Who is the Mayor of Rotterdam?
The city of Rotterdam is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands and is being lead by the mayor of Rotterdam. The mayor of Rotterdam is appointed every four years and is overseen by the City Council. The current mayor of Rotterdam is Ahmed Aboutaleb, who was appointed in 2009 and has been re-elected several times since then.
Aboutaleb has brought significant change to Rotterdam, with several development projects regarding transportation and economic growth in the city. He is praised for having successfully helped the city overcome the effects of the 2008 financial crisis, and for having started important projects such as the renovation of the historic Center and the revitalization of the Kop van Zuid area, among others.
Prior to his appointment as mayor, Aboutaleb was a senator for D66, an independent party in the Netherlands. He also served as State Secretary for Employment and Integration from 2007 to 2012. Before that, he was Secretary-General of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment from 2000 to 2007.
Aboutaleb has had criticism for his policies, especially those related to immigrants in Rotterdam. In 2017 he created a controversial policy, called “Respect for Everyone”, which aimed at prohibiting anyone from denying residence to refugees. His proposal caused opposition from some parties, who argued that instead of this policy, other resources should be devoted towards helping immigrants adjust to life in the Dutch society.
However, overall it seems that the people of Rotterdam have been quite content with Aboutaleb’s policies. His most recent reelection in 2019 showed an unprecedented 86% approval rate. This alone is proof of his successful lead of one of the Netherlands’ major cities.
The Mayor of Rotterdam is undoubtedly essential for making sure that the city lives up to its immense potential. Under Ahmed Aboutaleb’s guidance, Rotterdam has become one of the most liveable cities in Europe and one of the leading cities for international business. This is largely because Aboutaleb has always had a clear vision for the future of his city, making sure that it is able to meet all its challenges head-on and become a benchmark for other European cities.
For more information on Mayor Aboutaleb, his agenda and policies, as well as other information related to him and Rotterdam, please visit Rotterdam’s official website. There you can find detailed information about the city and mayor Aboutaleb, as well as a wide range of information about businesses and projects that are currently taking place in Rotterdam.
Insider’s Guide to Rotterdam, Netherlands
Known for its unique architecture, rich history, and vibrant nightlife, Rotterdam offers a fascinating glimpse into the Netherlands’ thriving modern culture. As the second-largest city in the country, Rotterdam ranks as a global hub, central to international trade and tourism. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Rotterdam adventure.
Attractions
No visit to Rotterdam is complete without exploring its architectural masterpieces. The Cube Houses showcase futuristic design, invented by Dutch architect Piet Blom in 1977, feature 38 cubic homes perched atop pylons, which hint at a futuristic vision. Next, head to the iconic Erasmus Bridge, connecting North and South Holland, and view the sprawling cityscape from above. Finally, visit the Markthal, a ten-story building which houses over 100 stalls, multiple restaurants, and an expansive outdoor plaza.
For art lovers, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is an essential Rotterdam destination, showcasing collections from artists including Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Another unique option is the Het Nieuwe Instituut, a museum that explores the intersection of architecture, design and digital culture from a Dutch perspective.
Dining
Rotterdam is known for its world-class dining scene, featuring both international and Dutch-inspired cuisine. Start your day with delicious Dutch breakfast at Hotel New York overlooking the waterfront. The city is famous for its diverse street food, including traditional Dutch delicacies like bitterballen and stroopwafels alongside Asian-inspired treats. For dinner, head to the Fenix Food Factory, a food hall on a pier next to the iconic Erasmus bridge, where different vendors offer various street foods that you can enjoy while enjoying the views of the harbor. Alternatively, try Restaurant FG Fish, where Michelin Star Chef Francois Geurds serves up fish dishes in a chic and sophisticated atmosphere.
Culture
Rotterdam boasts a dynamic cultural scene, with a wide range of museums, galleries, and festivals. Start with the Rotterdam International Film Festival, which showcases emerging filmmakers and industry professionals or, if you’re fascinated by classical music, see a concert in the Concertgebouw de Doelen, a former crucible for classical music. For those interested in theatre and performing arts, the Rotterdamse Schouwburg is a must-see destination, featuring world-class productions in a 19th-century building with modern interior design. If you are a history buff, head to the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, commemorating the city’s seafaring heritage.
History
Rotterdam’s is rife with a history that dates back as far as the 13th century. In the Second World War, the city center was decimated, and the rest of the country vowed to rebuild it bigger and better. Rotterdam is now a prime example of modernist architecture that has endured. Dive further into Rotterdam’s past with a visit to the Museum Rotterdam, housed in the amazing Timmerhuis building, which showcases Rotterdam’s urban culture and development or, visit the historically preserved Delfshaven, a small Rotterdam district, and explore the Palace of Justice and other notable monuments.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
For a more unique experience, take a bike tour of Rotterdam, with stops at local street art murals, such as The Yellow Tram, which is one of the city’s most photographed murals. Alternatively, head to the Witte de Withstraat, a vibrant street that hosts art galleries, bookstores, and lively bars. Here you can also find Museum Rotterdam’s Outdoor Gallery, where over 90 different artworks are displayed in the public space. Finally, for a taste of local culture, visit the lively A-LOUNGE in the heart of Rotterdam’s Chinatown. This dim sum and tea house, offering treats you can’t find anywhere else.
As you can see, Rotterdam offers a wealth of experiences that combine great food, culture, architecture, and history. Be sure to add this city to your travel itinerary, you won’t regret it.
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