The recent General Members Meeting was held at the Pineapple Valley Golf in Hua Hin. The attendance, motivation, enthusiasm of the members present and the general mood were very positive. Board member Mali was absent for medical reasons. We would like to thank her here for her energetic efforts for the NVT Hua Hin in the past period.

The treasurer explained the annual figures for 2024. On balance, there was a loss over the year. The reason for this was the withdrawal - at a later date - of two sponsors and a much lower number of non-members who attended the Christmas party. All future activities will be cost-covering.

The audit committee, through Ad, explained the findings. The committee is of the opinion that “the bookkeeping has been done extremely professionally” and that “all expenses and income have been digitized and presented clearly.” The financial documents were approved. The audit committee for 2025 will again consist of Elmi and Ad.

During the review of the year 2024, some highlights were mentioned, such as the visits to the WFFT (Edwin Wiek), the resounding success of the visit of ambassador Remco van Wijngaarden, the factory visit to BMW in Rayong and, not to forget, the Christmas party at the Centara Hotel.

The outlook for 2025 has the NVT as a platform as its core point. In the past, the NVT was more of a “you ask, we deliver” organization. In the new setup, the NVT will rely much more on initiatives and activities of members. Rini provided further explanation about this (see below). Members are called upon to come up with their own interest groups and to set up activities. In this way, the NVT Hua Hin can continue to grow into a platform with initiatives: “something for everyone, without wanting to be everything for everyone.”

During the board elections, Patrick Franssen, Robert Rijlaarsdam and Edwin Willems were unanimously re-elected for the year 2025.

The following topics were discussed during the round of questions: Some activities, where the language is secondary, are also open to non-Dutch speakers. This enables the club to organize more activities, without detracting from the Dutch-speaking character. Last year there was discussion about the House Rules (HHR). The old rules have been placed back on the website.

It was also noted that some non-members indulged in food and drink at the New Year's meeting, which was widely experienced as negative by the members. In the future, an (extra) contribution will therefore be requested from non-members for such activities.

The traditional management model is really outdated! An organization that works according to the principle 'you ask, we deliver' does not fit the dynamics of a modern club. A club like ours should be able to count on the knowledge, experience and talents of all its members. Activities and initiatives should come from the members themselves, so that everyone gets the chance to participate and contribute to organizing inspiring and fun projects.

Whether it is a Thai cooking course, a sailing trip, a painting club or even larger excursions, the possibilities are endless! A short survey among the members would be a great way to find out where the interest lies and where everyone would like to contribute. The costs are for the participants, without a contribution from the membership fee.

With this new approach, in principle, there is no need for a daily board or strict regulations. What we do need is an enthusiastic group of people who take on the coordination and coordinate everything with the club members. In addition, we should all be ambassadors for the club and attract new members and involve sponsors.

This may be experienced as quite a change, but with the commitment and involvement of all of us, we can build a club that will continue to grow and flourish not only now, but also in the future. Let us build together a club that truly fits our times!

We cordially invite you to an inspiring and educational afternoon at Elder Blossom Hua Hin, where we Sallo Polak, founder of Philanthropy Connections, welcome. This is a unique opportunity to learn more about the impact of his organization on vulnerable communities in Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar.

About Philanthropy Connections

Philanthropy Connections is a nonprofit organization focused on supporting local initiatives in education, health care, and community development. By working closely with local partners, the foundation ensures that resources reach those who need them most, helping people and transforming lives.

One of their most impressive projects is the Scholarship Program for Underprivileged Children, which makes education accessible to children who would otherwise never be able to attend school. Many of these children come from displaced communities or families living in extreme poverty. Through long-term funding and close collaboration with local educators, Philanthropy Connections gives these children a promising future.

About Sallo Polak

Before Sallo Polak fully dedicated himself to Philanthropy Connections, he had a successful career in the Dutch media industry. He worked for years on television documentaries in which he highlighted social issues and drew attention to urgent world problems. This experience formed the basis for his involvement in humanitarian aid and sustainable development projects in Southeast Asia.

Event details

📅 Date: March 4, 2025
⏰ Time: 14:00
📍 Location: Elder Blossom Hua Hin

During this engaging talk, Sallo will share personal stories of resilience, hope and positive change. You will gain insight into the challenges facing vulnerable communities and how targeted philanthropy can make a lasting difference.

Why you shouldn't miss this

- Learn about impactful local initiatives in Southeast Asia

- Discover the importance of sustainable and ethical philanthropy

- Gain insight into specific projects, such as education for underprivileged children

- Engage in conversation with like-minded people about social change

- Discover ways you can contribute to meaningful initiatives

Join this inspiring afternoon and become part of a community that believes in making a difference!

Sign up now! 📧 events@nvthc.org
📞0872 939 060 (also WhatsApp)

We look forward to welcoming you for an afternoon full of insights, inspiration and valuable conversations!

'The Four Seasons' by Vivaldi

Antonio Vivaldi composed The Four Stagioni (The Four Seasons) in 1723. This masterpiece consists of four violin concertos, each dedicated to a season: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The composition is one of the earliest and most impressive examples of program music, in which the music tells a story or evokes specific scenes. Vivaldi provided each concerto with a sonnet describing the mood and images of the season, such as the whistling birds in spring or the raging storms in summer.

The music was initially published as part of Vivaldi's Il cimento dell'armonia e dell'inventione, a collection of concertos published in Amsterdam in 1725. The Four Seasons quickly became immensely popular and has remained one of the world's most beloved classical works ever since.

Use and Influence

Throughout the centuries The Four Seasons used and interpreted in countless ways. It is frequently performed by orchestras and soloists worldwide and remains a favorite piece in both classical concert halls and contemporary art forms. It is widely used in films, commercials, and contemporary adaptations, making Vivaldi's music a major influence in the modern era.

Whether played in a historical performance with baroque instruments or in an innovative electronic arrangement, the timeless splendor of The Four Seasons continues to fascinate and inspire listeners.

Register here

Would you like to know more and enjoy a beautiful performance of The Four Seasons? Register via the HHE website:

For golf enthusiasts who enjoy sportiness and conviviality, there is the Orange Triangle Golf Tournament, an annual event held in Bangkok, Pattaya and Hua HinThis tournament not only offers a great opportunity to play golf on some of Thailand's most beautiful courses, but also to meet new people and enjoy a great day on the golf course together.

The tournament is known for its relaxed atmosphere, where both experienced players and enthusiastic amateurs are welcome. In addition to the sporting challenge, there is plenty of room for social interaction, a drink afterwards and the chance to enjoy the game of golf in a friendly environment.

Join in!

Want to participate in the Orange Triangle Golf Tournament? Register via Martin on tel. 095 537 8670 or sign up at Say Cheese during a visit.

We cordially invite you for an unforgettable day at the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), where you can learn more about the important work of this organization and get the chance to experience their newest project – the Tiger Sanctuary – up close.

This day not only offers a chance to enjoy delicious food and a special nature experience, but also to reflect on the incredible work of Edwin Wiek, the founder of WFFT. Thanks to his tireless efforts, countless wild animals – from elephants and monkeys to bears and tigers – have been given a second chance. His fight against animal suffering and the illegal wildlife trade has had a huge impact in Thailand and beyond.

The Story Behind the Rescued Tigers

Many of the tigers at WFFT have been rescued from dire situations. Some have come from tourist attractions where they were chained, forced to pose for photos or even drugged to appear tame. Other tigers have been confiscated from illegal breeders or private individuals who could no longer care for them. At WFFT, these majestic animals are given the space, care and respect they deserve and can live out their lives in a safe and natural environment. This tour offers a unique insight into their journey from suffering to protection.

Day Program - Price per person: 1,390 baht

- 10:00 am – Reception with coffee or tea

- 10:30 am – Tiger Tour: A unique opportunity to see the rescued tigers and learn more about their background and care

- 12:00 o'clock – Lunch at STRIPES Restaurant, including a specially composed three-course Western fusion dinner

Don't miss this unique experience!

For only 1,390 baht you can experience an unforgettable day and support the great work of WFFT.

Want to join? Register now!

📧 events@nvthc.org
📞 0872 939 060 (also WhatsApp)

HOW ARE WE GOING?

Own transport: Make sure you around 10:00 am at STRIPES Restaurant (location below).

Need transportation? Gather at Elder Blossom Hua Hin at 9:00 am for anyone who wants to travel together. Register in advance so we can estimate how many cars or other transportation is needed (possibly at a cost)

Martijn runs the bar of B&B with love

In B7B met Liefde everyone feels welcome. Whether you are a regular guest or a first-time visitor, Martijn is always ready behind the bar with a smile and a good glass. The relaxed, familiar atmosphere makes this place special, and thanks to Martijn's hospitality and eye for detail it feels like you are in a piece of the Netherlands, but with a tropical breeze.

Every third Tuesday: Dutch specialties for the NVTH Club

For the members of the Dutch Tropical Heart Association (NVTH Club) is the third tuesday of the month a culinary highlight. On this evening, guests can choose from a specially composed menu of Dutch dishes. Think of a well-filled pea soup, a classic hotchpotch or a delicious plate satay with peanut sauceOf course, a real one is missing Dutch snack platter not.

Martijn makes sure that everything is arranged down to the last detail. He likes to have a chat at the bar and pours a beer with pleasure. The evenings are cozy, informal and a perfect opportunity to get together and enjoy good food and good company.

For those looking for a familiar place with a relaxed atmosphere and a touch of the Netherlands, B7B met Liefde is the place to settle down. And Martijn? He makes sure you always feel at home.

On Saturday March 22, 2025 presents the Chom Dong Garden Concert Series a special concert with western music, performed by some renowned musicians from the Bangkok music world.

Enjoy enchanting performances by Masami Suzuki and Nadlada Bow Thamtanakom (sopranos), Ema Miterai(harp), Wishwin Sureeratakorn (cello) and Morakot Cherdchoo-ngarm (piano). The program includes operatic arias and duets from The Marriage of Figaro, The Bohemian and Cavalleria Rusticana, harp solos by A. Zabel and B. Andres, harp and cello duets by Saint-Saëns and Piazzolla, and cello solos by Elgar and Morricone.

Event details

📅 Date: Saturday March 22, 2025
📍 Location: Chom Dong, Hua Hin

Program

4:00 p.m. – Gates open. Arrival of guests with tea, herbal drinks, lemon tea, canapes and scones.

From 4.15pm – Guided tour of the beautiful garden led by experienced guides.

5:45 p.m. – Guests take their seats.

6 p.m – Start of concert (with intermission).

7:30 p.m. – Post-concert dinner, including freshly baked pizza from a wood-fired oven.

Cards & Contribution to Jungle Aid

The ticket price is 1,800 baht and includes tea and dinner. A portion of the proceeds will be donated by the musicians to Jungle Aid, an organization that supports underprivileged communities in the Hua Hin area.

Register here

For tickets and more information, please contact Khun Kanjana through kanjana2015@gmail.com.

Don't miss this unique musical evening and enjoy a wonderful combination of classical music and the serene beauty of Chom Dong Garden!

Dear all,

This year we have two different locations for our meetings:

📍 Even months: Pineapple Valley Golf Club

📍 Odd months: Krua Chef Chaa (as before)

⏰ Please note! We no longer meet on the last Friday, but on the LAST THURSDAY of the month at 18:00.

Mark your calendar and we'll see you there! 

This is a newsletter from the Dutch Association Thailand Hua Hin & Cha-am. You are receiving this newsletter because you have had contact with the NVT. It is sent to members, but sometimes to a wider circle. If you do not wish to receive future editions, click here here to unsubscribe.