rssFeb 27, 2026, 06:00

The Housing Crisis Sightseeing Tour takes you past 'expensive yuppie flats and exploited rentals'

Protesters in Amsterdam will hold a "Wooncrisis City Sightseeing Tour" this Sunday to highlight the city's ongoing housing shortage and rising living costs. The event marks five years since the first major protest and demands a halt to social housing sales and more focus on affordable living for residents. Organizers aim to pressure the government to address high rents, vacant properties, and the impact of mass tourism on the housing market.

Politics Economy Amsterdam Netherlands

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Brazen peacocks exploring Haarlem for weeks: 'They walk into shops'

Three or four peacocks have been wandering through the city center and northern districts of Haarlem over the past few weeks. While not dangerous, the birds have surprised locals by entering shops and emitting loud cries. Their presence has caused a stir among residents in the area.

Disappeared: HHBC, the very first hockey club in the Haarlem region

The article highlights HHBC, the first hockey club established in the Haarlem region, which is no longer in existence. It is featured as part of a series that explores defunct sports clubs and historical sporting events.

Taking the train from Haarlem? You might soon see the S 48 on the departure board

Starting in December, Dutch railway operator NS will introduce train line numbers on station departure boards and within its mobile app. Travelers in Haarlem will see identifiers like the S 48 for specific routes as part of this nationwide rollout.

Law enforcement officers in IJmond to operate across municipal borders: 'This is necessary'

Mayors from the IJmond municipalities of Beverwijk, Heemskerk, Uitgeest, and Velsen are signing a new agreement to expand cooperation between municipal enforcement officers (BOAs). This partnership allows officers to intervene across municipal borders in specific cases to improve regional safety and enforcement.

Midwife takes speeding fine to court: "I'm doing this for all colleagues in the city"

Midwife Karolien van Beek challenged a speeding fine in an Amsterdam court, advocating for healthcare providers to receive exemptions when responding to medical emergencies. She argued that current speed limits hinder midwives' ability to provide urgent care, calling for them to be formally recognized as emergency services. Although the judge noted that permanent policy changes require legislative action, Van Beek's fine was ultimately waived due to unclear road signage.