Utrecht Central

Utrecht Central reports on the people of Utrecht and all the ongoing and upcoming news happenings and events in the city of Utrecht, the Netherlands.

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Resolutions are passé; Focus on daily goals

With the beginning of a new year, we resolve to do so many things, hitting the gym, new trips, save money, enjoy life, healthy eating, form new hobbies and the list goes on. But tell me, how many of us stick to the plan. Ultimately, with too much stuffs on your plate, you are unable to pay attention to any of them let alone enjoy it. After prolonged procrastination, we all go through the endless loop of From Tomorrow. However, we all are lingering for personal growth and progress. For that, be consistent with your tasks and routine. Set Daily Goals! Focus on habits that in turn will form into rituals; without which your day seems to be incomplete. Better Habits = Better Results Take a step back and breathe. 'Have a meaningful day.' Man conquers the world by conquering himself. It might sound basic. Yet, these tiny little things matter the most. Give your resolutions a Pass and transform into new YOU. Get into action for your daily goals step by step. Soon, the most challenging tasks will be in motion. Introducing Simple, Quick, Easy and Proven Hacks to Improvise Daily with Guaranteed Results: Maintain a Gratitude Journal A great morning ritual to follow. Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on UnSplash.com Start your day with AFFIRMATION. Count your blessings. It is the most effective ways to begin your day with. You are bestowed with many things to be grateful about. Little things which fills your life with abundant happiness. Read the full article

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Food is bringing people together combatting loneliness

Loneliness is a feeling that a lot of people suffer from. Together for Each Other is an ongoing campaign in Utrecht, and different parts of the Netherlands. It shows the good deeds and initiative that the citizens have been working on, especially during the pandemic. Among these is the role of chefs in society. As restaurants are really struggling with making ends meet. The chefs have decided to give to society in a different way. For many chefs cooking food is their passion. Mike is a chef who has been working for Maison van den Boer in the Galgenward stadium. He decided to turn his career to combat an emotion that many of us are familiar with. The scary feeling called loneliness. A good deed for loneliness in society Mike explains that in his job there are 15 people working in the kitchen. "We usually cook for all VIPS, supervisors, players and the press at a match," explains Mike. "Although the catering industry is temporarily closed. We want to continue contributing to society." During the first lockdown, Chef Mike joined forces with a few other chefs to cook for the residents of Utrecht. They have decided to cater to the people who could use an extra healthy meal, some good company and attention. "They are people who feel alone in these times, live alone and rarely leave the house." emphasizes the Chef. "The meal that is brought to the Utrecht residents brightens up their week." Everyone can lend a helping hand One issue did arise. Read the full article

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One million euros for Dutch research on Corona

With the new lockdown in place we are, perhaps, all looking for some reassurance. At the moment, COVID-19 is unpredictable. And that is challenging. We know what the risk groups are, but we do not know yet exactly why some people suffer more greatly than others from the disease. Grant from Health~Holland Health~Holland (Life sciences and health) is one of the nine top sectors in the Netherlands, among horticulture, agri-food, water, high tech, and energy, to name a few. Health~Holland offered a grant of 1 million euros to key players in the research on Corona such as universities and private companies. This includes Utrecht University. These money will support research investigating the mechanisms through which the virus harms our bodies. At the same time, more effective treatments will be developed. Metabolomics Metabolomics is an innovative technique used to study an individual’s biochemical “fingerprint.” Applying this technique involves looking at a person's structure of small molecules such as amino acids or hormones. Having a clear picture of one’s fingerprint allows scientists to compare how the organisms of different people react to a Coronavirus infection. Next, researchers will identify what parts of the fingerprint are associated with the more severe reactions. This way new treatments could be developed. At the same time, old treatments could be improved. Hopefully, these efforts will bring us one step closer to putting an end to the pandemic. Read the full article

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Leidsche Rijn project is creating hope for housing crisis in Utrecht

Housing shortage in Utrecht and in the Netherlands has always been a topic spoken about. This crisis particularly affects students, young people, and the people with lower income who can't be listed on social housing. It is not dramatic as it is in some parts of the world where people are living on the streets. Although, the stress of finding a place still affects many. Most of the time newly developed residential properties are rented or sold before they are even built. With the help of technology, BAM Wonen sheds light on the future of housing through the use of augmented reality. This piece of technology will be used towards the ongoing construction of the Leidsche Rijn district. BAM Wonen is a company that sells living facilities, products and services with innovation and sustainability Leidsche Rijn Project The Leidsche Rijn is the latest and largest new building project in the Netherlands. It is located in the Leidsche Rijn and Vleuten-De Meern districts in Utrecht. The project is expected to be completed by 2021. It consists of 33,000 homes and an approximation of 100,000 people will be living in them. Technology use of the construction of Leidsche Rijn With the help of technology, hope has been given to home seekers. BAM Wonen is using augmented reality to open new perspectives and views to local and potential new tenants. The augmented reality shows the end result before it is even finished. Read the full article

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Mass self-screening: Could it bring the pandemic to an end?

The Netherlands entered 2021 under partial lockdown. With the earliest end-date (19th of January) in sight, discussions begin. The government is trying to find the best way forward. Taking ones own initiative One idea that is receiving more and more attention is mass screening. The idea is relatively simple: every person, symptomatic or not, would have to test themselves approximately once a month. The aim of this approach is to identify those carrying the virus faster. Frequent testing will then enable people to self-quarantine and reduce the spread of the virus more, when compared to only testing symptomatic cases. Light at the end of the tunnel? Thankfully we do not have to put anyone’s life at risk to test this idea. Epidemiologists and mathematicians from Utrecht University conducted an analysis using mathematical modelling. They simulated a scenario in which mass screening would be used. The results are not very encouraging. First, the study assumed a reproduction number of 2.5 which entails that each infected person will in turn infect 2.5 other people. Alongside this, it was also assumed that social distancing was not followed. From this starting point, every person should get tested approximately once every three days to get the reproduction number to 1. Read the full article

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Black owned businesses: Why more now?

In light of the various race equality movements that have taken place all over the world, more questions are being raised about the racial makeup of companies and whether or not they practice open, tolerant and fair treatment towards their employees. But what exactly does that classification mean and why is there so much buzz surrounding the black owned businesses? One can find the origins of black owned businesses in North America, dating back to before 1865, where they were actually referred to as African-American businesses. These were generally established by African-American slaves that had successfully managed to escape their hostile environment and start up businesses of their own. They began to grow rapidly in the 20th century and since then have spread globally. To date, there are thousands of black owned businesses ranging from funeral parlours to record stores; almost any type of business imaginable.  However, there are six main industries that black businesses have had an exponential rise in; investment, banking, entertainment (book industry included), fashion, beauty and food. Some notable business you might of heard of already are Harpo Productions - Oprah Winfrey (US), Daily Paper- Hussein, Jefferson and Abderrahmane (NL), LISNR - Rodney Williams (US), Calendly- Tope Awotona (US based), Curl Agency - Nana Adison (GER) and Neyber - Martin Ijaha (UK).  Although Read the full article

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The (slightly) bright side of 2020

Now, 2020 is past. But, it is the year that will be stamped in our brains and memories for years to come. The year that changed so much. Especially for those who lost their loved ones to the deadly virus; for people away from their families, in different cities, or countries, and not able to return; for those who lost their jobs and other financial means. The year that brought to the front the concerns that were usually hidden under the carpet. Basically, the year where a lot happened, for everyone. I am not going to be preachy and say that it is going to be over, so let’s move on and make a fresh start. No, that is not going to happen. I won’t ask you to move on from this year. Nor will I ask you to make any kind of New Year resolutions for 2021. This year was and is different from the rest. The pandemic changed our lives. And most likely we are going to remember 2020 for all the wrong reasons. No matter how much we try, this is how it is going to be. The year we had to wear masks everywhere, the year we could not go home for Christmas, when we could not travel, and the list goes on. It is true when they say that human beings tend to remember negative events more than positive ones. Photo credit: Tim Mossholder on Unsplash But then I thought, maybe there can be something positive about this year as well. Can we at least try to think about something? I thought and thought, and eventually came up with a few lessons that can be learned from this year. Read the full article

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Dreaming of snow in Utrecht? What the experts say for this winter.

Another Christmas has come and gone and with that, another snowless holiday in Utrecht and across the country. In fact, since 1901, it has only snowed in De Bilt on Christmas and Boxing Day in the Netherlands just 8 times. The last of which was in 2010. With such a track record, expectations are rarely high for such an event but it's downright hard not to be hopeful with "Dreaming of a White Christmas" playing in the background. Winter has only just begun and while last year gave us little snow, what are the experts saying for whats to come? Could Utrecht see snow? Since beginning to track snow in the Netherlands in 1956, The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has never seen such a long period without snow cover. It has been 693 days since De Bilt has had snow cover setting a new record. The previous record was between the 18th March, 1989 and the 7th February, 1991. In fact, the KNMI also reports that the average number of days it snows somewhere in the country has dropped from 40 in 1980 to 29 days from the 1st of January. This data certainly doesn't bode well for the chances of snow in the future but that doesn't mean we should give up hope. The picture for January is relatively cold and also unpredictable. When asked if there is a chance of a good snow cover in the Netherlands, the KNMI's answer is "yes, of course! But then things have to "go well". Disturbances can form last minute and change things quite drastically. Read the full article

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Binge worthy movies to watch during Christmas

The final countdown has already began! Amidst strict corona rules, it is fairly difficult to travel at places. So it is perfect to enjoy the comfort of your own home and spend the worthy time with loved ones. Do Niksen (Curious! read more about such words here). As we bid farewell to 2020, let's consider it as the year of "Gratitude" and be hopeful for 2021. At the end of the year, be thankful for what you have rather than what you missed. Be grateful to be surrounded by friends, family and getting ample of time to spend with them. For that is what truly matters. Be glad about your good - health. Give yourself some credit for making through 2020. Also, to the individuals who lost their near and dear ones in this pandemic; undergoing the pain of irreparable loss shows their immense strength and courage. Netflix & Chill. Photo Credits: Photo by Mollie Sivaram on UnSplash.com In this uncertain whirlwind, no wonder how Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu and other OTT platforms became our quarantine buddies. Unquestionably, festivals are meant to be spent with families. Christmas is no exception. This year stay merry with your kinsfolk and celebrate your togetherness. Prepare the scrumptious traditional family meal. Adore the city clad in warm lights and beautifully decorated houses. A Movie Marathon is never a bad idea! Think about some age old classics or personal favourites that cheer you up. Movies will surely bring back your fond memories. Read the full article

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Importance of exercising during a pandemic

Exercising should try to be more than a choice but part of your lifestyle. Sadly, Covid-19 does it again! This virus knows no limits. Some countries are in the third lockdown. Others are still stuck in their second, while the Netherlands started its first proper lockdown on the 15th of December. What does this mean for gym enthusiasts? The next 5 weeks will be home workouts or if the weather allows outside training. To top things off it is the winter season which means flu and colds are trying to get the best of us. Now more than ever exercising is of huge importance. Having a good workout has always been beneficial to a healthy lifestyle, but during a lockdown, there are limitations not only of equipment but also the mind.   Motivation is the biggest issue with some people. Why would anyone want to workout at home? I have to much work to do, the kids need to be taken care of or my pet is in the way are a few excuses that a lot of us tackle when it comes to working out during a lockdown.  Body movement In the fitness world, exercising is crucial to keep the mind and body balanced, but what makes it even more important during a global pandemic? Increasing the immune system. A few studies have been done to explain that exercising has benefits for boosting the immune system to fight off infections, this may also include COVID-19. Read the full article

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Unusual Travel Tales part 2: Acqua Alta

stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journeyBabs Hoffman La Dominante, La Serenissima, Queen of the Adriatic, City of Water, City of Masks, City of Bridges, City of Canals, as they say, Venice is undoubtedly bucketlist favourite for many travellers/tourists. I, on the other hand was never a Venetian fan. But what's the harm in sojourning it once in a lifetime. Obviously, those bollywood romantic songs played its part, stimulating my desire to have a city break at this place. Allow me to describe the ever-lasting image of Venice which every Indian holds. Actors and Actresses romancing in the traditional gondola, gondolier singing the Italian ballad and they being filmed sailing across the picturesque canals. Click here to have a glimpse at the first Bollywood song shot in Venice. Made up of 118 islands, 400 bridges and over 170 canals, Venetian Lagoon and the city is a World Heritage Site. Photo Credits: Kishan Hirani My interest laid in the colorful province of Venice - Murano & Burano island and Acqua Alta ( A bookshop.. I mean). Libreria Acqua Alta classifies in the list of World's Most Beautiful Bookstores. My wishlist holds the desire to be at these bookstores once in my life. An alley of Libreria Acqua Alta. Photo by Michele Purin on UnSplash.com Without any further ado, here I begin my exciting tale of Venice. Journey to Venice Italy is a country of many exquisite destinations. Therefore, a long holiday is ideal to cover numerous locations. Read the full article

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Zwarte Piet: The blackface debate

Since Zwarte Piet is around the corner, most of you might actually not be aware of the history and controversy behind this tradition in Netherlands. So, lets dig a bit into the story of this diverse figure before the event takes place. The traditional Dutch holiday story involves a Sinterklaas, accompanied by a Zwarte Piet, who visits homes to bring presents and treats to children on the eve of 5th December every year. However, his helper, Zwarte Piet, has been a topic of controversy for several decades. How it is celebrated today Sinterklaas, portrayed as an elderly white man, arrives by ship and rides a white horse through parades across the Netherlands, hundreds of adults and children dress up as his helper, Zwarte Piet. Impersonators don blackface and black curly wigs, protruding red lips, and often large golden earrings to complete the look. It is this character, and the traditional depiction, which has continued to draw criticism not only from within the Netherlands, but also from across the world, calling the tradition racial discrimination and inappropriate, especially from Netherlands since it had a violent colonial past. Today, Zwart Tech, a big name in the Tech industry is playing an important role to remove the stigma around this word. They have been brave enough to name their company "Zwart Tech" and the team is adamant to stop racial discrimination not only in Netherlands but across the globe. Read the full article

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Will restaurants in the Netherlands open on January 17?

Earlier this week, restaurants, bars and cafes across 50 cities in the Netherlands announced to open doors for customers on January 17 defying the partial lockdown by the government. A section of the entrepreneurs under the hospitality industry body Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN) said in a press release quoted by Telegraaf that they are compelled to “save themselves” as everything done nationally by the Cabinet so far to support them is not enough. “The financial necessity, the lack of future perspective and inconsistent government policy leaves us no choice. We are going to open on January 17 under the strict KHN protocols and we are going to stay open,” the press release was quoted.  However, KHN does not support this campaign, and its spokesperson called the move irresponsible. These business owners are from 50 Dutch cities, including Breda, Maastricht, Eindhoven, Leiden, Leeuwarden, Arnhem, Nijmegen and Alkmaar are among the ones planning to reopen. While organizations from the Hague, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht are not participating in this campaign. The date in January is decided so that the holiday season is over by then, and they will not be blamed in case the number of infections rise in December. In addition, the business owners said that they will “responsibly” get back to business, and adhere to safety measures such as the 1.5-meter Read the full article

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Lockdown: Is more family time better?

It is in our nature to seek the bright side of things. During lockdown many of us feel trapped and hopeless. One way to cope with this is to focus on what we gain. For example, some of us got to spend more time with our families. In a hectic world finding time to spend with our family was a challenge. The lockdown, then, surely must be a blessing, in that regard! A new research from Utrecht University disagrees. Less parental support Scientists at Utrecht University started a project in 2019 in which they study the development of children’s identity and autonomy. One measurement took place in the spring of 2020, when the lockdown was in place. The findings were intriguing. Children perceived receiving less parental support during the lockdown, when compared to the previous year. Similarly, parents reported a decrease in positive parenting. In other words, the relations between children and parents became less warm and less supportive during the lockdown. Surprising twist The picture looks grim so far. But there is some good news. The same study found that children experienced less negative interactions with their parents. Before the lockdown, many conflicts were based around going out with friends and other social activities. Once these activities were taken away, the conflicts diminished too. Another explanation is that parents and children avoid big conflict topics such as homework and spending time on phones and computers. Read the full article

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A must-see movie: Tenet

The end of the world could happen, the third world war is a thread. The world's faith is in the hands of one secret agent who has to figure it all out. He does not have all the time in the world. He is in a maze in between present, past, and future. Imagine this: a life in which we can travel through time. We could see ourselves in the future knowing exactly what we would do. Or even going back to an event in a series of actions we regret doing and we could actually go back and change what happened. Back to the cinemas It is so exciting that we are back to the cinemas again! Forget about all the Romance or comedy. The most epic movie you definitely should see before it is too late is Tenet! It is highly recommended to see it in Imax to make sure you feel all the excitement, to be part of every single move made. Tenet is a thriller which keeps you on the edge of your seat all the way till the end. It has the most epic actors like Robert Pattinson (known for his role in the famous Twilight), Elizabeth Debicki (known for her role in The Great Gatbsy), and John David Washington (known for his role Malcolm x with Denzel Washington, his father). Will he save the world with his save weapon called "Tenet" or will the world end to one man who wants to end it for all? Read the full article

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Unusual Travel Tales part 1: White nights of Russia

"Travelling - It leaves you speechless, then turns You into a Storyteller."Ibn Battuta My travel experiences have indeed made me a storyteller. Stories that fascinates! This article is all about the discovery of one such phenomenon that your school books will never teach you. Travel to Russia was a sudden plan. It was like a Let's Visit It (Nothing wrong, right!) type of holiday. The prime focus was "the Golden Ring" but "Venice of the North" is so stunning that I would love to travel back. It was early June, we boarded for St.Petersburg. I must say, it is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in one's lifetime. Obviously, the Hermitage Museum, the Fortresses, Saint Issac's Cathedral, Palace Square, Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood, Mariinsky Theatre and the gorgeous River Neva will take your breath away. But White Nights add to the charisma of the city. Midnight Wandering Around 2 a.m. we landed at the "Cultural Capital of Russia". As we were heading towards our accommodation ( Booking.com provides the best apartments and B&B in the heart of the city centre), we noticed that the sky is still bright and full of sunlight hues. I couldn't seep in the fact, was it a day or night, sunrise or sunset? Curious enough, I googled and found the city is witnessing the "White Nights" phenomenon. As soon as we reached our apartment (3:30 am), I & My Partner dropped the baggage and went out for a city stroll (Midnight Flâneur, you see). Read the full article

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Utrecht University scientists: Breakthrough in studying SARS-CoV2

The second wave is knocking on Europe’s door. The winter is almost here as well, with shorter days and darker nights. But there is some light shining from Utrecht University in these sullen times. Welcome VIRIM VIRIM stands for “virus infection real-time imaging.” This is a breakthrough in the world of virus-study methodologies. Until now, scientists could only take snapshots of cells infected with viruses. Now, with VIRIM, the whole process of infection can be observed. This means that all the progressive stages can now be analyzed and further understood.   How does it work? VIRIM involves tagging the proteins in the RNA of the virus with a fluorescent tag. This tag can then be observed with a microscope. Involving proteins makes VIRIM a much more sensitive method of study. Microscopic battle Viruses spread in organisms by highjacking a cell’s replication system. Microscopic battles emerge within us when we come into contact with a virus. Our cells try to resist the highjacking attempts of the virus. However, the virus needs to act quickly. If it fails its first replication, it misses its chance of infecting the organism. Small moments like these can now be observed, as well as their outcomes. This allows scientists to work on targeted techniques to help organisms resist the viruses’ attacks. Hopefully this brings us one step closer to defeating the corona virus. Read the full article