JIVE Visitors' FAQ

Where is JIVE?

JIVE is located at the Radio Observatory, Dwingeloo, in the Netherlands. An interactive map of the area can be seen here. The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol). The train station at Schiphol is located within the airport - only a 5 minute walk from the baggage reclaim area. Visitors should normally get the direct train from Schiphol to Hoogeveen. This leaves at 21 minutes past the hour. For full details consult the NS Railway Journey Planner (click British flag icon for English langauge).Before you travel you must inform the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary) (tel: +31 (0)521-596500) about when you expect to arrive in Schiphol and which train you will take to Hoogeveen. When you arrive at Schiphol you should telephone the JIVE secretary to confirm the train times. The JIVE secretary will arrange for a taxi to meet you at Hoogeveen station.

The JIVE secretary can also arrange for a taxi to take you to Hoogeveen station on your return journey. Please contact her as soon as you know the times of your return journey.

Where can I stay?

Accommodation is booked through the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary). Excellent on-site accommodation is provided in the ASTRON guest house. The cost is €58 per night per person, which includes all food. A well equipped kitchen and laundry is at the visitor's disposal. Each room has its own shower and toilet. In addition, the accommodation block also includes a large, comfortable lounge, equipped with satellite TV and reading material.

moller [at] astron [dot] nl (Fritz Möller) (Room 520, Tel. ext 200) is the person responsible for maintaining the on-site accommodation. Any problems/requests should be reported to Fritz.

Can I hire a car?

Yes! Contact the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary) and moller [at] astron [dot] nl (Fritz Möller), the ASTRON concierge. Fritz has arranged a special deal with a local car hire company which includes a 10% discount. The paper work is also handled by Fritz.

What happens if I arrive outside working hours?

Normal working hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm. We prefer if people arrive during working hours if at all possible. Otherwise inform the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary) and they will make special arrangements for you. Those who would prefer hotel accommodation should contact the JIVE Secretary.

How do I get into the building?

Entrance to the building is gained via the magnetic key strip attached to your accommodation room key. The magnetic key must be swiped through a key reader which is located at the main entrance (between the outer and inner doors).

When is coffee/lunch time?

Coffee time is taken between 10.15-10.45am in the canteen which is on the first floor, behind the colloquium room. If you're lucky it will be someone's birthday and they will have brought biscuits or cakes in. Hot drinks or cold filtered water can be taken free of charge at any time of the day at the dispensers sited around the building.

The canteen is open from Monday-Friday between 12:00 and 13:00 hours. Hot soup, sandwiches, eggs, milk and yoghurts are available at reasonable prices. Snacks are also for sale in a vending machine. Visitors are also free to prepare their lunch from the well-stocked guesthouse kitchen in advance.

What are the rules regarding JIVE computer use?

All visitors should read the rules regarding the use of computers. For details of your computer account (and password) contact your JIVE Support Scientist or contact person. These are also the first people to approach if you have problems with the computing environment or related software.

How do I make a telephone call?

Outside lines are obtained by dialing "0" and then the telephone number you wish to call. Please make brief calls only, especially to international numbers. Personal calls should be made through skype, please ask your JIVE contact if you require details.

When are Colloquia held?

Astronomical Colloquia are usually held on Thursdays at 15.30pm. The colloquium room is located on the first floor, opposite the lift. The more informal Astrolunch presentation/discussion session is held every Wednesday at 12:30pm.

Who do I pay for accommodation?

If you (not JIVE) are paying for your accommodation you should make the payment to moller [at] astron [dot] nl (Fritz Möller) (Room 520, Tel. ext 200). Cash (in Euros) is acceptable. EuroCard/MasterCard, Visa and American Express credit card payments will also be accepted. Visitors who will claim from their own institute can ask Fritz to send the invoice directly.

I have a problem, who should I contact?

The first person to approach is your JIVE Support Scientist or JIVE contact person. If they are not available technical problems should be addressed to campbell [at] jive [dot] nl (Bob Campbell). For logistical matters consult the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary).

In cases of emergency (outside working hours) contact:

Medical, Fire or Police emergencies: 112 (0112 from the JIVE internal telephone system)
For less urgent matters: Fritz Möller 0521-596200

Can I hire a bike?

Bikes can be hired at a cost of only a few Euros per day. Consult moller [at] astron [dot] nl (Fritz Möller) for full details. It's a great way to see the local area.

How do I claim back my expenses from JIVE?

If JIVE is paying your expenses you must complete (in full) a JIVE claim form. These are available from the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary) or electronically via PS and PDF files. Claims should be supported with all receipts (inc. taxi fares and accommodation) and submitted to the secretary [at] jive [dot] nl (JIVE Secretary)

What about recreation?

JIVE is located in a national park just a few kilometers from the centre of Dwingeloo which is a very pretty village. In the summer it's very busy, in the winter it's pretty quiet. In either case, travelling further afield is well worth while, and if you have the time the university city of Groningen should definitely be visited. Groningen is about 55 km from Dwingeloo to the north, and can be reached by travelling by bus to Assen and from there to Groningen on the train. It boasts a lively nightlife and you will find many shops, busy markets, picturesque buildings and a large variety of art galleries at the foot of the Martini tower.