Read a few books about Dutch history and you'll quickly learn about the effects World War II had on The Netherlands, and of course its Jewish population. What I admire about Den Haag's Holocaust Memorial is its Chinatown location: smack in the middle of the city centre, perhaps one block away from the densest commercial district in town, immediately in front of Den Haag's historic 'Nieuwe Kerk' (unlike the 'Oude Kerk', this one is merely 350 years old), and facing a large public square full of sushi restaurants, Korean barbecue, and a well-attended playground. This way, one literally cannot avoid seeing the memorial. And, as sacred as the memorial is, it's also part of daily life here.
A walk around the square reveals more: its name for one thing ('Rabbijn Maarsenplein'), which indicates the historic parallels Chinese emigres have with Jews, both having taken quarter in the same neighbourhood at different points of Den Haag's history. Walk a few paces from the main monument (pictured), and you'll literally bump into bronze suitcases fastened to the ground (their owners long since 'disappeared'). Look to your left and right, and you'll see memorial shrubs that make the entire square feel like one big memorial, no matter the foot traffic. History must be remembered or it will be repeated, and in Den Haag, one never forgets.
Rabbijn Maarsenplein
€
free
Find your way with 119 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
After you place your order, you can watch the crepe being prepared at the counter, which is interesting to see. And the portion sizes are very generous...
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It is always busy at Viswinkel de Lange and as it is quite a small shop it can feel like you are like sardines in a can, which fits the theme somehow.
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The menu includes different types of milk tea, fruit tea, matcha lattes, and coffee. They also serve seasonal drinks and croffles (a type of Korean waffle with either sweet or savory toppings).
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When looking through the window you can see people rushing by, but inside the store it is quiet and customers take their time to browse through the books.
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The views are sensational, as you are surrounded by water and the sun sets into the sea. It is quiet and there are usually some other people who are enjoying the sunset or fishing in the harbor.
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When you walk around the Park Belvedere it feels like you are in the middle of the dunes, because of the rolling landscape and the trees.
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The restaurant is specialized in Korean barbecue and therefore, every table has its own grill and they also offer separate dishes or all-you-can-eat.
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When you enter it feels cosy and you are greeted by friendly personnel. There is an open kitchen concept, so you can see the chefs preparing meals.
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Another of my favorite places to visit during a stroll through Scheveningen is the Meteotoren, a sensational viewpoint that offers a 360-degree view of many different sights of The Hague.
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You can take a lovely stroll through the park, or go for a run and there is also a big playground for children and a large field where you can play outdoor sports, such as soccer or frisbee.
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Café Blossom is a lovely spot for breakfast, coffee and lunch. They offer interesting menu items for breakfast and lunch, like açaí bowls and pancakes.
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