Street Views: What are your plans for the summer?

Evelyne, 48, Dutch, shop owner:

“Since I’m running my store on my own I’m not going on summer vacation. But after work I like meeting friends and family at a pub or a terrace café.”

Ronald, 25, Dutch, medicine student:

“I’m going to Vlissingen, where I’m originally from, and take a summer job as a harbour master.”

Sandra, Dutch, body piercer:

“The summer is one of the busiest times in my piercing studio, which complicates a summer vacation. I’m hoping to enjoy some quiet family time after work with my 14 month old daughter, or relax in the sun. The past years Brazil was my favourite vacation spot”

Michelle, Dutch, shop owner:

“I enjoy meeting my friends for a drink or dinner downtown. When I’m off I often visit the Belgian beaches in Bruges or Knokke, which is a bit more exclusive.”

Magnolia, 28, and her sister Sansaray, 36:

“I am quite baby minded right now, preparing the nursery and getting ready for my baby. For my three other children summer vacation starts next week. We will enjoy the weather going swimming.”

Isabelle, 21, Dutch, Arts Academy student:

“I am working as a barista at Coffee Lovers. In my free time I am involved with my student association. We will prepare the activities around the opening of the new academic year for the freshmen in September.”

Almir, 37, German-Dutch, shop owner:

“I just opened my store, so the summer will be devoted to hard work and promoting the business. I used to work for Mercedes but when I realised the market-gab for German bread and buns I saw an opportunity.”

Frans, 41, Dutch, shop owner:

“Mostly just spend relaxed time with my wife and children. We will drive down to Italy for about two weeks to meet some friends. We will probably make it to Verona.”

Gakou, 31, Cameron, factory worker:

“I love spending time at the lake. It’s so relaxing. Going for a drink downtown is also nice, since the people in Maastricht are very open. They want to communicate even though I hardly speak Dutch.”

Charlotte, Dutch, flea market seller:

“I’m planning to go to France and Italy for a few days. I have friends and family there, seeing them will be very nice. Maybe I can also pick up a few items for the flea market.”

Ellen, Dutch, University employee, and her friend Lesley:

“I will take my son on a two and a half week caravan vacation. I want to show him the mountains of Austria and Italy, as well as Venice.”

Nalishebo, student at the Maastricht School of Governance:

“This is a crucial time for my studies, I will have to work hard this summer. I’m spending the summer in Maastricht. In my free time I will explore the area.”

Edison, 25, British National Overseas, MSc:

I’m soon heading to Bangkok, Thailand where I’ll be doing an internship at the Chamber of Commerce of the Dutch Embassy. I still have to do house-hunting, but next to the position I’m looking forward to the climate, food, and traveling around the country.”

How about yourself? What are your plans for the summer?