambassade.nl www.ghanaembassy.nl

Great Britain Greece Hunary Lange Voorhout 10 Amaliastraat 1 Hogeweg 14 2514 ED Den Haag 2514JC Den Haag 2585 JD Den Haag 070-427-0427 070-363-8700 070-350-0404 www.britain.nl

India Iran Buitenhof 47 Tobias Asserlaan 8 Duinweg 20-22 2517 KD Den Haag 2517 KC Den Haag 2585 JX Den Haag 070-346-9771 070-310-8100 070-331-9939

Israel Iraq Ireland Buitenhof 47 Johan de Witlaan 16 Dr. Kuyperstraat 9 2513 AH Den Haag 2517 JR Den Haag 2514 BA Den Haag 070-376-0500 070-346-9683 070-363-0993

CONSULATESEMBASSIES &

Japan Jordan Italy Tobias Asserlaan 2 Badhuisweg 79 Alexanderstraat 12 2517 KC Den Haag 2587 CD Den Haag

2514 JL Den Haag 070-346-9544 070-416-7200 070-302-1030 www.emb-.nl www.jordanembassy.nl

Korea (South) Luxembourg Malaysia Verlends Tolweg 8 Nassaulaan 8 Rustenburgweg 2 2517 JV Den Haag 2514 JS Den Haag 2517 KE Den Haag 070-358-6076 070-360-7516 070-350-6506

Mexico Morocco New Zealand Burg. Patijnlaan 1930 Oranjestraat 9 Carnegielaan 10 2585 CB Den Haag 2514 JB Den Haag 2517 KH Den Haag 070-345-2569 070-346-9617 070-346-9324 www.embamex-nl.com

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 18

EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Other Embassies Information Services 070-346-4900

Pakistan Paraguay Norway Amaliastraat 8 Goudsesingel 8, 3e/3 Lange Vijverberg 11 2514 JC Den Haag 3011 KA Rotterdam 2513 AC Den Haag 070-364-8948 010-404-5541 070-311-7611

Poland Portugal Alexanderstraat 25 Ln Copes v. Cattenburch 125 Bazarstraat 21 2514 JM Den Haag 2585 EZ Den Haag 2518 AG Den Haag 070-360-2806 070-364-8566 070-363-0217 www.polamb.nl

South Africa Portugal-Consulate Romania Wassenaaresweg 40 Willemskade 18 Catsheuvel 55 2596 CJ Den Haag 3016 DM Rotterdam 2517 KA Den Haag 070-392-4501 010-411-1540 070-354-3796 www.zuidafrika.nl

Spain Sweden Switzerland Lange Voorhout 50 Burg van Kamebeeklaan 5 Lange Voorhout 42

2514 EG Den Haag 2585 BB Den Haag 2514 EE Den Haag 070-302-4999 070-412-0200 070-364-2831 CONSULATESEMBASSIES &

Turkey UK-Consulate Jan Evertstraat 15 Koningslaan 44 Lange Voorhout 10

2514 BS Den Haag 1075 AE Amsterdam 1514 ED Den Haag 070-360-4912 020-676-4343 070-427-0427

US-Consulate United States 19 Lange Voorhout 102

1017 DJ Amsterdam 2514 EJ Den Haag 020-664-5661 070-310-9209

www.Projectvisa.com Tourist visa information for all countries and passport holders.

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 19

FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Are you used to writing checks and mailing them PIN CARDS off with your bills? A debit card which is connected with your bank account. You (or the clerk) swipe your card, Did you normally pay for your groceries with enter your pin code and the bank reports your VISA card? whether or not the funds are available. Are you used to the option of calling your bank‘s customer service department any time 24-hours CHIPPER / CHIPKNIP a day? A method for transactions which cost relatively little. This method requires no pin code making it If you answered ―yes‖ to any of the above less secure than other plastic cards. This is useful questions, you have been or will be shocked with for parking metres and to pay small amounts such the financial actions required in Holland. as bread, newspapers etc.

CHECKS / CHEQUES ELECTRONIC BANKING Personal checks are rarely used in The All Dutch banks offer software which allows you Netherlands as form of payment. If a bank to make payments from your home computer. accepts a personal check, especially an This software is usually available in English and international one, it will be honored only after have added features which assist you in your the check follows a collection process and personal budgeting. probably at a high processing charge. CASH MACHINES CREDIT CARDS Usually marked with the sign, ―geldautomaat,‖ or Visa and some other credit cards are accepted in ―giromaat.‖ These automated teller machines many larger stores. However, it is not typical accept almost every kind of bank card. Just make for grocery stores, smaller shops or shops in the sure to match the symbol(s) on your card with at smaller towns to accept credit cards. least one on the cash dispensing machine.

CASH Several of the popular financial institutions Paying in cash is common and acceptable for include: ABN-AMRO, Fortis Bank, ING, RaboBank even high Euro transactions. Bills of Euros100, and Postbank (the post office). 200 and 500 are not widely accepted in stores. Your best option is probably to locate a bank branch near your home or a location you CURRENCY CONVERSION frequent and open your account there. Most To check the currency conversion, go to adjustments to your account will need to be made www.ex.com at your ―home branch.‖ FINANCIAL FINANCIAL DISTRICT

The front of each coin has a common design for the 12 countries in the euro area. The reverse side displays different designs for each country, created by their own national artists.

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 20

GARBAGE (AFVAL)

The Netherlands is a very environmentally Different Gemeentegids have different rules for conscious country. each city. Contact your local Gemeente Huis for your city‘s rules as the ones mentioned above Many residents discard organic/bio-degradable may not apply to your city! matter in a special white trash LARGE TRASH (grof huisvuil) bag purchased from select AND OTHER TRASH Albert Heijn stores. These Any refuse that is not suitable for the double- white bags are collected, compartment container or collection container usually once a week, from can be taken to the Waste Collection Point. specially marked tiles on the Amstelveen address: Grutterij 26, Amstelveen sidewalk/pavement. Open Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Staff from the waste collection point can be Some cities still issue separate contacted by telephone from Mondays to containers to separate the Thursdays between 8:30 hrs and 16:00 hrs on biodegradable from the paper telephone number: (020) 540 49 11. or synthetic garbage. The green containers are for food/organic matter and the gray containers THE RECYCLING CENTER for everything else. Food may be put in the gray Most towns have a ―dump‖ (GAD) where you can containers, however, non-biodegradable material discard items. This is a free service, within a may not be put in the green container. If you reasonable limit. When dispensing trash at the pack your container incorrectly, the garbage Afval Scheidings Plaats (see your gemeentegids), collector will ignore it and it will still be full at you must be conscious to separate the trash. the end of the day. Some green containers are divided inside. For RECYCLE POINT those containers, the food/organic matter goes UNDAMAGED & CLEAN ITEMS in the front of the bin and everything else goes in The recycle point Kringloopwinkel De Boemerang the back of the holder. The same rule applies to will come and collect these items, or if you wish, these containers as the green-gray ones. If you the items can be taken to De Boemerang. do not follow the directions properly, you may find your container full after collection day.

Get an ‗ophaalkalendar‘ (collection calendar) from your town hall to find out which container is collected on which days.

The earliest you may set out trash is 18:00 on the day before collection.

You can find public containers designated for paper, glass, or textile recycling in many supermarket parking lots. Contact the town hall for a listing of more recycling container sites.

WARNING GARBAGE GARBAGE YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 21

HEALTH CARE

To many newcomers, the system may seem  Methods and philosophy different. However, health care in Holland is a  Manner and approachability very thorough and organized system centered on  Office hours and house calls – Most, if not all, the belief that your body is your responsibility. will bill for appointments that are a ―no show.‖ In the Netherlands, it is unlikely that you will go At the end you may ask yourself, ―Will my entire through unnecessary testing or be given family feel comfortable with this doctor?‖ medications if not clearly indicated. The preferred route towards health includes diet and As there is a shortage of huisartsen, many times exercise along with the curative power of letting there is not a lot of choice in the selection. Many nature take its course filters through the system. times practices are full and the doctor does not Awareness and respect for these beliefs when accept any new patients. That is another reason to accessing the health care system in the consider your choice very carefully. Check with the Netherlands will lead to a more healthy and ISA nurse for a Doctor‘s name. enjoyable stay in this country. When you do arrive at the office for an MEDICAL CARE appointment, ask who is the last person in line One of the first things you should do is find a since the staff will probably not call you Huisarts or Family Practitioner. This person is the by name when your turn comes. medical doctor who is your main contact with the rest of the Dutch health care system. He/she can SPECIALISTS open up doors for you. A specialist, ambulance Though there are specialists in the country, you are or midwife will ask for a huisarts referral. So, as expected to consult with your huisarts before seeing soon as you move into the Netherlands, you one. Your huisarts will provide a written referral. should register your family with a huisarts. This helps keep a highly organized system efficient and thrifty. You can make an appointment with a Most huisartsen work from an office or their specialist if you have private insurance or want a home and treat private patients as well as second opinion, but this is not common practice or government-insured patients. The doctors are much appreciated. very busy, so a scheduled appointment will only last about 10 minutes, but the doctors will make HOSPITALS time for house calls. Choose your huisarts Except in the case of a life-threatening situation, you carefully! It is not customary to ―doctor-shop‖ or must call the huisarts first, before the ambulance or ―doctor-hop―. The Dutch tend to stay with the hospital. In an emergency situation, call the same huisarts for life. Netherlands emergency number: 1-1-2. Many huisartsen have a 24-hour on-call service number so SELECTING A that they, or a colleague, are accessible in case of an

FAMILY PRACTITIONER emergency. HEALTH CARE (HUISARTS) It is customary to choose a huisarts from the If the huisarts or specialist determines you need town in which you live. Find a list of local hospitalization, you must first register your huisartsen in your town‘s telephone book or insurance information and receive a plastic ID card Gemeentegids. Look up Artsen-Huisartsen, or ask or ponskaartje. Each hospital has its own your neighbors for recommendations. Or, find ponskaartje. Your ponskaartje needs to be presented doctors in your area using the website for each service received. www.huisartsen.nl (fill in your postcode in the second text box and click zoek). MEDICINE Your first visit should be an interview in which You may find the following medicines at these the following may be discussed: stores:

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HEALTH CARE

. . . continued from previous page PHARMACY – APOTHEEK All prescription and some non-prescription If you are just curious and want to have an medicines. ultrasound, check out the site www.babyecho.nl.

A brochure of the off-hours pharmacy or The organization, ACCESS, offers English Nachtdienstregeling Apotheek is available at your information on having a baby in Holland. Call local apotheek. It provides you with the name them at 070-346-4625. and address of the pharmacies that will help you at nights and on the week-ends. This Contact the central registration of yoga teachers information is also in your town‘s weekly who are qualified to teach pregnancy courses. newspaper (free distribution at your home) as Their number is 075-687-1757. the locations do change each week. ADDITIONAL MEDICAL INFORMATION The next time you visit your local pharmacy, ask YOU MAY FIND USEFUL them for the listing of the locations which will be open in the nighttime and on the weekends. AIDS Foundation Tel: 020-022-2220 www.aidsfonds.nl DRUG STORE – DROGISTERIJ (Ex: Etos, Kruidvat) Rutgers Stichting Information on sexuality and birth control. Non-prescription medicine, cleaning supplies, www.rutgers.nl baby supplies, cosmetics, toiletries. NL Ministry of Foreign Affairs NATURAL MEDICINE / HEALTH FOOD Find out about ethical issues and policies STORE – REFORMHUIS on drugs, euthanasia and abortion. Vitamins, health food products, herbal teas, www.minbuza.nl/english some fresh produce. Alcoholics Anonymous (in English) OPTICAL CARE Tel: 020-620-6057 Eye doctors are listed in the health care or Gezondheidszorg section of your Gemeentegids. Center for Alcohol and Drugs Routine eye exams are performed at local Tel: 070-391-7800 optical stores. Discuss the cost before the service is received! Optical stores carry glasses, contact lenses and solutions. For special needs, ask your huisarts to refer you to an ophthalmologist or oogarts.

KEY WORDS Police – Politie Fire – Brandweer Doctor - Huisarts Dentist – Tandarts Hospital – Ziekenhuis Pharmacy – Apotheek Veterinarian – Dierenarts

BABY RELATED An excellent website with a lot of information

HEALTH CARE HEALTH about pregnancy-related and child care topics is www.babybox.nl.

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HOLIDAYS

The country celebrates this occasion by shooting fireworks New Year‘s Eve / 31 December/ at midnight to welcome the new year. A Dutch custom is Oudejaarsavond 01 January to eat Oliebollen and Appelflappen on this evening/day. Oud en Nieuw Shops & banks are closed.

Having the same origins as carnival in Rio, this is a time Three days when people go from café to café singing and drinking. preceding Lent - Carnival People dress up, parades go through towns, everybody Six weeks before dances and has fun. Parties in the south of the Easter Netherlands can last for several days.

In the Netherlands, people celebrate Easter Sunday. Easter Monday is a holiday and usually a day off for most Date varies. people in the Netherlands. It is a tradition that small Easter (Pasen) Some time in children hunt for hidden eggs, which are hard boiled and March or April. painted. You can buy delicious chocolate eggs everywhere. Shops are usually closed Monday.

The former Queen Juliana, now a princess, celebrated Queens Day on her birthday, April 30th. When she was queen, she shared her birthday with the whole country. Her daughter Beatrix, the current 30 April queen, maintains this tradition. All over the country Koninginnedag there are festivities, with the most famous, the Koninginnedag - the Is along ‗Vrijmarkt‘ in Amsterdam. All over the city, people Queen‘s Birthday Amsterdamseweg offer their second hand goods for low prices – this will in Amstelveen also happen in most towns. For a good spot, be up early with your children. When in town, you spread out your unwanted goods and people will buy them! Music is everywhere! It is great fun! It is an event you are sure to remember.

Ceremonies are held all over the Netherlands to remember all those who died during the Second World War. Parades are held at the War Remembrance Day Dodenherdenking 04 May Waalsdorpervlakte near Den Haag and at the National Monument on The Dam in Amsterdam. HOLIDAYS From 20:00-20:02 the radios are silent and most people recognize this and sit quietly as well.

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HOLIDAYS

The Dutch celebrate their total liberation from the Liberation Day 05 May occupying forces in 1945. Flags are hung at full-mast.

Every third Tuesday in September is the State Opening of 3rd Tuesday Parliament, called Prinsjesdag. The Queen rides in the Prinsjesdag in September golden coach through the streets of Den Haag to the building of parliament, Het Binnenhof.

One stormy night, Bishop Martinus was riding his horse when he saw a poor beggar. The man was freezing and very hungry. The Bishop cut his cape in two halves as well as his bread. He gave half of each to the beggar and sang, ―this is all I have, so I share it with you.‖ St. Maarten 11 November Now, children celebrate the festival of Sint Maarten every year by making a lampion (paper lantern) and walking in the evening with friends. The children ring the doorbells and sing special songs in exchange for candies, healthy treats or sometimes small change.

Sinterklaas arrives from the south of Spain, by boat, on the third Saturday of November. From that time on, children put a shoe next to the chimney and hope that Sinterklaas will put a little present in it. Of course, Sinterklaas would be very pleased to find a painting or a carrot for the horse in the child‘s shoe. Sinterklaas celebrates his birthday on Sinterklaas 05 December the evening of December 5th when he gives children presents. A whole family will sit together and eat goodies like ‗pepernoten,‘ ‗gevulde speculaas,‘ and chocolate letters and wait anxiously to see what Sinterklaas will bring. His birthday is on the 6th of December. ISA also joins in this festival and Sinterklaas, himself, arrives at school during the morning, visiting classes. This is not a public holiday.

Christmas is celebrated in many countries all over the world. Your personal family‘s customs and traditions 25 December lend to why Christmas may be special to you. Christmas/ 26 December Many view this holiday as too commercial, but keep Kerstmis (Second Day traditions alive (cooking special dinners, decorating trees, of Christmas) listening to carols, etc.) renewing the joy that is associated with the birth of Christ. Post offices, banks and most businesses and most stores are closed.

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 25 HOLIDAYS HOLIDAYS

HOUSING

TO RENT OR TO OWN? This is obviously a personal decision that relies on numerous factors which we cannot decide for  Real estate agents (makelaar). Most deal you in a book (at least not this one). However, with property sales, but can help (or direct we will mention a few points of interest . . . you to help) with rentals. Be sure that they are registered with an association of real  If you buy a house, you get tax relief on the estate agents - NVM, LMV and VBO are mortgage interest payments. some recognizable ones.

 When buying real estate, you pay close to  Rental Agents. These people probably will 11% of the purchase price as a one-time not help find a house to purchase, but they buyers expense. have access to a huge amount of rental properties.  If you rent a house, you avoid a lot of the problems and risks. WARNING:  Any person, two years old and up, intending BE EXTRA-ORDINARILY CAREFUL ABOUT to stay in the Netherlands for more than WHAT YOU SAY. three months must obtain a residence VERBAL CONTRACTS ARE BINDING HERE permit. IN HOLLAND AND YOUR INTENTIONS COULD BE TAKEN AS AN OFFER.  You must apply for a residence permit from BE CAREFUL! the Aliens Police.

 The residence permit will be valid for Americans for a maximum time of one year  International clubs. Sometimes the local and must be renewed upon expiration. EU social groups (American Women‘s Club, citizens must renew, on average, every three etc,) advertise rentals. to five years.  Notice boards. In shop windows,  A Dutch residence permit does not allow the supermarkets, even in the ISA main foyer, holder to live in another European Union you can find houses for rent or sale. Some (EU) country. expats have found great success this way.

WHERE TO FIND YOUR HOUSE WEBSITE RESOURCES HOUSE-HUNTING Okay, you have decided to start looking for a SITES house. You have several paths you can take.  www.koophuis.nl: house for sale portal Following are some:  www.funda.nl: site of the NVM Dutch Makelaars vereniging  Classified ads. The catch here is that all the  www.pararius.nl: available rental properties text will be written in Dutch. in the Netherlands

HOUSING HOUSING

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 26

KITCHEN AIDS NETHERLANDS-RELATED COOKBOOKS  Hollandse Keuken Dutch Cuisine by Henk Brandsen  Dutch Cooking and The Netherlands, by Heleen A.M. Halverhout  The Flavour of Holland, by Hilary Keatinge and Anneke Peters  From Holland With Love, Delicious Dutch Recipes, by Jan Morgan  Holland Days, From: The American‘s Women‘s Club of Amsterdam A collection of American and other international recipes adapted for the Dutch kitchen.  The Netherlands Cookbook, by Heleen Halverhout

SHOPPING, SPECIALTIES, AND FOOD  Albert Heijn near the Bovenkerk in Amstelveen is now open Sunday afternoons!  Bitter‘s – Naarderstraat, Laren – Sells a selection of American and British foods.  Eichholtz – Leidsestraat 48, Amsterdam – A range of international foods.  Kingsalmarkt – Rembrandtweg, Amstelveen – International and American foods sold here. Open Monday mornings, but closed all day Tuesday.  Meidi-Ya – Beethovenstraat 18, Amsterdam – A Japanese grocery.  Moll‘s Delicatessen – Huiserweg, Bussum – Sells international specialty foods.  Okura Hotel – Ferdinand Bolstraat, Amsterdam – Sells Japanese products.  Oscars – Groenelaan, Amstelveen. – Selection of international foods. Delivers on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.  A Taste of Ireland – Herengracht 228, Amsterdam – Selection of Irish and British foods.

 Theeboom Supermarket – Maasstraat 18 – A kosher store that is open on Sundays. A kosher butcher is located across the road. Delivers on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.  Dominoes, Pizza Donna, Al Capones, and New York Pizza are some pizza delivery services found in most major towns.

MARKETS Market Days are in every town and village, one day a week. Here you can buy a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as fresh fish, fresh baked products, poultry, and clothes. In fact, you are guaranteed to find almost anything you could be looking for. Your town‘s market day is well worth a visit.

Following are some of the area markets: Albert Cuypmarkt – General Goods – Location: Albert Cuypstraat – Monday-Saturday 9:30-17:00 Antiekmarkt de Looier – Antiques – Location: Elandsgracht 109 – Saturday-Wednesday 11:00-17:00 and Thursday 11:00-21:00 Amstelveen Bio Market—Tuesday Stadplein Amstelveen Bloemenmarkt – Flowers – Location: Singel – Monday-Saturday 9:30-17:00 Kunstmarkt Thorbeckplein – Art – Location: Thorbeckplein – Saturday 10:30-18:00 Flea Market – Waterlooplein – Monday – Saturday 9:00-17:00 Lapjesmarkt – Fabrics – Location: Westerstraat – Monday 9:00-13:00 Boerenmarkt – Biological Fresh Market – Location: – Saturday 9:00-17:00 Stadshart Amstelveen – General goods (fresh food, clothing, household goods, etc.) For shopping hours go to www.stadshartamstelveen.nl/

continued on next page . . . KITCHEN AIDES AIDES KITCHEN

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KITCHEN AIDES

. . . continued from previous page

SHOPPING LIST, FRUITS AND VEGETABLES VEGETABLES GROENTEN Artichokes Artisjokken Asparagus Asperges FRUIT VRUCHTEN Beans Bonen Apples Appelen Beets Bieten Applesauce Appelmoes Broad Beans Tuinbonen Apple-Eating Handappel Brussel Sprouts Spruitjes Apple-Stewing Stoofappel Cabbage Kool Apricots Abrikozen Capsicum Paprika Bananas Bananen Carrot Wortel Berries Bessen Cauliflower Bloemkool Blackcurrant Zwarte Bes Celery Bleekselderij Blueberries Bosbesen Celery Root Knolselderij Cherries Kersen Chinese Cabbage Chinese Kool Chestnuts Kastanje Corn (Sweet) Mais Dates Dadels Cucumber Komkommer Dried Currant Krenten Eggplant Aubergine Figs Vijgen Endive Witlof Gooseberries Kruisbessen Escarole Andijvie Grapefruit Pampelmoes Fennel Venkel Grapes Druiven Field Lettuce Veldsla Juniper Berry Jeneverbes Kale Boerenkool Lemon Citroen Leek Prei Melon Meloen Lettuce Sla Nuts Noten Marrowfat Peas Kapucijner Oranges Sinaasappelen Mushroom Champignon Peaches Perziken Onion Ui/Uien Pears Peren Peas Doperwten Pineapple Ananas Pickles Augurken Plums Pruimen Potatoes Aardappelen Pumpkin Pompoen KITCHEN AIDES Radishes Radijsjes Raisins Rozijnen Red Cabbage Rode Kool Rasberries Frambozen Spinach Spinazie Redcurrants Rode Bessen String Beans Sperziebonen Rhubarb Rabarber Tomatoes Tomaten Strawberries Aardbeien White Cabbage Witte Kool Tangerines Mandarijnen Winter Carrot Winter Peen Seedless Zonder pit

Zucchini Courgette continued on next page . . .

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 28

KITCHEN AIDES

. . . continued from previous page SHOPPING LIST, FISH FISH VIS FISH VIS Carp Karper Kippered Herring Kippertjes Catfish Meerval Lobster Kreeft FISH VIS Cod Kabeljauw Mackerel Makreel Shrimps Garnalen Crab Krab Mussels Mosselen Smelt Spiering Eel Paling Oysters Oesters Smoked Eel Gerookte Paling Flounder Bot Plaice Schol Sole Tong Haddock Schelvis Salmon Zalm Trout Forel Halibut Heilbot Sardine Sardientje Tuna Tonijn Herring Haring Sea Pike Geep Turbot Tarbot

SHOPPING LIST, HERBS / SPICES

HERB/SPICE KRUIDEN HERB/SPICE KRUIDEN HERB/SPICE KRUIDEN Basil Basilicum Dill Dille Pepper Peper Bayleaf Laurierblad Garlic Knoflook Rosemary Rozemarijn Capers Kappertjes Horseradish Mierikswortel Sage Salie Chives Bieslook Mace Foelie Salt Zout Cinnamon Kaneel Nutmeg Nootmuskaat Sugar Suiker Cloves Kruidnagelen Parsley Peterselie Tarragon Dragon

SHOPPING LIST, SOUP SOUP SOEP SOUP SOEP Soup Meat Soepvlees Brisket pieces stewing meat Poulet Soup of the Day Dag Soep Shin bone with meat Schenkel met been

SHOPPING LIST, BAKERY ITEMS THE BAKERY DE BAKKERIJ THE BAKERY DE BAKKERIJ Bread Brood French Bread Stokbrood Cookies / Biscuits Koekjes Pastries Gebak Bread with nuts and raisins Muesli Brood

You may find a variety of breads and rolls: with or without (met or zonder) seeds, white or brown (witte of bruin), etc. The assistant will always ask ―gesneden?― which means would you like the loaf sliced?

continued on next page . . . KITCHEN AIDES AIDES KITCHEN YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 29

KITCHEN AIDES

. . . continued from previous page SHOPPING LIST, CHEESE THE CHEESE SHOP DE KAASWINKEL Old Cheese Oude Kaas Farmers‘ Cheese Boerenkaas (Strong Taste) Older, More Crumbly Extra Belegen Goat Cheese Geitekaas (8-9 months) Ripened (Medium Taste) Belegen Kaas Kind of Danish Blue Blauwfort (5-7 months) Mild in Taste Cheese Spread Licht Belegen Smeerkaas (2-4 months) (Goudkuipje is good) Very Mild Young Cheese Jonge Kaas Holland is famous for cheese. You can visit some cheese farms to see how the cheese is actually made. In the summer, Alkmaar, Gouda, and Edam hold special cheese markets where you can see men in tra- ditional costumes carrying cheese the old-fashioned way.

SHOPPING LIST, DAIRY PRODUCTS DAIRY PRODUCTS ZUIVELPRODUCTEN Butter Boter Milk Melk Butter for Frying,/Baking Braadboter Skim Milk Magere melk Margarine Margarine Lowfat/Semiskimmed Halfvolle Egg / Eggs Ei / eieren Whole/Full Cream Milk Volle melk ―Free Range‖ Hen Eggs Scharrel Eieren Butter Milk Karnemelk Cream Room Milk Powder Melkpoeder Coffee Cream Koffieroom Dutch Milk for Coffee Koffiemelk Yogurt Yoghurt Whipping Cream Slagroom Thick cream is not common. To make slagroom thicker, when beating, use ‗slagroom versteviger’ which can be found in the baking ingredients section of the supermarket. Italian mascarpone is also available and is a good substitute when needing very thick cream.

‗Vla’ is the Dutch custard or pudding. It comes in a variety of flavors that children (and adults) love. KITCHEN AIDES ‗Dubbelvla’ is two flavors in one pack, which pours out exactly as that.

NATURAL MEDICINE/HEALTH FOOD Albert Heijn‘s private label of organic products are called ―Biologisch.‖ These products include everything from beer to yoghurt and back to bread and are produced free of pesticides, artificial colorants and preservatives. Albert Hein will also indicate on their brand products if an article is gluten and/or lactose free.

continued on next page . . . YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 30

KITCHEN AIDES

. . . continued from previous page SHOPPING LIST, MEATS Meat from Holland usually has no bones and has very little fat. Ask your butcher to special-cut pieces for you if you would like meat with a bone. In general, the Dutch tend not to roast their meat, but ‗brazen‘ it (prepare the meat on the stove). Sear the meat, add butter and cover. Occasionally turn the meat until it becomes evenly brown. Since there are so many types of meat, you may encounter something which you do not know how to prepare. Always ask your butcher for proper cooking instructions.

PIG/PORK VARKENSVLEES Chops Karbonaden Miscellaneous Pieces Varkenslappen Loin Chop Haaskarbonade Best Quality ―Lappen‖ Hamlappen Rib Chop Ribkarbonade Cut from Underside Doorregen Speklappen Shoulder Chop Schouderkarbonade Shoulder Piece Schouderlappen Pork Fillet Varkensfilet All Rolled Pork Roast Varkensrollade Rump Fricandeau Spare Ribs Krabbetjes Hot Dogs Knakworstjes Smoked Sausage Rookworst Bacon Spek Ham (sandwich meat) Achterham or Beenham are best Thick Bacon Slices Bakbacon Very Thin Bacon Slices Ontbijtspek Ground Pork Varkensgehakt

CALF/VEAL KALFSVLEES Veal Fillets Kalfsoesters Veal Steak Kalfsbiefstukje Veal Cutlets Kalfskoteletten Veal Rump Kalfsfricandeau Rolled Roast of Veal Kalfsrollade

COW/BEEF RUNDVLEES Steak Biefstuk Filet Mignon Biestuk van de Haas Whole Filet Ossehaas Rib Eye Steak Kogelbiefstuk Tournedos Tournedos Entrecote Entrecote Roast Beef Rosbief Sirloin/Porterhouse Lendebiefstuk/Contrefilet Rolled Roast Rollade T-Bone Steak Entrecote met Lendenwervel Rib Piece Riblappen Less Tender Cut – Rump Lendelappen Shoulder Piece Sukade Lappen Miscellaneous from Steer Runderlappen/Stooflappen Ground Meat/Mince Gehakt Ground Veal Kalfsgehakt Ground Beef Rundergehakt Ground Pork and Beef Half Om Half Lean Ground Beef Eaten Raw Tartaar

LAMB LAMSVLEES Leg of Lamb Lamsbout KITCHEN AIDES AIDES KITCHEN YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 31

KITCHEN AIDES

MEASURES

SOME DUTCH WEIGHTS = OTHER DUTCH WEIGHTS 100 grams = 1 Dutch ounce (ons) 5 Dutch ounces = 1 Dutch pound (pond) 10 Dutch ounces = 1 Dutch Kilogram (kilo)

AMERICAN / BRITISH WEIGHTS = DUTCH WEIGHTS Half ounce = 15 grams 1 oz. = 30 grams 1 3/4 oz. = 50 grams 3 1/2 oz. = 100 grams 4 oz. or 1/4 lb. = 115 grams 8 oz. or 1/2 lb. = 230 grams 16 oz. or 1 lb. = 460 grams

1 quart = 1 liter (10 deciliters) 1 pint = 5 deciliters (a half-liter) 1 cup = 2 1/2 deciliters (a quarter liter) 1 US gallon = 3.78 liters

FAHRENHEIT = CENTIGRADE 265 = 130 300 = 150 335 = 170 350 = 180 375 = 190 390 = 200 KITCHEN AIDES 450 = 230 465 = 240

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 32

PERMITS

 Any person, two years old and up, intending  The residence permit should be valid for a to stay in the Netherlands for more than maximum time of one year and must be three months must obtain a residence renewed upon expiration. European Union permit. (EU) citizens must renew, on average, every three to five years.  You must apply for a residence permit from the Foreign Police (Vreemdelingen Politie)  A Dutch residence permit does NOT allow within eight days of arrival to the the holder to live in another EU country. Netherlands.

PETS

Like many countries, the Dutch has a vast array recommend one. of animals to choose from for a pet. Anything from dogs, cats, birds, fish, rabbits, hamsters, Other services available include animal hospitals, guinea pigs, rats, ferrets, snakes, turtles, spiders, ambulances and crematoriums. You can also find and even ponies, pigs, sheep and more. people who will walk your dog while you work or play. You must register your dog at the City Hall (Gemeentehuis). There are many pet shops which sell a variety of animals, pet food and accessories. Dog owners must pay an annual tax (Hondenbelasting). If you want to buy a pet through a recognized Rates increase for additional breeder, look under Raad van Beheer op dogs. This tax does not apply Kynologishe Gebied in Nederland. to other types of pets. If you would rather acquire your future family Medical care for your pet should be first-rate. member from the animal homeless shelter, look Find a nearby dierenarts (veterinarian) in the under dierenasiel. yellow pages or ask neighbors or friends to

POST OFFICES

The Dutch Postal System is privatized. Post phone cards, mobile telephone offices are located throughout every town and subscriptions, and a wide variety of neighborhood. Mail is delivered Monday through stationery supplies including Saturday though most post offices are not open shipping materials are usually on Saturdays. A few offices in Amsterdam are available. open Saturday mornings. Additionally, larger post offices carry greeting At the post office, strippenkaarts (see cards, gift wrap, small gifts, and magazines. Transportation) can be purchased. These tram/ Mailboxes on the street are orange. bus passes are an economical choice for frequent users of the mass transit system. Money orders, PERMITS ◊ PETS ◊ POST PETS OFFICES ◊ POST ◊ PERMITS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 33

READING RESOURCES

WHAT IS IT? WHAT KIND OF INFORMATION IS IN The Gemeentegids is an annual booklet printed IT? by the City Hall or Gemeentehuis that lists local The Gemeentegids contains information regarding services and organizations, with phone numbers, everything from emergency numbers or addresses, hours and some brief descriptions. alarmnummers, to art and culture, to sports and HOW DO I GET ONE? recreation, to medical and health information. Each year the Gemeentehuis sends an updated issue to each resident of its town. You may also get one by picking it up at your Gemeetehuis or having them mail you one.

 Act Normal! 99 Tips for Dealing with www.xpat.nl/index1.html the Dutch or try www.hollandhandbook.com by Hans Kaldenback.  Inside Information  ADD by Carol Gelderman-Curtis and Nyks- Boekhandel Van Rossum Corkum. A practical guide to living in Beethovenstraat 32 Holland with useful advice. 1077 JH Amsterdam Tel: +31-(0)70-517-8951 Tel: +31-(0)20-470-7077 Kidsgids English-The Children‘s Guide to the [email protected] Netherlands www.kidsgids.nl Discover the www.boekhandelvanrossum.nl Netherlands with your children. Book  Amsterdam packed with ideas and comprehensive info by Knopf Guides Series. for children.  At Home in Holland  Living in the Netherlands by The American Women‘s Club of The by Jane Meijlink. Hague. A practical guide for foreigners  The Low Sky, Understanding the Dutch. who have moved to The Netherlands. by Han van der Horst. Tel: +31-(0)70-350-6007. www.scriptum.nl  The Blue Guide to Holland  The Low Sky in Pictures. by John Tomes. by Han van der Horst.  D is for Dutch www.scriptum.nl by Jules Farber.  Minding your Manners.  Dealing with the Dutch by Tirion. A guide to Dutch business and by Jacob Vossestein. social etiquette. READING RESOURCES  The Dutch Today www.etiquette-berman.nl by Frank E. Huggett.  Roaming Around Holland  The Embarrassment of Riches by Patricia C. Erikson and Sheila Gazaleh- by Simon Schama. Weevers. An interpretation of Dutch culture in the  Slow Walks in Amsterdam Golden Age. by Michael Leitch.  Find it in ‘tGooi  A Time Out Guide to Amsterdam. From: Bussum VVV, a library, or The A more alternative approach to the city. American Women‘s Club.  The Undutchables  Here’s Holland. by Colin White and Laurie Boucke. A by Sheila Gazaleh-Weevers. A guide to humorous view of the Dutch culture. cities, sites, excursions and loads more. www.undutchables.com www.heresholland.com  When Abroad - do as local Children do as local  Holland handbook.. continued on next page . . . YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 34

READING RESOURCES

. . . continued from previous page LIBRARY (BIBLIOTHEEK) In every town you will find a library (bibliotheek). Most of the libraries will have books in English and As it rains frequently in The Netherlands, the other foreign languages (German, French), as well library is a good place to seek shelter. as a good supply of children's books. Next to that, they often have a reading room where you will find Amstelveen Library: foreign papers. Stadsplein 102. Opening hours: Monday 13.00- Most libraries have computer access. In some 20.00, Tuesday-Thursday 11.00-20.00, Friday- libraries it is also possible to rent CD‘s. Saturday 11.00-17.00 *Is open on the first Sunday of the month—same as the Amstelveen Mall Books (and more) in English Only:  American Discount Book Center Tel: 020-625-5537.  The English Bookshop. Lauriergracht 71, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-626-4230.  Waterstone‘s. Kalverstraat 152, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-638-3821.

Book (and more) in English and Dutch:  De Slegte. Kalverstraat 48-52, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-622-5933.  Book Discount. Kalverstraat 223, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-624-9789.  Scheltema Holkema Vermeulen. 16, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-523-1411.

Eastern European:  Pegasus. Singel 367, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-623-1138.

French:  Athenaeum Boekhandel BV, Spui 14 16, Amsterdam Tel: 020-514-1460

Italian:  Bonardi Libreria. Entrepotdoklaan 26, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-623-9844.

Japanese:  Winkeltje. Nieuwezijdse Voorburgwal 175, Amsterdam Tel: 020-627-9523.  The Okura Hotel: Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-679-9238.

Spanish/Portuguese/Latin American:  Boekencentrum. Jose Marti, Herengracht 259, Amsterdam.

Foreign Language Educational Bookstore:  Intertaal. Van Baerlestraat 76, Amsterdam. Tel: 020-575-6756.  Boekhandel Van Rossum. Beethovenstraat 32, 1077 JH Amsterdam, 020-4707077 www.boekhandelvanrossum.nl READING RESOURCES RESOURCES READING YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 35

SHOPPING

Normal shopping hours in the which is in Amsterdam. There is another in the Netherlands are: Mondays after Rembranthof section of Amstelveen Centrum. 13:00 (or closed for the whole day) and Tuesday through  Decathlon – Specializes in sporting goods. Saturday from 09:00 until 17:00. Ballet, basketball, bikes, camping, football (soccer), judo, roller blading, tennis, weight Large grocery stores are generally open until 20:00 machines and more. Located near the Arena. (Park in P1.) on week days and until 18:00 on Saturdays. Most of the little local shops will close between 15:00  HEMA – An inexpensive, good quality store and 17:00. Many Albert Heijn are open till 22.00. found in most major towns. (check for details).  Het Oosten – Gigantic gardening shop with real Most stores are closed on Sundays except for and fake flowers, patio furniture, pots, and some shops in Amsterdam and in designated much more. ―tourist towns‖ where it is acceptable for stores to open in the afternoon. Each town also has a  IKEA – A large scale, generally good quality koopzondag on either the first or last Sunday of the furniture chain-store. month.  Intratuin—Plants and Gardening Store.

Do not be surprised if some smaller shops are  MediaMarkt – Electronics and more. Full range closed during their ―lunch hour‖ (generally around of televisions, household appliances, cameras, 13:00 to 15:00). computers, radios, and more. Located near the Arena. (Park in P1.)stores found in many cities. One evening a week the shops are open until 21:00. This is called ‗Koopavond‘. Late shopping  Praxis, Gamma, and Karwei – Major hardware/ night differs in each city or village. For example, in do-it-yourself shops. Amsterdam and Amstelveen, it is on Thursday night. In Bussum, ‗Koopavond‘ occurs on Friday  Villa Arena – Not a shop, but a massive night. collection of furniture shops. Located next to the Arena. Stadhouderstade 4, Amsterdam

SHOPS ‘TIL YOU DROP  Vroom & Dreesman – A department store There are a couple of popular department stores in found in most towns and large shopping areas. the Netherlands. Those and some other specialty One of these stores can also be found in shops are: Amstelveen Centrum, in the Binnenhof section.

 BCC – Electronics and household goods  Zara—men, women, children, & household goods.  Bever Sports—Camping, hiking, & outdoor There are many more reputable shops offering quality sports apparel and equipment. merchandise. Ask friends and neighbors to recommend shops when you are searching for something specific.  Blokker – Good household and appliance store found in most major towns. SHOPPING

 C&A – Clothing store found in many of the larger towns of the Netherlands.

 De Bijenkorf – A traditional department store, the largest of continued on next page . . . YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 36

SHOPPING

. . .continued from previous page INTERNATIONAL CLOTHING AND SHOE SIZES

These sizes are onlyNL approximate!FR It is alwaysDE betterIT to try thingsSCAN on, especiallyES shoes.GB US 34 38/34N 34 36 36 40 8/30 6 36 40/36N 36 38 38 42 10/32 8 Ladies’ 38 42/38N 38 40 40 44 12/34 10 Clothes 40 44/40N 40 42 42 46 14/36 12 42 46/42N 42 44 44 48 16/38 14 44 48/44N 44 46 46 50 18/40 16 36 36 36 36 36 36 3 5 37 37 37 37 37 37 4 6 Ladies’ 38 38 38 38 38 38 5 7 Shoes 39 39 39 39 39 39 6 8 40 40 40 40 40 40 7 9 46 46 46 46 46 46 36 36 48 48 48 48 48 48 38 38 50 50 50 50 50 50 40 40 Men’s 52 52 52 52 52 52 42 42 Shoes 54 54 54 54 54 54 44 44 56 56 56 56 56 56 46 46 58 58 58 58 58 58 48 48 36 36 36 36 36 36 14 14 37 37 37 37 37 37 14.5 14.5 38 38 38 38 38 38 15 15 39 39 39 39 39 39 15.5 15.5 Men’s 40 40 40 40 40 40 15.75 15.75 Shirts 41 41 41 41 41 41 16 16 42 42 42 42 42 42 16.5 16.5 43 43 43 43 43 43 17 17 44 44 44 44 44 44 17.5 17.5 40 40 40 40 40 40 7 7.5 41 41 41 41 41 41 7.5 8 42 42 42 42 42 42 8 8.5 Men’s 43 43 43 43 43 43 8.5 9 Shoes 44 44 44 44 44 44 9 9.5 45 45 45 45 45 45 9.5 10 46 46 46 46 46 46 10 10.5

In Europe, a child’s height in centimeters determines the clothes size (92, 128, 164, etc.). To calculate

SHOPPING Dutch shoe sizes, multiply the foot length in centimeters by 1.5 (20 cm x 1.5 = size 30).

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 37

SOCIAL GROUPS

A volunteer organization providing athletic (baseball and American Baseball Deijlerweg 155 more) programs for children ages four and up. They also Foundation 2240 AC Wassenaar offer opportunities for adults to play friendly, organized (ABF) www.abf-sport.nl games. Members come from many nationalities - programs are in English. Societeit de Witte Access is a group aimed at helping the Plein 24 English speaking community in areas of relocation, ACCESS 2511 CS, Den Haag counseling, and offers courses on Tel: 070-346-2525 having a baby in Holland, as well as job finding. contact@amsterdam- A non-profit association of French-speaking women living Accueil Amsterdam accueil.org in or around Amsterdam Cultural activities (lectures and discussion) and French Alliance Française, Kettingstraat 2 language tuition on an individual La Haye 2511 AN Den Haag or group basis in and around the Hague. General meetings held September to June American Women‘s Club Postbus 70133 on the first Thursday of the month, at Of Amsterdam 1007 KC, Amsterdam Go to www.awca.nl, for meeting location (AWCA) Tel: 020-644-3531 In Amsterdam A friendly group of mostly older women from France, Amitié Club de la Haye Tel: 070-387-0112 Belgium, Switzerland and Canada (French) who meet regularly for social events and lectures. Amsterdam British Keizergracht 343 British group based in Amsterdam. Council 1016 EH, Amsterdam A worldwide, non-profit club dedicated to Amsterdam Toastmasters improving your public speaking skills. Regular meetings are held twice a month. British Society Postbus 7429 This society brings together English-speaking people to of Amsterdam 1007 JK Amsterdam enjoy social, sporting and cultural events. Postbus 89 Canadian Women‘s Club of Social club offering a various events and information to 2240 AB Den Haag the Hague Canadian expatriates living in the Netherlands. Tel: 070-517-8935 English Speaking Contact About 60 families, with a very active mums and tots 020-555-3340 Group of Haarlam group. They also organize a variety of ad hoc events. Vijzelgracht 2A Maison Descartes is a French institute in the Maison Descartes—Institut Amsterdam Netherlands, which provided among others French Francais des Pays-Bas Tel: 020-539-1501 language courses and organizes cultural events. www.maisondescartes.com Postbus 3722 IWC is an organization which offers women of all

International Women‘s GROUPSSOCIAL 1001 AM Amsterdam nationalities opportunities to meet in friendship and Contact Amsterdam [email protected] understanding. There are monthly meetings. The ROBBEBURG is an international play group with Dutch, English, Japanese, and Swiss children. It is a non- The ROBBEBURG Tel: 020-640-5647 profit organization run on a voluntary basis by the parents. Children, age 1-4, attend the ROBBEBURG with their mother or caregiver. The Netherlands Main contact point for www.sna-nl.org Association all Singaporeans living in the Netherlands. Postbus 90291 This is for female executives in business ―Women‘s International 1006 BG Amsterdam and other professions. Network (‗WIN‘)‖. Tel: 070-383-9672 Web: [email protected] YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 38

TAXES (BELASTINGEN)

If the accompanying partner is not working, you may apply for a tax deduction called Heffingskorting op inkomstenbelasting.

Because the tax laws in the Netherlands change often, you are advised to consult a reputable tax advisor (belasting adviseur) to ensure proper procedures are followed. People residing in the Netherlands are subject to many types of taxes. Some include: PERSONAL INCOME TAX (Inkomsten-belasting)

Tax on a resident‘s worldwide income. Anyone liable for income tax must acquire a social fiscal (sofi) number. The local tax office will help you apply for the number when you provide them with proof of residency paper (many employers will arrange this).

PROPERTY TAX (Onroerend goed belasting)

If you rent, the bill is split between you and the owner. Along with the property tax, a variety of street, polder, and garbage-collection taxes may be assessed. These extra taxes amount to a small fee.

DOG TAX (Hondenbelasting)

Annual tax only for dog owners. The rate increases for multiple dogs. This tax does not apply to other types of pets. Register your dog at the City Hall (Gemeentehuis).

RADIO AND TELEVISIONS TAX (Luister en Kijkgeld)

Tax for the privilege of owning a radio or a television set, regardless of working (or non-working) condition of the appliance(s) or the channel(s) you listen to or watch. This is in addition to the yearly fee you pay for cable. Obtain a registration form from the post-office.

ROAD TAX (Wegenbelasting)

Payable for each car you own. The amount is based on the weight of your car(s) and its fuel type. Obtain a registration form from the post office.

VALUE ADDED TAX (BTW)

A 19 % value-added tax added to the cost of most goods and services (normally included in the price).

KINDERBIJSLAG

EU nationals who fall under the 30% tax ruling may be eligible for a small return in the form of the ―children‘s allowance‖ (kinderbijslag). Families with children may be entitled to this quarterly allowance instead of receiving tax deductions. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to qualify for kinderbijslag, Application forms can be obtained from the post-office and must be made in the name of the mother.

TAXES (BELASTINGEN) TAXES YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 39

TELEPHONE SYSTEM

All telephone numbers in the Netherlands Calls to 0800 numbers are free of charge. consist of two parts: Calls to 0900 incur a charge set by the receiver.  the area code (0 + two, or more, digits) These costs vary.  and the individual number.

If you want to make a call to another number THE TELEPHONE BOOK with your same area code (a local call), just dial The Netherlands telephone book (Telefoongids), the last seven numbers. has the names listed alphabetically by last name,  Example: area code 020 calling another then by street name. First names or initials do number within the 020 code, dial 555-5555. not play any role. Dutch names, such as van den Berg are listed under B, not v. For example, van When calling a different area code, dial the area den Berg, R.J. who lives on Alphastraat is found code first, then the individual number. under B and first on the list. The character ‗ij‘is  Example: area code 020 calling a number considered ‗y‘ and will be found in the telephone with the 068 code, dial 068-555-5555. book following the letter ‗x‘. To call into The Netherlands from outside the You will automatically receive a local telephone country, dial the appropriate international access book from the KPN. Telephone books from code (standardizing to 00 within Europe), then other towns can be ordered at a small cost from 31 (for The Netherlands) and the last digits of the KPN. the area code., followed by the seven digit phone Telephone directories for major cities throughout number. the Netherlands are often on display and freely  Example: calling Amsterdam from outside available for use in larger post offices. The Netherlands, dial 00-31-20-555-5555. You can also find additional information on the internet. Go to www.detelefoongids.com to find To make an international call, dial 00 (the the information on-line. international access code), then country code number, the area code, and the private number. DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE  Example: calling Mr. Smith in New York, Numbers within the Netherlands: 0900-8008. USA, dial 00-1-212-555-5555. Numbers outside the Netherlands: 0900-8418.

All area codes are listed in the first few pages of When you call these numbers, you will probably your telephone directory. hear a recording in Dutch. The voice is saying, ―There are . . . people ahead of you.‖ Wait for a All telephone calls, even local ones, will incur non-recorded voice – an operator will help you. some charge. SYSTEMTELEPHONE TELEPHONE COMPANY Calling card companies can be accessed by CONTACT INFORMATION dialing 06-022-9111 (AT&T) and 06-022-9122 If you need to reach KPN customer service, their (MCI) and 0800-022-9111 (Sprint) - Sprint‘s hours are: international access number is 06-022-9119. Monday - Friday 08:00 - 22:00 Saturday 08:00 - 18:00 The service line is: 0800-0402. The website is: www.kpn.com

When answering your telephone, you should say, ―Met __(your name)__ .‖ The Dutch identify themselves when they answer the telephone and expect you to do the same.

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 40

TRANSLATIONS

accountant accountant confectioners banketbakkerij airline luchtvaartmaatschappij cosmetologist schoonheidsspecialist airport luchthaven / vliegveld crafts handwerkartikelen ambulance ambulance dentist tandarts art gallery kunsthandel/galerie/museum department store warenhuis artists‘ supplies kunstnijverheid dermatologist specialist dermatoloog attorney notaris/advocaat/procureur dietician dietiste auction veiling D.I.Y. doe-het-zelf auction house venduhuis doctor huisarts/arts specialist arts and crafts kunstnijverheid dog kennel hondenkennel/dierenpension baby goods baby artikelen dog salon hondentrimsalon babysitter babysit/oppas dress rental (evening) kledingverhuur bakery bakkerij/brood & banket dressmaker naaister/kleermakerij barber herenkapper dress material modestoffen bathroom badkamer driving school rijscholen bathroom goods sanitaire artikelen drugstore drogisterij beautician schoonheidssalon dry cleaner stomerij bicycle fiets/rijwiel electrical appliance electrische apparaten bookshop boekhandel embassy ambassade/consulate builder aannemer emergency numbers alarmnummers burglar alarm alarminstallatie employment (gov‘t) ardbeidsbureau butcher slager employment (private) uitzendburo car dealer auto-dealer estate agent makelaar car parts auto-onderdelen fire brigade brandweer carpenter timmerman fish (monger) vis (handel) carpet tapijt flower shop bloemen en planten car rental autoverhuur formal dress gelegenheidskleding car repair garage furnishing materials meubelfournituren central heating centrale verwarming furniture meubelen cheese kaas furniture storage opslag inboedels chemist/prescriptions apotheek garden center tuincentrum chemist (other) drogist garden-landscaping tuin land schapsarchitectuur children‘s clothing kinderkleding gifts geschenkartikelen/kados children‘s hospital kinderziekenhuis golf courses golfbanen chimney sweep schoorsteenveger greengrocer groetenboer chiropodist pedicure groceries levensmiddelen chiropractor manueel therapeut gynacologist gynaecoloog church kerk hairdresser (dames)kapper cinema bioscoop hardware store ijzerhandel clothing alterations kleding reparaties health club fitness centrum TRANSLATIONS TRANSLATIONS YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 41

TRANSLATIONS

health food reform/natuurvoeding pediatrician kinderarts home furnishing huishoudtextiel pedicure pedicure/voetverzorging horticulturist tuinders pest control ongediertebestrijding en hospital ziekenhuis ontsmetting house cleaning schoonmaakbedrijf pet shop dierenwinkel ice rink ijsbaan pharmacy apotheek insurance verzekering photography shop fotozaak interior design binnenhuisarchitect physiotherapist fysiotherapie iron mongery ijzerwaren piano tuner pianostemmer/reparateur jeweler juwelier picture framer lijsten makerij key cutting sleutel/slot service plumber loodgieter kitchen keuken police politie ladies‘ clothing dameskleding post office postkantoor language school talenonderwijs poultry shop poelier launderette wassalon produce (vegetables) groenten lawyer advocaat railway station spoorwegstation leather goods lederwaren realtor makelaar legal advice advocaat removal firm verhuisbedrijf leisure pool golfbad riding stable manege library bibliotheek roofing service dakbedekkings bedrijf lighting verlichting safe brandkast/kluis luggage koffers en tassen maternity clothes positiekleding solicitor advocaat medical services kruisverenigingen stationary boeken en tijdschriften men‘s wear herenkleding supermarket supermarkt/levensmiddelen motorcycle bromfiets/motor swimming pool zwembad movies films tailor kleermaker moving companies verhuizingen tax consultant belastingadviseur museums musea theater schouwburg/concertzaal music school conservatorium/muziekschool timber merchant houthandel newsstand kiosk tools gereedschappen

nursery (plants) kwekerij town hall gemeentehuis TRANSLATIONS notary notaris toys speelgoed office supplies kantoor-benodigheden travel agent reisburo optician opticien upholsterer stoffeerder paint lak/verf veterinarian dierenarts painters schilders window cleaner glazenwasser party dresses/goods feestartikelen window repair glashandel party ware feestartikelen wood supply houthandel

YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 42

TRANSPORTATION HELP VIA THE WEB

9292 has been and still is the leading expert on travel information using Dutch public transportation for over 15 years. It,s best-known services are:  telephone service 0900 - 9292  the internet site www.9292ov.nl  the mobile service mobiel.9292ov.nl.

0900-9292 0900-9292 is the phone number for complete, current and personal travel advice with all form of public transport in the Netherlands. 9292 offer travel info on your mobile phone. This free mobile service also offers delays and pricing information. Travel advise from home: 0900-9292 (€ 0,70 p/m / max. € 14,-)

www.9292ov.nl—English or Dutch 9292 introduced a Dutch planner that combines car and public transport advises. It tells exactly which means of transportation is the fastest to get to your destination. www.9292ov.nl offers names of public transport providers. Use this website to help you plan your journey by inputting the TO/FROM destinations, time of travel, and means of travel (tram, ferry, bus).

Car & Public Transport 9292 recently started giving information on car routes and P+R-traveling, a combination of car and public transport, including information on parking and expected traffic jams. You will find this information on http://routeplanner.9292ov.nl/ (in Dutch).

HELP VIA THE WEB WEB THE VIA HELP Ticket Prices

— www.9292ov.nl gives you ticket prices for bus, tram, and the metro and where to purchase train tickets, too. Information about OV-chipkaart, prices, and where to purchase OV-chipkaarts is available at this website also.

MILES = KILOMETERS .62 = 1 1 = 1.6 62 = 100 100 = 161 TRANSPORTATION YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 43

TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR

When you leave your house with the destination of Centrum or ―city center‖ in mind, you have a wide variety of transportation choices: train, tram (streetcar), bus, metro (underground metro only in Amsterdam and Rotterdam), taxi, bicycle, car or by foot. Each mode of transportation has its own set of rules and customs.

DRIVER'S LICENSE BASICS Residents of the Netherlands, over the age of 18, are required to have a Dutch driver's license when driving a motor vehicle. (A resident is one who spends at least 185 days per calendar year in the Netherlands.)

A few exceptions are as following:  If you have a driver's license issued from: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, or the United Kingdom, you are entitled to drive in the Netherlands on your foreign license for one year after registering as a Dutch resident. To use your license for more than one year, you must register at municipal offices. It will then be good for ten years after the original issuance of the license.  If your driver's license was issued in any other country, you may drive in the Netherlands on your foreign license for a period of six months (185 days) after registering as a Dutch resident. After six months, you must take a driving test in the Netherlands to acquire a Dutch driving license, or exchange your own, foreign license for a Dutch one. Special rules apply to those who have been accorded diplomatic or consular staff status, as well their families.

Contact the Dutch Road Traffic and Transport Authority or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Protocol Department) for more information.

Furthermore, you must be at least 18 years of age to drive a car in the Netherlands.

WARNING: When applying for a DUTCH license, be sure to request that your U.S. driver‘s license be returned by mail. Otherwise, authorities will retain it permanently.

closed to motor overtaking prohibited maximum end of closed to closed to no entry for all do not enter vehicles except for all 2+ wheeled speed limit speed limit all vehicles motorcycles motor vehicles motorcycles motorized vehicles TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR BY TRANSPORTATION: YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 44

TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR

EXCHANGING A FOREIGN DRIVER'S LICENSE In some cases you may trade in your foreign-issued driver's license for a Dutch license. This is only possible if you live in the Netherlands and possess valid residential status. Driver's licenses issued in the following countries can only be exchanged if they cover the categories listed here: Taiwan, B (passenger car); , B (passenger car); Japan, IB (passenger cars and motorcycles larger than 400cc); Singapore, Class 2 (motorcycles larger than 400cc), Class 3 (passenger car). It is not possible to exchange an international driver's license for a Dutch license. One condition for trading in a foreign-issued driver's license is that it must be valid at the moment the request is made. The driver's license must also have been issued within a one-year period during which the holder resided at least 185 days in the issuing country.

The 30 percent-ruling and getting licensed If you have recently become entitled to benefit from the 30 percent tax ruling, you and the other member(s) of your family can simply exchange your license, no matter where you are from. Ask for an exchange form for your foreign driver's license at your local municipal office.

The procedure In order to exchange your foreign driver's license, you must go to your local municipal office. There you request (and pay for) a document stating who you are and where you live, also referred to as the uittreksel bevolkingsregister; a health form (called eigen verklaring); and an exchange form. The health form should be filled in by you and a doctor, who is not the family doctor. Once it has been completed, you should mail it and the uittreksel bevolkingsregister in a pre-printed envelope to the CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheid - Central Road Aptitude Bureau). They will process this and send you a "certificate of fitness" (see more about this certificate further on) in the mail, after which you can return to the municipal office, where you will submit:  the original, valid foreign driver's license  the certificate of fitness  two identical, recent passport photographs  the exchange form, which has been partially been filled in by you and partially by a civil servant from the municipal office

 (if you are benefiting from the 30 percent-ruling:) a copy of a statement issued by the Tax Office in TRANSPORTATION:BY CAR Heerlen proving that you or the other member(s) of your family are entitled to benefit from the 30 percent tax ruling.

As soon as the municipal fees have been paid, the municipal office will send the entire application to the RDW, who will evaluate the request and if they grant it, send you a Dutch driver's license at your home address within two to three weeks. This means that you will leave the municipal office without a license, so you are not legally allowed to drive. Be sure to make a photocopy of your license and the request should you need to drive during these weeks - which, however, you are strongly advised not to do as you will not be insured!

no parking for end of wait for obligatory driving obligatory driving motorcycles or no stopping stop sign pass on right side prohibited passing counter traffic direction direction bicycles

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TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR

RETURN OF YOUR ORIGINAL DRIVER'S LICENSE The original driver's license will be returned to your country of origin, unless you are an EU citizen and benefiting from the 30 percent-ruling, in which case it will be sent to your address in the Netherlands. If you have a clearly demonstrable interest in having your foreign driver's license returned, you should submit a written request with your exchange application, enclosing any documents proving this interest, such as a letter from your employer stating that you need your foreign license. Subject to certain conditions, depending on your country of origin, your driver's license will be sent to your Dutch home address. LICENSE VERIFICATION As so many different types of driver's licenses from various countries are submitted for exchange, the validity or authenticity of every document has to be verified. The Department of Road Transport may therefore ask you to have the validity and significance of certain information confirmed by the Consulate or Embassy of the country that issued the foreign driver's license. You may also be required to have the content of the foreign driver's license translated by an approved interpreter/translator. For Japanese, Taiwanese and Chinese licenses, this is obligatory. RETAKING THE TEST If your driver's license cannot be traded in, you will have to take a theory test and a road test at the Dutch Driver's License Authority (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheid, or CBR). Holders of a non-exchangeable Category B (passenger car) license can opt (just once) to take an "accelerated" test, which is given in the knowledge that you have prior driving experience. More information on this subject can be obtained from the Special Driving Test Office (Bureau Nader Onderzoek Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen, or BNOR). If you fail the accelerated test, you will have to take a normal theory test and road test. For other categories there is no "accelerated" test option. More information may be found in the pamphlet A Dutch driver's license: getting it, having it and keeping it - published by the Ministry of Transport and Public Works. CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS In several instances, the Dutch Driver's License Authority (CBR) requires a "certificate of fitness" over and above the health form when applying for a driver's license. These instances are:  when a Dutch license is first issued  when trading in a license issued by certain countries For more information on driving schools, ask for the brochure  when the application is made by diplomatic or consular ―Erkende Rijscholen‖ staff or their families from the  when certain medical issues are involved Algemene Nederlandse Wielrijders Bond  when you are older than 65. (ANWB – the Dutch Motorists Association), Obtain more information on the "certificate of fitness" from phone number 070-314-4120 the CBR, your town hall, or the RDW. or fax 070-314-6969. CBR/BNOR, Postbus 1910, 2280 DX Rijswijk Tel: 070-413-0300 The driving license website of the Dutch government is www.rijbewijs.nl For general information about driving licenses, call The National Transport Authority at 0900-0739.

obligatory driving obligatory driving end of all roundabout no u-turn right-hand curve left-hand curve uneven road direction direction prohibitions TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR BY TRANSPORTATION: YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 46

TRANSPORTATION: BY CAR

RANDOM RULES  The traffic (EVERYTHING) from your right has the right-of-way – and will take it! There is one exception: when traveling on a road with a large orange diamond sign outlined in white posted on a pole every block or so, you have the right-of-way over any traffic coming from the right.  Trams and buses are legally ALWAYS in the right – no matter what the situation. In fact, a bus has the legal right to pull out in front of you, or crowd you aside, when leaving his stop.  Speed limits: 50 km per hour in cities 80 km per hour outside of cities 100 km per hour on general highways (autoweg) 120 km per hour on freeways / motorways (snelwegs). All the above may be overridden by a posted lower limit.  Any turn, left or right, is never allowed when the light is red.  On a roundabout, the car entering the circle from the right has the right-of-way UNLESS it has a triangle-shaped yield sign. If you approach an intersection with ―sharks teeth‖ (a series of triangles painted on the road with the points toward you), you must yield to cross traffic.  Lock your car at all times and remove the radio or radio face. Do not leave your registration papers in your car – someone only needs to have your papers to call the car his/her own.  Doorgaand verkeer (through traffic) is usually the sign you want to follow.  Seat belts are mandatory, so BUCKLE UP!  All children under the age of 12 must sit in the backseat.

PAID PARKING Expats with a car to park must compete with the Amsterdam resident car owners plus the 550,000 tourists who push into the city each year. Parking is not only a challenge it's often an impossibility.

You could drive your car into the city centre and attempt to find an available and legal space to park it. Then you must find one of the silver parking meters (designated by a yellow sign with the key letter "P"). The cost is: Monday to Sunday, 9am to 12 midnight, up to EUR 3.60 per hour.

For information on parking permits, call the Information Section at 020-553-0333. A six-month permit

for the city centre will cost: Resident permit (EUR 96.22), Company permit (EUR 154.30). TRANSPORTATION:BY CAR

The 'Parkadammertje' is a personal parking meter you keep in your car for use throughout Amsterdam. You just place a special chipcard in the Parkadammertje and set it for the right parking zone and the Parkadammertje does the rest. The Parkadammertje costs EUR 113.45 and can be obtained from the City Surveillance Department.

Parking regulations are strict and there are tough measures for violating the city's car parking laws. In a bad scenario, your illegally parked car is clamped (a giant metal object is attached to one of your tires preventing any movement without severe damage to the vehicle). You will pay € 60 for removal. In a worse scenario, your car is towed away. The car pound (tel: 020-555-9833) is located at Cruquiuskade 25 in Havens Oost, the Eastern Harbour district. This will cost you Euro 136.

main road has beginning of the parking disc this side has motor vehicles only end of motorway drawbridge ahead road intersection right of way one compulsory right of way

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TRANSPORTATION: BY TRAMS AND BUSES

The fare system for the trains, trams, buses and If you are traveling with others, repeat this metros are unified and prices are the same exercise for each additional person, using the throughout the entire country. The Netherlands same card. has divided its cities and villages into zones. When traveling on a tram, bus or the metro, you WARNING: Failure to stamp the card pay with a strip ticket (strippenkaart) which immediately upon boarding may result in a fine! resemble a bookmark or an OV-Chipkaart.

Strip Ticket (Strippenkaart) OV-Chipkaart

The card is divided into rectangles with a number in each space. Each zone ―costs‖ one rectangle, The 'OV-chipkaart' will be introduced as a new then ADD ONE MORE ZONE as the base fare. method of payment and can already be used at For example, when you travel through two zones, some places. pay with three rectangles (strippen). You can find a city map indicating all of the zones at each tram/ The 'OV-chipkaart' (public bus stop. transport chip card) is part of a new electronic Following are some examples of different kinds of method of payment for the strippenkaarten you can purchase: entire public transport system in The Netherlands. The 'OV-chipkaart' is a plastic card 1) Stadskaart (city card). This has two or three with the size of a bank card. The card contains strips. Only the conductor sells this and it gives a (non-visible chip) and is recognizable by its TRANSPORTATION:BY TRAMS BUSES& you one hour of travel time in the city. national (pink) logo. 2) 10 Strippenkaart (10 strip card). This has more rides and more time – up to 1 1/2 hours. 3) 15 Strippenkaart and 45 Strippenkaart (15 strips and 45 strips). These are more economical and can be bought at railway stations, post offices, bus It is typically best to board a stations, and some tobacco shops (and the Bear tram from the rear. The Necessities shop). These cards have a blue stripe lowest step controls the at the top. door, so keep your foot on it when assisting 4) 15 Strippenkaart Reductie (15 strips reduced someone boarding or disembarking. Bus stops have a sign marked bushalte, with the fare). For children between the ages of 4 and 12. number of the bus line(s) that stop there. Board Also for travelers over the age of 60 and at the front of the bus where the driver will mandatory for all dogs and bicycles. These cards stamp your strippenkaart. Disembark at the rear. have a pink stripe at the top. Children three years and under ride free on 5) Monthly and weekly passes are also available. trams and buses, but you must hold them on The VVV across from central station is one place your lap if seats are scarce. to pick up one of these cards. Connexxion Bus Contact Number: 0900-9292. Some times a conductor or driver will stamp your card, other times you stamp it yourself. When stamping the ticket yourself, simply fold the card, leaving the last strip you plan to use exposed. Insert the strippenkaart, face up, into the automatic yellow machine.

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TRANSPORTATION: BY BICYCLE

Cycling may be the best way to get around in the city. That may explain why there are twice as many bicycles as cars here. The 16 million bicycles are supposed to travel on marked paths or lanes called a fietspad (bicycle path) marked with a blue sign. Marked fietspads are not compulsory. If you are cycling down a main street, you technically have the right-of-way over any cars and you must signal every move. However, don‘t assume the car beside you is aware of you, as they only might be.

When parking your bike, always lock it with a sturdy lock. Plan on spending at least € 40 on a good lock. It may sound silly to spend more on a lock than for your bike, but if you do, both should last you a lifetime.

A sign saying ―geen rijwielen hier plaatsen‖ means that no bicycles may lean against the front of the building, and the owner has the right to have them hauled away. According to police regulations, your bicycle must have: a headlight that operates, brakes that work, a bell that rings, side reflectors on wheels, and a large rear reflector. If you should be stopped by an officer, you can be fined if these things are not in working order.

Rules for Cyclists

According to amsterdam.angloinfo.com

Cycling paths: cyclists must use the cycling path if there is one. Cycling paths that are marked with rectangular blue signs, marked fietspad are not compulsory. Where there is no cycling path, cyclists may cycle on the road along with cars.

Bicycle lights: approved lights at the front and the back are compulsory at night and when visibility is reduced. The front light must be white or yellow. The back light must be red and attached to the bicycle at a distance of 26 to 120cm above the road surface.

Alcohol: the maximum blood alcohol level permitted when cycling is 0.5mg, however being stopped for cycling under the influence of alcohol does not lead to the suspension of a driving license.

Mobile phones: using a mobile telephone when cycling is authorized.

Child transport: children under the age of eight have to be transported on the back of a bicycle providing they have a safe seat with sufficient back, feet and hand support.

Electric bikes: these must have legal liability insurance. There is no age limit for these bikes and the same rules apply as for cyclists on ordinary bikes.

Bicycles can be rented at main railway stations and at some bike shops - look for ―fiets verhuur.‖

SCOOTERS, MOPEDS, BROMMERS . . . . Whatever you want to call them, they have their own rules, regulations and special licenses. TRANSPORTATION: BY BICYCLE BY TRANSPORTATION:

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TRANSPORTATION: BY DUTCH RAILWAY & TAXI

The Dutch railway (Nederlandse spoorwegen) Railway fare structures are as follows: forms an extensive network in the Netherlands and is always clean, warm and on time! Most CHILDREN: stations have adequate parking available at the  Age 0-3: travel free with an adult. station which will be indicated by the sign P+R  Age 4-11: pay € 1.00 when accompanied by an (park and ride). Tickets for the train can only be adult, with a maximum of three children. bought at the railway stations. Go to the ticket  Age 10-18: two discount possibilities: office and tell them your origin and 1) youth month card desired destination of travel. (jeugdmaandkaart) when the train/bus is used daily (Example: going to Information on train times and school, etc.) schedules can be found in a schedule 2) teen touring card book (Spoorboek) at the local (tienertoerkaart), offering unlimited bookshop (including, of course, the travel four days out of ten, available bookshops at the station) or post only in the summer or during school office. You can also call the national holidays. TRANSPORTATION:BYRAILWAYS DUTCH & TAXI transportation number 0900-9292. They can tell you the arrival and departure times from your ADULTS: origin through your destination.  A variety of tickets exist. Some include: You can also find much of the information online  Single ticket (enkele reis) at www.ns.nl or www.eurorail.com. If you  Return ticket (dagretour) prefer calling, just dial 0900-202-1163.  Day ticket (dagkaart) for traveling more than 168 km in 24 hours. Special fares are available for holders of a  Evening ticket (avondretour) for travel railaktief kaart, and frequent travelers are eligible between 6:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. for still other discounts. Just explain your  Weekend ticket (weekend retour) for travel schedule and the information is available to you. between 19:00 Friday and 04:00 Monday. Netherlands railway publishes free magazines listing trips, tours, and special events. During the Following are some additional telephone numbers flower season (March-May) combined rail/bus which you may find useful when you make plans tickets, with admission tickets for the involving rail travel: Keukenhof, can be bought at railway stations. You can also take the train General train information: 0900.9292. directly to Schiphol to catch your flight and be assured of arriving on time. Bicycles may also be Multirail: 0900-9296. rented at the station or you may take your own along. British Rail International: 0900-503-3066.

TRANSPORTATION: BY TAXI

There are special taxis at each train station which will take you to your destination within the city for a reduced rate (at the time of printing, we think this is around € 7.50). You must purchase a ticket for the train taxi at the time you purchase your train ticket. You will probably share the ride with others going to the same area.

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WORSHIP

Deciding on a place to worship is an extremely personal decision. Following you will find some information on where you might go for services. Another option is to contact your National Representative and ask if she/he has any suggestions for services in your religion and language.

The British School The Church Jan van Hooflan 3 A Christian community in the Anglican tradition. of St. James Voorschoten Tel: 071-561-1528

Parish of the Blessed Zaaijersweg 180 Catholic Masses in English on Trinity / 1097 ST Amsterdam Sundays at 10:30 and 12:00 Holy Trinity Church Tel: 020-465-2711

Groenburgwal 42 Anglican services on Christ Church 1011HW Amsterdam Sunday at 10:30 and 19:30

Unitarian Keizergrachtkerk, Unitaria Universalist Universalist Keizergracht 566 First Sunday of the month at 14:00 Fellowship

Begijnhof 48 Reformed English Reformed 1012 WV Amsterdam Sundays at 10:30

Church of Jesus Zaaiersweg 17 Christ of Latter Day 1097 SM Amsterdam Saints Tel: 020-663-6984

English Reformed Begijnhof 48 Church/ 1012 WV Amsterdam Sundays at 10:30 am (English service) Presbyterian/ Tel: 020-624-9665 Church of Scotland

Amsterdam Kanaalstraat 149b Sundays at 10:30 Christian Fellowship Amsterdam WORSHIP WORSHIP YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 51

WORSHIP

Groenburgwal 42 Christ Church - 1011 HW Amsterdam Sundays at 10:30 am and 19:30. Anglican & Episcopal Tel: 020-624-8877

Schoolgebouw, New Life Gemeente Polderweg Sundays at 10:30 Amsterdam

Crossroads Schoolgebouw, International De Cuserstraat 3 Sundays at 11:30 Church Amsterdam

Immanuelkerk Holland Methodist Derkinderenstraat 90 Methodist service on Sundays at 12:30. Church Amsterdam

Van den Boechhorstraat 26 Jewish Community 1081 BT Buitenbeldert Tel: 020-646-0046

Church of the Zijlweg 218 Nazerene services (in Dutch interpretation by request) Nazerene 2015 CK Haarlem on Sundays at 10:30.

Catholic Service in Begijnhof 30 Sundays at 11:15 am French Amsterdam

Amsterdamseweg 283 Interdenominational 1182 GZ Amstelveen Cross Roads

Tel: 020-641-8812 WORSHIP

Davidsplein 4 Synagogue N.I.G. – 3039 KA, Rotterdam Saturdays at 9:00 am Orthodox Tel: 010-466-9765

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ADDITIONAL HELPFUL INFORMATION

Airlines – KLM reservations City Hall (Gemeente Huis) – Information (Numbers outside M-F 8:30-17:30 / Sat 9:00-17:00 Amsterdam – Zuid the Netherlands) Tel: 020-474-7747 Tel: 020-540-4911 Tel: 0900-8418 www..nl Copies/Office Services Airlines – KLM arrivals Kinko‘s in Amsterdam Taxi Centrale Tel: 063-503-4050 020-589-0910 Tel: 0800-826-8294 Fax: 020-589-0920 Trains – Thayls @ Schiphol Airlines – Delta Chamber of Commerce Airport M-F 8:00-18:00 / Sat. 9:00-17:00 (Kamer van Koophandel) Tel: 0900-9296 Tel: 020-504-0606 Tel: 0900-202-4041 www.ms.nl Airport – Schiphol Information Dog Registration – Amsterdam Trains – Reservations (arrivals/departures) Tel: 020-651-3761 M-F 8:00-22:00 /Sat 10:00-19:00 Tel: 0900-0141 Tel: 020-651-3513 Tel: 0900-9296 Or 0900-0141 Foreign Police Information (Numbers within All Sports Amstelveen BV (Vreemdelingen Politie) - Van der Hooplaan 237 the Netherlands) Amsterdam Tel: 020-647-1323 Tel: 0900-8008 Tel: 020-559-6300

METRIC CONVERSIONS

www.metric-conversions.org—Online calculators and tables for metric conversions OTHER = OTHER 1 inch = 2.5 centimeters 1 foot = 30.5 centimeters/3.05 decimeters 1 meter = 39.37 inches GENERAL WEBSITES ON HOLLAND

 www.holland.com: the Holland website of the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions

 www.expatica.com: news and community portal for expats in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany and Spain and Zwitserland.

 www.elynx.nl: a directory for expats in the Netherlands.

 www.outpostexpat.nl: website of OUTPOST Expatriate Information Center with practical information about living con- ditions in a.o. the Netherlands.

 www.rootsinholland.com: find out what it means to be Dutch, wherever you are.

 www.ainp.nl: this virtual library contains information for anyone coming to the Netherlands from another country and wants to get to know Dutch society ADDITIONAL HELPFUL INFORMATION INFORMATION ADDITIONAL HELPFUL YOUR KINGDOM IN THE NETHERLANDS - PAGE 53

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