paroolSep 15, 2026, 01:00

Amsterdammer Julia Koopman (29) went on dates to restaurants and karaoke bars – with herself: 'Doing things alone boosts your self-confidence'

Twenty-nine-year-old Amsterdam resident Julia Koopman created a video series and a book titled Solonaise, which chronicles her experiences going on dates with herself to restaurants and other venues. She emphasizes that these solo outings have helped her increase her self-confidence and realize the freedom of spending time alone.

Culture Lifestyle

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

You will soon be able to get lost in the dark during parties at Bajes, in the former Bijlmer prison

The former Bijlmerbajes prison in Amsterdam-Oost is being transformed into a new multi-purpose venue called Bajes. The facility will feature three halls with a total capacity of 3,000 people to host nightlife, concerts, and exhibitions.

At this Amsterdam book club, meeting new people comes first and the book is the icebreaker: 'The shared interest in reading helps'

In Amsterdam winnen boekenclubs aan populariteit als laagdrempelige ontmoetingsplekken voor nieuwe sociale contacten. Leden hoeven de boeken niet per se gelezen te hebben, aangezien de literatuur vooral dient als ijsbreker om gesprekken tussen mensen te vergemakkelijken.

René van der Gijp on Maarten Spanjer: 'Forty years of friendship is a long time'

René van der Gijp has expressed his grief following the death of his close friend and actor Maarten Spanjer, with whom he shared a forty-year bond. During a podcast, Van der Gijp and other colleagues shared personal anecdotes, highlighting both the depth of their long friendship and Spanjer's signature sense of humor.

Kasper van Kooten splits from girlfriend after just over a year

Dutch comedian Kasper van Kooten has confirmed his separation from his girlfriend after a relationship lasting slightly over a year. The 54-year-old expressed sadness over the split but declined to provide details regarding the cause of the breakup.

How I Met Your Mother actor Jason Segel marries: An absolute dream

Actor Jason Segel has married dancer Kayla Radomski in a ceremony described by the bride as an absolute dream. The couple, who were first spotted together in October 2023, confirmed the wedding about a year after announcing their engagement.