Join Thomas Erdbrink on a journey of discovery through the Netherlands

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

I am Thomas Erdbrink, former Bureau Chief at The New York Times. Nowadays I am a documentary filmmaker and Holland’s most prominent international journalist. For the TV station VPRO, I made the series ‘Onze man in Teheran’ (Our man in Teheran). Furthermore in 2016 I presented the interview program “Zomergasten” (Summer Guests). Currently I am working on a new documentary about life under the Taliban. I am married to the Iranian photographer Newsha Tavakolian.

What is your session about?

In a personal presentation, I will tell you how I changed from being 100% Dutch to half Iranian and back again. Or not? After living in Iran for 20 years, I started rediscovering the Netherlands anno 2022.From OV chip card to festivals, and from gluten-free bread to oat milk cappuccinos. Every journey is an escape from our daily bubble, a conscious disruption that opens our eyes, again and again. Because no matter where you go, you always take something back home with you.

Can you give us a hint?

What did I bring back from Iran? What can we learn from that? One thing I already can reveal. In addition from the smooth manners of the Middle East, the region has another trump card to play: the Iranian dance moves! Be suprised!

'Our man’ rediscovered The Netherlands (ENG) From 16:15- 16:50 in Progress
Do you want to attend the session of Thomas? Order your ticket for Travel Congress, thé knowledge event for the professional travel industry here.