Here is a look back at some of our past events. Events are open to society members and guests, with frequent joint events being held also together with other alumni associations in the Netherlands (Harvard, MIT, Columbia, LSE), as well as sister societies abroad (Oxford and Cambridge Societies of Belgium).
Events in 2025
Annual Society BBQ – July
The Annual Society BBQ was hosted on the 5th July by Nick and Sophie Bowers at their home in The Hague. This year the BBQ crew came all the way from Groningen. Jordi, a guest accompanying Committee Member Vidit supervising the prep, getting the BBQ ready with utmost efficiency and manning the Meat station. Vidit meanwhile as a rookie BBQer used the electric grill to take care of food for the vegetarians among the guests. Guests started arriving at 15:00 and were welcomed with some bubbles. Nick and Sophie had a nice spread of drinks and appetizers prepared to start the afternoon which included hummus, crisps, veggie bitterballen, fruits, veggies and a couple of tasty salads: fresh beetroot bulgur and feta cheese salad along with a fresh grapefruit, rocket and goats cheese salad. The BBQ was soon in full flow with everyone feasting on a great spread. Although it stayed cloudy and chilly throughout, rain thankfully stayed away. Guests of all generations enjoyed a fun evening catching up with old friends and mingling with fellow alumni outdoors in the lovely garden. We would like to thank Nick and Sophie for their hospitality, drinks and the warm atmosphere it created which led to another successful BBQ and we look forward to next year’s BBQ!
Alumni Mixer hosted by The Oxford & Cambridge Society NL – June
On a Friday in early summer, the society hosted an alumni mixer, inviting alumni of Harvard, MIT, LSE and Columbia to join us for a relaxed evening of networking . We were blessed with near summer weather and the more than 30 alumni and friends came to gather at Hannekes Boom in Amsterdam. The gathering was a great success and we were excited to see so many attendees make great connections and some friendships. Many stayed late into the evening, enjoying the location and environment. We are hoping to host the next mixer soon!
Visit to Museum Speelklok and Drinks in Utrecht – May
Members and guests on the 31st May had a chance to visit a very musical museum. The Museum Speelklok gave us the chance to see the musical workings of grandpa clocks, small toys, self playing pianos and violins but also some very large barrel organs which used to be the source entertainment, part of nightlife in the past. Given the amazing weather and some other alumni joining we were fortunate to enjoy some drinks by the canal. Thank you to all attendees and Joanna for the event idea.
Travel Back in Time – Guided Tour to the Open Air Zuiderzeemuseum – May
On 17th May, a small group of 5 society members and guests had a chance to visit an outdoor museum and experience life in fishing towns on the Dutch coast before the Zuiderzee was closed off by the Afsluitdijk. A live museum where we were able to watch the craftsmen at work, experience the daily life of yesteryear and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
We started by catching a ferry from the station to the museum before having a nice lunch. After lunch a guided tour where we learnt interesting titbits like how the shade of green paint used on a house co-related to the inhabitants wealth or how barbers in the past were also authorised to undertake some medical procedures. After the tour we continued to walk around, watching craftsmen at work whether it being painters or blacksmiths or tanners. Becoming peckish after all that history we then stopped to have delicious freshly smoked fish at the fish smokehouse.
After the museum taking advantage of the amazing weather we were given a walking tour of Enkhuizen by resident and Society Member Dan. We paused for a passing jazz festival on the canal, then taking a nice stroll taking in the history of the city before having a quick drink before catching trains back home. Thank you to all attendees and Dan for the idea and hosting the group.
The Boat Race Brunch and AGM – April
On 13 April, a group of 40 society members and guests gathered for the 2025 Boat Race & Annual General Meeting at Ode aan de Amstel, where we enjoyed brunch – including some scones for a nice British touch – overlooking one of the best places in Amsterdam for rowers. Congratulations to Cambridge for a complete victory and to Oxford for making it extra thrilling!
Adding a bit of friendly competition to the occasion, we played two games before the races began. Congratulations to Joel Aymon for winning the Boat Race trivia & Anibal Gonzalez for winning the prediction game! Both have earned bragging rights, with Joel having correctly answered the most trivia questions, and Anibal for having correctly picked the winners of both races & predicted the women’s race finishing time closest to the final result.
In between the women’s and men’s races, we had the Annual General Meeting, which included a recap of membership, events, and finances from 2024, as well as committee elections. We welcomed two new committee members: Stephen Maughan and Clym Stock-Williams. Our Vice President and Treasurer, Ruth Eichinger and Xuan Wang, respectively, have played integral roles in strengthening the society in the last three years and were deservedly elected to continue for another term. Finally, we thank Anibal Gonzalez and Grace Chou for their contributions to the society, as they step down from the committee.
Most of all, thank you to all the members & guests for coming together on this beautiful day to cheer on the Blues and look back on a successful year of activities and growth for the society. The success of the event & the society also meant us being featured by the Cambridge Development and Alumni Relations. You can read the article following this link.
Taste of the Alps – March
On the 29th March a group of alumni and friends gathered to enjoy some lovely Alpine cuisine in the heart of Amsterdam. The evening started at 17:30 welcomed by the warm and cosy ambience of the restaurant. With drinks being ordered for the evening it was time for the entree’s to arrive.
We were able to enjoy the plethora of choices offered to us by a charcuterie board with cheese, pickles and pate (with a vegetarian option on offer too). After this it was time for the star of the night a hearty main course of fondue with fresh bread and salad. Groups of 4 had their own fondue pot to feast on while keeping the conversations flowing. The night ended with an assortment of lovely deserts like Crème Brule, meringue and sorbet.
A lovely evening as we welcome in Spring filled with interesting conversations, catching up and making new acquaintances. Thank you members Rebecca and Joel for the suggestion and all the attendees. Looking ahead to the next event hosting members and guests over a fulfilling meal as for the next opportunity to enjoy fondue who knows maybe next time we have a chance to make our own fondue 😉.
Candlemas 2025: A Celebration of Music, Poetry, and Community – February
On 22 February, the Society’s treasurer Xuan Wang, with the help of current president Nick Bowers and former president Victoria Twist, organised a memorable Candlemas celebration at our annual gathering in Leiden– a warm and luminous evening of music, poetry, and conviviality. The event brought together alumni, friends, and members of the wider community for a thoughtfully curated programme that reflected the spirit of both reflection and renewal associated with Candlemas. We all gathered amongst the musical confines of Emile van Leenen’s Pianos and welcomed with a heart warming serving of gluhwein courtesy Nick.
The evening opened with a rich tapestry of live performances. John Macfarlane and Hein Putter set the tone with an expressive clarinet and piano duet, followed by a passionate tango rendition by Adam Cohen and Victoria Twist on violin and piano. Clym Stock-Williams offered a stirring solo on the cello, and Domingo Chang enchanted the audience with a delicate flute performance. Nick Bowers’ contemplative poetry reading brought a lyrical note to the evening – before a surprising and fascinating turn: Andrew Ball’s engaging presentation on near-Earth objects and the impact hazard. Blending science and storytelling, his talk added a unique and thought-provoking dimension to the first half.
After a convivial break, the second half resumed with more poetic reflection, as Dawn Macfarlane shared her verse, followed by Xuan Wang’s evocative reading of classical Japanese poetry from the Man’yōshū. Pianist Adam Cohen returned to the stage with a moving interpretation of the first three Gnossiennes by Erik Satie. The evening concluded on a lively note with a well-loved OxBridge tradition – a quiz led by John Macfarlane that sparked both laughter and friendly competition.
The event was a resounding success, thanks to the generosity of our performers and the warmth of our attendees. We are deeply grateful to all who joined us and look forward to welcoming you to future gatherings. Candlemas 2025 was a testament to the vibrant cultural life of our community, and a reminder of the joy that can be found in sharing music, words, and company on a winter’s evening.
Winter Walk with Wicher – February
On the 9th Feb, seven alumni and friends braved the winter weather to take the first hike of the year led by member Wicher. The starting point for the walk was Rhenen station, with members bringing along food and snacks for the trip. Hiking through the expansive forests of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park everyone was able to enjoy scenic 17.9km route.
There was a stop to enjoy a nice picnic where the potluck of food was shared by all attendees. Thank you to Wicher for organising this first walk of the year and special mention to Jane who ran half a marathon in the morning, joining the Society’s walk before continuing halfway to run remainder of her route. We look forward to our next walk of the year.
Interactive Lunch Talk with Jennie Monon – January
On the 31st January a group of 8 alumni had an opportunity to take part in an interactive talk with the Chair of ‘Commercial Anglo Dutch Society’, Jennie Monon. An entrepreneur with international corporate managerial experience, Jennie is the founder of an executive coaching business. Over a lovely lunch spread Jennie shared a 10 step pathway on making good decisions at key moments and cross-roads in life.
Jennie provided guidance using a personal touch while answering questions from the attendees along the way. At end everyone was able to enjoy a glass of wine courtesy President of the Society, Nick. A successful first speaker event for 2025, we would all like to thank Jennie for an insightful session and good luck on her upcoming book.
Amsterdam Lights Festival – January
This year saw the 13th edition of the Amsterdam Light festival being held, lighting the city in the darkest months of the year. This year’s edition was special, as it coincided with Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary. Which also meant society members had an opportunity to enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival walking or in the comforts of a cruise along the canals.
The cruise took place on the 10th of January this year organised by the Harvard Club while on the 18th a group of around 10 alumni plus friends walked a 6.5km route starting from Amsterdam Centraal in dry but cold weather, both enjoying the amazing Lights Festival displays. To celebrate Amsterdam750 with light, art and each other Edition 13 had the theme of Rituals. Light plays a vital role in many rituals, as a vibrant symbol of joy, energy and life.
On the cruise alumni had an opportunity to enjoy drinks and some gluhwein while mingling with alumni from other clubs like Harvard, MIT and Columbia. While on the walk alumni took a well deserved pause mid-way in a pub to enjoy a hot beverage of their choice with hot chocolate being the most popular. In total there were 27 installations enjoyed, including exclusive to participants of the walk – starting with the artwork “Ciao” a popular greeting adopted into 38 languages, following artwork “Polaris” another name for the North Start to an “Encounter” with meteors. Other artworks also depicted our daily ‘rituals’ like cycling to work (“Rush Hour”), walking (“Walking in Amsterdam”) or breathing (“Inspirare”).
Enjoying plenty more unique artwork like “Mind Bridges” prepared with the help of various school children, was followed by installations highlighting the role the Sun (“Solstice”) and the Moon (“Mirror Moon”) play in rituals. Towards the end we followed the “Light Gate” to artworks illuminated on the NEMO Science Museum and Grand Hotel Amrath and ended the light festival enjoying the final artwork “Meditation on the Threshold” – a light display on a fountain in the canal.
Events in 2024
Annual Society Dinner – November
The annual society dinner made a return to the KIT Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam in 2024. The amazing location and grand marble entrance deserved an encore. As always, the event was a highlight of the year and brought together alumni and their guests for a memorable experience.
The festivities commenced with pre-dinner drinks, allowing attendees to reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances. There was plenty of opportunity to continue conversations during the three-course dinner.
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the captivating keynote address by speaker Joe Zammit-Lucia, a writer, speaker and founder of a public policy think tank with a notable career throughout the world. The title of his speech was “Europe in a fast-changing world…and how we can help.” where he shared his views and a very hopeful and encouraging message to all attendees.
Quite a few alumni and guests joined us for our first after-party at a nearby bar for those who wished to continue their conversations into the night.
In summary, yet again, our annual dinner was a resounding success! Thanks to all attendees, especially our keynote speaker Joe Zammit-Lucia, for coming along and contributing to an unforgettable evening.
Bloemen Rhapsody Floral Concert – October
10 alumni and friends had a opportunity to experience an unique concert in Amsterdam Bloemen Rhapsody which combined a flower workshop with classical music performed by Chamber X Chamber. Attendees had an opportunity to actively join the flower workshop too and those of us who wanted to let their creative side out were handed flowers representing one of each of the seasons.
The concert started with a composition by J. S. Bach. Then we journeyed through the seasons with music, from winter’s tranquillity to autumn’s maturity. Between each season participants with the guidance from floral artist Yen used the flowers in hand to contribute to the main floral visual, co-created by the participants and the floral artist. Each floral arrangement represented the accompanying season, providing a perfect blend of music and nature’s beauty. Each classical piece of music chosen carefully to accompany each stage of arrangement – matching flowers’ meanings, evoking your emotions, and stimulating creativity.
After an amazing concert participants could also construct their own bouquets from the final floral work as a souvenir to take home. This concluded and commemorating a day of beauty and elegance. The concert was followed by members having a drink at a nearby pub where conversations continued. We would like to thank Xuan for organising this opportunity to immerse ourselves into this sensory experience.
Fall Walk with Alpacas – October
On 5th October a group of around 10 alumni and friends arrived at a farm near Breda. This was the start location for our Fall Walk since we had some furry four legged friends who would accompany us. We were blessed with good weather. Some pleasant autumn sun shining upon us as some alumni had a little walk before the walk to get to the Alpaca Country Oosterhout while few braved delays on NS to arrive on time.
Arriving at the farm we were able to mingle with our Alpaca companions before two alumni were assigned as walking buddies per alpaca. Walking with us were uniquely named Alpacas – King David (royal as his name but the youngest of the group), Orlando (who was at times extremely excited) and Jack Daniels (who had a very healthy appetite stopping multiple times to munch). Along the walk we had a guide who shared facts about alpacas like how each of them have their own personality which we experienced during the walk and how once a year they need a hair cut, giving alpaca wool.
Towards the end we also had an opportunity to run along with our companion alpacas and being herd animals it just needed one of them to bolt ahead for all the others to follow. An intense sprint on a Saturday morning for all of those involved humans and Alpacas alike. After this it was time to walk back to the farm and unfortunately bid adieu to our fluffy friends. We returned to our home bases with new memories and would like to thank Ruth for organising this unique Fall Walk.
Oxbridge vs Harvard Alumni Regatta & Fundraiser – September
All the practice undertaken by Oxbridge alumni over the year thanks to the rowing outings organised monthly were put to test on the 29th September during the 2nd holding of the Oxbridge vs Harvard Alumni Regatta. We also had a furry special guest cheering us on, who should be easy to spot in one of the pictures below.
This year also saw us partially recreating The Boat Race here in the Netherlands with Oxford and Cambridge boats going Head to Head. As last year the event also served as a fundraiser raising money for the The Dutch Refugees Fund for Universities (UAF) and Alzheimer Nederland. The weather Gods were kind to us with clear sunny (and a bit chilly) skies greeting us as around 50 alumni and guests descended upon Willem 3 Rowing Club for the races on this early autumn Sunday.
After the boats, and the very important Marshalls tasked with ensuring a clean race were on the waters of the Amstel, it was time for tactics and some warm-ups. Crews as you can see were in deep discussions with Oxbridge crew on the left and the Harvard crew on the right.
Three 250m sprints were lined up for the day starting with Harvard vs Oxbridge, followed by a couple of Oxford vs Cambridge races. The Oxbridge Boat was victorious in the first race while there was yet another clean sweep by Cambridge carrying on the flag from the all conquering Light Blues in The Boat Race earlier in the year.
A lot of happy faces all round enjoying some friendly (but competitive) racing and spectators with some lovely views from the terraces of Willem 3.
We all then proceeded to the bar of Willem 3 for some much needed drinks and refreshments. After a few words from Vice President of Oxbridge NL Ruth and Organiser for all of the society’s rowing activities (and honorary head coach for the Oxbridge Boats) Anibal, it was time for Golden Blades to be handed to the winners. Another successful gathering for this annual tradition and we hope to see you again next year.
Oxford & Cambridge Freshers 2024 Meet & Greet – September
On 7 September, over 20 incoming freshers starting at Cambridge and Oxford came together for a Meet and Greet before starting what is sure to be an enriching journey ahead. The meet and greet was held in Leiden with recent alumni based in the Netherlands helping out. The event started with quick intros before alumni had an opportunity to share some valuable experiences from their time at Oxford and Cambridge. This was followed by networking with some snacks and juices, making new Oxbridge friends. We would like to thank alumni Ilinca Manolache, Gonçalo Albergaria, Eva van Soerland, Grace Chou and Victoria Twist for their support in running this event. And we would also like to wish all Netherlands based freshers a wonderful start to their time at Oxford and Cambridge.
Annual Society BBQ – July
The Annual Society BBQ was hosted on the 7th July by Nick and Sophie Bowers at their home in The Hague. Their son Ben was a very successful outdoor chef and under treacherous rainy Dutch weather Nick and Ben got the BBQ ready. Guests started arriving at 16:00 welcomed with a great selection of drinks and the BBQ was soon in full flow with everyone feasting on a great spread. With rain gods being merciful eventually and some lovely sunshine gracing us as the weather turned on its head, the full turnout of all generations enjoyed a fun evening catching up with old friends and mingling with fellow alumni outdoor in the lovely garden. We would like to thank Nick, Sophie and Ben for the amazing food, drinks and warm atmosphere created which led to another successful BBQ and we look forward to next year’s BBQ!
Exploring the North – City Trip to Groningen – June
A small group of 8 Society members and guests were part of a day trip to the lovely Northern city of Groningen, the northernmost event location for the society so far. Groningen is the biggest city in the North of the Netherlands with some unique sights. Members met by Peerd van Ome Loeks (Uncle Loek’s horse) a typical Groningen work of art outside Groningen’s Main Station based on a popular folk song. The first stop for the trip was a walk to board a private boat for a tour of the city’s main canal. After boarding with dry conditions, weather Gods unfortunately decided to unleash some rain which we were fortunate to shelter from under a bridge and with good old umbrellas at hand. The spirits were still jolly as we got to enjoy some landmarks of Groningen like the Groningen Museum (relocated from an old location), a newly installed unique Polar Bear, the old warehouses most of which have been converted to housing, the ‘STADSSCHOUWBURG Groningen’ or the Municipal Theatre and the Martini Tower. We ended the boat tour where we started and the next stop was lunch with some more rain greeting us on the walk to Mr Mofongo.
At Mr Mofongo we were able to enjoy lunch in a cozy room, South American settings and nice conversations. With the sun making an appearance and everyone refuelled, the lovely architecture of the University of Groningen’s main building was admired before taking up the challenge of climbing the 261 steps to reach the tallest building in Groningen the Martinitoren. After learning about some history of the tower and getting a lovely view of the city. We then to a more modern addition to the skyline of Groningen ‘The Forum’ a striking piece architecture bursting with inspiration, a library, study spaces, a movie theatre among other things. This included an exhibition explored by the group by Andres Serrano consisting of a unique composition of three works by him, shown together for the first time. Together, these works act as a reflection on U.S. society and on Donald Trump. We were then able to take in another panoramic view of the city from the rooftop of the Forum.
Groningen also has a residence for the ‘Stadtholders’ the Prinsenhof and the Prinsentuin was created especially for them in 1626. It is one of the purest examples of a Renaissance garden in the Netherlands. We were able to enjoy the lovely garden before taking shelter thanks to some tree tunnels from another downpour of rain. Once the weather cleared up and we were able to walk under slightly sunny skies, the group made way to De Drie Gezusters, a popular Groningen watering hole for some drinks and trying a local specialty snack the ‘Groningen Eierballen’ the Dutch variant on Scotch Eggs. After a short walk through the city back to the station it was time to end a long and successful first foray into a Northern city. We would like to thank all the members who made the long trip and didn’t let the Dutch weather dampen spirits.
The BeNeLux Joint Alumni Weekend – May/June
Nearing the halfway point of the year marked start of one of our bigger events of the year. Last year some members were fortunate to be part of a Joint Alumni Weekend held in Brussels. It was our turn now to return the hospitality over the weekend of 31st May to 2nd June. This newsletter we cover the events enjoyed on the 31st in The Hague where the weekend started with a tour to the International Criminal Court (ICC) attended by more than 30 BeNeLux Oxbridge alumni. We got some insight into the work and workings of this global court, attempting to prosecute crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide. The tour was lead by alumnus Julieta Solano who is a prosecutor with the court. It was an amazing interactive visit with chance for a Q&A for questions attendees and to also see where hearings are held. We would like to thank Julieta for sharing her experience and the opportunity to learn more about the complexities faced and tough circumstances under which the ICC in functioning.
After this members had a chance to either to enjoy a guided tour of the Escher Museum leading us through the mesmerizing world of M.C. Escher, a master of optical illusion and mathematical precision or visit the European Patent Office (EPO). The visit to the EPO included a visit to the roof to take in amazing views of The Hague and beyond. The tour was led by alumnus Lorenz Steinbock who shared the workings of granting patents, some interesting patents he has come across and also a chance for attendees to ask some questions. We would like to Lorenz for the tour and share more about his work and the EPO. Finally we enjoyed some drinks at The Fiddler connecting with old friends but also making some new ones.
Saturday morning exploration of the Hague continued with guests and members having an opportunity to visit the Mauritshuis, a walking tour of the city or Panorama Mesdag. BeNeLux members who enjoyed the Mauritshuis visit led by committee member Caroline were able take in a formidable collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings from the 17th century such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer and the Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt. The museum consisted of two striking historical buildings: the Mauritshuis, a city palace on the Plein in The Hague and the Prince William V Gallery at the Buitenhof. Some members also joined a walking tour through some of the most iconic sights in The Hague. A great way to get steps in while learning about the city.
Several BeNeLux members also enjoyed a visit to the Panorama Mesdag led by President Nick– a stunning 360 degree depiction of The Hague in the late 19th century. It is a panorama by Hendrik Willem Mesdag, housed in a purpose-built museum in The Hague as a cylindrical painting (also known as a Cyclorama) more than 14 metres high and about 40 metres in diameter (120 metres in circumference). The museum served as an ideal location pre-lunch given it was a short walk from ‘T Goude Hooft where members converged from the various morning activities for a nice pit stop before it was time to make our way to Amsterdam the destination for the second leg of our joint weekend.
The first stop in Amsterdam was to meet near Amsterdam Centraal and hop on board a cosy boat reserved to enjoy the city with a tour through its canals. The lovely atmosphere on the boat made up for the partially cloudy weather and the roof served as a shield for if rain decided to make an appearance. Members along with exploring Amsterdam were able to socialise with drinks and lovely seats at the end of the boat. Making some new friends and catching up with old was an ideal way to arrive in style at Ode aan de Amstel for a scenic dinner. We were able to enjoy a delicious three-course menu with wine and conversations. At the end of the dinner a toast raised for all our guests with a few words shared by attending BeNeLux members. Conversations continued well into the evening and few members continued with enjoying the sights Amsterdam offered at night. A perfect high point moving into last day of the Joint Weekend.
The last day of the weekend members again had an opportunity to enjoy one of multiple options on offer to spend the Sunday morning in Amsterdam. A group of 12 alumni led by member Manasi enjoy a lovely guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum, where a docent explained how Van Gogh developed his distinctive style, his artistic influences and friendships, his mental health challenges and the unbreakable bond between him and his brother Theo. A highlight was the painting of Almond Blossoms that Van Gogh painted for his new born nephew, which the docent insisted could be best appreciated by crouching on the floor by the bottom right corner and looking up at his many hued sky. Those wanting to meet their step targets in some nice weather were able to discover the most noteworthy highlights of the city together met Vice President Ruth to join a local guide for a walking tour of the city.
Members who wanted to escape the city clamour and delve into the serene embrace of nature enjoyed Amsterdamse Bos led by committee member Xuan Wang, strolling amidst verdant foliage with a short meditation session, enveloped in the gentle melody of birdsong. Discovering the hidden treasures of Amsterdamse Bos as members wandered its winding trails admiring Heuveltje, a scenic hill offering panoramic forest views, and crossing charming wooden bridges that beckon exploration. There was also a challenge of balance on the playful stapstenen, adding a touch of Dutch whimsy to the nature escapade.
There were also members who took in a unique experience of The Museum of the Canals, or the Grachtenmuseum, one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems led by committee member Grace. A unique aspect about the museum setup is that visitors are led from one room to another via a timed multimedia audio tour, which showcased Amsterdam’s multiple phases of expansion and how the concept of the canal rings first came about. It was the perfect way for us to learn more about the history behind this unique city and explore a classic canal house.
The Joint Alumni Weekend concluded with an informal gathering over lunch and drinks in Vondelpark at the ’t Blauwe Theehuis covered terrace. Fortunately the sun was shining brightly, making it perfect to dine outdoors and unwind over some pizza, bitterballen, and beer from Brouwerij ‘t IJ. It was a fitting end to a packed weekend of activities where the strength of the Oxford and Cambridge alumni spirit and connection rang high.
We would like to thank the organising committee and Caroline, Grace and Ruth from Oxbridge NL for an amazing weekend along with all visiting Oxbridge alumni from Belgium and Luxembourg.
Drinks and Karaoke Night Amsterdam – May
Fittingly in the month where the well known European singing extravaganza ‘Eurovision’ was held, few members had the opportunity to let their inner singer out in Amsterdam on the 17th May. After drinks at the Kopstoot Bar members walked a few minutes to a karaoke booth reserved for ringing in the weekend with some singing in the Duke of Tokyo. A fun night out for all involved and we would like to thank Society Member Ilinca for leading the Friday night revelries.
Leiden Walk: Pilgrim Fathers and Jewish Monument ‘Bagage’ – April
Leiden has a well documented connection with the Pilgrim Fathers and on 21st April a group of 13 members and their guests had an opportunity to take part in a very interesting walk exploring some monuments connected to when they first sought refuge in Leiden which has always been known as the ‘City of Refugees’. The Pilgrim Fathers were the English settlers who travelled to America on the Mayflower and set-up the Plymouth Colony. Also part of the walk were Jewish monuments known as ‘Bagage’ in memory of Jewish residents of Leiden murdered during the Second World War. The tour was prepared and led by adopted Leidenaar Dawn. We gathered outside the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities) where briefly before we began our walk were able to explore the Temple of Taffeh gifted by Egypt in 1979 in gratitude for the salvage excavations by Leiden museum with the condition that it be freely accessible to the public.
The first stop in the walk was the house of William Brewster a leader of the first colony established by the English in New England in Plymouth. The next stop was the Pieterskerk, the church of the Pilgrim Fathers. The tower of the church was 110m before it collapsed in 1512 and was never rebuilt. In 1608 around 100 families from England fled religious persecution during the reign of James VI and I to Leiden with the help of William Brewster and led by pastor John Robinson. We were then able to visit the Jean Pesjinhof one of the many hofjes in Leiden which was built on the spot where John Robinson and his followers lived until 1625. The hofjes like the others from the city are still in use. Next we were able to walk by the site of the printing press to print pamphlets and booklets against the English state church and distributed in England by the Pilgrim Fathers. Next we were able to see some unique poetry and mathematical formulas painted on walls of different buildings in Leiden, this included the formula for the period of the pendulum swing on a tower which was previously used for drying the leather hoses of fire fighters. This is in memory of Christiaan Huygens whose alma mater was University of Leiden which recently celebrated 444 years being founded in 1575.
We then walked to the first couple of suitcases installed as part of the monument ‘Bagage’ outside what was previously a Police Station. The monuments consist of 6 old-fashioned suitcases carved from different types of stone to signify globalisation scattered across the city in memory of Jewish residents who were rounded up in a raid in 1943 by the occupying Nazi forces. Dawn shared the suitcases were inspired by a suitcase given by Jewish orphan Lotte to her friend for safekeeping and was kept for many years and currently housed in the Westerbork museum. Next we passed by the current building housing University of Leiden’s Law department which previously was the site where in 1908 Helium liquification was achieved at temperatures of 4.15K or -269C and scientists like Curie and Einstein worked for a period during their illustrious careers. Across from the building is the Van der Werffpark named after the mayor of Leiden during the 1573 seige of Leiden. The park was built on open area created due to the explosion of a ship carrying gunpowder in 1807 . The story goes Van der Werff offered himself up for self-sacrifice during a hunger riot when the city was under siege. The end of the siege is now commemorated with the annual 3 October Festival in Leiden, potentially inspiration for the American Thanksgiving observed annually. A brass band starts celebrations at 6am while citizens of Leiden can even today receive bread, herring and hutspot. Another story that hutspot is served since the first person who left city limits to confirm end of the siege came across hutspot left behind by the Spanish.
While on the way to the next suitcase part of ‘Bagage’, David a participant during the tour was kind enough to share a Catholic hofje he resided in during his time in Leiden. We ended the walking tour with a monument erected by the canal to signify taken the step taken by the Pilgrims who eventually left the Netherlands before travelling on to America due to the language barrier and many children getting more assimilated in the Dutch culture. After the tour we ended the day in Leiden with some drinks and nice conversations. Thank you very much to Dawn, taking time out to lead a very interesting walking tour for members when weather Gods were kind enough to bless us with some sunny weather.
Weekend in the Ardennes, Belgium – April
On a weekend in April, a group of just above 20 society members and friends embarked on a weekend trip away across the southern border to the Ardennes in Belgium. We were also happy to welcome some members from the Belgian and Luxembourg societies – a great opportunity for old and new encounters.
Our accommodation served to be a great location, overlooking the hills of the Ardennes, tucked away in nature – offering the much needed rest after day one. On Sunday, we decided to walk a shorter route around Manhay, before returning to the Netherlands.
On the first walking day, summer weather accompanied us throughout the day as we explored a 25km route leading us around Durbuy, where we ultimately enjoyed exploring this little gem – exploring shops and trying ice cream. After our dinner, we returned to the house for a long night, sharing stories around the bonfire.
A great weekend for all those who came along! Thanks again to Hans and Ping for their walking guidance.
The Boat Race and AGM 2023-24 – March
The 78th and 169th editions of Women’s and Men’s Boat Race respectively took place on the 30th of March. Around 50 members gathered at the KR&ZV Het Spaarne to enjoy the society’s annual screening of the race followed by a dinner. The boat house is beautifully located on the Spaarne river, opposite the Eenhorn windmill. This year, rather against expectations, Cambridge won both the men’s race and the women’s race while Oxford women’s boat Osiris won the women’s reserves race and Cambridge’s Goldie won the men’s reserves race.
In the intermission between the Women’s and the Men’s Boat Race, small matter of the AGM for 2023-24 was held. Society President Nick Bowers opened proceedings highlighting the growth in membership with 105 active members for 2023 driven by Membership Secretary Anibal. This was followed by approval of the minutes of the previous AGM. Anibal and Ruth presented an overview of 2023 membership and events while the treasurer Xuan Wang presented accounts for 2023. On behalf of auditor Colin Longhurt, it was confirmed the treasurer’s records were reviewed and accurately represent accounts and were approved. Colin was unanimously re-appointed auditor in absentia while resignations of Ipsa Bajaj (as Secretary) and Julian Lewis (as Committee member) were announced by Nick. Grace Chou was nominated as Secretary while Caroline Angle and Vidit Jaggi were nominated as new committee members, all of whom were elected unanimously. Grace presented Nick’s re-election as President and he was unanimously re-elected as President.
Ruth then gave a snapshot of upcoming events for 2024 including a joint weekend with the Oxbridge Societies of Belgium and Luxembourg in Amsterdam, the Annual BBQ hosted by Nick and the Annual Dinner. The AGM was then closed after Any Other Business was discussed and the evening ended with a lovely 3 course dinner.
Thank you for all members who were able to part of the day some of whom braved the elements and cycled there from near and far.
The Hague Social Drinks – March
On Saturday 23rd March 2024, the Oxford & Cambridge Society of the Netherlands hosted a laid-back Social Drinks event at O’Casey’s in The Hague. It was a cozy gathering where old friends caught up and newcomers felt right at home. The two-hour slot stretched into the evening as conversations flowed effortlessly. Join us for our upcoming The Hague drinks – stay up to date by either checking our regular events page or request to join the The Hague WhatsApp group, where most meet-ups are announces regularly. Casual vibes, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere guaranteed!
Chinese New Year in Rotterdam – February
On the 17th February, our treasurer Xuan organised a Chinese New Year outing for society members. As the auspicious year of the dragon started, a group of us dived headfirst into the thrilling festivities of Chinese New Year Celebration in the heart of Rotterdam. As the celestial dragon unfurled its wings over the horizon, we eagerly plunged into a whirlwind of festivities that would leave an indelible mark on our memories. We also watched the wakening of the Lion Dance, various music performance, and attended workshops on festival trams. But perhaps the most tantalising highlight awaited us as we gathered for the pièce de résistance: the Chinese cuisine tasting event. From the delicate balance of sweet and savoury in dishes like Peking duck to the fiery kick of Sichuan peppers tingling on our tongues, each bite was a revelation. As the day drew to a close and we bid farewell to the festivities, our hearts were full, our minds enriched, and of course our bellies content!
Candlemas – February
On 3rd February members gathered for the Annual Candlemas Gathering at Emile van Leenen’s Pianos in Leiden. The event is also an opportunity for members to contribute to the festivities! Whether it’s reading a poem, organizing a quiz, giving a talk, performing a monologue, or playing music, all unique talents were welcome. Candlemas was the first ever fixture in the calendar of the joint Oxford and Cambridge Society, proposed by then secretary Alison Fisher to celebrate the returning of the light. Founding committee member Peter Loader was kind enough to share this at the event . A convivial get together is definitely an ideal way to drive out the spirits of winter and usher in the Spring.
The evening began with a generous and warming glass of gluhwein served to us by Society President Nick Bowers in the workshop of Emile van Leenen’s piano warehouse surrounded by disassembled pianos and racks of interesting tools. Victoria opened the proceedings with a short introduction on why Candlemas (Mass of the Candles) is significant in both Christian and pagan religious calendars but also important due to practical aspects. Peter then read two comic poems with an Oxbridge connection: “The Oxford Voice”, by D.H. Lawrence and “England Expects” by Ogden Nash. This was followed by readings of two poems by Nick: “Ceremony upon Candlemas Eve” by Robert Herrick (1591 – 1674) and one that he had written himself. The final pair of poems was read by Ilinca written by her Romanian friend followed by sharing a personal message.
Dawn followed the poems with her reading of “Letters” found at a recent exhibition at the LUMC in Leiden. The letters were addressed to various company and government officials and the signatories were characters such as an island in the Pacific Ocean or the sea. The letters explained, in a very personal way, how climate change was impacting them. At the end of the reading, Dawn revealed that the letters had, in fact, been written by AI.
Before we adjourned for food, drinks and two lovely Chinese teas, “Dragon Well” and “Chrysanthemum” served by Xuan, John played a short piece on the clarinet from his new book “A Clarinet Almanac.” This book contains pieces for every day of the year, a taster for anyone with an interest in the instrument. After the break Andrew gave a presentation on the Cassini-Huygens mission to Titan, a moon of Saturn. The mission was launched in October 1997 and the Huygens lander reached the surface on January 14, 2005. The next mission to Titan, “Dragonfly”, is planned to arrive in 2034. The grand piano was where the next contribution was performed with Victoria playing the Intermezzo in A major opus 118 no 2 by Brahms.
The evening concluded with a quiz supplied by John. The audience was invited to identify famous musicians and non-musicians whose portraits hang in the national portrait gallery in London. This proved a bit of a challenge for our younger members but Nick scored a decent 18 points and was declared the winner.
We would like to thank all members for their contributions to make the event a success and Victoria for organising this continued tradition!!
Amsterdam Light Festival Boat Tour – January
This year’s version started in the docs in front of the Grand Hotel Amrath, just like in 2023, with 23 participants, not only Oxbridge alumni but also from MIT, Harvard and Columbia, since this was a joint event. Despite the cold, the night was clear, and we could start without a hitch.
The starting point, in front of the Grand Hotel Amrath
Gladly, as the boat was covered, and we had glühwein, everyone was cosy and warm to look at the lights! We saw some classics: the Walter Süskindbrug and the canals at night.
…and the new additions that aimed to represent our current relationship with technology and social media.
After about two hours of great chats and a lovely evening, we returned to port. If this appeals to you, we hope to see you next year!
Visit to the new national monument Oranjehotel in Scheveningen – January
On January 13th a group of 14 toured the Oranjehotel Museum near Scheveningen. The Oranjehotel was the name given to a WW2 Nazi prison in which members of the Jewish community and the resistance movement were imprisoned as well as as other convicted citizens.
Sophie Bowers gave an informative presentation and insight into the history of the Oranjehotel. The tour afterwards brought to life the terrible conditions and experiences of the inmates. Many were transferred to concentration camps and others were shot in the nearby dunes.
We were all deeply struck by the humanity and courage of the prisoners in the face of the dark force of totalitarianism which destroyed so many lives.
The lessons of the Oranjehotel still resonate very strongly today.
Events in 2023
Annual Harvard & OxBridge Christmas Dinner – December
On a Saturday evening ahead of Christmas, alumni of Harvard and OxBridge gathered again to celebrate a little annual tradition: the joint Christmas Dinner. This year we gathered in Utrecht at a unique location: the underground restaurant Humphrey’s. Both excellent food and festive decorations got us right into the spirit of the season.
The evening was a great opportunity to connect with familiar and new faces alike. Many great conversation were had and many stayed until late. We are already looking forward to next year’s dinner with our friends from Harvard!
Maastricht Christmas Market & City Tour - December
A group of alumni embarked on a journey to explore the city of Maastricht during the magical pre-Christmas lights season. Although we were greeted by rain on arrival, our excellent tour guide gave us a great start by welcoming us in the Theater aan het Vrijthof. There we started off the tour, which became a full immersion of historical facts and unique local anecdotes. As we explored the many sights and historical locations of the city by foot, the rain luckily calmed down and we were able to warm up over hot drinks afterwards. In the end, we were able to explore the famous Christmas market – from excellent food to ice-skating, it was a fun trip and many of us discovered a plentitude of reasons to return.
Amsterdam city centre rowing tour – December
Annual Society Dinner – November
Our annual society dinner was hosted at the KIT Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam this year. It provided a great venue for our biggest alumni dinner to date. As always, the event was a highlight and brought together alumni and their guests for a memorable experience.
The festivities commenced with pre-dinner drinks, allowing attendees to reconnect with old friends and make new acquaintances. There was plenty of opportunity to continue conversations during the three-course dinner.
The highlight of the evening was, of course, the captivating keynote address by speaker Leigh Turner, a writer and distinguished Cambridge alumnus with a notable career in diplomacy. Having served as the British ambassador to Ukraine and Austria, he shared his lessons on diplomacy in an engaging speech.
Quite a few alumni and guests joined us for our first after-party at a nearby bar for those who wished to continue their conversations into the night.
In summary, yet again, our annual dinner was a resounding success! Thanks to all attendees, especially our keynote speaker Leigh Turner, for coming along and contributing to an unforgettable evening.
Brewery Tour & Alumni Mixer – October
On the evening of November 4th, the anticipated Brewery Tour & Alumni Mixer happened at Brouwerij ‘t IJ, providing attendees with an engaging blend of brewery insights and socializing. The event commenced with an hour-long guided tour of Brouwerij ‘t IJ, situated next to the iconic De Gooyer windmill. Established in 1985, the brewery’s rich history was explored as participants delved into the process of beer brewing. The also included a sample glass of beer, setting a relaxed tone for the remainder of the evening.
Following the brewery tour, attendees stayed on for our informal Alumni Mixer with Columbia, Harvard, MIT, LSE. It was a great evening: conversations flowed freely, fostering both new and old connections against the backdrop of the brewery’s unique ambiance. The Brewery Tour & Alumni Mixer in Amsterdam was a resounding success and we are already looking forward to our June mixer.
Cheers to an evening well spent!
A Taste of Diwali – October
We came together in November to celebrate “A Taste of Diwali.” Great thanks go to Manasi, the organizer of Tasty Talks, for orchestrating a tasteful journey through the many flavors of India.
Our host was welcoming and brought great warmth to the evening. The meticulously chosen menu allowed the attending alumni to experience the culinary aspects of Diwali in a small setting. The dinner was also accompanied by anecdotes about local traditions and personal stories about how festivities are commenced in the host’s home.
Beyond a mere culinary exploration, the event was a great chance for alumni to come together and engage in many great conversation about food and traditions.
Forrest Walk & Visit Paleis Het Loo – October
On Sunday, 15th October, OxCam alumni and their friends embarked on a royal forestry walking journey in Apeldoorn, province of Gelderland. The weather was unpredictable hence our perfect autumn Sunday was enriched by sunny spells and drizzling showers. The members decided to explore the Paleis Het Loo first, a Baroque style palace constructed in 1684 and renovated between 2016-2023. This was the former home of the Dutch King William III and his English consort Queen Mary. The group explored the rich history of the Paleis Het Loo, observed the spectacular garden view from the rooftop, and walked under the Orangery with lunch in the palace restaurant.
In the afternoon, the group did another 9km loop-trail in the Royal Domain where the serene forest stands; around the tranquil lake the ground is covered with lichens, mosses, and a variety of mushroom during this rainy autumn season. It was a mindfulness day where our inner peace reconnected with the external environment, away from the binnenstad.
Written by Ping
Singelpark Walk Leiden– October
Dawn & Baldur were happy to welcome several alumni to their home town of Leiden. The weather was cloudy but a fine temperature for 2 hours of walking around the old defensive line of the mediaeval centre, which has been integrated into a Singelpark route. The first half of the walk included a number of stops to hear Dawn’s stories of the old city and to look at the points of interest along the way which include the oldest botanical garden and the oldest observatory in the Netherlands.
After some refreshment paid for by the society, the second half was more park than built up area and other than hearing about the Relief of Leiden and the annual Leids Ontzet festivities that celebrated it just a few days previously, we enjoyed the parks, maintained by the Friends of the Singelpark, which made a nice background for a peaceful walk and chance to chat with the other participants on the way back to Central Station.
Written by Dawn
Rowing Regatta Harvard vs. OxBridge & Charity Fundraiser – September
Our 1st Oxbridge vs Harvard Alumni Regatta took place in the afternoon of Saturday 30th of September at Willem III RC, with aroung 60 participants between rowers and supporters. Moreover, we fundraised for the Alzheimer’s Nederland and Harvard for the UAF. With all of this in mind, the event was a resounding success, and we’re looking forward to a larger 2nd version next year. The details are as follows.
Being held the last weekend of September, we were worried if the weather would hold… and it did! We had a great afternoon with pleasant end-of-summer vibes, 3 sprint races, an award ceremony and plenty of chats, drinks and biterballen!
The weather during the event at Willem III.
The event ran with few delays as the crews warmed up and were promptly on-the-water ready to race.
Left: Race Marshall on the way to the start in her own private water taxi. Right: All hands were required to put boats on the water.
The short summary of the 250m sprints is as follows:
- Harvard won over Oxbridge by about a length.
- Harvard won over Oxbridge by about 3/4 length.
- Cambridge won over Oxford easily.
Matching the relaxed atmosphere, the award ceremony was held on the terrace, where some words were said and prizes were given.
Left: The Harvard crew received their award, including the two extras. Right: Oxbridge Society President Nick Bowers gave some kind words to both participants and organisers.
The event left us with some wonderful afternoon sights and the feeling of next year, again, right?
See you next year!
End-of-summer vibes
The organising committee (Anibal, Baastian & Ruth)
Taste of Italy – September
Taste of Italy Dinner: A few weeks ago we organised a lovely dinner for the Oxford and Cambridge alumni with social food dining platform Tasty Talks and their host Micaela (scientist and home cook), bringing to life the flavours of Italy. The evening started with everyone getting to know each other and some ice breaking questions that had everyone instantly connecting and even discovering dishes that described each other. With a community-style feast featuring dishes from different regions of Italy in 3 delicious courses we embarked on a culinary journey. The appetisers included a delicious spread of cheeses and cured meats, focaccia, bruschetta, fresh potato salad and parmigiana di melanzane. This was followed by the main course with three different pasta dishes and we ended the evening with everyone’s all time favourite tiramisu! Through this shared experience we went from starting out as a group of strangers with of course the Oxbridge connection in common, to forming a deeper bond, sharing stories and laughter. What a gezellig evening as the Dutch would say! (Written by Ipsa)
Joint Weekend with Belgian Societies in Brussels – September
The Netherlands and Belgian Societies came together in Brussels over a lively weekend of activities, ranging from the quintessential EU institutions walk to an Old Masters’ tour at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Belgium, both of which were led by local alumni. One of the highlights was the three-course dinner at Le Mess, where Oxford and Cambridge alumni unwound from a full day’s activities and soaked in the college formal-like atmosphere.
Here is a snapshot of a couple other activities that took place:
Tour of the European Commission Headquarters
We visited the Berlaymont Building, HQ of the European Commission, courtesy of Cambridge alumna Veronika Musilova. Although the building is quite modern, the history of this body was not lost as we walked past photos of previous Commissioners and Presidents, evolving over time with increasing diversity. Notable highlights of the tour included the press area and one of the conference rooms, where Veronika shed light on the essential role that interpreters play in enabling these meetings where the European Union’s 25 official languages are observed. We ended the tour in a meeting room with a bird’s eye view of Brussels skyline and an insightful Q&A with Veronika about working at the EC.
Brussels city center walking tour
Some of us joined a 2+ hour walking tour led by the Ambassadors of key highlights of Brussels’ historic city center. The tour started at the bustling Grand Place and ended in front of the Church of St. James on Coudenberg. Along the way, we stopped by the famous Mannekin Pis, adorned with just one of the many costumes gifted by locals and visitors from around the world, as well as the Bourse, Royal Galleries, Royal Palace, and Mont des Arts. Although the tour just scratched the surface of all that Brussels has to offer, it was clear that there is a lot more to this often underrated city beyond the EU bubble.
Wine Tasting with Sommelier Yuri Koster – July
A wine tasting event was held on 15th July at the Gouden Ton, Oegstgeest. The theme was ‘Wines from Down Under’, and 17 participants enjoyed the 4 pairs of wine that were offered, working up from light white wines to full-bodied reds. Sommelier Yuri Koster was assisted by sommelier Kim in presenting the wines, and we enjoyed the ambience of the newly-opened bar area behind the tempting racks of wine in the main shop. Appetizers and then warm pasta accompanied the wine pairs, making the event indeed very ‘tasty’!
The Annual Summer BBQ – July
In early July, our annual BBQ attracted a large number of alumni, their friends and family to gather one last time before going on a summer hiatus. The event sold out well in advance, testimony to the popularity of this society event fixture. The weather gods were generous, and we were able to have a lovely summery afternoon connecting with one another. Some of our attendees even took rather long journeys to come to The Hague that day, from Groningen or Tilburg. It was a rather lovely opportunity to meet alumni from all over the country.
The hosts, newly appointed president Nick and his wife Sophie managed to serve not only delicious BBQ food and a great selection of drinks throughout the afternoon, but also created a truly warm and welcoming atmosphere. People genuinely enjoyed mingling in their beautiful garden.
We are already looking forward to next year’s BBQ!
Spring Alumni Mixer hosted by Oxford & Cambridge – June
On a Friday in late spring, the society hosted its first alumni mixer, inviting alumni of Harvard, MIT, LSE and Columbia to join us for a relaxed evening of networking . We were blessed with near summer weather and the many alumni came to gather at Brouwerij Troost in Westerpark, Amsterdam. The gathering was a great success, being sold out quite early on, we were excited to see so many attendees make great connections and some friendships.
Committee Members at the Mixer (l.t.r.): Ipsa, Ruth, Xuan, Anibal
Several of our committee members attended (photo), as did representatives of Harvard, MIT and Columbia alumni societies. Many stayed late into the evening, enjoying the location and environment. We are hoping to host the next mixer soon!
Summer Cycle in Amsterdam – June
On 24th June 2023, a glorious summer day, Xuan organised a summer cycling adventure in Amsterdam for a group of 12 participants. Our mission? To explore the city’s hidden gems and embrace its history.
We met up outside Fietsenstalling Stationsplein, near the iconic Amsterdam Centraal, and pedalled our way to Lindengracht market and Noordermarkt, nestled in the lively Jordaan area. After a delightful stroll through the Jordaan markets, we cycled to Café Nieuw Amsterdam at Herenmarkt (Picture 1). The building where the current Café Nieuw Amsterdam is located used to be the head office of the West India Company (WIC), where the seeds of New Amsterdam (present-day New York) were sown. The historical significance added a touch of magic to our adventure.
Then we pedalled onward to Herengracht 81 to marvel at one of the oldest residential houses in Amsterdam (Picture 2) and to the Embassy of the Free Mind on Keizersgracht 123 (opened by Dan Brown) for a bit of Hermeticism philosophical musings.
A visit to the Jordaan area would only be complete with paying tribute to the Homomonument and the revered Anne Frank House. Some of us noticed the text on the monument ‘Naar Vriendschap Zulk Een Mateloos Verlangen (such an endless desire for friendship)’, which is a line of poetry by the homosexual Jewish writer Jacob Israël de Haan (1881-1924), deeply touching and empowering.
After indulging in culture, we thirsted for a taste of nature. We continued to the hidden gem Westerlijke Eilanden, a picturesque neighbourhood, tucked away from the tourist hustle and bustle (Pictures 3 and 4). Then a delightful encounter awaited us at Stichting De Dierencapel—a haven of furry friends. As we approached, a larger-than-life pig stole the spotlight. And the goats revelled in the gentle caresses between their majestic horns, a secret the farm owner told us (Picuture 5). After that, the Society treated everyone with double-scoop ice cream (Picture 6) before we made our way to the enchanting community garden Volkstuinvereniging Sloterdijkermeer, losing ourselves in its botanical wonders, both figuratively and (almost) literally. Time flies by. When it was almost dinner time, we cycled to our final stop, the iconic Vondelpark, for a relaxing picnic.
It was an eventful day. From cultural escapades to whimsical animal encounters and serene moments in nature’s embrace, our summer cycle in Amsterdam had transformed into an unforgettable symphony of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
First Alumni Rowing Clinic – May
The first alumni rowing clinic was born out of the desire of bringing our large community of alumni rowers together for a relaxed gathering.
We met on Saturday 20th morning at Willem 3 rowing club where we were met with beautiful weather. After a warmup, we set out to sail in a C4+ boat across the vicinity of the club. The journey was as follows:
- From Willem 3 we went up in the direction of the Amstel corner
- We turned around in front of RIC Rowing Club
- Rowed past Willem 3 and reached De Riekermolen
- Returned to Willem 3 and had a last power 10 before docking.
Finally, we had some tea and coffee at the club’s bar.
Overall, a major success, with great weather and no capsizing!
If you’d like to join us next time, become a member and don’t forget to follow us on social media: Instagram and Facebook.
Spring Walk – May
Alumni embarked on a hike around the north east of Province Utrecht. Starting from Station Baarn, we were welcomed by a mile long aisle of trees, joint branches at the top around Grote Kom-pond region. The lush green Baarnse Bos extended towards its adjacent forest Hooge Vuursche, where it was elegantly guarded by Paleis Soestdijk. Quickly after our packed lunch at a nearby picnic bench, the scenery changed from towering trees, heather field and a serene pond. The group had a relaxing stopover by restaurant De Bosrand, before reaching our final destination, Station Hollandsche Rading where we departed.
Photo credit: Sara van der Hoeven
Drinks for recent alumni – April
We organized an event for more recently graduated alumni to come together in a relaxed atmosphere at Brouwerij Troost. Great conversations were had, new connections made, and most of all, a lovely evening went by (sadly) rather quickly in good company.
Annual Boat Race & AGM – March
As per tradition, we invited members to watch the annual boat race. Many alumni gathered at the KNZ&RV in Muiden to support their respective team. The races were close, with Cambridge winning both the men’s and women’s race. The screening was followed by the AGM and a three-course dinner, which allowed members to socialize into the evening hours overlooking the waters.
The Oxford and Cambridge Society of the Netherlands 