A fire broke out in a home in an apartment building on Allard Piersonstraat in Rotterdam early on Tuesday morning and quickly spread to adjacent homes Residents of the home where the fire started were rescued with a crane truck Paramedics checked three people over at the scene and took two of them to a nearby hospital The fire on Allard Piersonstraat in Rotterdam’s Delfshaven neighborhood started at around 4:30 a.m. It appears to have been caused by an explosion, a spokesperson for the local security office, which covers the emergency services, told Rijnmond Locals heard a bang before the fire started A suspect in black clothing was seen running away from the scene The emergency services evacuated a total of 40 residents of the apartment building A resident of the building told Rijnmond that someone raised the alarm about the fire early in the morning They couldn’t come with us,” the resident said The authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire The extent of the hospitalized residents’ injuries is unknown The security office spokesperson said they were not the residents of the home where the fire started cbk@cbkrotterdam.nl made by Joseph Graven - photo: Bas van Leeuwen View which images can be found in your area on the BKOR website. Or talk about the future of the Piet Hein statue on our Facebook page. CBK Rotterdam works on visual art and the city We are convinced that visual art makes the city a better place That is why we do everything we can to make Rotterdam a lively art city cbk@cbkrotterdam.nl Sign up here for the newsletter CBK Rotterdam consists of four programs SIR Various people have laid flowers at the tram track on the Spanjaardstraat in Delsfhaven, Rotterdam, where Jack, a 14-year-old, passed away due to an accident with fireworks on New Year’s Eve The boy tried to light a Cobra-6 firework for the second time Footage on social media showed Jack's mother and brothers by the scene The mother told RTV Rijnmond that her son loved fireworks and would be involved with it all year but added that he was always careful said that the firework exploded straight after it was lit and that the boy died instantly “I was never afraid that this could happen He always kept such a distance that it was almost impossible to see what he had just fired.” the mother told RTV Rijnmond She does not live with her children anymore She was on her way back to Rotterdam from her home in Belgium to spend New Year’s with her children when the incident happened She saw her son on the tram tracks when she got to Rotterdam "The force of the explosion hit exactly on his left side It is placed in a tube before it is ignited This is then followed by the rising charge of the shell Trams from the RET are going to drive at a slower pace when passing the memoriam today If the number of flowers at the scene increases then trams are going to take a detour to avoid it Netherlands (AP) — In a scene reminiscent of carefree cafe life before coronavirus lockdown Peter Bender reached across one of the outdoor tables at De Ooievaar bar and placed a cup of coffee and slice of apple pie in front of one of his guests But the coffee went cold and the pie remained uneaten at the bar in Rotterdam's historic Delfshaven neighborhood With tough coronavirus measures shutting Dutch cafes and restaurants since mid-October Bender's guests Tuesday were all white inflatable dummies dressed in T-shirts They were part of a protest that saw an unknown number of cafes across the country symbolically open their terraces amid growing opposition to the lockdown from hard-hit businesses we still don’t see any perspective from the government,” said Bender “We have a ludicrous action — today dolls are sitting here Businesses that accept paying guests in breach of the lockdown risk a 4,000-euro ($4,800) fine stores in one eastern village opened briefly in the morning and a group of sex workers staged a demonstration and set up a peep show outside parliament in the afternoon “We also have to pay rent just like any other person who works so why can everybody work except us,” said a sex worker from Arnhem who identified herself as Melissa The Dutch government has pledged billions of euros in support to ailing businesses Finance Minister Wopke Hoekstra sympathized with the bar owners I think we all understand it very well,” he told reporters in The Hague The protests come amid growing lockdown fatigue not only in the Netherlands but across the European Union where 531,000 people have died in the pandemic and governments are still attempting to rein in new infections while slowly ramping up the pace of vaccinations More than 1,000 people gathered in the Hungarian capital on Sunday demanding an end to pandemic restrictions that have left the tourism and hospitality sectors at a standstill for nearly four months Marches to denounce COVID-19 restrictions also have been taking place in a scattered form across France and other countries Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya joined other federations Tuesday in protesting the country's nearly year-long nighttime curfew saying as many 160,000 Kenyans in the sector had lost their jobs The association's Mike Muthamia said bars and restaurants have been on the receiving end of brutal police enforcement of the COVID-19 lockdown while politicians continue to hold large public gatherings where none of the measures are applied “This failure to punish the breach of the law while continuing to ruthlessly enforce the same law on another group of people simply because they are not as powerful or connected as the leaders and elected representatives amounts to a breach of the human right to earn a living through lawful means,” Muthamia said The pandemic has taken a brutal economic toll in the Netherlands Turnover at the country's accommodation and food services sector shrank by an unprecedented 33.9% in 2020 due to the pandemic and lockdown measures the national statistics office reported Monday as the lockdown was tightened again after a summer of eased measures cafes saw their turnover decline by 70.4% compared with the previous quarter Bar owners insist that they can reopen their terraces safely by enforcing social distancing and hygiene measures They have been spurred into action in part by recent scenes of large crowds of people packed into city parks enjoying unseasonably warm weather and largely ignoring social distancing measures Amsterdam authorities have repeatedly restricted access to one of the city's main parks because of overcrowding The country’s public health institute announced Tuesday that confirmed infections rose by 7% over the last week the second straight week the number has risen after weeks of decline Sex workers are upset that they have been prevented from working while other “contact professions” such as hairdressers beauty salons and masseurs have been allowed to reopen from Wednesday in what the government last week called a risky relaxation strategy that came despite infection numbers starting to edge higher recently A woman who uses the name Moira Mona said she is a dominatrix and can work further from her clients than a hairdresser “I can insult people from a distance and I have whips that are longer than scissors for cutting bangs Kenya and Justin Spike in Budapest contributed rewritten or redistributed without permission Arnoud Donker of McDonough and his partner had the opportunity to visit Delfshaven (near Rotterdam) in The Netherlands “We had the privilege to visit the well known ‘Pilgrim Fathers Church’ in Delfshaven In 1608 a small group of English dissenters arrived in Holland In 1620 they decided to start a new life in America and sailed from Delfshaven They would become ‘the seed of the nation,’ the inventors of Thanksgiving historically known as ‘The Mayflower.’ Before leaving the church they touched a large cast iron bell for a ‘safe journey,’ which is still on display inside the church,” said Arnoud He studied general business at Clayton State University and is the editor at the Henry County Times architecture and urbanism studio jvantspijker has redesigned a former steam factory in rotterdam transforming its main space into an open plan office located in the city’s delfshaven neighborhood the project is organized around a glazed meeting room topped with an indoor garden the scheme is located inside a former steam factory in rotterdam the scheme is situated inside a waterfront building called ‘de fabriek van delfshaven’ the multi-tenant facility has developed a vibrant working community hosting a variety of design studios and software companies ‘the central design idea behind the transformation of the office was to keep the scale transparency and lightness in place and to connect the office to the main atrium of the building‘ ‘therefore the central element was designed as a hybrid between a room a wall and a piece of furniture; it divides connects and provides service space.’ a small flight of stairs leads to a garden that provides a space to relax during hectic working days the use of large plants helps to absorb sound creating an intimate and quiet environment only lacquered plywood and glass were used; with two steel columns proving support in the corners of the meeting room the meeting room is acoustically insulated from the rest of the office space the rough and natural exposure of the wood contrasts with the frameless detailing of the glass which emphasizes the floating character of the garden above providing a suitable area for private meetings and telephone calls only lacquered plywood and glass were used design: jvantspijker urbanism architecture research jvantspijkercontractor: spacecreators.nlphotography: rené de wit AXOR presents three bathroom concepts that are not merely places of function but destinations in themselves — sanctuaries of style the effect it had on late Middle Ages society would change the world forever became the scene of a surprising spectacle An iceberg crashed into the coast and was soon swarmed by curious locals exploring the towering mass marvelling at its bulk and measuring its size The painter Cornelis Jacobsz van Culemborch documented the strange event a little group of onlookers can be seen dancing on the ice in front of the glacial visitor The iceberg off Rotterdam was a harbinger of change Winters were becoming longer and more bitter across the globe summers frequently more brief and less sunny For the inhabitants of temperate zones such as Europe this creeping but unstoppable transformation heralded not only freezing temperatures We do not know exactly what caused temperatures to drop by roughly two degrees Celsius, beginning in the late Middle Ages and reaching a frosty climax during the late sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Recent research suggests that the European conquest of South America may have played a part as European viruses slew large portions of the indigenous population allowing forests to reclaim land previously used for farming More and larger trees absorbed more CO2 from the atmosphere would at best explain a fraction of this dramatic climatic event which also began almost a century before Columbus set sail While the exact causality of the Little Ice Age are still the subject of research and debate bitter winters saw harbours in the Mediterranean freeze over until late spring; entire armies could move across the smooth surface of the frozen Danube while Londoners held raucous fairs on the Thames complete with streets of booths selling everything from printed mementoes to warming and intoxicating beverages soldiers had their wine rations sawn from solid blocks of ice while in Russia cavalrymen were said to fall off their horses were only part of the problem confronting European societies Cool and rain-sodden summers did not allow harvests to ripen and frequently the distraught countryfolk had to watch the corn rotting in the fields before it could be brought in which had a far more lethal effect on populations weakened by hunger The order of the world ordained by God had become unhinged “Europe where the sun dares scarce appear / For freezing meteors and congealed cold,” sighed Christopher Marlow in 1578 Shakespeare’s Richard III may have played on similar associations when he was musing about “the winter of our discontent” makes an even more direct allusion to current events: it starts with a bread riot a frequent occurrence as urban population suffered from the rapid inflation of grain prices due to failing harvests Shakespeare worked on the play during the bitter winter of 1608 winter was discovered as a subject of landscape painting What changes in a society when the climate changes The Little Ice Age offers a historical case study European populations still mainly relied on subsistence agriculture Their societies were conceived as a social pyramid with the poor at the bottom and land-rich nobles on top Now this order was beginning to fissure dramatically As local agriculture and traditional farming were failing with alarming frequency The first reaction was the logical consequence of medieval thinking Bad harvests were followed by religious processions and prayers of penitence by fiery sermons - and by the burning of witches accused of destroying the crops it began to transpire that fervent prayers and persecutions did nothing to address the problem of cold and starvation Botanists began to research more effective farming techniques and new crops such as potatoes land ownership was restructured by abolishing the commons on which the rural poor had been allowed to graze their cattle in favour of commercial agriculture producing for markets This meant not only that countless expelled and landless poor had to move into the cities but also that the trade in grain made cities like Amsterdam wealthy and powerful creating a new economic model along the way: economic growth based on exploitation brutally effective method which would become the secret of Europe’s global power grab over the next three centuries When temperatures and harvests recovered to pre-1570 levels during the eighteenth century political and economic landscape had changed radically late medieval societies were well on their way into a modernity dominated by more dynamic (and more destructive) economies which argued forcefully that the old order must make way to a new egalitarian way of living based not on faith did not directly cause this sweeping transformation but it did create conditions which made innovation and adaptation necessary and rewarded those willing to leave their old world behind them and to embrace new ways of farming A new way of living and of understanding the world emerged throughout this process — our own world Nature’s Mutiny: How the Little Ice Age Transformed the West and Shaped the Presentby Philipp Blom is available now (£25 Follow Science Focus onTwitter,Facebook, Instagramand Flipboard The canals lined with lovely old houses are part of our image of Holland My home away from home is the city of Rotterdam The 5 day bombardment on Rotterdam was what made the Dutch surrender to the German occupation in May 1940 Rotterdammers gave priority to restoring the harbors and industry and developing suburban housing for the large It took until the 1980s before the city began to seriously redevelop it's center The latest and most prestigious project so far is the Markthal (Market Hall) The large tunnel-shaped building consists of underground parking second floor businesses and restaurants with apartments on the higher levels Bright decorations adorn the sides and ceiling while glass walls on front and back offer views to the city is the Oude Haven (Old Harbor) where bars and restaurants surround a repair dock and mooring location for antique ships Crossing the street is best done via the Blaakse Bos with iconic Cube Houses Walk a quarter of a mile from the Oude Haven to the Maritime Museum By far the best part of the Museum is outside and free to enter at any time The history of water transport is kept alive in all it's glory Walk down to the water and catch a water taxi to Hotel New York on the other side of the river The old buildings of the Holland America Line from where emigrants sailed to the new world are now home to a fun and funky hotel as well as a bustling outdoor recreational area to the Veerhaven with it's graceful 19th century buildings From there it's a leisurely stroll along the water to the entrance of the Euromast Park Ride the elevator to the top of the Euromast on a clear day to fully appreciate the diversity of the Rotterdam landscape the surrounding park is home to many festivals and family activities it's another half mile to one of the oldest parts of Rotterdam: Delfshaven With houses that date back to the Middle Ages a Pilgrim Fathers Church that once saw off part of it's congregation on their way to join the Mayflower and a windmill named the Distilleerketel (Distillers Kettle) for it's role in the making of jenever (Dutch vodka) Delfshaven is a compact piece of Dutch history Extremely photogenic and remarkably quiet and untouristic hotels in Rotterdam are surprisingly affordable prices for a basic double room with private bathroom start as low as $46 with excellent facilities and spectacular views of the city still not breaking the bank at $115 per night A bed in a hostel in the center starts at $22 I make sure I get some of the international street food cheese and (optional) grilled meat is both a filling meal and an experience Snack bars and food stalls all over town sell them in a $2 to $5 price range For sit down meals there is a wide variety of options in Rotterdam fancy seafood or afternoon tea at Hotel New York dinner al fresco at the Oude Haven or a meal in one of the many ethnic restaurants all over town there is a wide variety of excellent options If you want to combine an easy and tasty lunch follow the locals up to the self service restaurant La Place A gathering to remember the fatal shooting and arson that took place at the Erasmus MC hospital a year ago was attended by 80 people on Friday The memorial was shown on livestream so thousands of employees and students could witness the occasion Joke Boonstra, vice chairwoman of the Erasmus MC, called the gathering a "very nice memorial which recalled what the teacher was like." In addition to the speeches, there was also "beautiful music and poetry" during the gathering, which lasted around 45 minutes, where people were present who were closely involved on the day of the incident or worked closely with the deceased teacher. Boonstra said the last year was difficult. "This is a black page in the Erasmus MC's history and will remain so. Remembering is important for processing and reflecting on people and the organization, for putting words to it and dwelling on it." Aftercare was provided after the attack because many people were suffering as a result of the incident, said Boonstra. "In the form of Victim Support or the use of psychologists and psychiatrists. Everyone must choose his or her own path and follow the pace in processing." Although it was a difficult year, Boonstra found it lovely to see how many people within the organization tried to help each other. "Our motto was: hold each other. We also felt very supported by people in the city and the country. We had to carry on, and we were able to do this because of the solidarity." You cannot prepare as an organization for an incident like what occurred, Boonstra said, who is proud of how the crisis teams and emergency services performed on that day. © 2012-2025, NL Times, All rights reserved. 2023 An explosion that damaged a flat in a Rotterdam suburb is the 40th such incident in the city since the turn of the year Nobody was injured in the blast in 1e Schansstraat Police said the residents were not home at the time has blamed drugs gangs for the escalating violence claiming that the success of authorities in intercepting narcotics shipments has triggered a wave of between against rival groups and their families The national police force is setting up a specialist team to gather information about the attacks “We will analyse all incidents: what kind of area are they taking place in Police are also stepping up their presence in areas where the violence has been concentrated such as Crooswijkseweg and Van Speykstraat Ingrid Coenradie, councillor for local party Leefbaar Rotterdam, said the community also had a role to play in making their neighbourhood safer. Police have arrested a number of suspects in recent weeks, including two teenage boys who were caught in the act of placing a firebomb neighbours and relatives need to talk more to the council and the police because there are plenty of people who know that youths are hanging out on the streets at night,” she said “Look at each other and ask: ‘why weren’t you home last night?'” We could not provide the Dutch News service without the generous support of our readers Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day Many thanks to everyone who has donated to DutchNews.nl in recent days We could not provide this service without you Please help us making DutchNews.nl a better read by taking part in a short survey excellent food – and all a train ride away Alley in the Spanish Quarter Photograph: robertharding/AlamyIf there was ever a time to visit Naples The city is basking in the glory of being crowned Italy’s football league champions for the first time since the days of Maradona The win proved to Neapolitans something they have long known: that Naples chequered ancient history and natural beauty is unrivalled in Italy No one could be blamed for simply spending the day watching the world go by from one of the many cafes and bars in the historic centre with laundry-laced alleyways and piazzas teeming with life But its centuries of history have bequeathed it a wealth of castles palaces and museums that are not to be missed Naples Bay to Vesuvius. Photograph: ronnybas/AlamyHighlights are the National Archaeological Museum for its ancient marbles and mosaics as well as the lesser-known Secret Room with its collection of ancient erotic art The San Severo chapel museum, just off Piazza San Domenico, houses the much celebrated life-size Veiled Christ sculpture in marble, while Caravaggio’s The Seven Works of Mercy his first work made while on the run after killing a man can be seen in the church of Pio Monte della Misericordia Lesser-known treasures are often hidden behind doorways, such as the whimsical cloistered gardens of San Gregorio Armeno or the frescoed Renaissance cloister, exhibition space and bar of Made in Cloister StayAtelier Inès (doubles from €130) is set back from the cacophonous streets of the Sanità district in a luscious garden. Each room is decorated with art and sculptures designed by the owner, artist Vincenzo Annibale. Casa D’Anna (doubles from €120) Its gorgeous terrace is the perfect respite after a long day’s sightseeing Schauinslandbahn cable carJust outside the car-free narrow lanes are paved with cobbles and arcaded squares overflow with market stalls a network of 30cm-wide canals which channel water around the city For cooler days, the city’s fine double act comprises the Augustiner Museum, for medieval art in a monastery setting, and the more modern Museum für Neue Kunst A ride on the Schauinslandbahn cable car or the Schlossberg funicular brings a lungful of the Black Forest and a land of tall pine forests threaded by hiking trails Outdoor eating and drinking in Freiburg. Photograph: FWTM-AntalAn autumn visit means savouring the Black Forest’s harvest. Alte Wache a curiously unknown white wine grape from the area As with all other German cities, Freiburg is big on beer. At Hausbrauerei Feierling, students clink heavy steins of pilsner and soak up the beer with pretzels. Gasthaus Roter Bären claims to be the oldest inn in Germany (since 1120 and serves Habsburg-era staples such as schnitzel with lingonberries Michelin-starred Wolfshöhle on characterful Konvictstrasse tops the list for splash-out options And if you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser souvenir check out the chocolate cuckoo clocks in Confiserie Rafael Mutter it’s lovely to simply wander the coastline or hike the nearby Sierra de San Julian hills featured trips and local tips for your next break as well as the latest deals from Guardian Holidays The number one cultural attraction is the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (the Ghent Altarpiece) a painting by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck in St Bavo’s cathedral it’s looking its best as the 15th-century triptych was recently restored It wouldn’t be a trip to Belgium without some Trappist beers, which are available everywhere. The city’s own brews, sold at Gruut, include Roomer, a delicate local elderflower liqueur. On a sunny day, there’s nowhere better than Vooruit’s terrace and cocktail bars to its rich array of historic sites taking the funicular up to Fourvière hill brings a panoramic view of the city and the dazzling Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière A 10-minute walk away are the Roman amphitheatre and fantastic Gallo-Roman museum, in a cool (in every sense) concrete bunker built into the hillside. The Musée des Confluences in the revitalised industrial area where the Rhône meets the Saône is another architectural marvel – all shimmering curves and glass walls Art lovers will want to tick off the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Manet Its shady courtyard is a lovely spot for a break between sites Weary limbs can be soothed with a dip at the Tony Bertrand Nautical Centre, a glorious 50-metre riverside pool on the bank of the Rhône (swimming hats obligatory, and men can’t wear baggy shorts). The Lyon City Card (from €26 for 24 hours) gives access to museums refreshing gazpacho and its pièce de résistance the ham volcano: strips of the thinnest ibérico ham served on a cone-shaped plate with a candle inside to gently warm the fat Heat in La Confluence is a laid-back This article was amended on 9 and 12 October 2023 to correct some details There is a direct train to Alicante from Barcelona Sants The journey time from London to Ghent is around 2h 49min in total that is not the time for the first leg to Brussels and the travel time from Brussels to Ghent is around 30min And there are no longer overnight sleeper trains from Paris to Milan as an earlier version could have implied; they were discontinued in 2020 the article was amended to note that there isn’t currently a direct route between Paris and Milan A stabbing on a public square in Rotterdam left a 28-year-old man dead on Sunday morning was pronounced dead on the Marconiplein near the metro stop there No arrests were announced in the immediate aftermath Emergency services workers were sent to the scene just before 6 a.m A trauma team was also sent to the Delfshaven neighborhood by helicopter The seriously-injured victim was found close to the square First responders attempted to revive the man "The precise circumstances are under investigation Forensic investigators arrived on scene to secure trace evidence The incident led to the closure of the area next to the Marconiplein metro stop Police officers also interviewed people on the street but added that they were also looking for anyone with information and camera footage from the area Witnesses reported that the boy attempted to relight the firework after it initially failed to detonate. The cobra exploded as he held it, causing fatal injuries. The teenager's severely injured body was found on a tram track near the site of the explosion. Police placed a white forensic tent over the remains to conduct a detailed investigation. Emergency responders attempted resuscitation, but the boy was pronounced dead at the scene around 8:30 p.m. “The situation is truly devastating,” said a local resident. “The family is in complete shock. It’s impossible to describe the pain they must be feeling right now.” Police have not yet determined whether the firework belonged to the boy or was given to him by someone else. A police spokesperson stated that the investigation is in its early stages and must be handled meticulously. “We believe the boy is the sole victim in this tragic incident,” the spokesperson said. “It appears he was struck in a horrific manner.” Authorities are gathering additional witness testimonies to establish the full circumstances of the accident. The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of sympathy for the boy’s family on social media. Messages of support have also been directed toward the emergency responders who attended the scene. “They will never forget these images,” wrote one commenter. Family members and residents gathered at the site of the explosion in the hours following the incident. Many were visibly emotional, with some taking photographs of the location, De Telegraaf reported. “This is beyond comprehension,” said one witness. “To start the new year like this—it’s just unimaginable.” Preventive searches will now be carried out in Rotterdam neighborhoods recently affected by multiple explosions at homes and business premises. Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb has designated the Crooswijk and Oude West neighborhoods as safety risk areas, which makes it possible for the searches to happen. The preventive searches allow police to pat down and question an individual in those areas without probable cause. A number of other neighborhoods in Rotterdam, such as Centrum, Feijenoord, Delfshaven, IJsselmonde and Charlois, were already designated as risk areas. In Crooswijk, where there were several explosions last week, two evenings were organized for the residents of the affected apartment buildings to provide information and answer questions as best as possible. After the explosion at a shop on Crooswijkseweg, a letter was distributed to all residents to inform them about additional police efforts and victim support services. The letter also contained an appeal to report suspicious activity to the police, and possibly with anonymity. In the first four months of this year, there were 54 incidents of excessive violence in Rotterdam, Aboutaleb wrote to the Rotterdam City Council. That is more than during the entirety of 2022. The 54 incidents include 37 where explosions were involved explosions and 17 cases of gunfire. Of the 37 explosions, 36 explosions targetted a building including 29 apartment buildings. Of the 17 cases where gunshots were reported, four were aimed at a building, of which one was a home. Aboutaleb wrote that the intended targets regularly have a direct or indirect link with the trade in narcotics or other criminal activities. There also often seems to be a connection between the various attacks. The number of explosions in Rotterdam is already approaching last year's total number of explosions. In 2022, the total number of explosions was 41. In the event of incidents that target buildings, it may be necessary to temporarily close the building. This has already happened 18 times this year. 2024 The emergency services at the scene Photo: Media TV ANPA fire that broke out at a house in Rotterdam early on Tuesday morning may have been caused by an explosive device put there deliberately The fire broke out at 7 am following an explosion at a house on the Allard Pierson street in the Delfshaven area of the city According to police, a suspect “dressed in black” was seen running away. Witnesses said they heard several explosions. “I heard two quick bangs around 5.30 am. I also heard shouts,” one neighbour told the Telegraaf Another neighbour confirmed the fire had been reported early and that police and the fire services arrived quickly The fierceness of the fire meant some 40 people had to be evacuated to a nearby sports hall who were reportedly saved by firemen using a hydraulic platform were checked for the effects of smoke inhalation and other injuries by ambulance staff The fire brigade were still in the process of putting out the fire later on Tuesday morning and it is unclear when neighbours will be allowed back in their homes Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb did not comment except to say he wants to wait for the results of the investigation There have been at least 250 firebombings in the Netherlands this year mostly related to conflicts between drug gangs although police think some are down to copycat behaviour or conflicts between neigbours and (business) partners Most took place in Rotterdam and Amsterdam Firefighters were busy Wednesday morning battling an intense fire in a wood storage facility on Keileweg in Rotterdam Authorities sent out an NL-Alert to people in the area The fire was so intense that the windows of nearby buildings also shattered melting the lettering on the signage for the Praxis and Atelier Van Lieshout The alarm for the fire in Rotterdam-West was quickly elevated and categorized as a very large fire just minutes after firefighters were sent to the scene It was elevated again to a Grip 1 regional emergency at about 7:40 a.m Despite the flames raging through the wood storage facility the fire did not spread to other buildings “The fire service is protecting the surrounding buildings with a water screen.” A Grip 1 is a protocol for handling large incidents in which various emergency services are involved It calls for the first responders to unify under a single commander Zeer grote brand in Rotterdam-West: vlammen slaan uit loods met hout - volg het bij @RTV_Rijnmond https://t.co/jIclv3mlPx #brand #Rotterdam pic.twitter.com/MlGycAkf4i The NL-Alert was sent out for the fire just after 8 a.m workers and visitors across Rotterdam to stay out of the smoke The warning told people to close their windows and doors and to turn off ventilation systems if they are negatively affected by the smoke while indoors The warning was sent to people in the city center Kop van Zuid and Oud-IJsselmonde may have also received the alert depending on their location Huge fire outside my window this morning #Rotterdam #Netharlands pic.twitter.com/FXVKnqr3sx Huge Fire on Keileweg . So sad… I think there are a lot of start up companies in this building…and musicians storing their instruments. #keileweg #keilewegbrand #rotterdam pic.twitter.com/QuJAImYay7 Discover which of Rotterdam’s vibrant and distinct neighborhoods could be your perfect new home By Shanthy Milne After sustaining catastrophic damage during World War II (WW2) rebuilding itself as one of the Netherlands’ most architecturally innovative and experimental cities The city’s unique design and urban planning are now a major draw for locals and expats alike If you’re also thinking of moving there here’s what you need to know about the city: Looking for somewhere to rent in the Netherlands Spotahome takes the hassle out of househunting by doing the hard work for you and book rental properties all from the comfort of your own home Take the stress out of househunting in the Netherlands with Spotahome Rotterdam is nestled on the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt Delta (Rijn-Maas-Scheldedelta) in the province of South Holland (Zuid-Holland) in the Netherlands A delta is where rivers join together – in this case the Rhine (Rijn) and Scheldt (Schelde) – and flow onwards – in this instance to the North Sea (Noordzee) Rotterdam is split into two halves by the river Nieuwe Maas (New Meuse). While its city center lies primarily on the northern bank of the river, recent urban development has also spread to the south side of the river, into an area called the Kop van Zuid (Head of South) As with most Dutch cities, traveling by bicycle is the most popular form of transport in Rotterdam. However, if cycling isn’t your thing, rest assured that there is also a reliable and well-connected public transport network including regular bus, tram, metro, and ferry services The train station Rotterdam Centraal (Rotterdam Central Station) is also one of the country’s major transport hubs providing local and international connections to Belgium Roughly 664,000 people live in Rotterdam (2022) making it the second-largest city in the Netherlands They will tell you exactly what they think and won’t mince words (more so than the average Dutch person) They’re also hardworking – the unofficial city slogan is “niet lullen but scrubbing) – and always strive for a bigger and better future This future-forward mentality of its inhabitants is also reflected in Rotterdam’s unique and innovative cityscape. Back in 1940, it took German bombers just fifteen minutes to decimate the city center rather than restoring their city to its former glory the residents of Rotterdam chose to adapt and build a new city that embraced the future you’ll also find numerous modern statement-art statues Rotterdam’s popularity among Dutchies and (international) students means that the housing market is very competitive Whether you’re interested in buying or renting you will need to move fast to secure a property You can find housing in Rotterdam using property websites with customizable search filters Subscribing to property updates on these platforms is a good way to ensure you can respond promptly to suitable listings. Another great way to find a home is by using Living in Rotterdam, Facebook groups Expats searching from abroad will benefit from using a local intermediary. However, even if you are already in the Netherlands, it can be helpful to go through a Dutch real estate agent (makelaar). The Dutch Cooperative Association of Real Estate Agents (Nederlandse Coöperatieve Vereniging van Makelaars – NVM) lists certified agents for international housing in Rotterdam compared to an estimated €25 in Amsterdam and €20 in Utrecht The rental market usually experiences rapid year-on-year changes, with a 13.9% annual increase in the last year That is in comparison with a 17.9% average rise annual rise in Amsterdam and 25.8% in Utrecht Most places are relatively new and energy-efficient it’s better to look toward the outskirts of the city where high-rise buildings give way to more green and spacious areas Rental properties in Rotterdam are usually sublet in one of three states: Prices vary according to the state in which a property is rented Some fully furnished properties are available as short-term rentals which can be ideal for expats while they are searching for a long-term place A typical contract will be for one calendar year Funda, Pararius, and Kamernet are among the most popular websites for browsing up-to-date rental properties in Rotterdam Low-income households can also apply for social housing the waiting list for these properties is incredibly long; in Rotterdam the average waiting time is 52 months (2022) If you’re staying in the Netherlands for five years or more, it might be more economical to purchase a house rather than rent it This is due to tax incentives and long-term benefits attached to Dutch homeownership As with rental properties, the competition to buy a home in Rotterdam is high, and overbidding is common. In 2023, the average sale price of apartments was just over €460,000 and houses were sold for just over €716,000 If those prices haven’t scared you off you can get a mortgage through any bank in the Netherlands There are also mortgage brokers who are experienced in supporting and guiding expats through the buying process Rotterdam is a large city with its outer boundaries reaching the sandy coastline So while the city center is located 30 kilometers inland you can reach the seaside in just 35 minutes by metro Rotterdam itself is divided into 14 districts this overview will be given by district rather than neighborhood Little C Coolhaven a new housing development along the waterfront For more spacious city living (with a matching price tag) expats can look towards the stately buildings around Erasmus Bridge Expats living in Centrum can access premier medical care through the nearby Erasmus Medical Center This center works together with Erasmus University and is a global leader in medical research across numerous disciplines who have several branches in around the city and cosmopolitan atmosphere are a huge draw for locals and expats alike It is also home to a diverse international community making it one of the easiest districts to find and connect with like-minded people offering easy respite from the urban bustle Though there are fewer family-orientated facilities than in some other areas of Rotterdam the lively city center makes up for it with pubs As you might expect, this also leads to more reports of public nuisance than elsewhere in the city and vandalism are also relatively frequent Cycling is the most convenient way to navigate the city and – in typical Dutch style – most Rotterdammers prefer to travel by bike If you aren’t quite ready for life on two wheels the RET (Rotterdamse Elektrische Tram) also provides regular public transport services throughout the city Commuting outside of Rotterdam is also incredibly easy Amsterdam Central Station can be reached within 40 minutes by train and The Hague (Den Haag) is less than half an hour away Owning a car in the Netherlands is costly, and parking is in short supply. Residents who do not have a parking space within their building can apply for a street parking permit (parkeervergunning) and there can be long waiting lists for permits Rotterdam Centrum is the ideal location for expats who enjoy a fast-paced life and the hustle and bustle of a vibrant city Hillegersberg-Schiebroek is known for its nature and expansive green spaces including the lake Bergse Plassen and the river Rotte Housing in this district is more spacious than in the center and particularly suitable for people with children due to its popularity among both local and expat families accommodation within the district can be pricey Hillegersberg is home to the Nord Anglia International School, the only International School located outside of the city center. The school accepts children from ages 3-18. Also within the district is the Dutch Stephanus school offering special classes for non-Dutch speaking children Municipality data shows Hillegersberg-Schiebroek is an incredible place to live in There are no reports of violence or burglaries and levels of public nuisance seem neglectable Residents are also extremely content and don’t have much to complain about it may be the best neighborhood in Rotterdam to take up residence The center of Rotterdam is reachable within roughly 20 minutes by bike Hillegersberg-Schiebroek is idyllic for spacious family living within close proximity to both nature and Rotterdam’s city center In the words of the Rotterdam tourist board, Rotterdam Noord is a working-class district that has been transformed into a design Valhalla Many of the large pre-war properties have been restored making it a highly attractive place to take up residence Rotterdam Noord has a plethora of housing options, from smaller starter apartments and traditionally working-class homes to 1930s houses and modern high-rises. There is also a lively cultural scene, especially in the neighborhood of Het Oude Noorden which offers the perfect blend of hip stores The area closer to Rotterdam Centraal in particular is growing in popularity with entrepreneurs young expats can make the most of the budding social scene that is happening within the repurposed industrial areas Perhaps the most famous place in Rotterdam Noord is the Hofbogen Air Park (Luchtpark Hofbogen) This green city park is situated on the roof of the former train station Hofplein Station and offers visitors a breath-taking view of the city Underneath the arches of the train track, a number of culinary, design, and fashion hotspots are popping up. It is now home to an array of hip businesses, including the jazz bar BIRD and eatery FG Food Labs Also appealing for families is the district’s Rotterdam International Secondary School which offers children the possibility of continuing their education in English while soaking up Dutch culture Despite – or perhaps due to – the upcoming nature of the district, data from the municipality suggests that residents are not super content with their area There are reports of vandalism and public nuisance from traffic and construction and public spaces leave much to be desired Residents also complain about the housing options – more so than elsewhere in Rotterdam – citing small sizes and moderate views as their main frustrations Rotterdam Noord borders the Central Station making it an excellent choice for commuters working outside of the city The city center is accessible within 10-15 by bike Expats looking for comfortable homes within close proximity to the city center will likely fall in love with Rotterdam Noord students and young professionals might be drawn to the district’s hipster scene in and around the main station It’s also an ideal location for expats commuting in and out of Rotterdam The charming and quaint village-like district of Overschie is located just north of Rotterdam Noord and Delfshaven it’s one of the least populated districts of the city there is a wide range of housing options available in Overschie from historic homes to newly built apartments Many of these are more affordable than within districts closer to the city center History buffs will want to check out Museum Overschie where thousands of historical items are on year-round display The district also has local shops and markets; however for more serious shopping it’s best to head towards Rotterdam city center There are development plans for a collective indoor garden but it is unclear when those will be realized Families looking for a local Dutch school can search on the municipality school finder Though less popular with expats than the nearby district of Rotterdam Noord Overschie offers peaceful and spacious living within a reasonable distance of the city center The district has gorgeous nature parks, such as Sidelingepark and Park Zestienhoven. Rotterdammers can find respite from the urban hustle and bustle at Country Estate De Tempel (Buitenplaats de Tempel) a protected estate on the outskirts of Oud-Overschie anyone interested in growing their own crop can join one of the many community gardens in the area Overschie is one of the safest and most socially cohesive districts of Rotterdam It’s far less built up than many of the other neighborhoods favoring green meadow areas and waterways instead Residents – or Overschiënaars as they are called – seem fairly content living in the district though do complain about the lack of facilities and public spaces Rotterdam Central Station remains accessible by bike within 20-30 minutes The A13 highway also runs through the district providing easy road connections for onward travel Overschie is worth a look for more affordable and spacious family living with a village-like feel. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is also located within the district making it an ideal location for those working in aviation or needing to fly to other European destinations frequently As the home of Rotterdam’s two largest universities, it may come as no surprise that Kralingen-Crooswijk is popular among students and young professionals and parks also create a lively atmosphere that will be hard for some people to pass on In terms of housing, the district north of the Nieuwe Maas offers a blend of old and new, with something for all budgets. In Kralingen, the area around Rosenburg Park offers stately villas and avenues of mansion houses cosmopolitan Crooswijk offers more affordable apartments amidst its cozy restaurants and brown bars Nieuw-Crooswijk is also undergoing development and is becoming particularly sought after by young families and couples in search of more affordable homes Located within Kralingen-Crooswijk are Erasmus University Rotterdam (Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam – EUR) and Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS – Hogeschool Rotterdam) the district is well set up to cater to student life hosting four headquarters of the main student associations From December to February, skaters can make the most of being on the ice at the Skating Rink Rotterdam (Schaatsbaan Rotterdam). For year-round indoor swimming, it’s possible to float beneath the glass ceiling of the Eastern Swimming Pool (Oostelijk zwembad) For less sporty leisure time, Kralingen-Crooswijk’s many waterfront bars and eateries offer the perfect escape. One of the most notable restaurants in the area is Restaurant De Tuin which is located in a mansion dating back to 1867 Those requiring medical care can access the best the Netherlands has to offer via the local Erasmus Medical Center This teaching hospital works closely with the university and is a global leader in medical research Located within the district is Kralingse Bos this park offers numerous leisure activities both on and off the water the area becomes a hotspot for BBQing and sunbathing while the petting zoo and playgrounds provide entertainment for younger visitors The district scored well on environmental, social, and safety aspects in the 2022 municipality survey This also reflects its popularity among the residents who have made it their home the public spaces could do with some improvement and there have been reports of public nuisance It’s very easy to bike from Kralingen-Croosijk to Rotterdam city center For those who aren’t comfortable going into traffic on two wheels public transport connections will get you to the center within approximately 15 minutes There is no doubt that Kralingen-Crooswijk is the premier destination for students in Rotterdam it also has a lot to offer young families and professionals who enjoy the buzz of city living with good access to nature and leisure facilities On the north-eastern border of Rotterdam lies Prins Alexander one of the city’s newest residential areas This former agricultural area was developed in 1961 and has several more residential projects underway the district remains very green and has many parks The Alexandrium shopping center is the hub of retail activity in Prins Alexander There are also several entertainment venues and sports facilities to spend the day Families looking for a local Dutch school or daycare can search on the municipality school finder If you’re looking for international options the central districts are not too far away Prins Alexander has several metro stations located within the district as well as a train stop for mainline services You can reach Rotterdam Central Station within nine minutes the same journey takes around 30–45 minutes by bike Since Prins Alexander isn’t one of the most sought-after districts of Rotterdam – especially among families and expats – it is fairly easy to find housing options where you can enjoy quiet and green living Charlois – pronounced Sjaarloos – is one of the oldest areas in Rotterdam, dating back to 1462. The current district is a blend of residential neighborhoods, parks (such as Zuiderpark), and key cultural venues (e.g., Ahoy Rotterdam) It is also one of the most diverse districts in the city so you’ll be sure to mix with an international community If you’re looking to move to Charlois, apartment living is the norm, especially around the built-up central point of Zuiderplein. Further out in the district, you’ll find modern, spacious apartments and even terraced houses (in Pendrecht and De Wielewaal) providing easily accessible 24-hour emergency care The municipality has loads of plans to improve the district. There are many housing developments for both single and family occupancy, and it’s also planning a new seven-acre Nelson Mandela Park on the harborfront That said, the 2022 living situation does not yet reflect this rosy picture. According to data from the Rotterdam municipality residents feel they have a lower quality of life and that their neighborhood is unsafe due to violence that the only actual police reports were regarding nuisance from neighbors Responses also indicated that people don’t like living in (some areas of) Charlois and feel isolated While the environment and green spaces are objectively great residents complain about offensive odors from traffic as well as noise from traffic and construction Charlois connects easily to the city center via bus Resident permits or paid street parking are options in northern Charlois Parking is more readily available further out in the district Charlois is an ideal district for expats looking to mix with an international community it’s also a nice place for anyone wanting to take up residence in close proximity to green open spaces The district of Feijenoord lies on the southern banks of the Nieuwe Maas river and is connected to the city center by the Erasmus bridge it’s ever-evolving with a mix of traditional warehouses and new residential skyscrapers The last one also doubles as a concert venue for large events Younger expats may also be drawn to the now-trendy neighborhood of Katendrecht. This former red-light district area has become a hub for social and cultural activities and is home to many waterfront eateries. For example, The Fenix Food Factory Visitors can enjoy traditionally made cuisine – such as artisanal bread and beers – alongside affordable street food from the market’s revolving food trucks The district’s Ikazia Teaching Hospital offers high-rate 24-hour emergency care many existing residents find themselves priced out of newer developments as wealthier people move in According to data from the municipality Feijenoorders are not very satisfied with their district – especially with the quality of housing Many experience public nuisance from neighbors Feijenoord is connected to the city center by the iconic Erasmus Bridge Residents can easily reach the rest of Rotterdam by bike The city’s Water Taxi is also a reliable and speedy option to get from A to B it often proves to be faster than traveling by road Running like a regular ferry service from the waterfront the Water Taxi also offers private taxi journeys on demand Young expats in particular will find the rapidly developing scene around Feijenoord a big draw It’s an ideal district where you can best experience Rotterdam’s growth and innovation Concert-goers and massive football fans will also enjoy the close proximity to the Kuip Hoogvliet is a former dike village on the southwest outskirts of Rotterdam that is growing in popularity with families making it easy for expats to blend right in While some neighborhoods of Hoogvliet used to be impoverished, the district underwent restructuring in the 2000s. Now, nearly one-fifth of houses are built in the new century. There are also a number of new housing developments underway to broaden the appeal of living around the district’s center including the addition of around 700 new sustainable homes The center of Hoogvliet currently stands as the district’s main shopping area the district is looking to improve and create more green spaces Hoogvliet includes Rotterdam’s green belt (groene gordel) a 10 km long recreational route for cycling The quiet and tranquil nature of living is also reflected in the residents’ quality of life. According to the municipality Hoogvliet is a fine place to take up residence The district has little to no reports of violence dissatisfaction with the number of (public) facilities Responses also indicate that residents are unhappy with their level of social participation and feel left out of society Though further out from Rotterdam’s city center it’s easy to travel to and from Hoogvliet by car or via the district’s metro Going by bike seems out of the question; Rotterdam Centrum is approximately an hour away Hoogvliet is perfect for families who want to live close to nature it has great potential for anyone looking to live in an up-and-coming district for cheap On the southeast side of Rotterdam, lies the vibrant and diverse district of IJsselmonde locals and expats can experience a mix of urban living and green spaces The original dike village of Oud-IJsselmonde which is close to the Nieuwe Maas waterfront is the most picturesque part of the district where you can find authentic Dutch row houses and charming streets Typically one of Rotterdam’s quieter districts, the highlight of IJsselmonde’s social calendar from 1700 through to 2020, was its annual 2-day horse market and its accompanying fair, art exhibition, and concert. However, it has since been decided to discontinue the centuries-old event Expats with children will delight in going to The Play Factory (De Speelfabriek) a play workshop for children from 5 to 12 years old where they can explore making IJsselmonde boasts a scenic waterfront area where locals often go sailing. It’s also home to the large nature park Park De Twee Heuvels which includes a skate park and indoor pool Nestled between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is a gorgeous recreational area where you can enjoy the typical polder nature scene – complete with green dikes Data from the Rotterdam municipality suggests that IJsselmonde has great social initiatives (e.g. and residents don’t seem all that content to live there You can travel between the center of IJsselmonde and Rotterdam Centraal by bike or public transport quieter environment that’s still within close proximity of Rotterdam will benefit from the low-cost housing options in IJsselmonde the harbor town of Delfshaven was built to provide the city of Delft waterway access to the Nieuwe Maas river The district was spared wartime destruction and now stands proud as Rotterdam’s most historic area and traditional Dutch architecture offer up a picture-postcard area to live in Rental prices range from €900-2,500 for apartments and €1,500-4,500 for houses Purchase prices can differ greatly; prices range from €250,000-400,000 for apartments and €400,00-1,300,000 for houses which produces and serves local beers such as Pilgrim beer (pilgrim bier) the number of facilities and schools is more limited than elsewhere in Rotterdam expat parents can register their offspring with these district schools that offer special provisions for children with little to no Dutch language skills: Delfshaven was known for its herring fishers and gin distilleries The latter tradition is still apparent in the many waterside gin bars Many of the area’s historic townhouses are now home to quaint antique shops According to municipality data Delfshaven is a nice neighborhood that is safe from theft residents feel there is more present than they report Some people also indicate feeling discriminated against in and around their neighborhood Delfshaven is just a 13-minute bike ride away from Rotterdam Central Station There are also regular bus and tram services that connect to the city center Delfshaven is perfect for expats wishing to enjoy quieter neighborhood living Hoek van Holland is Rotterdam’s only coastal district It is located some 30 km outside of the city center and Hoek van Holland is an idyllic place to escape city life and many beach clubs are a siren call for anyone looking to go on a day trip or short getaway But the district also has a number of attractive homes for those who want to enjoy beachside living more permanently Most Hoekenezen – as the area’s residents are known – reside in the main village There are also a number of housing developments underway for newcomers to take up residence and sports facilities including a tennis court and swimming pool there is also a lighthouse (vuurtoren) that currently serves as a museum Hoek van Holland’s sandy beaches are a hotspot among locals and tourists alike, and with good reason. They have repeatedly received the iconic Blue Flag award meaning they meet the highest level of environmental and safety standards The tumultuous history of the area is drawn into the landscape as well Traces of the German Nazi defense line that stretched along the coast from Norway to Spain are still evident in the sand dunes Various wartime bunkers and underground tunnels offer insight into the history amidst the protected areas of flora and fauna Data shows this district of Rotterdam is a great place to live in Hoek van Holland has no reports of public nuisance Responses from residents also show that they’re mostly content they complain about the lack of public facilities Hoek van Holland has its own metro station which opens straight onto the beachfront The journey to or from Rotterdam Central Station takes about 35 minutes The district also serves as a port for the ferry service Stenaline from which you can set sail for Harwich in the UK on a daily basis Hoek van Holland is great for beach-loving expats who want to live near Rotterdam and don’t mind the small village life Pernis is a garden village in the middle of the port area of ​​Rotterdam It is located on the west side of the city and is home to one of the largest oil refineries in the Netherlands While that might scare some newcomers away others will be enchanted by the district’s laid-back character As Pernis is mostly an industrial and residential district there aren’t many facilities to keep bored locals and expats entertained and excellent transport connections to the city center where you’ll likely find more things to do residents have a panoramic view of the water with its many ships the district offers a clear and extraordinary view of the starry sky every night Nature parks Deijffelbroek Park and Pernisser Park are a favorite among locals for walking The latter also has an outdoor swimming pool and a Children’s Forest where city folk can get acquainted with different types of trees The district seems to be a bit of a hidden secret. Pernis is extremely safe and socially cohesive It also seems to be one of the only districts of Rotterdam where residents don’t report public nuisance While there are objectively few facilities inhabitants seem very content with their living situation Pernis is connected to the Rotterdam city center by bus and metro services. The metro also runs through the Benelux Tunnel an ingenious river crossing underneath the Nieuwe Maas This tunnel also allows vehicles and bikes to access routes to Schiedam and Vlaardingen.  From the waterfront, the Water Taxi is also a great option to travel to the heart of Rotterdam in no time Expats with a love for water will enjoy the affordable housing options and incredible views that Pernis has to offer West of the city center is Rozenburg an island district that is connected to the mainland by bridges and tunnels The district is located between Rotterdam Port and the more industrial areas of the city Rozenburg has a distinct suburbian-like feel with just one main residential area Expats will find spacious middle-class housing options with quite a bit of greenery there aren’t many facilities to keep bored residents occupied during their days off and a shopping street with local shops and eateries Expats with children will also enjoy visiting the local windmill and petting zoo Located towards the shoreline is Rozenburg Headland (Landtong) a 10 km long nature reserve where visitors can experience the rugged nature that makes this part of the Netherlands so beautiful you’ll find flocks of migratory birds Residents of Rozenburg are very socially active and organize loads of activities, including markets, music festivals, and cycling and walking tours. Municipality data shows the district is a great place to live without the fear of crime Responses suggest that people are mostly content despite the lack of public facilities The district of Rozenburg is quite far from Rotterdam Centrum and it’ll take residents about an hour by tram or train to reach the city Those who prefer to go by bike can expect around an hour and a half of travel time Rozenburg is an ideal district for expats looking for a quieter suburban community life close by the shoreline On the whole, Rotterdam is considered one of the more criminally dangerous cities in the Netherlands, due to reports of explosions In 2022, it was the city with the most homicides (16 victims in Rotterdam, compared to a total of 142 in the Netherlands). Rotterdam also had just over 11,000 reports of violent and sexual crimes (the Netherlands totaled nearly 80,100 cases in 2022) The most registered crimes in 2022 occurred in the districts of: expats should exercise common sense to protect their personal safety and their belongings when traveling alone at night or in busy areas of Rotterdam where pickpocketing might occur With regard to air quality and pollution The Dutch government and local authorities have implemented strict regulations to mitigate the impact of the city’s industries on air quality and the local environment you may wish to avoid setting up homes in certain areas near ports and highways There are also a number of recruitment agencies dedicated to pairing internationals with companies in Rotterdam and the surrounding areas Shanthy is a writer and documentary producer with ten years of experience making films for the BBC and Channel 4 Born in London to Sri Lankan/Malaysian parents She also writes fiction and was a finalist on Penguin’s Write Now scheme The Netherlands is home to some of the world's top universities Learn all about the different subjects available at Dutch institutions We explain the complex secondary school system in the Netherlands including the three public streams and various international options Confused by the primary school system in the Netherlands from educational approaches to international options Cari English Tracing Blue Eyes on Kisar Island TEKS › English›Tracing Blue Eyes on Kisar.. Iklan Tracing Blue Eyes on Kisar Island The ethnic European descendants of Kisar makes the island even more colorful in terms of its culture Audio Berita By Frans Pati Herin · 5 minutes read TEKS FRANSISKUS PATI HERINMaya Belder (65) The elderly woman walking along a valley in Kottalama village has a different physique from most people on Kisar straight hair and a height of more than 170 centimeters Many people do not expect 65-year-old Maya to be full of energy her genetic makeup keeps her in good health She is convinced that she will live a long life Maya has 12 siblings and nearly all of them are still healthy the outermost island in Southwest Maluku regency Others live on the island of Ambon in East Nusa Tenggara whose stature figure is also unlike that of most Kisar residents who is the current head of Kottalama village Rudy said he was a seventh-generation descendant of Cpl a soldier of German origin in the Dutch colonial forces Ruff is also known as the first European leader of the village after a fortress called Ruine Des Fort Delfshaven Von Sueden was erected in 1670 Rudi is an Indonesian citizen of German descent. the Dutch colonial administration based in the Banda Islands which intended to expand the area under their control from Timor Island to Kisar and the surrounding area > Fostering the Nation's Inclusivism The region’s King Wonreli received them and assigned the Bakker clan to join them their names written on a commemorative plaque at the fortress After establishing the village and having families several of the village founders left Kisar but their children and grandchildren remained on the island we have no idea who our families are in Europe,” said Rudy showing a photograph of the soldiers who had founded the village The arrival of the ethnic Europeans added to the ethnic groups who lived on Kisar Island Kisar Island has a population of around 15,000 people of different ethnic origins The most dominant ethnic group is the Meher people followed by the Woirata people in two villages 70 percent of the 872 residents in Kottalama village are of European descent “Pure descendants are no longer found because of mixed marriages Only a few have blue eyes like native Europeans do they are now visiting their families on an island across the sea,” said Rudy Residents on the island do not lack protein from animals or fish because of abundant natural resources He said there was no consensus among the families of European descent that they were only allowed to marry others of European descent and freely married people of other ethnic groups There had been no attempts at maintaining racial purity which they had often heard was practiced by certain ethnic groups the residents of Kottalama often have European surnames but their physical appearance is similar to that of native islanders Thomas has the typical face of a Kisar islander “I look very Eastern due to a [multiracial] mix,” Thomas said jokingly a book containing the village founders’ family tree which was located near the village administration office All efforts were being made to ensure that the ancestral heritage would continue to be preserved for generations > Our Diversity However, the village faced constraints in maintaining the fortress, of which only the front part was left. The left, right and rear parts of the structure had collapsed. The front part was preserved after it was restored some time ago, using cement. “In fact, this fortress was built from corals that were attached by using egg whites and quicklime,” Welem explained. The ethnic European descendants of Kisar, along with their ancestral heritage, makes the island even more colorful in terms of its culture, history, and certainly, its population. Some of the island’s residents have dark and clear skin. Others have curly or straight hair. Some are tall, and others are short. And then there are those with blue eyes, a genetic trait that is gradually fading after centuries of mixed marriages. This article was translated byAris Prawira. A group of activists left graffiti on the statues of Piet Hein and Pim Fortuyn and on the Witte de With art center in Rotterdam. The vandalism was meant as criticism on "the glorification of Dutch colonialism and the martyrdom of Pim Fortuyn," the group said on social media. "We demand rejection of these unjust 'heroes' and we criticize the collective memory of Dutch history, because murderers, exploiters and fascist politicians are not worthy of a monument!" The group calls itself "Helden van Nooit", which translates to "Heroes of Never". They targeted monuments to people who day believe do not deserve to be given a pedestal. The words "killer" and "dief", Dutch for 'thief', were spray painted on the Piet Hein statue on Delfshaven. According to the group, Piet Pietersz Hein was a key figure in paving the way for transatlantic human trafficking of enslaved West Africans. "A murderer and a thief who stole from societies around the world. Hein does not belong on a pedestal, because Hein has never been a hero." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Helden van Nooit (@heldenvannooit) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Helden van Nooit (@heldenvannooit) According to the Helden van Nooit, the glorification of De With "illustrates the culture of colonial 'amnesia'. This colonial amnesia is part of the institutional racism that suppresses black and non-black communities of color to date." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Helden van Nooit (@heldenvannooit) 2020 The statue of Piet Hein in Delfshaven Photo Hans van Rhoon HHThe statue of Piet Hein in Delfshaven Photo Hans van Rhoon HHTaking down the statues of controversial people from history will not solve racism in modern society because ‘history is history’ prime minister Mark Rutte has told reporters ‘Pulling down statues is not the answer,’ Rutte said ‘Our history is one of pluses and minuses And if there are parts of our history which we are no longer proud of then we should be able to talk about them… but you cannot make history disappear.’ Instead, the prime minister said, we should explain the pros and cons attached to controversial figures. J P Coen, a seafarer whose statue was daubed with paint on Friday was but he also led punishment expeditions against on the Banda Islands placed a board next to it in 2012 outlining what Coen did but not something that he would make compulsory Meanwhile the Witte de With arts centre in Rotterdam, which was also attacked with paint on Friday, has said it will now press ahead with choosing a new name, three years after it first mooted the idea The centre takes its name from a vice-admiral in the Dutch navy who played a pivotal role in several major sea battles but also laid waste to the city of Jakarta in 1618 The Tropenmuseum in Amsterdam, also attacked with paint, said it has no plans to make a formal complaint. ‘We see what is happening in society at large and it would not be appropriate,’ director Stijn Schoonderwoerd told the Parool. Amsterdam city council has also said it will carry out an inventory of statues, buildings and street names with a link the city’s colonial past, with a view to placing explanatory notes next to them. ‘It is not up to politicians to say what is controversial, it should be part of a wider discussion in society,’ the council said in a statement. ‘But we do not accept vandalism and we will take action against it.’ The paint attacks are the work of an artists collective calling themselves Helden van Nooit (heroes from never). We could not provide the Dutch News service, and keep it free of charge, without the generous support of our readers. Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter, and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day. Many thanks to everyone who has donated to DutchNews.nl in recent days! We could not provide this service without you. If you have not yet made a contribution, you can do so here. Please help us making DutchNews.nl a better read by taking part in a short survey. In Rotterdam, not far from the Nieuwe Maas river, The Culture Campsite complex offers a constellation of architectural objects that epitomise “glamping” (the new frontier of niche tourism). They are eco-sustainable shelters designed by artists, designers and architects, surrounded by lush vegetation, and located in the Delfshaven district, an old river port now disused and transformed into an open-air port museum with former houses and warehouses that now host bars and restaurants. The Bedbug shelter. (Courtesy The Culture Campsite) The Sleeping Pod shelter during the inauguration. (ph. Bart Hoogveld Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The climate-change-adapted cities movement is well underway. Starting in cities... 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By clicking "accept" you will allow to process your personal data by us and third parties and be able to browse Abitare.it website without a subscription. 2022 City of Rotterdam downtown skyline at dusk in South Holland Erasmus Bridge on the left.City of Rotterdam downtown skyline at dusk  Photo: DepositphotosRotterdam has a sleeves-rolled-up reputation So it’s no wonder the city has been hard at work building a perfect opportunity for house buyers The question used to be ‘why live in Rotterdam?’ Now some people believe the question is: ‘Why not?’ A port city with just over 650,000 people of 170 different nationalities, Rotterdam is leading the way in building houses the nation desperately needs. Last year, the Zuid-Holland region constructed 13,300 new homes and agents believe that these new neighbourhoods still offer huge potential ‘Rotterdam has everything a big city should offer,’ says Richardo Cruz Fortes, team lead on Rotterdam for Expat Mortgages. ‘It has great public transport, a growing airport which is an epiphany in how easy it can be in getting from A to B and it’s a very international city with lots to explore ‘It’s also growing, with new build areas attracting a lot of young professionals like the Delfshaven and Rotterdam South. Feyenoord football club might have cancelled building its new stadium but the plan was to build lots of properties and even though Feyenoord has pulled the plug the city is making new living space on the riverside anyway.’ Some of the latest communities might be developing their ‘soul’ still but that could be seen as an opportunity for buyers to be part of the process Another advantage is Rotterdam’s appealing prices, and these are attracting a lot of interest. According to the latest analysis from NVM estate agents’ organisation Rotterdam had a higher than average growth in year-on-year prices in the first quarter of 2022 there were signs of a slightly cooling market.) supply is a problem but Cruz Fortes said that rising interest rates and the war on Ukraine are creating uncertainty that is putting off Dutch buyers ‘There used to be more than 10 bids for each house the more the Dutch are refraining from buying But our international clients are still interested.’ If you’re after a chic and established neighbourhood which used to be a village and has appealing detached and terraced homes some on the waters of the Bergse Achterplas recreational lake Kralingen East and West also have an upmarket vibe while the city centre attracts many young professionals If panoramic views are your thing, then look at the Kop van Zuid, near Erasmusbrug bridge over Rotterdam’s Nieuwe Maas modern apartments offer views of city and water at a fraction of the price of other international cities Beware, though, if you are aiming to buy to let. Like Amsterdam, Rotterdam is introducing limits to prevent landlords from buying up the cheaper housing stock If the property you want has an official city estimate – known as a WOZ value – of up to €355,000 you must first live in it personally or rent to a close relative as well as year-round entertainment in hip nightclubs and world restaurants And if you miss the other major cities of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, The Hague and Utrecht are less than an hour on the train. So, what are you waiting for? ‘There’s a no-nonsense mentality in Rotterdam,’ says Cruz Fortes For advice on how much you can borrow, contact Expat Mortgages Rotterdam’s skyline is iconic in the world of architecture Here are 10 of the city’s must-see buildings you simply don’t want to miss on your next visit By Laura van der Most So which of Roffa’s many must-see buildings deserves a visit on your next trip Looking for somewhere to rent in Rotterdam Take the stress out of househunting in Rotterdam with Spotahome Arguably the most famous of Rotterdam’s architectural wonders, the Kubuswoningen are a beautiful symbol of the city’s early strive for innovation and regeneration These unconventional cubed houses were designed in the mid-1970s by architect Piet Blom to give the city a bit more character after it was largely destroyed by World War II bombings the cubicles are tilted at 45 degrees atop hexagon-shaped bases Metaphorically, each house represents a tree and makes it collectively appear as a forest. That’s also why they are more commonly known as Het Blaakse Bos (The Blaak Forest). On a functional level, the houses are elevated on trunks to maximize the space below. Underneath sits a museum of chess pieces (schaakstukkenmuseum) One resident opened his house as a show cube (Kijk Kubus) so you can see what it’s like inside There is also an Airbnb for those who want to experience an overnight stay Meanwhile, in the old part of town, you should absolutely check out the Witte Huis this was the Dutch answer to America’s radical architecture The innovative 10-story building was Europe’s first high-rise office and is also one of the few buildings to remain intact during the World War II (WWII) bombings The building’s design came from architects Gerrit van der Schuijt and has hints of Jugendstil and Art Nouveau styles it retains a traditional 19th-century touch by using stone – instead of steel – as its main building material the White House had an unprecedented height in Europe (around 45 meters) Visitors could take the elevator to the viewing platform on top of the building Today you can pop in for a drink and a bite at the Grand Café inside the White House it’s best to make a reservation first The ultra-modern Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen (2021) is another valuable addition to Rotterdam’s cityscape. Its 1600+ mirrors reflect the surrounding Museum Park you’ll have a panoramic view of the city But the gorgeous architecture isn’t the only reason why you should pay a visit to this building by Winy Maas of architectural firm MVRDV The depot is the world’s first art storage facility that offers access to a museum’s complete collection you can wander through the building to see over 150,000 artworks Visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes look at conservators and restorators working their magic Markedly, the depot won a Special Prize of Commendation at the 2023 European Museum of the Year Awards (EMYA) Speaking of drinks and bites, the Markthal in Rotterdam should be on everyone’s list of things to see But the building known as De Koopboog of De Vreetkeet is more than just a shopping and dining market; its towering curvaceous design by MVRDV is gracefully out-of-place compared with the rising vertical lines of the city’s urban center This building from 2014 stands out with its colorful 11,000 square meters ceiling that has been coined the Dutch version of the Sistine Chapel The market is covered by a horseshoe-like structure that also functions as residential apartment buildings The glass panels allow residents to view the restaurants and bars below If you do visit the Markthal, make sure to stop by the Tijdtrap This is a free exhibition displaying the archaeological finds of medieval Rotterdam excavated during the building’s construction Rarely is a mix of new and old done so well. The Timmerhuis in the Stadsdriehoek-area combines post-WWII reconstruction design with contemporary architecture and is truly a sight to behold The structure is also nicknamed the ‘cloud of glass and steel’ this complex beautifully complements the existing buildings surrounding it It merges with the Stadtimmerhuis by maintaining the same floor heights while the units on top conform with the other buildings in the Laurenskwartier The historic part of the building (Stadstimmerhuis) was designed by architect J.R.A. Koops in the 1950s. In 2015, the building was renovated and extended by architectural firm Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA). This made Timmerhuis one of the most sustainable buildings in the Netherlands at that time Timmerhuis currently houses offices and residential apartments, as well as Museum Rotterdam The 802-meter-long bridge Erasmusbrug is arguably the best-known icon of Rotterdam’s skyline Connecting the northern and southern banks of the river Maas this bridge has been the backdrop of many spectacles such as the start of the 2010 Tour de France Inspired by the asymmetrical 139-meter-high pylon fastened by cables among which De Zwaan (The Swan) and Wipkip (non-translateable) It was designed by Dutch architect Ben van Berkel and officially opened by Queen Beatrix in 1996 The Erasmus Bridge links the city center to the Kop van Zuid a trendy location with hip restaurants and bars Located right next to the bridge is the Toren op Zuid (Tower on South) This gorgeous leaning tower in Rotterdam has had many names; the Belvedère the KPN building… But the official name for this design by Italian architect Renzo Piano is De Link The building was first built in 2000. But when the KPN moved its headquarters to Rotterdam in 2018, it underwent major renovations. The expansion design by V8 architects made sure the building had enough space for a meeting center What makes the structure so fascinating is that it leans 5.9 degrees over the area It is supported by a 50 meters pillar of steel thus creating a perfect balance (or perhaps imbalance) Another neat feature is the lights on the front of this high-rise which can turn the building into a giant 90-by-40-meter billboard the futuristic main train station will be the first experience you’ll have with the city’s daring architecture The station’s spacious entrance hall still features a few of the original features Daylight pours in through transparent walls and roof over the train tracks allowing for an exceptionally beautiful experience In other places, the station features a metal roof that is covered with solar cells. These make Rotterdam Centraal one of the largest rooftop solar projects in Europe. Funnily enough, this prominent roof is also why the station is endearingly nicknamed Station Kapsalon (after the popular dish invented in Rotterdam) If you walk outside the station, be sure to marvel at the statue “Moments Contained” by Thomas J This gorgeous 4-meter-high bronze statue of a young woman in contemporary clothing was revealed in honor of International Women’s Day 2023 (8 March) Most other lists will urge you to visit the Van Nellefabriek. Sure, it’s very pretty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the factory you should really see is the Fabriek Delfshaven Located on the river Schie, this hidden architectural gem started out as Roeloffs’ factory for textile dry cleaning and dyeing. It was long destined for demolition. However, after nearly 30 years of neglect, the complex was renovated by architectural firm Mei Architects and Planners and reopened in 2013 The beautiful building retained its former look and a coffee bar to get those creative juices flowing another beautiful example of Rotterdam’s modernist architecture complimenting the old styles And finally, you must absolutely walk by the iconic Paulus Kerk a futuristic building with triangular facade elements in red copper and triangular windows. Or according to the architect’s philosophy: a structure that ‘has fallen like a crystal from the rock.’ The inside of the building doesn’t look like one of those old medieval churches it embraces functionality with the grace of a kaleidoscope something beautiful will surely come from it How much people value Paul’s Church can be summed up by this news from June 2023. After burglars vandalized the building causing tens of thousands of euros worth of damage the church’s crowdfunding campaign reached its goal of €15,000 within just one day For the perfect Instagrammable photo, you should stop by the Luchtsingel in Rotterdam North. Designed by architectural firm ZUS this gorgeous 390-meter-long bridge is a vision in yellow and reminds you of the Japanese Shinto shrines It’s important to note that part of the bridge has been closed to the public since May 2022 she discovered a passion for editing and has been working on improving texts ever since Laura’s areas of expertise usually cover labor laws Although Amsterdam is typically the number one hub for expats there are plenty of other cities in the Netherlands worth your while From the right to protest to protection from discrimination here's what you need to know about human rights in the Netherlands The police released the name and photo of a man wanted in connection with a fatal shooting in Rotterdam-Delfshaven on July 3rd 25-year-old Gino Oliveira was killed in the shooting The police are now calling on the public's help to find suspected gunman 22-year-old Aldijr Marlin Oliveira was sitting in the back seat of a Fiat Punto on Westkousdijk when a gunman opened fire on the car The driver of the Fiat managed to speed away where he succumbed to his injuries a few days later The driver of the car he was in remained unharmed The police managed to trace the route the perpetrator traveled on the day of the murder Further investigation led the police to Marlin The police call on anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward Categories Netherlands we took a day trip to Rotterdam from The Hague and really enjoyed our brief visit to the city but Rotterdam definitely left us wanting more This one day in Rotterdam itinerary showcases both highlights and hidden gems of the second-largest city in the country as well as the places we stumbled upon when in Rotterdam which help run this site at no extra cost to you You may choose to base yourself in Rotterdam when visiting other cities and small towns in the Netherlands we based ourselves in The Hague (Den Haag) and ventured out to Rotterdam for the day We’ve summed up our entire day in our YouTube video, “One day in Rotterdam“. Be sure to give it a watch. To stay in touch with us on YouTube, be sure to hit that subscribe button train and taxi/Uber from many other destinations The Netherlands isn’t that big of a country and it’s really easy to get from place to place We love traveling by train in the Netherlands From Den Haag Centraal to Rotterdam Centraal it’s about a 30 minute train journey There are many direct trains between the two cities although we had to transfer in Gouda when we visited It was an easy transfer that lined up rather perfectly You can use your tickets any time of the day. I suggest getting them ahead of time on the Dutch Railways website Download their mobile app so you can easily bring up your tickets to show the staff when they come around to check them It’s so important to make sure that you have travel insurance before you venture out into the world Justin and I made sure that we were fully protected in case anything went wrong Our favorite travel insurance company is soNomad due to their uncomplicated and low cost approach (we wrote this article sharing why we highly recommend them) soNomad has reinvented travel insurance and you will save up to 25% in the process when compared to other travel insurance companies.  Need Travel Insurance?You should never leave home without it Get a travel insurance quote in seconds with the best rates When Justin and I walked from Rotterdam Centraal towards Rotterdam City Centre, we stumbled upon this massive art piece called Nieuwe Delftse Poort so it says something that we still took the time to stop and check this one out This modern gate represents one that used to stand in this same spot back in 1545 as part of Rotterdam’s fortification walls Rotterdam didn’t require the Noorderpoort and its protection though it remained as part of the city’s history The original gate was rebuilt on three occasions and the last incarnation of it became the most famous monument in Rotterdam As the city expanded and became more developed the municipality decided to move the gate to another location the gate was badly damaged in 1940 and completely removed artist Cor Kraat constructed a modern art piece in the place of the original gates this gate is merely a skeleton of what was once there demonstrating that Rotterdam is in a constant state of rebuilding Our first main stop in Rotterdam was Markthal located inside an iconic horseshoe-shaped structure This indoor covered market boasts nearly 100 fresh food stalls featuring authentic flavors from all over the world There’s also a supermarket and several restaurants massive mural splashed across the walls and ceiling inside this circular building The artwork by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam is called “Horn of Plenty” or “Cornucopia” seeds and insects with a nod to Dutch still-life paintings from the 17th century This art is a sharp contrast to the building’s gray exterior It’s also been called “the largest artwork in the world” and “the Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam” I suggest walking around and sampling dishes from several stalls try Tofu Heaven (delicious tofu snacks and dishes!) Umi Sushi Ramen & Pokebowl for veggie sushi and ramen Please be advised that there aren’t any vegan stroopwafels at Markthal and no one had vegan versions of this famous Dutch cookie You’ll need to go to Didi’s Stroopwafels in town to find vegan stroopwafels (more on this in a bit!) We made the mistake of visiting around lunchtime as well There were long waits for food from most booths Not only do you need to pay to use the toilet I suggest visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon The crowds did let up quite a bit as we were leaving so I think we should have timed this one out better are great to visit after your time at the Market Hall the Cube Houses are directly across the way with a walking distance of only a minute or two If you love interesting architecture or quirky places to visit the Cube Houses are a worthy addition to your one day in Rotterdam itinerary Architect Piet Blom designed this collection of unique homes that you won’t see anywhere else in the world City officials thought that it would be a good opportunity to modernize everything The concept behind the yellow Cube Houses was to not only add bright and cheery modern buildings to the city but to also optimize the space inside the homes These striking Cube Houses are a village themselves within the city Each house has three floors and grow much wider towards the top these “tree” homes form a forest and gained the nickname As you can imagine, this little neighborhood is quite popular and draws quite a crowd. It’s important to be respectful as these are actual homes where people live. It’s also the home of the Stayokay Hostel Rotterdam – yes you can take a tour inside one of the homes if you’re interested We saw quite a few people advertising this tour and there are also signs pointing you towards the Kijk-Kubus (Show-Cube) It’s open seven days a week from 11:00 to 17:00 and costs a small fee to go inside Lijnbaan is the main shopping street in Rotterdam go for a stroll down the Lijnbaan as you make your way towards Delfshaven This is the main shopping promenade with many popular retail outlets There’s an intriguing history behind Lijnbaan After Rotterdam was entirely flattened after the Second World War the city planners set out to create a modern and meaningful street design the Lijnbaan became the first dedicated pedestrian-free street in Europe Business owners felt that their shops would only be visited if people could drive up in their cars Lijnbaan became a place where residents could go for a wander I’m including this notable stroopwafel shop in this one day in Rotterdam itinerary because they sell vegan stroopwafels This was the only vegan-friendly stroopwafel shop I could find in Rotterdam Please add others in the comments section below While the fresh stroopwafels that the staff members make before your eyes are not free of animal products there are packages of vegan stroopwafels on the shelves Make sure you ask a member of staff or purchase a package marked with a “V” in black marker on the bottom of the package The Dutch Pinball Museum is unlike any museum we’ve ever visited It’s dedicated entirely to pinball machines from their inception through to present day there are more than 100 playable pinball machines to play an unlimited amount of times with your ticket I highly recommend purchasing a ticket to the Dutch Pinball Museum ahead of time This is a very popular place to visit in Rotterdam and tickets often sell out the first room you’ll visit is filled with the most old These are the only ones that you won’t be able to play This room functions as a true museum where you will see the evolution of pinball machines over time the rest of the museum is yours to explore Wander through the various rooms on a couple of different levels to play different themed pinball machines There are pinball machines for bands and musicians but there’s also movie and music memorabilia to match the pinball cabinets Our favorite room was the Big Lebowski room This smaller room is full of Big Lebowski memorabilia My favorite pinball machine is Funhouse as I have memories of playing this one when I was younger While there are a considerable amount of guests entering the museum at the same time You might have to wait to play your favorite one Two hours is the perfect amount of time to play pinball to your heart’s content The Dutch Pinball Museum is located in the middle of Delfshaven it’s time to go for a wander around Delfshaven This one day in Rotterdam itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Delfshaven This is one of the few areas of Rotterdam that wasn’t bombed during World War II this area used to be its own municipality (“Port of Delft”) before becoming part of Rotterdam in 1886 Justin and I went for a walk along the cobblestone streets lining the old marina There’s a reconstructed 18th century flour windmill that’s one of the largest in the Netherlands It is possible to take a tour here and purchase products made of flour I suggest stopping by Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim a brewery that makes traditionally brewed Pilgrim beer with pure Rotterdam water This is one of three breweries in Rotterdam There’s a history of pilgrims in Delfshaven The old church (Oude Kerk) in Delfshaven is called the Pelgrimskerk (Pilgrim Fathers Church) It was named as such after Pilgrims left Delfshaven in 1620 to travel to America This is a trendy area of town with colorful murals and street art covering the walls and alleyways Pop into a speakeasy cocktail bar or check out the nightlife if you plan to stay in Rotterdam well into the evening this is a must visit spot to add to your Rotterdam travel plans Just at the edge of Witte de Withstraat is one of the best restaurants and I’ve wanted to visit for ages now I was so happy to learn of their second location in Rotterdam This is the place to be for vegan comfort food I think that everyone will agree that this food is absolutely delicious It was the perfect end to our day in Rotterdam before walking back to the train station to head back to The Hague Despite the rainy weather (to be expected in the Netherlands in the spring) Justin and I had a really wonderful day exploring Rotterdam There are quite a few other places we could visit in Rotterdam on our next trip and some of Rotterdam’s beautiful parks Feel free to add any of these to your Rotterdam itinerary if they pique your interest it was a toss-up for us whether to base ourselves in Rotterdam or The Hague but there’s no reason why you shouldn’t spend the night (or nights) in Rotterdam Please use the map above to find the best hotels Enter your travel dates for more precise info and click on each property to learn more and book it Looking for more blog posts about the Netherlands to plan your upcoming trip there Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns The Mohicans Treehouses: Unique Luxury Stay in Ohio I'm a part-time traveler and full time travel blogger and content creator I love writing about outdoor adventures and nature Justin Plus Lauren is one of the first vegan travel blogs I've been vegan since 2009 and vegetarian all my life I love sharing the best vegan food from around the world in my guides I'm also very passionate about sustainable travel and responsible wildlife tourism You'll only find ethical travel experiences on this website You can learn more about me here. I also own a second blog called Ontario Hiking Contact Lauren at justinpluslauren@gmail.com © 2025 Justin Plus Lauren | Privacy Policy