Something To Declare
The column that gives you the European picture
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Destination of the week: Waterloo wonders
From next Tuesday, London's South Bank gets a degree more dazzling. For the next few months, visitors to the capital can witness a phenomenon akin to the aurora borealis, or northern lights. The Shell Electric Storm installation stretches for about half a mile from Jubilee Gardens (close to the London Eye) to the Oxo Tower. The website at www.shellelectricstorm.com has more details.
Also in the area, the Hayward Gallery has reopened with an expanded foyer (complete with Starbucks) and a mirrored glass pavilion called "Waterloo Sunset at the Hayward Gallery". For more details, call 020-7960 5226.
Across Waterloo Bridge at Somerset House, the ice rink opens for the winter on 27 November; it will open every day until 25 January, except Christmas Day. Booking is on 0870 166 0423 or on the web at www.somerset-house.org.uk; from 27 November, you will also be able to book at Somerset House itself. Admission for adults is £9.50 (£1 more after 6.30pm), and £6 for under-12s.
Warning of the week: Art lovers' deadline for Amsterdam
Three weeks from now, Holland's leading art museum will be closing down in its present form for a five-year refurbishment programme, aimed at restoring it largely to Cuypers' original design while installing 21st-century facilities. The last date for paid admission is 5 December. Over the weekend of 6 and 7 December, admission will be free - expect big crowds saying farewell to the old building. From 8 to 19 December, the Rijksmuseum will close completely. But on 20 December, the Philips wing re-opens, containing many of the masterpieces from the Rijksmuseum's collection, including Rembrandt's Night Watch.
For more information, call 00 31 20 674 7000 or visit rijksmuseum.nl.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments