paroolSep 19, 2026, 01:00

Journalist Malou (25) takes self-defense classes after incident: 'The man in the tracksuit kept appearing at that deserted business park near Sloterdijk'

Journalist Malou Hart has begun taking Krav Maga self-defense classes after feeling unsafe due to persistent sightings of a suspicious man near Sloterdijk. Her instructor, Ronny Ali, teaches that awareness and preparation are essential to avoid being targeted by potential aggressors.

Lifestyle

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

Vincent (45) earns 4,500 euros a month and saved up 240,000: 'It has made me more confident'

Freelance journalist Vincent Kouters has saved 240,000 euros on a monthly salary of 4,500 euros. He states that this financial milestone has improved his self-confidence and allowed him more freedom to prioritize his children and balance his professional commitments.

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.