Like so many other countries around the world, here in the Netherlands August is the height of the summer holiday season. Unfortunately, COVID-19 means that for many people the summer this year is looking a lot different than it normally does. At the same time, others are doing their best to keep up with their normal routine despite the pandemic, whether that’s hiking in the mountains or taking a trip to the beach.
It’s clear that most of us -- me included -- are eager to kick back and enjoy a break from work. It’s well deserved, perhaps even more so this year.
I do however want to encourage everyone to remain vigilant and to put safety first no matter how you’re celebrating your summer holidays. As I’m sure you’re all aware, we’re not out of the woods yet. The coronavirus pandemic is simply not yet over.
I know it’s tough to pass up a trip to the beach when the temperatures rise and retailers are offering plenty of incentives to join the crowds downtown. But let’s use our heads. Don’t forget that many of those guidelines we followed for months to protect our health and safety are still relevant today. Please stay safe -- for yourself and for everyone else.