Port van Cleve was used for a networking drinks reception on the opening evening of a high-level event, which was being held at a 5 * venue. The space used was the Regentenzaal, which was furnished with cocktail tables. Only 4 cocktail tables were laid out for 60 persons, and the buffet tables with drinks and food were at the entrance. Overall, the food was fine - constantly refreshed and adequate quality, and the service was fine, however I did notice one of the waitresses 'nudging' people out of the way when she was refreshing drinks, which I found quite rude and apologised to the people for her. When I asked her to turn the air conditioning up to make it cooler, she turned the heat up so it was like a sauna in there. The guy helping serve was amazing though - and the 4 is mainly for him as he was professional, polite and could not do enough to help. He also corrected the air conditioning when requested - correctly. The welcome cocktail went down very well, as did the Bitterballen and other Dutch canapes. The cheese ran out quite quickly though and was not replaced. Overall, I believe the guests enjoyed it, and were still drinking quite late into the evening and still enjoying myself when I left at around 9pm.

• Michelle Williams
• Ernst & Young LLP - Netherlands - post at: 15/03/2012