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Author Archives: Amanda-Robbins
Unwanted paper/ads in your German mailbox
This information is if you are receiving unwanted newspaper, ads, etc. Post on the box: Bitte keine Zeitung oder Reklame. Danke (We used a label maker, but you may need to be more creative!) This will help lower the amount of … Continue reading
Posted in Newcomers
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Gangelt Pool
While there is an indoor pool at Brunssum and an outdoor one at GK NATO Base, sometimes it’s nice to try something new. Last summer, I spent several days poolside in Gangelt. The pool is located right next to Haus … Continue reading
Posted in Kids, Parks/pools, Things to do
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Buying bikes at low cost
There are a few places to buy bikes that have some low cost options. So far I’ve only experimented on the NL side, but I hope to add some German stores soon! Halfords – Sittard (Next to Xenos near the … Continue reading
Posted in Outdoor/Camping, Shopping, Used items
Tagged Bicycle, Bicycle repair, bike, bike repair, bikes
1 Comment
Nazi Dokumentations Zentrum – Cologne
If you are interested in history (especially WWII), this is an informative and compelling place to visit. Located in Cologne, this center still has the cells that held those waiting for documentation. There are stories throughout and lots of information. … Continue reading
Yellow bag recycling in Germany
If you aren’t sure exactly what can and can’t go into the yellow bin or yellow bags for recycling, well here is the translation of the items that they have listed on the bags themselves. For proper recycle bags, you … Continue reading
Posted in General Local Info, Newcomers
Tagged recycle, recycling, trash, yellow bag
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European VAT Forms for GK Stationed Families
This information may have changed since it’s original posting. If this process has changed, you can contact us at hereatgk@gmail.com to have this post updated. This is a question that I’ve often asked and have received several answers to. So … Continue reading
Recieve calls from the U.S.
Submitted by Melissa B. ~ I wanted a Washington phone number, so all of my friends and family could call me. When we cancelled my cell phone with Verizon in the U.S., we IMMEDIATELY called Vonage and they were able … Continue reading
Posted in Family Resources, Newcomers
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Student Discounts for .edu emails
Discounts are a wonderful thing, but they aren’t always something you know about. If you attend school in the tri-border then you should be taking full advantage of your .edu email address. UMUC is my school and they just recently … Continue reading
Your German Dishwasher and Dishwasher Salt
When we moved here, we were lucky to have a friend and our landlady explain the ins and outs of how to use German dishwashers properly. I know your thinking “uh, you are retarded!”, but seriously, they require care different … Continue reading
Babysitters
It can be tough to find a sitter. AFRC at GK NATO Base does have a list but here are some of our readers who also offer sitting services! We will do our best to keep this updated and add … Continue reading
Asian Cash and Carry – Market
From our reader Mary: There is another great Asian market in Landgraaf called Asian Cash & Carry. It’s a big store that I can even take my stroller comfortably into and the parking lot is big as well. It’s pretty … Continue reading
Posted in Asian, Food
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Toko Lim–Asian Market
I am always just one ingredient shy of the perfect recipe. Especially when it comes to Asian food. However, on a recent trip out to Sittard, a friend showed me the place to go!Toko LimRijksweg Zuid 2A, 6131AN Sittard031 – … Continue reading
Posted in Asian, Food, Sittard
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Tri-border Walking club
Imagine a great day filled with beautiful sights, awesome people, and a little healthy walking….. If this sounds like a great idea to you, well your in luck! Somebody else already thought of it and they are inviting everyone to … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, NO COST
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Ride the Alps–Annual Edelweiss Sponsored Event for Motorcyclists
Each year, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort hosts “Ride the Alps”. They offer a discounted room for two and it includes Friday and Saturday night, the dinners and the breakfast. But the most important part is the ride! They have a … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Auto or Motorcycle, Places "HereAtGK" has been
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Dachau Concentration Camp and tour from Munich
You have heard us rave about Sandman’s Tours before, well here we ago again. These tours are in major cities all over the EU. Most of the city tours a free, but they offer bike tours at a low cost … Continue reading
Posted in Places "HereAtGK" has been
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Have questions or want to share info? Let us help!
If you have a questions about places to go that Hereatgk hasn’t blogged yet, and you want to put it out there to other spouses in the Tri-Border to answer, send us your question and we will post it on … Continue reading
Posted in General Local Info
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Eetcafe Pretzels – Sittard Whiskey Bar and Restaurant
This whiskey bar has it all. I don’t care how many you’ve tasted, you have barely begun denting the list of whiskeys that they carry! With a range for everyone’s preference and budget, this is a quaint bar that is … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Drinks/Beverages, Sittard
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Ryan’s Car Detailing Service
Getting ready to PCS, need your vehicle detailed to ship it? Or does your vehicle just need a good detailing in and out? Everything is cleaned: engine, interior, exterior, radiator. 100% guaranteed to pass inspection! 70 Euro. Call/text me at … Continue reading
Posted in Auto or Motorcycle
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Blokker
Not really sure I can accurately compare this store to anything in the U.S., but it is a nice store. While it is a bit small in some cities, most bigger cities in the Netherlands have one. It usually has … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Sittard, Toys
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Haus Hamacher – Gangelt Restaurant
A beautiful restaurant and delicious place to eat, you’ll enjoy a nice dinner out. They have some unique menu options including a Greek schnitzel where they put tzatziki sauce on your schnitzel! (It was heaven!) We loved our experience so much that we are actually … Continue reading
Motorcycle and Auto Repairshop
I heard of this shop through multiple friends in our Motorcycle club. They have a great reputation with our fellow members and we have come to trust them as well. I know a few people who have used their car … Continue reading
Posted in Auto or Motorcycle
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Antiquitäten Krings
A little place right off the 56 in Gangelt, you drive by more then you realize, is an antique shop. It’s the store with the mannequin woman out front. Pull in the “driveway” and stop for a look at the … Continue reading
Posted in Furniture, Used items
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Where to park at Aachen Centrum
There are plenty of parking options in Aachen. You can check out all of them online (including hours and rates) at APAG. Here are out favorites in terms of proximity and price. Parkhaus Rathaus Parkhaus Büchel
Off base Optometry – GK Tricare for Dependents
The Optometrist from Spangdahlem visits GK on a quarterly basis. The appointments are in order of priority. ( 1. Flyers 2. Diabetics 3. Active duty 4. Dependents) If you are Tricare Prime then you are authorized to use network providers in the … Continue reading
Posted in Health and Beauty, Health Resources
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Education financing opportunities
(Copied from the GK AFRC FB page on 13Mar2013) FOR ALL THOSE INTERESTED IN CONTINUING THEIR EDUCATION OR GETTING STARTED, PLEASE READ: These resources are available to you and your families as you pursue your educational goals. We will continue … Continue reading
Black & White – Formal/Semi-Formal Dresses
Black & White has recently closed (Jan 2015). This post is still published to hopefully save you from making the drive to Heinsberg based on old information. An alternative to this store is Autumn’s Glamour in Sittard. I have seen … Continue reading
Posted in Clothing, Heinsberg
2 Comments
The cost of traffic tickets
There are a few resources for the cost of speeding and other tickets: How to Germany German Site Please check out this document if you are interested in just what kinds of fines are in store for you if you … Continue reading
Posted in General Local Info
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Pizza Hut – Dusseldorf and Cologne
PIZZA HUT!!!! A slice of the American (pizza) Pie….. What more can I say about this place? The pan pizzas are just like at home (there is also an Italian and Cheesy Crust option). You can get actual pepperoni pizza … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, American, Cologne
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Barbarella Cupcake Cafe – Aachen
An adorable cafe of pink and white, Barbarella is the perfect place to sit with the girls and chit chat. Any girl from age 2-100 will adore the delicious options for cupcakes and the sweet and fun atmosphere. The cupcake selection … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, American, German, Ice cream
2 Comments
Emergency Phone Numbers and Hospitals
Note: If you want a medical opinion before going to an emergency room, you can also call the US Clinic on-call doctor (or dentist). Call the US appointment phone number (49)(0)245-199-2300 and wait for the “on-call” option on the recording … Continue reading
Posted in Emergency Resources, General Local Info, Newcomers
Tagged clinic, emergency room, hospital, pediactric
2 Comments
How-To-Dial Information
From Germany/Netherlands to the USA 00-1-area code-seven digit # From Germany to Netherlands 00-31-omit 0 from the Dutch # From the USA to Germany 011-49-omit 0 from the German # … Continue reading
Corio Center -Mall
This mall is located nearby in beautiful Heerlen. Larger than some of the other nearby malls, there is something for everyone inside. It is centrally located so parking is a breeze in town or in their parking garage. Also, just outside … Continue reading
Posted in Malls, NO COST, Open Sunday, Rainy day items
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Gamma
Another hardware store that is comparable to ACE, Gamma can be found in many places throughout the Netherlands and Belgium. You can also check out Praxis in the Netherlands or Mobau in Germany for similar style stores. Gamma Website
Posted in Hardware
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Praxis
Located throughout the Netherlands, Praxis is a great place to look for your hardware needs. Clean, well stocked, and loaded with options, my husband loves to go on a trip to this store. No need to ask him twice to go … Continue reading
Woonboulevard
A two story shopping complex next to ikea, this makes a nice place to stop and take a look around. With home decor, hardware, furniture, and pet stores, you can find it all here. Blokker, gamma, praxis, Xenos, etc. Woonboulevard … Continue reading
Posted in Malls
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Rd4-Kringloopwinkel
If you are looking for a new hutch, maybe a dresser, a book shelf, or a table, then there is no better place to stop then one of the many second hand furniture stores. We’ve previously written about two in … Continue reading
Posted in Furniture, Used items
2 Comments
Casa Leonardos
A superb Italian experience, this should be on your list of places to eat. This is an upscale restaurant in the center of Gk and is a mouth watering experience. I have had the pizza and dessert and my husband went for … Continue reading
Hair Crew by Concept in Kerkrade
A review from our reader: Lineik Lazare I have been an Aphrodite customer since we PCS here in March 2010. (Aphrodite was a hair salon that ironically closed down according to our sources on the day this post was published) I was … Continue reading
Posted in Health and Beauty
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“Ice” skating in Heerlen
You can stop by Minli Schaatsparadijs almost anytime as they are open for skating 7 days a week (doors open at 11am). This is a great indoor activity without the cold because the “ice” is actually synthetic. It didn’t feel … Continue reading
Posted in Kids, Open Sunday, Rainy day items
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Monschau Christmas Market
Monschau is my favorite place in all of Germany so you can bet that I went to the Christmas Market! The parking situation is a bit unique. You can try to find parking (hahahaha, yea right!) just outside of Monschau, … Continue reading
Posted in Christmas Markets
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Merode Castle Xmas Market
This is by far my favorite Christmas Market. I’m sure I will find others that are amazing, but this is kind of a Christmas topper! A beautiful castle surrounded by a moat and then a trail around that moat that … Continue reading
Posted in Christmas Markets
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Aral Car Wash
Technically you are not supposed to wash your car in the driveway. Some neighbors may do it and then you can venture out and do your’s as well, but because of the water laws here, it’s better to go to … Continue reading
Posted in Auto or Motorcycle
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Trier
GK NATO’s IYA program offers many trips throughout the year. This years final trip was to Trier for their Christmas Market. It was a wonderful way to see Trier. The trip on the bus was about 2.5 hours. It is … Continue reading
Posted in Christmas Markets, Cities, Places "HereAtGK" has been
Tagged christmas market
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Karin’s Guesthouse
Karin’s Guesthouse is a family run business which was started in Gillrath in 2001. They are currently operating up to 8 accommodations; 6 full family houses and 2 smaller apartments. Pets are welcome! Update January 2015: Karin’s guesthouse has just ordered … Continue reading
Posted in Businesses of GK families
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SKY TV – Provided by KPK
Sky Tv is a wonderful way to get entertainment in you home. If you are looking at installing Sky, the prices can may make you think twice because of the price of the equipment and installation. KPK offers a unique … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen NATO Base - Info
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A&FRC – Family Support Services
It is impossible to list all the services that the Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) provides to our families The amount of help and opportunities available are endless because they are always adding more and more. There are some general ones … Continue reading
Posted in Family Resources
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A&FRC – A look at their financial support resources
There are so many wonderful things that the GK A&FRC (Geilenkirchen Airman & Family Readiness Center) can provide and one of the best ones is financial support resources. Whether you are having a tough time learning to balance the check … Continue reading
Meubel Depot -Used/Antique furniture
Another wonderful way to pick up some local furniture of quality is to buy it second hand. Stores like Bis-bis and Meubel Depot are great places to look for these treasures that have been well cared for by their first … Continue reading
Posted in Furniture, Sittard, Used items
3 Comments
Centro Mall – Europe’s largest indoor mall
That’s Right! According to the Centro website, this is the largest mall in Europe. I have to say that it wouldn’t surprise me since it is rather spectacular. The store list could go on forever, but they have everything popular … Continue reading
Posted in Malls, Rainy day items
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Tappas Sittard
Tapas! How can you say no? We recently went here with friends and got to try a little bit of everything. My hubby and I split a tapas feast for 2 while our friends ordered À la carte from the menu. It was a fun … Continue reading
Posted in American, Sittard
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Roermond Outdoor Outlet Mall
This designer outlet has it all. Think of just about any name brand and you can probably find it here. Of course just because it’s an outlet doesn’t mean you can afford it all! A beautiful area to walk and the parking … Continue reading
Posted in Clothing, Malls, Open Sunday, Shoes
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Makado (Mall) w/ Free childcare
This reminded me of one of the Tucson Malls. After not having been to one in a while, I felt in awe of this place. Not a large mall, it certainly had plenty to see. One of my favorite stores … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Kids, Malls, NO COST, Rainy day items
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Kinderstad -Heerlen
When it’s raining, this is the place to go with the kids. Perfect for the adults to sit down and enjoy a coffee or snack whilst the children burn their energy running through this warehouse of fun. With bouncing, climbing, … Continue reading
Posted in Kids, Open Sunday, Parks/pools, Rainy day items
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Bis-Bis
In Sittard there are a few places that you can buy used furniture. It is often in excellent condition, made from real wood, sometimes antique, and always a wonderful deal! One on my favorite places to look is the two story building … Continue reading
Posted in Clothing, Craft/Home decor, Furniture, Sittard, Used items
3 Comments
Language Courses – Online and In Person
Courses are offered during the Spring and Fall on GK and Brunssum. The following flyers show you information on previous offerings. A German course for children has also been offered in the past.
Posted in Education Resources, General Local Info
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GK International Library
For current information visit the NATO E3-A website Newcomers Guide. All items are available free of charge for all NATO ID card holders. The regular book collection contains over 12,000 books and is broken into nine language categories. (Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Norwegian and … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen NATO Base - Info, Kids, NO COST
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Paris
If you haven’t read it yet, I recently blogged about Disney Paris. Basically, we stayed outside of Paris at a hotel with a free shuttle. We did Disneyland one day and Paris the next. Anthony and I hopped on the … Continue reading
Posted in Cities, Places "HereAtGK" has been
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MWA GK
The MWA is located in building 81 . For current information, look in the Newcomers Guide at NATO E3-A website. Services: German Postal service (including Postage of parcels/letters, sale of German stamps, telephone cards, and express international. A dry cleaning … Continue reading
Schuhcenter & Schuhtreff -Shoe Stores in Heinsberg
Owned by the same company and across the street from each other, these two stores are a worth while stop. Although they did have a few identical pairs of shoes at both of the stores, for the most part, each … Continue reading
Posted in Heinsberg, Shoes
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Brussels
We set our goal on conquering Brussels in a day and we may have eaten our way through it, but we didn’t even see 25% of what there is to see. If you really want the opportunity to check it out, I … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Cities, Places "HereAtGK" has been
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Disney Paris
After being raised right next to Anaheim Disney, there is one thing I’m crazy about…. MICKEY MOUSE! I don’t have kids, but this summer, my husband and I booked a hotel and went to Disneyland Paris. Our vacation like all … Continue reading
Geilenkirchen Park
A nice little park near downtown GK, this place has plenty of beautiful paths, a playground, and a nice pond with stepping stones. There was also a skate park in the back area. If you want to grab a bite … Continue reading
Posted in Kids, Parks/pools
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Emergency Leave – My experience overseas
My first thought when I moved to GK was “My dad has cancer, what if he dies? How will I get back?”. It’s a hard and scary thought. I had warning of my fathers impending death, but sometimes we don’t … Continue reading
Kik
Kik is a pretty general outlet store. It has quite a bit of clothing (including some cheap versions of the German costumes for Oktoberfest) and some small accessories. It offered clothes for all ages and had items as low as … Continue reading
Posted in Clothing
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Amazon.de – Get your VAT back
Amazon has recently updated their policy concerning VAT refunds. The policy now states: “If you are an APO-address holder or work for the NATO troops we will be happy to refund all the VAT you were charged for your order. … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Craft/Home decor, Financial Resources, Food, Furniture, Hardware, Health and Beauty, Outdoor/Camping, Pets, Shoes, Toys
13 Comments
Computer Help – GKSQUAD
This “squad” is run by some of the tri-border residents and is available to assist with computer/tablet issues. They have a list of all services and contact info at their website and when I emailed them, they were very quick … Continue reading
Posted in Businesses of GK families
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International Drivers License – GK stationed members only
According to GK base legal office, the USAREUR license that is issued to you when you take the test on base is only valid for driving in Germany. If you want to drive in other countries legally, you need to … Continue reading
Posted in General Local Info, Newcomers
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Tongeren – Sunday Antique Market
If your looking for a no cost (unless you buy stuff!) way to spend your Sunday, this is a great trip. About 1 hour and 15 minutes from GK, Tongeren is a beautiful town in Belgium that is known because it … Continue reading
Posted in Markets, NO COST, Open Sunday, Other markts, Used items
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Restaurant Palladion – Greek food in Aachen
Can you say YUMMY?!? A friend and I went to this Greek Restaurant and ate outside with a wonderful view and excellent service. Don’t bother asking for ketchup though because that doesn’t exist here. LOL I ordered a schnitzel and was very pleased with … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Greek
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FC Moto
If you are looking for gear for your motorcycle or scooter, this is a large one-stop-shop. With lots of helmets to choose from, you won’t know where to start. They carry most major brands and they also carry the big … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Auto or Motorcycle, Clothing
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Valkenburg – caves and ruins
An adorable town that holds many wonders, I can say that Valkenburg was truly worth a look. I had heard of the Christmas Markts in the caves, but to be fair, I think that this was a great trip and … Continue reading
Biohofladen-Selfkant -Organic Food Store
Located in Selfkant this health food store of sorts is a bio lovers paradise. In Germany, products marked “Bio” are organic items that have a higher standard then your average food does. Bio items may only be marked as such on … Continue reading
Yumi All you can eat! – Japanese Sushi & Grill Restaurant, Sittard, NL
Yumi is located in the Sittard Centrum next to Thaiphoon and is an “all you can eat” Sushi restaurant. This was a wonderful place to eat and we adored the view of the Sittard Centrum. Compared to other sushi places we’ve tried, … Continue reading
Eiscafe Peters -Huckelhoven
One of the largest Eiscafes I’ve seen, this place is a treat. A large menu and a friendly staff made this a fun and delicious place to try. Both the indoor and the outdoor area are large enough for groups. … Continue reading
Posted in Ice cream
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Van Haren – Shoes – Sittard
A large and inexpensive shoe store, this is one of my favorite places to pop by and try on the latest styles. In the fall and winter, they change the stock to boots and then I really go crazy. The … Continue reading
Posted in Shoes, Sittard
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Thaiphoon – Restaurant – Sittard
Owned by the people that brought us Thai Garden, this restaurant is located right in the heart of Sittard’s Center. There is plenty of seating inside, but the thing that Thaiphoon has over Thai Garden is that you can sit … Continue reading
Sausalitos – Restaurant – Aachen/Cologne
I’ll concede that it’s not authentic mexican food I’ve ever had (I lived in Tucson for almost a decade before GK so I know what authentic mexican is! YUM). However, after eating at SEVERAL “mexican” restuarants, I have found this … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Cologne, Mexican
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Intertoys – Aachen
Equivalent to toys-r-us, this store had a wonderful selection of children’s toys and a large array of legos to choose from. If Santa shopped in Germany, I’m sure this is where he’d go. It is just a short walk from the Aachen center. … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Shop by city, Toys
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Nanu-Nana – Aachen
For some fun craft and gift items, this is a great store to look through. They have lots of different items to choose from and were very well priced. I ended up leaving with some postcards that had a painting … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Craft/Home decor
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Villakunterbunt – Aachen
I love walking into this store because it isn’t just children’s toys. The main level is filled with fun home décor items and some fun gag-gifts. Some of the stuff is very cute and I do have trouble not buying … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Craft/Home decor, Shopping, Toys
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Schneiderwind – Aachen Cigar/whiskey/hookah shop
My husband drooled all over himself in this store. It is loaded with more cigar and whiskey options then you thought existed. With amazing selection and even rare collections, this is a wonderful place to take the man that loves … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Adults, Drinks/Beverages
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RS – Furniture store -Aachen
A high quality furniture store (Julie a fellow HereAtGk reader compared it to Pier1), this beautiful selection of wood furniture is just right for any home. The cost is reasonable for most of the items and they have a large … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Craft/Home decor, Furniture
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Porta- Furniture/Home decor SUPERSTORE -Aachen
If you can’t find it here, you’re not gonna find it. This four story building is bigger then most malls in the U.S. and it’s filled with furniture of every kind. You name it, they sell it. Porta also has … Continue reading
Posted in Aachen, Craft/Home decor, Furniture
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Tri-border Treasures Thrift Store
American Spouses Club thrift store. This store is located across the street from Schinnen’s bowling alley. There is also a door to the building past the right corner of the post office. Everything you can imagine is sold here. I … Continue reading
Posted in Schinnen Services- Info, Used items
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GK’s Base Pool
There is an outdoor swimming pool available during the summer. MWA members can enter at a reduced price. Visit the NATO E3-A Newcomers Guide for more information.
Posted in Geilenkirchen NATO Base - Info, Kids, Open Sunday, Parks/pools
Tagged fun, kids, pool
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Van Cranenbroek
A superstore by anyone’s standards, this is an inexpensive place to find just about anything. Andrea’s mission was to find a tent for the Air Force Sergeants Association. She found it alright! A nice quality tent approx. 10’x10′ in size … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Craft/Home decor, Furniture, Hardware, Outdoor/Camping
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Ubach-Palenberg park
With a beautiful river to ride past on your bike, a pond to feed ducks, ruins to climb on, bridges to capture the perfect photo, playgrounds to burn the kids energy, and a cafe to order beers, you couldn’t ask … Continue reading
Monschau-open Sunday
Located within an hour of the GK area, you can take the autobahn or enjoy the scenic route thru the eifel and make your way to Monschau. One of the most beautiful towns I’ve ever visited (and I’ve traveled the … Continue reading
Posted in Cities, Open Sunday
Tagged free, hand blown glass, open sundays, outdoor scenery
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Cook & Co.
Located just a short walk from the Sittard market, this store is a jewel for anyone who loves to cook or have parties. With hundreds of fun items to either decorate your cake, display it, or more, this is your … Continue reading
Sashimi – Sushi in Maastricht
A higher end sushi restaurant, this sushi place will delight your tongue. With the option of all you can eat sushi, you can do up to 4 rounds per person with 5 items each round. The menu of items included … Continue reading
Posted in Asian
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Hellas – Greek Restaurant, Ubach-Palenberg
If you need a gyro or something of that variety, Hellas is a great place to eat in or do pick up. It’s got a good amount of seating and is a nice place to stay and eat so my … Continue reading
Posted in Greek
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Geilenkirchen Riders Association – GKRA Motorcycle club
This group of riders are from all over the world. This association is non-military and rank is not used in any way. We (yes, my hubby and I are members!) love the rides that the group does twice monthly, along … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Sports Clubs and Classes
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T’loons (mall with carnival/party/costume store)
This mall has it all!!!! A grocery store, chocolate shop, gift shop, hema, blokker, electronics store, C&A, sports store and more. That’s just inside…. Outside is the greatest Carnival/party/costume shop ever! (see pics/click to enlarge). Andrea and I checked everything out and … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Craft/Home decor, Food, Malls, Outdoor/Camping, Shoes
Tagged costumes, mall, party, supplies, supply
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Margraten Cemetery – NO COST – Open Sundays
Every Memorial weekend has a special ceremony at Margraten Cemetery. Although I was unable to attend this event on Sunday, I did spend Memorial Day with our soldiers. My husband and I rode our motorcycle about 40 minutes to Margraten … Continue reading
Eis Brustolon
I love ice cream. This is my second favorite place locally and it beat out many taste tests from all over the area. My favorite is the Snickers, but pretty much anything you order is gonna be to die for. … Continue reading
Hahn Wohnen mit Kontrasten
A cute place to find seasonal decorations for you home without having to leave the area. They rotate the stock constantly and everything is very high end quality. I love to take a quick peak each month. If you let … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Geilenkirchen
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Plant Market
For 72€, my friend just replanted her whole garden (that was a lot of plants). We stopped by to see what they had and WOW, what amazing prices on beautiful plants. They sold just about everything I could ever dream … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Outdoor/Camping
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Cafe Alte Ziegelei – Burgers and Ice cream
The best burger you can probably find in 100 miles, this is as American as you can get. Yep, your new favorite place to eat! I found this place to be not only appealing to my taste buds, but even … Continue reading
Posted in American, Ice cream
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Thai Garden- Thai food restaurant, Sittard, NL
This is one of my favorite things in this world. I love thai food and it is especially delicious here! They serve it mild so if you want it spicey, you need to let them know when you order it. … Continue reading
Cam Nguyen – Asian Restaurant, Geilenkirchen
Near the heart of Gk is a small and eloquent Asian restaurant that has become popular with many of my friends. I have eaten here several times and found it to be clean and reasonably quick with the food. This restaurant offers an English menu. … Continue reading
Posted in Asian
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Moments Decoratie
This small gift/flower shop is so close to Schinnen Army base, that you would be shocked. The shop makes wonderful floral arrangements and has a few cute items for gifts or your home. Inexpensive and constantly changing ornaments make it … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor
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Biker Ranch
My husband and I love two things in life: 1) our motorcycle 2) food… If you enjoy these too, take a ride and check this place out. It was inexpensive, but extremely delicious food. We spilt the cheese, ham, and … Continue reading
Bonn, Germany
A large city with many things to see and do, along with lots of shopping, this is a great day trip for the family or to take with a friend. From the Gk area is it about 1-1.25 hours away. … Continue reading
Posted in Cities
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Danny’s Bloemen en Kadoshop
Across from Kadoshop Bakker this place is a wonderful boutique with things that you won’t be able to resist. The prices were irresistible too! They will make custom floral arrangements that will knock your hostess’ socks off, or you can pick up … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor
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Kadoshop Bakker
This is one of the cutest gift stores I’ve been in lately. It is a bit pricier than a similar gift shop that is across the street (see Danny’s Bloemen en kadoshop), but it carries different and slightly more high … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor
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Lidl
This grocery store is very similar to Aldi. It is a smaller store than Kaufland or some of the other grocery chains, but a nice place to shop if you need to pick something up. Lidl Website
Botanical Garden (Botanische Tuin) – Kerkrade, Netherlands
A beautiful garden that makes for a nice place to stop and visit on a beautiful spring or summer day. Price list is in the pictures. Botanische Tuin St. Hubertuslaan 74 6467 CK Kerkrade Garden open: M-F 900-1700 and Sunday … Continue reading
Posted in Open Sunday, Parks/pools
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Eygelshoven Market – Netherlands
This market is held on Saturdays in Eygelshoven Centrum. It is an extremely small town so you can type it into the GPS and it will take you to the center. No way to miss this, not that you would … Continue reading
Posted in Markets, Other markts
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T€DI – the starting from one € store
This is your average dollar store. Most items are 1-2 € with the occasional things being more. The most expensive thing I’ve ever run across personally was a vase that was 10€. The store is constantly rotating the products available, … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen, Shopping
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Woolworth
A steal of a deal for some things. I thought the curtains were something my wallet could smile at and I found a few small items for my bathroom too. All in all, its worth a look but don’t expect … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Craft/Home decor, Heinsberg
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Shoe donation buckets
This bucket may wind up next to your door every few months. It is a shoe collection bucket. You place shoes you no longer want inside and put it on the street for pickup. If you have none, thats ok, … Continue reading
Posted in Newcomers
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Makro
Update 31 August 2015: You can now sign up for an annual membership card for free with your NATO card. If you visit frequently, stop by customer service and ask for the membership form. It will save you from having … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Food, Furniture
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Happy Preis
Decorating your home? Time for holiday cheer? Need a special gift for a loved one or friend? Look no further! This inexpensive and quaint store offered many choices of decorations and gift type items. It contained the most selection I’ve seen and … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Heinsberg
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Papier & Mehr
This store is a scrapbookers dream. If you are crafty, I recommend stopping by for a peek. Pens and markers and anything else you can think of are available in every color imaginable. The paper comes in color, white, card … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Heinsberg
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Fressnapf – Pet store
This pet store carries anything you need that Schinnen doesn’t have available. The items like Dog Beds can be quite pricey compared with similar ones in the states. Trust me, I have three large dogs so I know all about … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen, Pets
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Dänischen Bettenlagers
“Danish Bed store” is a small chain store that has items to decorate your home. Furniture, pictures, curtains, tableclothes, and more. A definite good find in my book, I love going into this store. During the summer they have patio … Continue reading
Posted in Craft/Home decor, Furniture, Geilenkirchen, Outdoor/Camping
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Carnival
February 16th, 2012: It’s Carnival in Germany! Although it is celebrated in all of Germany and many other surrounding countries, the area it is mostly celebrated in the state we live in (North Rhine Westphalia). The tradition started back in … Continue reading
Posted in Adults, Kids
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Kaufland
Built in late 2011, this store is a fun place to shop with lots of easy parking. It has a parking garage that our full sized pick up truck fits in easily. I have seen a four door F150 park … Continue reading
Posted in Food, Geilenkirchen
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Toom Markt
This is not so much a store as it is a strip mall of sorts. One large parking lot with a car wash in the middle and a large building that is the Markt. You enter through the main doors … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Food, Hardware
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Drielandenpunt- NO COST-Open Sunday
This was an easy day trip and is open on Sundays if you are looking for something to do. It was about 30 min from the GK/Brunssum area and was beautifully scenic. If you have a dog that is behaved … Continue reading
Posted in NO COST, Open Sunday
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Köln (Cologne) Christmas Market
The Cologne Market begins in the Centrum and expands over the city. In total there were 7 different markets. Each had their own entrance and used unique gluhwein mugs. This market is considered to be one of the larger markets … Continue reading
Posted in Christmas Markets, Cologne
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Local Veterinarians
I have not used nor endorse any of the following places.This list is purely for information purposes only. Thank you. Emergency Vet: On page 2 of the HS Woche, you’ll find a Notdienste (Emergency) section. The listing also gives a number … Continue reading
Cell Phone Options
If you are looking into prepaid phones, I suggest reading this comparison first. It will give you an idea of what options are available in your area according to SIM card availability and network coverage. It will also allow you … Continue reading
Posted in Newcomers, Resources/Help
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Schinnen PX and more
Updated 28 Feb 2016 For current hours, check the Exchange website, Schinnen MWR and Commissary websites. There is also a flower shop, dry cleaners/alterations, Enterprise rental cars, family hair care and new car sales listed on the website with their … Continue reading
Posted in Schinnen Services- Info
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GK Natex/AAFES Clothing Sale Hours
Update 28 Feb 2016 For NATEX operating hours please see the NATEX website. Hours are listed under the “Home” tab. Click on “What you need to know”. You must have a shopping card to shop at any of the NATEX stores. … Continue reading
GK – U.S. Post office
Hours may change. If you know of any updates, contact us at hereatgk@gmail.com. Pick Up for packages Mon-Thurs: 0900-1700 Fri: 0900-1530 Mail out/Postage Mon/Fri: 0900-1300 Tues/Weds/Thurs: 0900-1600
Real
Real is your German Super Walmart. It has a wonderful selection of gluten free and lactose free items for families with special food needs. You can purchase cheap and fresh dairy, fruit, veggies, etc. There is a large selection of … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Clothing, Food, Furniture, Hardware, Health and Beauty, Heinsberg, Outdoor/Camping, Shoes
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Aldi
If you are from the South East, you may have heard of this store. Aldi is a German company, which explains their unique way of running their business in the states. You can also find Aldi in the Netherlands. This … Continue reading
Posted in Food, Geilenkirchen
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OBI
Just like Lowe’s or Home Depot, this is a great place to get curtains, flooring, hardware, garden items, and anything else you may need for home improvement or repair. It is worth just making a trip to see all of … Continue reading
Posted in Hardware
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Mobau Bauzentren
Mobau is like Ace hardware or a small Home Depot. A smaller store but a great selection of hardware and such. Übach-Palenburg Friedrich-Ebert-Str. 16-18 52531 Übach-Palenberg Gangelt and Heinsberg Sittarder Str. 62 52538 Gangelt Industriestr. 44 52525 Heinsberg Aachen Dresdener … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen, Hardware
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Thomas Philipps
I don’t really know how to describe this store other then to say it reminds me of the Dollar Tree, except things are more then a dollar. You can get inexpensive electronics, kitchen appliances, outdoor items, gardening items, decorations, pet … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Craft/Home decor, Furniture, Hardware
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Rewe
These are located in several places throughout the local towns. Rewe is one of several grocery store chains in the area. They are usually connected to a bakery/cafe and drink market as well. The size of these stores varies, but … Continue reading
Posted in Food, Geilenkirchen, Health and Beauty
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Deichmann
Think Payless Shoe source and this is your place. Higher quality shoes then you will find at Real but not high end shoes like at the Natex or other shoe stores. Lots of choices though and my favorite place for … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen, Shoes
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DM
DM ore Drogerie Markt is like your typical Walgreens or CVS. This is a great place to get tea, make up, diapers, lotions, emergency items, toiletries (including travel size) and more. You can also get photos developed here. If you … Continue reading
Posted in Geilenkirchen, Health and Beauty
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IKEA
After exploring both of the nearest stores, it seems that the Dusseldorf IKEA has a nicer selection of bathroom “schranks” (cabinets) and for less cost. The Heerlen IKEA is much closer but offers a smaller selection, although that selection is … Continue reading
Posted in Appliances, Furniture, Hardware
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Hans Stassar
Brunssum has a really nice outdoor rec store. It has hiking, camping, pool, bbq, sledding, skiing, snowboarding gear and more. Name it, and they probably sell it. You can check their website first to see some of the selection, but … Continue reading
Posted in Clothing, Outdoor/Camping
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Tips and Tricks for Those New to Town
For those beginning the PCS process, I have created a page about our move here. Check out PCSGeilenkirchen.wordpress.com for even more info! When you arrive your sponsor will take you to base and help your family get settled and checked … Continue reading
Posted in General Local Info, Newcomers
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Rules of Living in Germany and Recycling
QUIET TIMES (Ruhezeit): 8 p.m. until 7 a.m & all day Sundays/holidays · House and garden appliances/machinery are off limits. (Quiet time includes lawn mowing, car washing/repairing, loud children, stereo or radio (loud)–if it can be heard outside your dwelling or vehicle it is … Continue reading
Sittard Market – Thursdays
There are two parking garages in Sittard. Both cost €1,00/hr with a max day tariff of €5,00. ABC Parking: Walstraat 67, Sittard, The Netherlands (This garage closes at 9pm M-F and 7pm on Sat, Closed on Sunday) If your trip is … Continue reading
Posted in Markets, Other markts, Sittard
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Gangelt Wildpark
Although its not your typical zoo, this was a great way to spend the day. We accompanied a two year old for the morning and it had a great picnic area, a beautiful children’s playground, a great walking path to … Continue reading
Posted in Kids, Open Sunday, Parks/pools
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Musik Park – Geilenkirchen
This is a club with two dance areas. This place doesn’t get busy till after 1130pm and is open till at least 5am. Basically, you go in and they take a photo of you and hand you a “debit card”. … Continue reading
Posted in Adults
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Cologne, DE
The big city that is a definite must do. With their own type of beer, we visited the Früh Brewery and drank the local specialty called Kölsch. Lots of shopping, breweries, a Hard Rock Cafe, and the Dom (cathedral) are all … Continue reading
Posted in Cities
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Dusseldorf, DE
Most people know this city because it has one of the closest airports to us, but it is also a nice place to visit. There was some lovely (and some exclusive) shopping. To get an idea of what stores are … Continue reading
Foroxity Movie Theater – Sittard and Roermond, NL
Almost everyone in the Netherlands speaks English, which is nice for movie goers because the movies will be subtitles in Dutch instead of dubbed. The same occurs across the border in Belgium. There are some nice differences between American and … Continue reading
Hoensbroek Castle, NL
Just 5 short minutes from Schinnen is a castle worth going to see. For a small fee (€8,25 for adults, €5,75 for kids 4-12 and small children are free), you can play the medieval games in the courtyard and view the inside … Continue reading
Posted in Castles, Open Sunday
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Here At Gk 