Holland Moves You

The Dutch are known to be open-minded and friendly. Creative and efficient. Innovative and business oriented. And I do have to admit that we take quite some pride in it.

However, and maybe most importantly, we are also passionate about sharing our experiences, knowledge and enthousiasm with the world. We like to stir up things and look for new opportunities. That’s probably why innovation thrives in our small country. We simply love to set people and businesses in motion. Let’s take a closer look at how exactly Holland moves you…

Holland Moves You – from A to B

Holland moves you from the North Sea beaches to the enchanting forests of the Veluwe. From the bustling heart of metropolitan cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague to the serenity of hidden chateaus. From traditional landmarks to modern art & design festivals. Move through the vast heath or against the winds on our dykes.

Holland is not only a diverse, but also very compact country. So compact in fact, that we also call it Holland City. That’s what makes moving around so very easy in Holland. From North to South Holland is only 300km/186mi long. From West to East a mere 200km/124mi. From Amsterdam, every major city and every small village in Holland can be reached within three hours, thanks to our great transportation infrastructure. And did you know that besides being home to the world’s largest aviation hub, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Holland has four more international airports? Pretty impressive for such a small country, isn’t it?

Holland Moves You – to the beat of your own drum

In Holland we appreciate uniqueness and thinking out of the box. In fact, being a melting pot with more than 190 nationalities is one of the key factors that makes the Dutch so open-minded. We appreciate how different personalities with different backgrounds and different views widen your horizon. But we also see the importance of staying true to yourself, your values and believes. The same applies to meetings. We realize that no meeting is the same and that there is no one-size-fits-all formula. New insights, developments, opportunities, innovations and technologies are around every corner and we are ready to seize them. And we just might throw in some Dutch wit, charm, and gezelligheid along the way. Because after all, we still like to march to the beat of our own drum.

And, speaking of beats. Holland is home to some of the finest DJs in the world. Tiësto, Afrojack, Junkie XL and Armin van Buren’s beats get people moving on dance floors all around the world. Even the Dutch Royal family:

Holland Moves You – to higher (meeting) levels

Holland may be small in size, but the Dutch are big in business opportunities. We thrive on building bridges and connecting the world. And we do it with an international outlook and a no-nonsense attitude. Holland is a superb incubator for innovation. Something that international investors have realized as well. Amsterdam / Rotterdam was recently named the 3rd attractive metropolitan region for FDI (foreign direct investment) according to IBM’s Global Location Trends report and the Dutch start-up scene is one of the most prominent in Europe. Ever heard of booking.com, TomTom or WeTransfer? All Dutch!

Holland’s well-established and professional meetings and conventions infrastructure is equally impressive. From convention centres like RAI Amsterdam, World Forum The Hague and Rotterdam Ahoy, to conference hotels and special venues. From Regional Convention Burueaus to Destination Management Companies. With expertise, creativity, efficiency and an undeniable business instinct the Dutch meetings industry knows how to move your meeting to the next level. And it never stops moving itself, as the annual new developments prove.

Let Holland move you – in the best ways possible!

Holland moves you on many levels! Personally and professionally. Emotionally and educationally. We spin you around and turn you upside down. We challenge you to move your feet, open your mind and question the status quo. In other words, Holland Moves You – in the best ways possible! So let’s meet in Holland and let’s move your meeting to the next level.

Holland Moves you – to Holland! Win a trip at IMEX America or IBTM World

To show you that we truly move you we, well, literally want to move you – to Holland! Visit Team Holland at the Holland stand at IMEX America in Las Vegas or at IBTM World in Barcelona  and let’s get moving together for your chance to win a trip to Holland. To find out more, visit www.meetmrholland.com. To find out more, visit www.meetmrholland.com.

Meet Work Stay at Postillion Hotels The Netherlands

In case you have never heard of the Dutch hotel chain Postillion Hotels before, I can promise you that this is going to change very soon. Not only because you are reading my blogpost as we speak, but because the chain is about to open its 8th location in the fall: the brand new and stunning Postillion Hotel Amsterdam. But before I’ll tell you more about this new kid on the block, let’s take a closer look at the ambitious Dutch company that is Postillion Hotels.

From Motoresto to Postillion Hotels

Postillion Hotels was established in the 1950s and underwent 4 name changes before establishing itself on the Dutch hotel market as Postillion Hotels. Like they say, fifth time’s the charm! The name Postillion derives from the stage coach that used to drive between Groningen in the North of Holland and Rotterdam in the South-West.

As a brand, Postillion Hotels is staying close to its Dutch roots. With full service, focus on hospitality and a no-nonsense-but-nothing-is-too-crazy attitude, Postillion Hotels established itself as a strong player on the Dutch hospitality market over the years. And now the brand is ready to enter the international meetings and conventions market at full force with that same refreshing attitude.

Meet Work Stay

What do you expect from a full-service business hotel? A professional environment to organize hassle-free meetings and events? Facilities to keep on working while you are away on a business trip? And how about a comfortable and hospitable environment that feels like a home away from home? That is exactly what Postillion Hotels offers their business guests with the ‘Meet Work Stay’ concept. Whatever you seek, Postillion Hotels aims to facilitate and even anticipate. There is only one catch though: you might not want to leave again!

In addition, all of Postillion Hotels’ venues are conveniently located close to major Dutch highways with plenty of parking spaces. A deliberate and smart choice to make each venue easily accessible from anywhere within the Netherlands.

Brain Food meets Green Key

The infamous after-meal-dip is a thing of the past with Postillion Hotels’ Brain Food. Together with a dietician Postillion Hotels developed a menu that is energizing the body and mind. How so? By providing an array of healthy homemade meals, snacks and energy boosts throughout the day. Brainfoods enhance concentration, provide healthy nutrients and reduce the after-meal-dip, leaving delegates on top of their (meeting) game all day long. Still craving that cookie or chocolate bar after all? I’m sure those are hiding somewhere as well!

Not that you need any more reasons to choose one of the soon-to-be-eight Postillion Hotels’ locations for your meeting or event, but just in case, here’s one more: every single hotel acquired the Golden Green Key certificate for their sustainability efforts.

Let’s take a closer look at a couple of Postillion Hotels’ main locations now though, shall we?

New kid on the block: Postillion Hotel Amsterdam

In September 2016, Postillion Hotels will open its newest member and quite possibly flagship venue: Postillion Hotel Amsterdam. Actually, September 2016 will see the opening of the hotel’s state-of-the-art conference centre, which can host up to 1,200 delegates. Ample parking space is also available and that in the middle of Amsterdam! How is that possible? The new Postillion Hotel Amsterdam is located on the site of Amsterdam’s former chewing ball factory!

Another advantage of choosing a former industrial factory site for a venue? Its superb (public) transportation infrastructure. The hotel is nestled between Amsterdam’s major highways and two train stations. The nearest subway station is a mere 3 minute walk. From here you can reach Amsterdam’s city centre in 10 minutes and RAI Amsterdam in 5 minutes.

artist impression

floor plan

artist impression

In the beginning of 2018, the adjacent hotel will open its doors with 256 bedrooms, a restaurant, fitness centre, parking garage and an additional 17 meeting rooms for up to 1,500 delegates. With that, Postillion Hotel Amsterdam will be the brand’s largest venue.

Sounds like Postillion Hotel Amsterdam is a meeting planner’s dream? That’s because it actually is. Or rather will be once fully opened.

View Postillion Hotel Amsterdam’s floor plan and meeting capacities.

Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam

A convention centre disguised as a state monument. That is Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam (WTC=World Trade Centre). But it’s not only the building’s striking architecture that is sure to impress delegates. The interior eradiates a certain allure that offers a unique back-drop for any type of meeting, convention, exhibition or event for up to 1,100 delegates. And on top of that, the convention centre is located in the beating heart of Rotterdam.

Besides the main conference hall, Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam offers 38 various break-out and meeting rooms. The exhibition space is 3,000m2/33,000ft2 large with 7m/23ft high ceilings. Most striking is about the building is that the characteristics of each space are unique, which provides endless possibilities for your event.

1,000 hotel rooms are within walking distance of Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam. And by the end of 2017, 120 new hotel rooms will be available on site.

View Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam’s floor plan and meeting capacities.

Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik

If you are looking for a state-of-the-art convention hotel, then you may have found your match in Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik. The venue previously earned the title of ‘Conference Venue of the Year’ due to its excellent facilities, location and sustainability approach.

Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik’s 30 multi-functional meeting and event rooms offer space for up to 1,500 delegates in the heart of Holland. Amsterdam Schiphol is a mere 35 minute drive away and there are 450 parking spaces available on the premises.

Specifically trained employees are available throughout the duration of your event to ensure smooth operations on any level. And the hotel’s meeting hosts will make sure that your guests will feel extra well taken care of.

View Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik’s floor plan and meeting capacities.

Postillion Hotels in The Netherlands

And without further ado, here is an overview of all 8 Postillion Hotels venues:

• Postillion Amersfoort Veluwemeer
• Postillion Hotel Amsterdam
• Postillion Hotel Arnhem
• Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik
• Postillion Hotel Deventer
• Postillion Hotel Dordrecht
• Postillion Hotel Haren Groningen
• Postillion Convention Centre WTC Rotterdam

You can find detailed information about each hotel including specific meeting facilities and contact details on the Postillion Hotels website.

Are you ready to meet, work and stay at Postillion Hotels?

To request your proposal or more information about Postillion Hotels, please feel free to contact:

Postillion Hotels
Kosterijland 8
3981 AJ Bunnik
The Netherlands

Telephone: +31 85 0580 101
E-Mail: reservations@postillionhotels.com
Internet: www.postillionhotels.com

Tip: if you are attending IMEX America in Las Vegas in October, drop by the Holland Stand (2215) to discuss your event with Postillion Hotels personally.

 

 

The Meetings Show 2016 recap – the UK’s got talent!

The Meetings Show may be a bit smaller in size than the other established international meetings and event trade shows, but maybe that is exactly why Team Holland loves the event so much. As a small country with lots to offer we can certainly relate! So no surprise that Team Holland had a lovely time twisting the trade floor at the Meetings Show UK once again.

Team Holland at The Meetings Show UK 2016

The Orange Twist – the UK’s got talent!

Well, to be fair, not only the UK has got talent. All event professionals at The Meetings Show 2016 showed a great deal of talent with the #OrangeTwist. And since in this case pictures say much more than my words, just have a look yourself:

 

Win a trip to Holland

Did we get a twisted photo together at The Meetings Show 2016? Then head over to my Facebook page to tag, like and share your photo.

‘And what’s in it for me?’ I hear you ask. Quite a bit actually! If our Orange Twist photo gets the most likes you will win a fantastic 4-day trip for 2 to Holland*. The trip includes:

in Amsterdam:
– 1 night at Park Plaza Hotel Amsterdam, incl. breakfast
– 2 IAmsterdam City Cards (24 hours)
– lunch incl guided tour at Beurs van Berlage Amsterdam
– lunch incl guided tour at RAI Amsterdam

in The Hague:
– 2 nights at Crowne Plaza Hotel The Hague, incl. breakfast
– 1,5 hours The Hague city tour with a The Hague Convention Bureau city guide
– lunch at one of The Hague’s top restaurants offered to you by Kuoni Destination Management

And a round-trip flight for two, of course.

Update: Michal’s Orange Twist was unbeatable and he is the lucky winner of the trip to Holland. Congratulations, Michal!

The Meetings Show UK 2016 – a lovely experience all around

The thing I love most about a smaller trade show is that there is just a bit more time to network and (re)connect with new and old friends. And the Meetings Show is no exception. Just take a look at some of the great moments Team Holland and I shared with event professionals from all over the world:

Where you can meet Team Holland in 2016

If you weren’t able to meet Team Holland at The Meetings Show UK, no need to worry. In 2016 you can still meet us at IMEX America in Las Vegas and IBTM World in Barcelona. Hope to see you there!

And if you would like to find out more about the Orange Twist, feel free to visit my website www.meetmrholland.com.

*Terms & conditions apply

A day in… ‘s-Hertogenbosch

If you would like to go off-the-beaten-path for your next meeting or event, I highly suggest the hidden Dutch secret that is called ‘s-Hertogenbosch. I know, it’s a handful to pronounce, but you may also call it Den Bosch, as the city is colloquially known. ‘s-Hertogenbosch has all the ingredients for a well-rounded, memorable event. It’s is a place where old meets new, hospitality meets Burgundian culture and art meets nature – a perfect backdrop for your event.

Facts

‘s-Hertogenbosch is the capital of the province North Brabant in the south of the Netherlands
‘s-Hertogenbosch, which means ‘The Duke’s Forest’, is colloquially known as Den Bosch
‘s-Hertogenbosch is known for its hospitality and unique Burgundian culture
Population: 150,000

Getting there

With 6 international airports at close by ‘s-Hertogenbosch is superbly accessible. The closest airport is Eindhoven Airport, which is only 35km/22mi from ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport offers frequent daily train connections, which will take you to ‘s-Hertogenbosch in less than an hour. Other airport options in Holland are Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Maastricht Airport. In addition, Düsseldorf Airport in Germany and Zaventem Brussels Airport in Belgium are a respective 110km/68mi and 125km/78mi away.

By the way, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is also known as Holland’s connectivity city, due to its very central location in the country. Conveniently this makes it very easy to reach ‘s-Hertogenbosch by train from all major Dutch cities.

Meeting and business venues

‘s-Hertogenbosch is still one of the off-the-path Dutch meeting destinations, but it truly offers everything to host a great event – no matter the size. From historic venues to modern hidden secrets, ‘s-Hertogenbosch will surprise you with a great variety of event venues. Let me give you a glimpse of what you can expect:

Modern
The brand new KASerne is a hotel, restaurant and unique meeting venue (for up to 200 people) all in one. It’s a place where you experience the hospitality that the region is renowned for. And best of all: one of the meeting spaces is a modernised, former greenhouse.
073 Meeting Company is a modern, no-nonsense event location. Efficient meetings in a pleasant environment, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a variety of after-dinner options and centrally located. What more can you ask for?!

Classic
Today’s standards combined with yesterday’s values. That’s what Hotel Central in the heart of ‘s-Hertogenbosch stands for. The multifunctional meeting rooms offer space for up to 300 attendees.
De Orangerie is without a doubt one of the most enchanting meeting venues you will find in Holland. The former church dates back to 1859 and will surely leave a lasting impression.
In 1931 ‘s-Hertogenbosch opened its first indoor cattle market. Since then the building has become a historic landmark and is now a convention venue. 1931 Congress Centre Brabanthallen‘s multifunctional space can host up to 2,000 guests.

Hidden secrets
When I say meeting, you won’t necessarily say wellness next. But, it is possible at Meetwell. Experience the perfect mix of business and wellness by adding creative and unconventional elements to your event.

Do you want to add some drama to your event? At Theater aan de Parade you can take your meeting to the theatre stage. The rest is up to you until the curtain call!

After your meeting

In ‘s-Hertogenbosch, which was founded as fortified city, heritage and modern architecture go hand in hand. Did I mention that ‘s-Hertogenbosch is most renowned for its Burgundian culture? Enjoying the good life is definitely part of the city’s DNA. This mix makes ‘s-Hertogenbosch an attraction in itself and offers you plenty of opportunities to relax and recharge before, after or during your meeting or event.

Museums
From historical to contemporary art, from young designers to renowned artists like Jheronimus Bosch or Vincent van Gogh – you can enjoy it all in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Take a guided tour through one of the museums or discover the inspiring works by yourself.

Stedelijk Museum: museum for contemporary art and design and one of the two museums located in ‘s-Hertogenbosch’s museum quarter.
Het Noord Brabants Museum: the second museum located in the museum quarter displays regional art, history and culture including original works by Jheronimus Bosch and Vincent van Gogh.
Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre: It’s all in the name! The international knowledge and experience centre is a unique tribute to Jheronimus Bosch and a ‘must-see’ while in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

Sights
The river Binnendieze is arguably one of the most popular attractions in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Sail the canals and gain unique insights into the history, architecture and culture of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Even better: take the Jeroen Bosch ‘Heaven and Hell’ boat trip on the river, which takes you along sculptures from Jheronimus Bosch paintings, a unique screening of a short movie and ends at the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center.

If you prefer heights over smooth sailing, you might want to opt for the ‘Een wonderlijke klim‘ (‘An Enchanting Climb’) tour up the Sint-Jan Cathedral. In this dizzying experience you can walk along the cathedral’s roof gutter and discover the 96 sculptures otherwise almost impossible to spot. And while you’re up there, you should not forget to take in the breathtaking view of ‘s-Hertogenbosch and the beautiful region.

Bosch by Night is a spectacular open-air light show on the market square in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, where Jheronimus Bosch once had his studio.

Shopping
Don’t let ‘s-Hertogenbosch’s smaller size fool you. It’s still a shopping heaven with more  than 150 shops waiting to be discovered. Just stroll around the city and thou shall find! My favourite areas are around Snellestraat and Verwersstraat, where you can find inspriational boutique shops. Caught a rainy day? Visit Conceptstore Robbies for indoor fashion, lifestyle, food and coffee.

Restaurants
As I may have mentioned once or twice before, ‘s-Hertogenbosch breathes Burgundian culture and hospitality. So no surprise that you will have a hard time choosing your culinary experiences while in town. There are three main restaurant area’s in the city centre: Uilenburg, Korte Putstraat and Parade, where your taste buds will surely be satisfied. But just in case you’re simply not able to choose, here are a few recommendations:

Noble: dine in the informal restaurant, enjoy an intimate dinner or simply have a drink at the bar and enjoy the distinguished Chalet Royal building. Tip: Noble also offers a meeting room for up to 12 people.
At Fabuleux not only the French seasonal cuisine will appeal to your senses, but also the cozy, historic building in the heart of ‘s-Hertogenbosch.
Looking for a more unusual dining experience? The menu at Sense consists of a variety of small courses, which can be ordered in random order. I should also mention that Sense proudly holds a Michelin star.

If you want to experience the burgundian atmosphere like the locals do, I highly recommend paying a visit to the local beer brewery Cafe Bar Le Duc. They even have meeting space for up to 12 people. Make sure to try the Jheronimus Bosch Beer and maybe even go on a tour of their brewery.
Beer really isn’t your thing? Fear not! Wijnbar Bij Dirk is ‘s-Hertogenbosch’s first true wine bar offering wines from around the world. Just sip and enjoy surrounded by a chique and trendy interior.

And last but most certainly not least (well, not in my book anyways): you simply cannot leave ‘s-Hertogenbosch without tasting one typical and very famous local pastry: the ‘Bossche Bol’ at bakery Jan de Groot. This delicious pastry is filled with whipped cream and coated almost entirely with dark chocolate. Hmm..

A day in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

‘s-Hertogenbosch is one of those cities that you can talk about quite a lot, but that simply has to be experienced. Nonetheless, I hope you have gotten a good taste of our hidden gem in the southern part of Holland and the possibilities it offers as meeting and event destination. Please feel free to reach out to my colleagues from Convention Bureau Brabant for more information.

A day in… Eindhoven

If you are looking for a creative environment for your next meeting or event, Eindhoven is without a doubt your place to be in the Netherlands! Known as the design capital of the Netherlands, Eindhoven is a creative hub in the fields of design, technology and knowledge. Philips’ influence on the (development of) the city can be experienced everywhere. Choosing Eindhoven as the destination for your next meeting, convention or event will leave you buzzing with inspiration – guaranteed!

Facts

Eindhoven is the 5th largest municipality in the Netherlands
Eindhoven is the capital of Dutch Industrial Design
Eindhoven is a creative hub in the fields of design, technology and knowledge
Population: 225,000

Getting there

Due to its convenient location in the south of the Netherlands, Eindhoven is easily accessible from 5 of international airports in The Netherlands, Germany and Belgium: Eindhoven Airport (just outside the city), Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (1.5 hrs), Maastricht Aachen Airport (1 hr), Rotterdam The Hague Airport (2 hrs), Zaventem Brussels Airport (Belgium, 1.5 hrs) and Dusseldorf Airport (Germany, 1.5 hrs).

In addition, Eindhoven is easily accessible by train and car from all major cities in Holland.

Meeting and business venues

Eindhoven offers a wide range of classic, modern and unique meeting and convention venues. The price-quality ratio of the region’s hotels and venues are favourable compared to the more renowned Dutch cities, which makes Eindhoven an excellent alternative meeting destination.

Industrial
The Klokgebouw is the epitome of a creative hub. The former Philips factory was fully transformed and now offers space for creative entrepreneurs and companies. In addition, event space for up to 10,000 visitors is available. The Klokgebouw, which is located on Eindhoven’s creative ‘mile’ Strijp-S, is also home to the Blue Collar Hotel.
Another former Philips venue is Radio Royaal, which now first and foremost serves as a restaurant. However, the venue is also available for meetings and events of all sorts. The characteristics and machines of the former energy hall have been preserved, giving the space its impressive industrial feel.

Classic
If you are looking for a more classic meeting or event location, Eindhoven has you covered as well. Evoluon is an iconic, eye-catching, multifunctional venue that your attendees will never forget. Hotel Pullman Cocagne Eindhoven has a beautiful winter garden with space for up to 400 delegates – amongst many other meeting spaces. 040 Congress & Events is a state-of-the-art congress centre with meeting capacities for up to 2,500 people. And if you want to connect with a network of world-class innovators you should definitely consider Eindhoven’s Hightech Campus Conference Center for your event.

Hidden Secret
Light up your event at Lac Studios. The former Philips Lighting showroom has been transformed into three unique meeting spaces that will leave your attendees enlightened.
If you are looking for a bit more serenity, ‘t Boshuys might be the hidden secret you’re looking for – quite literally! Located just outside of the city, ‘t Boshuys is a peaceful and serene event location in the middle of a forest.

After your meeting

As design capital of the Netherlands it comes as no surprise that Eindhoven is buzzing with creative energy. Something that you are bound to experience after your meeting.

Museums
Eindhoven offers a variety of museums covering art, design, technology, sports and more. Here are a few not-to-miss suggestions:

Van Abben Museum: one of the first public museums for contemporary art established in Europe
Philips Museum: Experience 125 years of Philips history and discover a world of innovation and entrepreneurship
DAF Museum: See more than 120 historic vehicles and learn about innovation and technology in the car industry
PSV Museum: Discover 100 years of PSV history. A must for every football fan!

Sights
Eindhoven offers some pretty unique sights and things to do. But then again, that is to expected from such a creative city! How about a Space Walk in the city? Download the app ‘Ruimtewandelen in het Stadswandelpark’ (space walk in the park) from the App store or Google play. Then take a walk in the Stadswandelpark (city park) and you just might encounter an astronaut and other space creatures. Afterwards you can visit the Observatory, which is also located in the park. If you are up for a bike ride, you should definitely take a bike tour to the Van Gogh -Roosegaarde bike path, which is part of the van Gogh cycle route.

Strijp-S is an industrial park turned creative, innovative and cultural hot spot where the people and entrepreneurs of Eindhoven get together to be inspired and inspire, have a drink, shop, live, work and meet. Just taking a break here and sipping a coffee will get you buzzing with creative energy.

On the 18 September Plein in Eindhoven’s old city centre you will find The Blob, an architectural masterpiece by Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas. The unique glass and steel structure also forms the entrance to The Admirant shopping mall.

Shopping
Eindhoven’s city centre offers lots of shops, warehouses, design and concept stores – and all within walking distance. Stores are open 7 days a week (except for a few holidays) making Eindhoven a fabulous shopping city.

Urban Shopper – located on Strijp-S – is an exclusive, urban shopping oasis. Here you’ll find everything from industrial furniture, the latest fashion, antiques, unique and creative handmade products and so much more. I dare you to take a stroll and not buy anything!

De Bergen is a charming, artistic area located in former historic city centre of Eindhoven and perfect for a leisurely stroll. The streets are lined with cozy cafes and an array of art-, book- and antique stores.

Every third Sunday of the month, the Feel Good Market takes place at Strijp-S. It’s a lively market filled with design, art, fashion, vintage, kids stuff, (organic) food and regional products. If you happen to be in town, this is a happening you won’t want to miss!

Restaurants
Eindhovenoffers culinairy options for any taste and budget. Here are a few of my favourites:

Ketelhuis: housed in Philips’ former transformer building, Ketelhuis is becoming the living room of the Strijp-S area. It’s a restaurant, bar, food lab, coffee place, bakery and even has a rooftop garden. Don’t blame me if you won’t want to leave again!

Puur Pien: Artist-turned-chef Pien cooks all meals herself using only pure ingredients. Puur Pien is a small, cozy place where you feel right at home. Tip: if the weather is great just get everything to-go and enjoy your meal outdoors.

Vestdijk 47: Enjoy a new French cuisine where classic cooking styles meet modern presentation. Part of Vestdijk 47 is Bar 47, which offers a great assortment of luxurious digestives.

Wynwood: stylish, sexy, delicious and accessible. That’s Wynwood. Located on the infamous Strijp-S Wynwood is a great spot for business appointments, lunch, dinner or drinks & nibbles.

Piet Hein Eek: internationally renowned designer Piet Hein Eek’s restaurant is much more than that: it’s an art gallery, meeting space and dinner house. And of course the interior is styled with his own designs. Get ready to get inspired!

And, if you really can’t choose you can also take a culinairy city walk, a great way to get a taste of Eindhoven.

A day in Eindhoven

I have to be quite honest with you here. A day in Eindhoven simply isn’t enough to discover this Dutch gem of a city. I’ve spent many days in Eindhoven and still get surprised every time I visit. But like they say, you always need a reason to come back. And Eindhoven will give you plenty of reasons.

A day in… Leiden

Leiden is a compact, historic city with a superb location: it is nestled right between Amsterdam, The Hague and Schiphol Airport. The Dutch beach and the world renowned tulip area are a beautiful bike ride away. Compared to the other Dutch cities Leiden may be a small convention city, but that is also part of its irresistable charm. Where else in the world do you find 13 museums, hotels and meeting venues within walking distance? Oh and have I mentioned the 28km/17mi of canals criss-crossing through the impressive city centre?

Witte Singel, Observatory and Hortus Botanicus in Leiden

Facts

Leiden has the highest concentration of museums in the Netherlands
Leiden is home to the Netherlands’ oldest university
Leiden has 28km/17mi of canals in the historic city centre
Leiden’s famous inhabitants include Rembrandt (born in Leiden), Einstein, Jan Steen and Armin van Buren
Population: 340,000 (greater Leiden area) / 25,000 students / 105 nationalities

Getting there

Leiden’s excellent location makes it very accessible for visitors. Schiphol Airport is only 15 minutes away and Rotterdam The Hague airport 25 minutes. Leiden’s Central Station is located in the city centre and a major transportation hub in Holland, making Leiden easily accessible from anywhere in the country.  In case you arrive in Leiden by car you have to know that the historic city centre is virtually car-free. But not to worry, there are various ‘Park & Ride’ facilities just outside the city centre with free shuttle buses operating daily. Special arrangements can also be made for larger groups of visitors.

Meeting and business venues

I can tell you right now that you will have a pretty hard time to select a venue for your meeting or convention in Leiden. Why? Because they are all equally impressive. Surround yourself in ancient history, meet at a modernised industrial factory, go back in time and stay at a castle, rent out an airplane hangar with a rotating stage, … See what I mean?

New

Naturalis Biodiversity Center is currently preparing its facilities to house a very special guest starting this fall: Europe’s first T-Rex skeleton. Modern (research) meets history doesn’t get better than this! But Naturalis isn’t the only venue (re-)opening in Leiden. Museum Lakenhal, home to many master pieces, will re-open its expanded and modernised doors in 2018. And De Meelfabriek (The Flour Factory), a former industrial building being transformed into an innovative, multi-purpose location, is set to be completed by the end of 2017.

Classic

Since Leiden is a historic city many of the meeting venues are housed in monumental or historic buildings. So a classic feel with the most up-to-date meeting facilities is something that most venues offer naturally. Let me give you a few examples. The Pieterskerk is a gothic-church-turned-monumental-event-venue that can host up to 2000 guests. If you are looking for classic yet modern the Nieuwe Energie (New Energie) might be the right venue for you. Or surround yourself with the beautfy of one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world: Hortus botanicus Leiden.

Pieterskerk Leiden

Hidden secrets

It almost feels like every location in Leiden is a hidden secret, but there are a few that might not be on your radar right away. For example, the Theatre Hangar in Katwijk, just outside of Leiden, which is a transformed airplane hangar with a rotating stage. And if you want to travel back in time Castle Oud-Poelgeest might be an excellent venue for your event. Head over to my hidden secrets page to find out more.

After your meeting

Leiden is an exceptional city to explore by foot. Wander along the canals, visit one of the 13 museums (including 4 National Museums) or indulge yourself in one of the restaurants and experience Dutch ‘gezelligheid’. Don’t blame me though if you don’t want to leave again!

Museums

Just to name a few:

Rijksmuseum van Oudheden – National Museum of Antiquities
Corpus – travel throught the human body
Museum Het Leids Wevershuis – one of the last remaining “weavers’ homes” and Leiden’s smallest museum
Sieboldhuis – Siebold’s former house is now the first official Japan centre in the Netherlands

Leiden CORPUS

Shopping areas

All over Leiden’s city centre you will find interesting specialty shops to spend your money in. Just stroll through the medieval cobblestone streets where you will find anything from home-made chocolate, jewellery, second hand clothing, antique book shops, art galleries, high-end stores and more. For a special view go to La Place Restaurant on the top floor of the V&D department store.

And if you happen to find yourself in Leiden on a Wednesday or Saturday you can’t miss out on visiting The Leiden Market, which expands along the Nieuwe Rijn, Botermarkt and Vismarkt right in Leiden’s city centre. It’s the place to get your Dutch cheese and sealed Dutch herring to take home – among many other things!

Restaurants

Leiden is home to people from 105 nationalities so no wonder that you will also find cuisine from all over the world here. Looking for the best place for Dutch pancakes? Go to the Beestenmarkt area. If you would like to mingle among Leiden’s locals go to one of the cafes near the Hoogland Kerk.

Do you want to be suprised by food and historical buildings alike? Then you might want to visit these restaurants and cafes:
De Waag, a weighing house dating back to 1657
Olivier, located in a former hospital
Het Prentenkabinet, built as a commandery in the 15th century
Stadscafe van der Werff, a former gentlemen’s club
Visbrasserie de Poort, located in one of the remainign city gates
Cafe de Bonte Koe, once meant to be a butchery

By the way, if weather permits, most restaurants and cafes create outdoor terraces.

Sights

Leiden is a sight by itself. Nonetheless, here are a few points of interest you might want to add to your not-to-miss list:

Muurgedichten (Poems on the Walls) – take a walking tour to discover some of the poems on the walls of Leiden’s buildings
Sterrenwacht – observe the stars at Leiden Observatory
De Burcht – climb up Leiden’s fort for a great view of the city
Hofjesroute – visit Leiden’s courtyards
Boating on the canals – not technically a point of interest in itself, but taking you along some of the aforementioned ones and offering you a beautiful view of Leiden from the water

Leiden canals

A day in Leiden

Leiden may be a compact city, but you definitely need more than a day to discover everything it has to offer. My tip: just add a couple of days prior to or after your meeting to get most out of your stay in historic Leiden. You won’t regret it. That much I can promise.