Information Services

"It was difficult coming from Japan to the Netherlands for the first time, but Connect International helped my husband and I settle in quickly. We had many general questions about living in Groningen and the Netherlands, as well as more specific ones related to the filing of taxes, contracts, company cars, buying a house and so on. These were answered quickly and I was even provided with links to appropriate websites and organizations that specialize in such matters. I joined coffee mornings regularly which enabled me to meet various people from all over the world and, even though I no longer live in Groningen, we still keep in touch. Connect also organize meetings and events with specific themes which are excellent for getting to know the local culture and again, meeting people! Running an aromatherapy salon in Groningen was an experience I will never forget and I will treasure those memories. I was saddened to close my salon in Japan because of our moving overseas and I needed courage to do the same thing again in The Netherlands. However, through joining the events and meeting new people, I was really inspired and I was able to tackle challenges head on. Thank you so much Connect International!"

Yumiko Connah (Japan)

“I came to live here in Leeuwarden approximately 2 years ago.  I had heard about Connect International while I was following a Dutch language course at Groningen University. I made use of the excellent helpdesk at the Groningen office. As a British National I wanted to clarify some issues regarding my status post Brexit!. Within hours the Connect office had contacted the Dutch Immigration Office and reassured me about my situation. Sadly because I live in Leeuwarden I did not make use of the social elements of Connect which took place mainly in Groningen. So when I learned about the Leeuwarden branch I immediately began attending the Friday and Sunday coffee mornings. These provide a great opportunity to meet other newcomers and to share information and the occasional worry. Everyone is made to feel welcome and discussions range free and wide. I have got to know a range of interesting and friendly people from all over the world, via Connect International Leeuwarden. I have also learnt about many of the social and cultural activities taking place in this great town. If you have recently come to live in Friesland, I can recommend Connect International Leeuwarden as a terrific means of quickly settling in and getting to know a range of people who can offer support and advice.”

Alan Herbert (UK)

"My husband and I moved to Groningen in the beginning of September 2016. International Welcome Center North was one of the first places we went to get help with all the paperwork and settling-in. We became members of Connect International and now we get a weekly newsletter by e-mail about the next week's events in the area. I have attended Culinary Club and Coffee Morning and have met many new friends. I've met people in the same situation: being in a new country without knowing anyone. I've found the events of Connect International really helpful to meet new people and to try something different."

Outi Heikka (Finland)

"My husband and I came to Groningen two years ago for his studies. At first, I had absolutely no acquaintance here. I felt lost, not knowing where to go, who to meet, nor what to do. I first found out about the Connect through the Coffee Morning. Everyone seemed very nice and welcoming. They all understood what I was going through. Since being expats themselves, most of them also went through this process when they arrived here. Then I started to join other workshops, such as culinary workshop, beauty workshop, etc. I learned many different cultures and I also dare to say that I met most wonderful bunch of friends here at Connect. The IWCN and Connect have helped me through my difficult times being a lost expat, and helped me settle down and have a feeling of ‘home’ here in Groningen."

Elly Song (South Korea)