On the 17th to 18th of May, ISR hosted its third edition of ISR Boosts Exceptional Talent (I-BET)! Our team have worked exceptionally hard to put together this wonderful event together for participants! Numerous companies attended IBET and interacted with participants with workshops, information sessions, case competitions, company stands and networking  opportunities! Special thanks goes to all participants, companies taking part as well as our Academic Events team!
Here’s a message from Academic Events:
“The third edition of I-BET turned out to be a success. We managed to connect more than 60 students with the international companies, help them develop their skills and enable them to find their career opportunity. We would like to thank all the participants, volunteers and companies who contributed to the happening of this event. See you next year!â€
On Wednesday, Fortune 500 company Eastman participated in the company stands, ready to recruit interested and exceptional talent. This day also boasted Housing Anywhere, Flexpat, Student for Students, World Startup Factory and Alpha Solutions who gave informative and helpful presentations to many eager participants. This was followed by a networking drinks that allowed them to communicate with representatives of these companies that will help them gain that notch to their applications.
The next day saw Eastman, World Startup Factory and BimBimBikes in the stands the C-building hallways! We saw a lot of wonderful connections there being made! In the afternoon, the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization service came to give helpful and highly important guides and information for any international talents looking to start a career in the Netherlands. Tech giant Dell also came to give an interesting workshop that would prove valuable for any participant looking to delve into the technology industry. VenturesOne and BimBimBikes held presentations that would build one’s entrepreneurial spirit. This was followed with another networking drinks with the day’s participating companies and students at Venture Cafe, creating a memorable end to a value-creating and wonderfully fun event!
So there it is everyone! We thank you all for attending! Thank you to Eastman, Housing Anywhere, Flexpat, Students for Students, World Startup Factory, Alpha Solutions, BimBimBikes, IND, Dell and VenturesOne for your participation! A shoutout goes to the Academics Event team and all members of ISR for your tireless work to create this event!
If you wanna reminisce the awesomeness of IBET, head on to our gallery and see if you’re featured there! Cheers to the next one and we hope to see you all again in our social drinks!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]I-BET (ISR Boosts Exceptional Talent) is an academic event aiming to connect employers to international students of Rotterdam. International students often face hardships when looking for a job in a foreign country: needing to apply for a Visa, unable to speak the language, and needing to adjust to the new culture.
ISR aims to eliminate these hardships and show certain companies in The Netherlands that international students are valuable and innovative and can be an important addition to a company. The goal is to help you, an international student, find an internship at large and successful companies, and begin the progression of your international career. This will give you the opportunity to think about continuing life in The Netherlands and transition into life after your studies.
I-BET 2017 is partnered with the following companies: Eastman, BimBimBikes, VenturesOne, Housing Anywhere, World Startup Factory, Alpha Solutions, Dell, and IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service) providing lectures and workshops at various locations at Erasmus University Rotterdam. Students participating in I-BET will have the chance to speak with representatives from these companies during I-BET events and during social networking drinks afterward.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Speaking with internationals who have been able to find a job in The Netherlands can help you learn a lot about how you can best tackle career building in a foreign country. To see the full schedule, visit: https://www.isrotterdam.com/schedule/.
ISR’s Academic Events Committee has been very busy these last few months to put this event together. “Our goal is to connect international students with companies that look for motivated and driven internationals, whom we believe can contribute to the unique development of a company.†– ISR’s Academic Events Committee, organizers of I-BET. Does organizing an event like this interest you? You can apply for an Academic Events Committee position at https://www.isrotterdam.com/recruitment/.
Last year, I-BET partnered over 80 international students with internships, and this year ISR is aiming for even more. This is a unique opportunity to jumpstart your career in The Netherlands and present yourself as a driven and talented international student. Don’t miss your chance!
Do you ever find yourself in any of these situations? Do you find it difficult to identify yourself with certain experiences? Take me as an example. I was born and brought up on an island called Saint Martin, but my parents were born and brought up in India. What do I identify myself with? Saint Martin, no questions asked.
You’re most likely to be asked similar questions regarding your identity in your first year settling here in Rotterdam. If you’re a third culture kid or TCK (brought up in a culture other than your parents’ own), raise your glass, because you’re not alone!
You might have experienced some of the following:
1 – Explaining your “accent†in regards to your appearance
It’s natural for humans to categorize certain things with certain phenomena. Similarly, the human brain tends to associate certain accents with specific countries and traits. That first “Hi, my name is ..†is being analyzed tenfold by every new person you meet. It’s possible for people to get your accent right; however, for third culture kids, it goes deeper than just your voice box and skin. You may sound Italian, but you look Chinese. I’ve been told I have a slight American accent or a “neutral†accent (whatever that is, haha!), but I look Indian. Humans tend to get a bit confused when you don’t sound how you look. It may be draining to explain your heritage and solely be categorized based on your accent and physical qualities, but try not to get offended or feel uncomfortable when asked for “further explanation†of your accent. Everyone is just trying to get to know you, which will happen to you very often in your first few months here!
2 – Cultural traditions
Do you celebrate both traditions – where you were brought up and where your parents were brought up? Call yourself diverse! Growing up in a country naturally pushes you to celebrate its traditions and national, cultural events. With your family, you might celebrate their cultural celebrations.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]We TCKs are open to so many more experiences, values, and morals that mold our upbringing and perspectives on life into something truly unique. And who doesn’t like the extra food and social gatherings that come with being multicultural?
3 – Feeling of belonging to a community, but not really
I recently visited family in India, and I can confidently say that I went through this. I celebrate similar traditions and my ancestors come from this country, but I don’t think they will ever accept me as a full-fledged Indian nor will I ever consider myself one. The same goes for what I consider “home†(Saint Martin). It’s a constant struggle as we find ourselves hanging in the middle between all the countries we’ve been brought up in. It’s only natural for us to want to be part of a community, and having this experience can be a real setback for some people. But remember, there’s more food and celebrations involved when you’re a TCK, so who’s really losing here?
Hear me out. If you change your perspective on things, label yourself as unique. You’re international, you’re multicultural, and most importantly, you belong. Even if you’re not a TCK, you may have experienced some of these things. Carry your pride as a badge on your shoulder, because Rotterdam is one big international family. You would fit right in here.
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Yashita here! This blog is more personal to me, and I hope you can also relate to some of the experiences I’ve had. Cheers to being a TCK!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]It’s recruitment time and we are interested in YOU! The goal of International Students Rotterdam is to make international students feel at home. If you would also like to contribute to this mission, then you’re in the right place. Feel free to check out the Recruitment page (https://www.isrotterdam.com/recruitment/) for more information regarding each position. Yes, being an active member of an association is putting in some work, but it’s not only about that! I can personally say time as Content Manager has been not only intriguing, but also loads of fun and games!
Check out what other members of the association had to say about their most fun ISR experience:
Name: Heloisa Position: Social Events Officer Most fun experience: That would definitely be the Family Weekends, when people can relax, not think about work, just be themselves, and enjoy time with each other.
Name: Inessa Position: Human Resources Manager Most fun experience: We have a couple of running jokes in ISR, which were mostly formed in the first couple of months. Now it’s always funny when someone brings it up again and again!
Name: Tamara Position: Academic Events Manager Most fun experience: The time the Social Events Committee gave out name tags where we could have 3 things about us written on it for the Valentine’s Edition Social Drink!
Name: Clemens Position: President Most fun experience: That must have been the moment when our beloved Viki simultaneously had her first beer ever and discovered drinking games after a board meeting; both of which changed her life forever and got us all pretty drunk!
Name: Allan Position: Social Events Manager Most fun experience: Waking up to Manish sleeping next to me.
Name: Laura Position: Human Resources Manager Most fun experience: The most fun thing for me is that even though I’m Dutch, everyone still very much welcomed me into ISR.
Name: Anita Position: Social Events Manager Most fun experience: Definitely something that happened on the Family Weekend![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Name: Raquel Position: Human Resources Officer Most fun experience: Team building games, such as the interactive bingo, we designed for the Family Weekend. Manish, what is a pug?!
Name: Weronika Position: Academic Events Officer Most fun experience: The Pub Crawl!
Name: Manish Position: Acquisition Manager Most fun experience: This is a difficult question, because I enjoy all ISR events! One nice memory would be the Halloween storytelling during the General Family Meeting.
Name: Damian Position: Acquisition Officer & Treasurer Most fun experience: Manish and David being drunk!
Name: Jessica Position: Brand Manager Most fun experience: The transformation people go through being drunk at the Social Drinks, haha!
Name: Yulia Position: Marketing Officer Most fun experience: Playing drinking games in De Smitse after board meetings.
Name: Yashita Position: Content Manager Most fun experience: Definitely the Family Times, because everyone’s personality comes out and you always get to learn a thing or two more about everyone!
Name: Andreea Position: Social Events Manager Most fun experience: The Family Weekend we had in Tilburg!
Clearly, there’s a lot of fun packed into the ISR Family, a lot of which may have to do with drinking, but who’s counting right?
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Yashita here! Spring is finally here, and if that’s not something to be happy about, then I don’t know what is!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Want a day or weekend trip to travel around outside the country? While The Netherlands has some amazing places that some of us may not have visited before, it’s always fun to go on spontaneous trips to neighboring or nearby countries to indulge in a different atmosphere. What’s even greater is that because some of the places are considerably near, you can even go during the day and be back home at night! So, what are these day or weekend getaways? Well we here at ISR have 5 student-favorite cities for you:
Antwerp, Belgium
It takes approximately an hour by train to reach Antwerp from Rotterdam. That’s right! An hour. Antwerp offers all kinds of attractions from the famous Cathedral of Our Lady to the Antwerp Zoo located next to the Central Station. You can also head on over to the Grote Markt and marvel over the Renaissance ambiance of the square and observe the impressive tower of the Cathedral looming from behind the buildings. So if you haven’t, dedicate a day to visit Antwerp and before you know it you’re back home on the same day with a check on your travel list.
Paris, France
The lovely, picturesque City of Light is accessible by train, bus and flight, but most of us take the train or bus. The train can be costly (especially if you buy a ticket near to your travel date), however it only takes around 2.5-4 hours and that is still much faster than the bus. If you take the FlixBus, it should cost you approximately 50 euros for a two-way trip. It seems that each of us have our own agendas for Paris. May it be for the architecture that embody grandeur and opulence, the culinary retreat, the high-end fashion experience or just for the eclectic and lively ambiance that defines the city. Whatever it is, Paris is definitely not to be missed especially when it is within proximity.
You can reach Cologne by train from Rotterdam and it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on which route or train you take. Once there, visit the Cologne Cathedral that looks stunning at night with lights illuminating its walls. You can also visit the museums as well as the famous Christmas market there at the end of the year. The city is also beautiful with its gothic churches and historical structures. So make sure that you make time for this amazing city.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels hosts one of the three European Parliament centers. Furthermore, this magnificent city is also where you can find the Atomium. In the heart of Brussels, you can find the Grand Place or Grote Markt and this square is nothing short of magnificent. The Town Hall forms a part of the perimeter of the square which is lined with other buildings that are remarkable on their own. You will spot Belgian chocolatiers in almost every corner from Godiva to Pierre Marcolini. So with amazing architecture, chocolates and of course beer and waffles, Brussels is definitely a must-visit.
London, England
A lot of people travel to London in the weekends. You can do this by flight or train. Take a stroll by the Thames River, watch Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace, see the skyline from the London Eye – this is just a very short list of what you can do in London on your weekend. Did we mention tea and crumpets? For non-EEA students, depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to visit but after all the paperwork, we guarantee that London will be worthwhile.
So there you have it, these are our top 5 student-favorite cities you can visit over the weekend from Rotterdam. Just to give you a small tip, NS International and FlixBus have an app you can download on your phone in case you’re an avid traveler or you want quick and easy seat reservations. So where are you off to next?
What were your first impressions in Rotterdam? Before I moved here, I heard several different opinions about this city, including “super modernâ€, “artsy in a weird wayâ€, “very busyâ€, and “ugly with all those buildingsâ€. We all perceive things differently, and seeing what others have to say about something might be surprising to others. Moving to a new city or country, for instance, comes with different experiences – good and bad. The beauty of it all is that we experience new (and sometimes even weird) things every day of our lives. You know what’s even better? Sharing your stories with others, that’s what!
Here’s what a few full-time students in Rotterdam had to say about their experiences* so far and my little two cents in italics:
Anonymous
Best experience: Sitting on a rooftop with friends, sipping a beer, watching fireworks, and listening to some music in the summer.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: One time I went out and, let’s just say, the night got out of hand. I woke up the next morning without keys and without my wallet. In desperation, I went back to the place I was at the night before and found my keys, wallet, and all contents of my wallet in the park across from the bar. I have never been so happy in my life. [Sounds like a great night to me, to be honest.]
Henry
Best experience: The Eurekaweek probably and a few chill nights in with the fellas.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: Once I was cleaning the house high out of my mind with my roommate whilst dancing to Grease.
Ron
Best experience: IBA Freshman Weekend.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: That would probably be when one of my friends from abroad saw a goose, freaked out, and took pictures of it like it was some sort of miracle.
Anonymous
Best experience: Stroopwaffels. [YES.]
Koen
Best experience: The Eurekaweek. [Introduction weeks seem to be a recurring best experience, hmm..]
Strangest/ weirdest experience: I believe that would be seeing 15 police officers on motorbikes escorting a car through the city by blocking off all intersections and roads along the way.
Best experience: The Christmas lights everywhere in the city in December plus the nice restaurants and cafes.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: Two boys came up to my friend and I in the evening/ at night and suddenly got angry when we didn’t want to talk to them.
Sarah
Best experience: Spending time with people from all over the world and learning from different countries and cultures while staying in my own country is probably the best. I don’t need to travel for international experiences.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: How the international deal with living in the Netherlands (e.g. trying Dutch dishes, cycling, etc.). [For the most part, I’m still not used to Dutch stairs, thank you very much.]
Anonymous
Best experience: Getting to share an apartment with my friends.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: Beer cantus, that stuff… is intense… and super Dutch. [I couldn’t agree more..]
Anonymous
Best experience: Once my friends and I went to Bartender to have a few rounds of shots. Then, we bar-hopped between 4 different bars across the Stadhuis depending on which one had better music every 30 minutes.
Strangest/ weirdest experience: The first bar I went to charged me separately for the alcohol and soda when I asked for a mixed drink. [This is why we pre-drink!]
Anonymous
Best experience: Eating Cinnabons. [Say no more. FYI, you can get some in the Alexandrium Mall. You’re welcome.]
Strangest/ weirdest experience: This one guy licked my face at a party.
Be sure to be on the lookout for the next edition of this blog series!
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Yashita here! I think I’m going to treat myself to a Cinnabon.. Cheers!
*Testimonials were edited for grammar, understandability, and clarity.
Have you ever wanted to discover new places in Rotterdam? Have you been curious about all those charming cafes, amazing tea and obliging service? Or just wanted to spend some quality time with your fam grabbing a beer or two? Rotterdam is full with quaint venues, cosy restaurants and covered places, waiting for you to get to know them. However, there is a small burden. The financial part.
Let’s face it. We’re students and after paying for rent, the university fee, the books, food and a few beers there is not much left for the pleasure of chilling by the cup of coffee, reading a book or just enjoying the chat with the friend.
There comes the Unitiator – the great application that enables you to discover the place, grab a coffee, tea or a beer and enjoy the atmosphere! Just for free. The concept is simple – the owners of the restaurants want to attract more people by distinguishing[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]themselves with the help of the application, draw more customers to the venues and create a cosy and lively atmosphere in the place bustling with pleased food-lovers. The only thing you have to do is to download the app, accept the offer, go to the venue and ask for it. Then, enjoy it, spread the message and discover another place.
Wait no more, download the Unitiator and explore Rotterdam!
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I am Weronika Naklicka, the blogger at the traveling blog https://polishglobetrotters.wordpress.com/, food-lover and your new guide through the student life in Rotterdam.
Welcome to Rotterdam, commonly referred to as “the New York of Nederlandâ€! Although your time here in Rotterdam is only just beginning, time will begin to fly by. Therefore, it’s important you see as much of Rotterdam and the Netherlands as possible, in ways friendly to exchange students.
Perhaps the first step you can take is learning how to speak Dutch. This can be done through a variety of companies, including CoBuild and the Language Institute. Knowing how to speak Dutch can allow you to participate in more events in the Netherlands, and get a better feel for the local culture. There are, however, many ways to experience Rotterdam without speaking Dutch.
First off, some practical matters. Find a local supermarket closest to your house. It will be one of the following: Albert Heijn, Lydl, Aldi, Jumbo, Spar, or Coop. Keep in mind, many (grocery) stores close early or close completely on Sundays. Additionally, locate the nearest emergency medical service center to your house. Lastly, make sure you purchase a bike. Bikes can be found for relatively cheap, and since Rotterdam is mostly completely flat, a fancy bike won’t be necessary. You can check out multiple Facebook groups, specifically Commodity Market Rotterdam, where many second-hand things can be bought.
There are numerous things you should do in Rotterdam in your time here. Take a picture of or from the Erasmusbrug at night. Visit the unique architecture, such as the Cube Houses at Blaak or Rotterdam Central Station, a spectacle in itself. Go to Booijmans van Beuningen museum, which has a variety of artworks of various artists, guaranteed to satisfy any artistic preferences. Snap a photo from the top of the Euromast, providing a breathtaking view over the bustling city of Rotterdam. Food shop at the world-renowned Markthal, and on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at the huge outdoor food market with low prices for high quality foods. If the opportunity ever presents itself, attend a Feyenoord football game in their home stadium, De Kuip. It is guaranteed to leave you with high energy, great memories, and a clear feeling for the heart and spirit of the proud locals of Rotterdam. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]
Once you’ve seen Rotterdam, it’s appealing to venture outside of the city. There is a lot to see in all of the Netherlands, and since the country is small, many things can be seen in a few day trips. Keep watch for any train ticket special prices from NS to save a little money on the day trips. Den Haag is close to Rotterdam. When it gets warmer, you can visit Scheveningen beach. Den Haag is the political hub of the Netherlands; there you can find embassies and historic buildings. Amsterdam, of course, is another favorite to visit; just watch out for bikers and pick-pocketers!
Most importantly, try to meet as many people as possible! A large part of the exchange experience is meeting people you typically wouldn’t. This includes locals, other exchange students, and other international students studying full-time in the Netherlands. To do this, you can join numerous student associations, particularly ISR.
The more things you participate in and see, the more you will get out of your exchange. And don’t wait, because, before you know it, it might be time to leave!
We wish you a wonderful time here in Rotterdam. If you have any questions about Rotterdam, information can be found in our Student Guide here on our website. Good luck!
Image Obtained From: Gingerbread Marketing
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Hi, Danique again! Wishing you a happy new year and the best of luck with your studies, experiences, and adventures in 2017!Â
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]I am currently writing this blog post across the Atlantic Ocean in the comfort of my bed to give you something to be excited for during this festive time. Are you staying in the Netherlands for the holidays? Not being able to go back home can be a bit bittersweet during this time, but if it makes you feel better, you’re not the only one! If some of your friends may not be returning home or you have Dutch friends in nearby cities, ring them up and tell them to put on their Christmas socks because there are so many markets and fairs to make you feel the holiday spirit enough to not miss home!
In order of proximity to Rotterdam, I have put together a list just for you and your friends (or family!) if you’re in the neighborhood!
Dordrecht Christmas Market
What: This market is the largest Christmas market held in the Netherlands with over hundreds of stalls spread across the historical center. You can find traditional holidays treats along the entire route, which is bound to get you into the Christmas spirit!
Where: Inner city and harbor of Dordrecht
When: December 17, from 10.00 till 21.00 – December 18, from 11.00 till 18.00
What: Set in a city known for its vast shopping center, you will not have to go far along this street to feel the great festive ambience. Sip on some warm glühwein and make your way down this street of Christmas stalls and performances.
Where: Lange Voorhout
When: December 17 until December 23, from 12.00 till 21.00
What: This market stands out from the others by being the only floating market in the Netherlands. I’m sure you will be able to find something to eat, drink, or buy from the variety of stalls to get yourself into a Christmas-y mood. Also, feel free to make your way to the ice rink with your friends next to the market to feel slightly better about having eaten all those holiday sweets!
Where: Nieuwe Rijn
When: December 16 until December 28, from 12.00 till 21.00 (with a few exceptions, check link below)
What: This is the holiday edition of the Pure Market which is held in different locations every time around Amsterdam. It embodies organic and sustainable products; so, if you’re an advocate for an organic lifestyle, this is definitely a Christmas market you should visit this weekend!
If you’re in a neighboring country to the Netherlands or want to leave the Netherlands for a different experience, here are a few festive events you might want to check out!
Cologne Cathedral X-Mas Market
What: This market has a memorable backdrop of Cologne’s landmark and numerous German eateries, drinks, and performances to give you another taste of the holiday season!
Where: Between the Roman-Germanic Museum, the Cologne Philharmonic Concert Hall, and the Dom Hotel
When: November 21 until December 23, from 11.00 till 21.00
Yashita here! I would just like to wish you the happiest and merriest of holidays this season, regardless if you’re with family or friends. It’s a jolly season, so get out there and make some new memories to end this year with a bang!
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Calling all those who love to seek new cool spots and escape the throngs of tourists in Amsterdam! Here’s a selection of some intriguing spots that most of the general public don’t know about one of the world’s most picturesque cities! So hop on that train and go on a scavenger hunt in the Venice of the North!
1) The Smallest House in Amsterdam
That’s right! This house is located in Oude Hoogstraat 22 and is just a tad bit more than 2 meters wide. A pretty tight fit but try and see how this “mini†building is sandwiched between two much larger ones.
2) Picasso in the Park
In the southern part of the Vondelpark, lies a sculpture that perhaps most wouldn’t know of its significance. It’s sculpted by Picasso himself and is known as “The Birdâ€. So if you ever take a stroll around the Vondelpark, make sure to find this hidden gem!
3) Panorama of Amsterdam
Another cool find in Amsterdam? Blue Amsterdam. Blue Amsterdam is a restaurant offering arguably the best 360-panoramic view of the city. You can find it atop of the Kalvertoren shopping complex. So, want stunning views and great food? Then head on over here!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]4) The Bench from the Fault in our Stars
This special bench was stolen after the movie was shown, but thankfully it has been returned for everyone to see the meaningful spot that Hazel and Gus were at. The bench has numerous locks latched onto it with the scribbling of names of couples and quotes from the movie. You can find this bench on Leidsegracht 6HS.
5) The Bar and the Horse
In Amsterdam, lies the oldest riding school within the Netherlands. Not many people however, know that upstairs of De Hollandsche Manege, you can have coffee in the 19th century posh ambiance and watch the riding classes proceed.
If you ever want to find more interesting and detailed information about Amsterdam, anywhere ranging from directions to cool pubs or bars, make sure to visit http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/. They have comprehensive guides on how to live and enjoy Amsterdam.
So there you have it! Next time when you find yourself in Amsterdam, after taking a stroll by the canals and indulging yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, check out some of these places and have fun seeking spots where most wouldn’t conventionally go to.
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Hey everyone! So it’s the holiday season! If you’re staying somewhere colder, then don’t forget to check out the Christmas markets! For those who are traveling to somewhere warmer, enjoy the sun! Happy Holidays from us at ISR – your international family.