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Resources & References

Resources & References

The Netherlands

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Eindhoven

  • 9292

    Go-to app for public transport journeys, real-time schedules, and connections.

  • NS

    Official Dutch Railways app for train times, e-tickets, and real-time updates.

  • Google Maps / Apple Maps

    Useful for navigation; download offline maps for use without internet.

  • Uber

    Ride-sharing services operate in Eindhoven.

  • Buienradar

    Popular Dutch weather app for accurate rain forecasts. Consider an Umbrella.

Useful Websites for Planning

  • VVV Eindhoven (This is Eindhoven)

    Official tourism website with information on attractions, events, and dining.

  • Hermes (Hermes.nl)

    Website for the local bus operator in Eindhoven.

  • NS (Dutch Railways) (Ns.nl/en)

    National train service for planning train travel within the Netherlands.

  • OV-chipkaart (Ov-chipkaart.nl)

    Detailed information on the public transport chip card.

  • Museum Websites

    Philips Museum, Van Abbemuseum, and DAF Museum have official websites for current information.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

General guidebooks for the Netherlands (Lonely Planet, Rick Steves, Fodor's) include Eindhoven sections. Look for books on Dutch design.

Dutch Phrase Books

Physical Maps

A good physical map of Eindhoven helps with overall orientation for walking or cycling.

Official City Maps

Local Publications

Look for free city maps and event listings at tourist information points, hotels, or cultural venues upon arrival.

VVV Office

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers & Contacts

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Call 112 (free, 24/7).
  • Non-Emergency Police: Call 0900-8844 for non-urgent matters.
  • Catharina Ziekenhuis (Hospital): Michelangelolaan 2, Eindhoven.
  • Máxima Medisch Centrum: De Run 4600, Veldhoven.

Lost Document Procedures

  • If passport or ID is lost/stolen, report it to local police (0900-8844).
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
  • Have contact details for your embassy in the Netherlands ready.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on Dutch Design, Philips history, or the Brainport region.
  • These provide visual context and insights into Eindhoven's unique identity.
  • Discover films demonstrating innovation in the Netherlands.
  • Explore visual narratives of urban transformation.

Music & Art

  • Explore Dutch electronic music; Eindhoven has a lively techno/house scene.
  • Look into the works of Dutch contemporary artists.
  • Engage with local design and art exhibitions in the city.
  • Experience the creative pulse of the city.

Online Communities

  • Reddit's r/Eindhoven subreddit provides local tips from residents.
  • General travel forums specific to the Netherlands offer wealth of information.
  • Connect with other travelers for shared experiences.
  • Seek answers to specific questions from the community.

Safety & Well-being

Important Safety Notes

General Safety

  • Eindhoven is generally safe, but exercise standard urban safety practices.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Guard your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Traffic & Cyclists

  • Always use pedestrian sidewalks, not bike lanes.
  • Cyclists can appear suddenly; look out for them.
  • Respect traffic signals and pedestrian crossings.
  • Stay alert near tram and bus lines.

Health Precautions

  • Tap water is safe to drink.
  • Carry any necessary prescription medications with a doctor's note.
  • For non-urgent medical issues, inquire about the nearest 'huisarts' (GP) or 'apotheek' (pharmacy).
  • Confirm your Travel insurance details.

Medical Assistance

Hospitals

  • Catharina Ziekenhuis: Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ Eindhoven.
  • Máxima Medisch Centrum: De Run 4600, 5504 DB Veldhoven.
  • Both facilities offer emergency services.

Non-Urgent Medical Care

  • Ask hotel reception for the nearest 'huisarts' (general practitioner).
  • For medication or advice, locate an 'apotheek' (pharmacy).
  • Ensure your medical records are accessible if needed.

Document Safety

Passport & IDs

  • Make digital and physical copies of all essential documents.
  • Store copies separately from the originals.
  • Keep original documents in a secure place, like a hotel safe.

Financial Security

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card freezes.
  • Have emergency contact numbers for your bank accessible.
  • Carry only necessary cash and cards when out.

Communication Readiness

Mobile Phone & Internet

  1. Check international roaming options with your home provider.
  2. Plan to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival if preferred.
  3. Download essential apps like 9292 and Google Maps.
  4. Ensure your phone is charged before venturing out.
  5. Consider a Portable power bank.

Emergency Contacts

  1. Save all important contact numbers in your phone.
  2. Also write them down on a physical piece of paper.
  3. This provides a backup if your phone battery dies or is lost.
  4. Inform your emergency contacts of your itinerary.
  5. Provide them with your accommodation details.

Transportation Tips

From Schiphol

The train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Eindhoven Centraal Station is a swift option.

From Eindhoven Airport

Take Hermes bus lines 400 or 401 directly to Eindhoven Centraal Station.

Public Transport Card

Purchase an anonymous OV-chipkaart upon arrival for convenient public transport use.

Natural Disaster Protocols

While natural disasters are rare in Eindhoven, in case of severe weather, follow local news, official government advice, and instructions from your accommodation.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Departure Tasks

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.

    Allows time for proper packing or shipping if items are larger.

  • Be aware of customs regulations for your home country.

    Rules pertain to food, alcohol, or other purchases.

  • Check luggage weight limits before packing.

    Avoid extra baggage fees.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Non-EU residents may claim VAT refunds.

    On purchases over a certain amount (typically €50+ per store).

  • Look for "Tax Free Shopping" signs at retailers.

    Request a tax-free form (Global Blue, Planet Taxfree) at purchase time.

  • Process refund at the airport before departure.

    Show goods and form to customs officials.

Departure Timing

Eindhoven Airport

Arrive 1.5-2 hours before European flights.

Schiphol Airport

Allow 2-3 hours for international flights.

Train Departures

15-30 minutes before departure is typically sufficient.

NS Train Schedule

Return Trip Preparation

Packing Strategically

  • Ensure all essential documents are easily accessible.
  • Keep boarding passes and identification handy.
  • Pack souvenirs carefully, considering fragility.
  • A versatile Travel luggage set assists packing.

Accommodation Check-Out

  • Dispose of any remaining waste responsibly.
  • Clear your accommodation of all personal belongings.
  • Check out according to your hotel's policy.
  • Return any borrowed items or keys.

Homebound Considerations

Financial Loose Ends

  • Ensure all local currency is spent or converted.
  • Keep important receipts for expense tracking or refunds.
  • Review your bank statements for accuracy after your trip.
  • Settle any outstanding bills or subscriptions.

Post-Trip Follow-up

  • Organize photos and videos from your trip.
  • Share your travel experiences with friends and family.
  • Consider writing a review for your accommodation or attractions.
  • Begin dreaming about your next adventure.

Final Reminder

Double-check your departure time and terminal/platform the day before you leave. Unexpected changes occur.

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