haarlemsdagbladMar 19, 2026, 07:33

Haarlem residents Alain and Karin hesitated about their trip to Cuba but went anyway: ‘We are helping the Cubans, because every peso counts’

Alain and Karin Timmers from Haarlem decided to proceed with their trip to Cuba despite the country's worsening economic crisis and fuel shortages. They believe their visit supports the local population as tourism has significantly declined due to international sanctions and logistical issues. Alain Timmers is a well-known Haarlem resident recognized for organizing local community projects and events.

Economy Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

ETIAS travel authorization not yet mandatory, but fake websites are already offering them

Authorities warn that over 150 fraudulent websites are currently offering fake ETIAS travel authorizations, despite the official system not yet being active. Travelers are advised that when the program launches in 2027, they should only use the designated official European Union website to avoid financial scams and data theft.

Westeinder campsite residents back in court: 'compensation too low'

Residents of Camping De Westeinder have returned to court in Haarlem to challenge the inadequate compensation offered by developer Kleen Estate for their forced relocation. Many residents rely on the park for permanent housing due to the local housing crisis and argue that the current offers are insufficient to cover relocation costs or provide alternative shelter.

Many students attend Pink Breakfast in Haarlem, but: "Purple Friday is under pressure"

On Purple Friday, students wore purple to support the LGBTI+ community, with a well-attended Pink Breakfast held at the Haarlem city hall. However, recent data shows a notable decrease in the acceptance of homosexuality among young people, and school organizers report that the day is facing increased pressure and scheduling difficulties.

Pieter (64) could no longer afford high rent and ended up on the street: I was just surviving

After suffering a series of financial setbacks, 64-year-old Pieter Willems lost his home and was forced to live on the streets. He is now joining a protest in Amsterdam to raise awareness about the worsening housing crisis and the vulnerability of those facing homelessness.

Electric cars are driving further into Europe, but watch out for hidden costs in France

Dutch electric vehicle drivers are increasingly traveling further across Europe, but the ANWB warns that hidden costs like blocking fees remain a problem in countries such as France. Drivers are advised to check tariff details in charging apps to avoid significant unexpected charges for staying connected to a station after a battery is full.