SHAPE HOUSE: Operation Coffee, Fridays 10:00-12:00, starting Friday 7th November 2025

New Month, New Group….. Introducing: Operation Coffee!

Everyone is welcome. Come along, enjoy a coffee or two, catch-up with everyone and meet new friends.

WHEN: Every Friday, 10:00 - 12:00

WHERE: SHAPE House

COST: €1 donation

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

Brunssum: Prepare Your Car for Winter 2025

 

Winter tyres are not mandatory in the Netherlands or Belgium, however, when driving in Germany, you are obliged to have winter tyres on your car or camper in winter conditions.

What are 'winter weather conditions'?
1. black ice
2. slippery conditions due to snow or slush
3. slippery conditions caused by ice or frost

There is no fixed time period in which you are obliged to drive with winter tyres in Germany, but it is your responsibility to have the right tyres for the right weather conditions. The general rule is ‘von O bis O’ (from October to Easter), fitting winter tyres from the beginning of October to the end of April.

Brunssum: Teaching Assistant Job Vacancy

 

Teaching Assistant Job Vacancy at AF North School.

Please click on the below for details:

• Job description
• Job Advert
• Application form

Information provided by Brunssum HIVE.

NAPLES : Major Disruptions in travel planned for November 27th - November 28th

 

A 24 Hour train strike is planned for Italy from the evening of November 27th to November 28th, potentially affecting interregional and long distance services.

Other transport strikes may occur on November 29th impacting local public transport and possibly flights. It is recommended to check specific train status via VIAGGIA TRENO

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : The most famous ballet of all time, The Nutcracker stars at San Carlo Theater from 20 December - 3 January

 

Book Here

Take your special someone to enjoy one of the most famous ballets of all time, The Nutcracker at the San Carlo Theater.

This incredible ballet is in two acts and three scenes.

When: From 20 December - 3 January 

Where: Teatro di San Carlo

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Remuneration Policy Team Presentation Wednesday, 5th November 2025

 

The Remuneration Policy Team will be visiting on Wednesday 5th November 10:00 at Villa Angela.

This presentation will be open to all members of the UK Community and they are particularly interested in hearing from families.

Who:    Remuneration Policy Team
When:  Wednesday, 5thh November 2025
Where:  Villa Angela

Subject:  The Remuneration Policy Team influence anything pay/allowances related.
The aim is to ensure SP are fairly and consistently compensated for the unique challenges of overseas service, including higher living costs, family separation, and limited local support infrastructure.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Celebrating Remembrance at Villa Angela, Sunday 9th November from 1pm

 

Come and join us for Remembrance Day Curry at Villa Angela.

When:    Sunday, 9 November 2025

Time:     13:00-15:00 (After the Church Service)

Where:    Villa Angela

To purchase the tickets CLICK HERE

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : The last and brightest Supermoon of the year, Wednesday 5th November 2025

 

Watch out for the Supermoon on Wednesday, 5th November 2025

The last and brightest Full Moon of the year.

Don't miss this dazzling sky show - Pure Moonlight magic!

Information brought by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Pub Horse Racing Night, Friday 7th November 2025

 

First Friday presents PUB HORSE RACING NIGHT.

Dougie and the team have got together to create an evening of fun and frivolity at Villa Angela

Friday 7th November starting at 7pm.

When:     Friday 7th November 2025
Where:    Villa Angela
Time:       7pm

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

BRUSSELS: The Riebe Debie Book of Excursions

Looking for ideas of places to visit in Brussels or Flanders? Then look no further than this little gem…..

From Amusement Parks to Monuments and Animal Parks to Historical Attractions and more, you will find it all in this handy book/Website.

Get searching and start planning your Autumn Winter fun at https://www.riebedebie.be/en

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

NAPLES : Did you know the amount of activities available at Support Site for Teens?

 

YOUTH SPORTS AND FITNESS

Offers a variety of organised sporting activities that promote the psychological, social and physical well being of youth. Recreational activities that enhance physical fitness, self esteem, teamwork and leadership skills. CYP provides the staff, equipment and playing area necessary to facilitate the athletic and recreational development of children.

Sports include:

Basketball

Baseball

Cheerleading

Dodgeball

Flag Football

Fun Runs

Soccer

Softball

Volleyball

* Start Smart soccer and baseball development programs are available for 3-4 year olds (Parent participation is required)

Most sports available for children aged 5-18.

For details on how to register and pay please download the app

Support Site App Select Child and Youth programs and Select Youth Sport

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

BFPO: Last Posting Dates Christmas 2025

Click on poster to enlarge.

To ensure your Christmas letters and parcels reach their destination in good time, it’s always a good idea to post as early as possible, the latest posting dates in time for Christmas Deliver are above or at the following link: Get ready for Christmas 2025 │ Royal Mail Group Ltd

BELGIUM: Military Kids Choir Online for 8-18 year olds

Do you have kids who love to sing? Did you know there was an online Military Kids Choir?

The choir is open to tri-service children 8-18 years old, located across the UK and overseas. The group meets online to see friends and write songs and there are fun opportunities for the choir to come together to record and perform their songs throughout the year.

To sign-up or for more inforamtion, please see www.neversuchinnocence.com/voices-of-armed-forces-children

 

NAPLES : Top Tips for Toddlers Teeth

Good oral health is very important for a child's growth and can affect their health. Starting good tooth brushing habits early can help prevent tooth decay and other problems later on. The Top Tips for Teeth resource encourage parents to start taking care of their child's teeth as soon as the first tooth comes in, which usually happens around six months old.

 

Toddlers Teeth - How to look after your toddlers teeth? 

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Don't let Santa get stuck - Chimney Sweeping Tips from your DIO

 

Top Tips from DIO.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Shopping - Useful Tips

 

Useful Tips

Bring a Euro coin to use a shopping cart.

ALWAYS use a glove when touching grocery products.

Weigh and tag your produce before checking out.

Bring your own bag or expect to pay for one at the register.

Many shops close for "riposo" (extended lunch) between 12.30 - 3.30pm

Places to GO :

* Home Improvement : Leroy Merlin, Bricoware
* Department Superstores: Ipercoop, Carrefour, Iperfamilia
* Furniture : IKEA, Mondo Convenienza
* Food Shopping : Aldi, Lidl, MD, Eurospin, Conad
* Malls : Parco Commerciale Grande Sud, Centro Commerciale Campania

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Tips on Dining in Italy

 

In Italy, the dining culture is unique.

Here are some key tips to note.

Wait staff will generally need to be waived over if you would like service, need refills or want to order more food. They respect the socialising of their clients and don't intrude.

* You will need to ask for the bill when you are ready to go (Il Conto per favore)
* Not every restaurant accepts credit cards, always carry some euros with you.

COFFEE BARS
Open all day and are most popular at breakfast times, afternoons and evenings. If you are just getting a coffee and snack, order at the bar and stand there to drink and eat. If you are ordering food, you can also choose to sit down for waiter service and expect an additional up charge plus tip.

LUNCH
Times are around 1 to 3pm. Restaurants will often close between lunch and dinner.
- "Rosticceria", "Girarrosto" and "Polleria" Shops that primarily sell rotisserie chickens which make for quick meals.
- "Pasticceria" Pastry shops that are often connected to a bar (Coffee shop) Many serve sandwiches or "pannini"
- "Tavola Calda" Counter service shops with hot food that you choose from a display case.

DINNER / RESTORANTE
Some open as early as 7pm but many Italians don't begin dinner until 9.30pm. The restaurant will typically stay open until midnight. Expect evening meals to last two hours or more. You should order each course that you are interested in receiving, they will come in this order:

- Antipasto: Appetizer or starter

- Pasta
- Secondo : Main dish of just meat or fish not side dishes
- Contorni : Side dishes like vegetables, fruit, cheese or salads
- Coffee or liqueur
* Wine, water and bread are available throughout a meal, but you must ask for them.

The bill will sometimes include an additional "co-perto" or cover charge and a "servicio" or service charge of about 10-15%

Information brought by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Wine tasting at Cantina del Vesuvio

 

Wine and Olive Oil Tasting.

Visit the Cantina del Vesuvio and discover the volcano's wine.

Since 1930 the Russo family have committed their lives to creating a place where organic wine production combines with hospitality. A small selection of quality bottles is sold directly from the cellar.

A fabulous experience tasting the most delicious food with incredible wine.
Cantina del Vesuvio

Tours and Lunches everyday between 9am - 6pm

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Driving in Italy

 

Driving in Italy is totally different to driving in other countries, to help you acclimatise, here are some key tips:-

* Italians do not consider it rude to tailgate.
* Horns are used excessively so it is difficult to determine who they are intended for.  Try to notice what is happening and ignore the extra beeping.
* Hazard lights are used to indicate that traffic is slow and attention is needed.
* Flashing lights does not give you right of way, it is to inform you that they are coming.
* Right on Red is illegal unless marked.
* Italian law allows you to overtake traffic to pass on the left only.
* Some junctions have no stop lights or traffic control.  The vehicle on the right has the right of way unless there is a stop sign.
* Traffic circles or roundabouts are common. When entering a circle, yield to traffic in the circle.
* Drunk driving is an extremely serious offense in Italy. In Italy, a blood alcohol level is 0.05 is positive of proof of drunk driving. If you are under 21 or have been a licensed driver for less than 3 years , the legal limit for alcohol in your system while driving in Italy is 0.00

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE 

NAPLES : Italy's Christmas Express : Rome to Arezzo

 

Whilst Florence grabs the headlines in Tuscany, Arezzo quietly shines in the background. This hilltop town is full of art, charm and Christmas magic, yet most visitors rush straight past. This year, Italy's L'Espresso Natale (Christmas Express) gives you a reason to slow down and explore the cosy, twinkling heart of Tuscany. Think sparkling lights, Tyrolean markets, and the smell of roasted chestnuts drifting through the streets.

A Christmas Train through Tuscany BOOK HERE

Running every Sunday from 30 November to 28 December 2025, the L'Espresso Natale departs Romes Termini station at 08.30 and rolls north through the hills of Umbria before reaching Arezzo just after noon.

This is not an ordinary train ride. The carriages are decked out for the holidays, Christmas music fills the air and every passenger receives a small gift. There is even a dining car serving espresso, hot chocolate snacks because in Italy food is always part of the celebration.

Tickets start at £46.90 for second class and £63.30 for first class, with half price fares for children aged 3-11. The return trip to Rome leaves Arezzo at 17.30, getting you back to Termini just before 23:00 tired but happy and full of Christmas Cheer.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Top 10 Parks and Gardens in Rome

 

Top 10 Parks and Gardens in Rome

Looking for a peaceful escape or a place to enjoy nature in the Vatican City?

Here are Rome's top parks and gardens:

1. Villa Borghese: The central park with museums and a serene lake.
2. Villa Doria Pamphili: Romes largest park perfect for long walks and relaxation.
3. Janiculum Hill (GIanicolo): Famous for its panaramic views of teh city.
4. Appian Way Regional Park: Explore the ancient road surrounded by countryside and history.
5. Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci): A top spot for sunset views over Rome.
6. Villa Ada: A vast park with wooded areas and peaceful lakes.
7. Botanical Gardens: Discover a wide variety of plants and trees from all over the world.
8. Parco Savello (Giardino degli Aranci): Known for its fragrant orange trees and stunning views.
9. Parco della Caffarella: Part of the Appian Way park system, offering countryside vibes within the city.
10. Villa Torlonia: A historic villa with beautiful gardens and museums to explore.

For more information type in Top 10 parks in Get Your Guide

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Italian Wine and Pizza Pairing at the Winery

 

You are Invited!

Join the ultimate flavour experience!

Join in for a special Pizza and Wine Pairing class where you will explore how to match the perfect wine with every slice.

During the class you will :

Learn the secrets of pairing different wines with various pizza toppings.

Taste a selection of delicious, handcrafted pizzas.

Sip and savour a variety of wines expertly chosen to complement each bite.

Join the Class

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Sojourners Permit - Why is it important?

 A Sojourners permit or Permesso di Soggiorno is an Italian government document that certifies that a NATO force military dependent or member of the US civilian component or contractor is a temporary legal resident of Italy. The permit allows the holder to legally stay in Italy longer than the 90 days (which is the maximum amount of time a foreigner can stay in Italy as a tourist)

The Sojourners permit is typically valid for the duration of your assignment BUT particularly as the new entry/ exit system has just been launched, it is very IMPORTANT to check the expiration date and keep it valid, especially if you have a change to your orders or contract, or if you are planning a trip.

Sojourners Permits are not required for active duty military members.

Within eight days of arrival into Italy, all military dependents, DoD civilian employees, contractors and their family members must submit an application for a Sojourners Permit.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

Germany: What's On This Week

• The bookings for this weekends Halloween party at Loseke community centre are now closed. 
• Saturday 1st Nov is All Saints Day which is a public holiday. Most businesses will be closed for the day. Cafes and restaurants are allowed to open but not all will do so.
• Please remember the Garrison rules for pedestrians and cyclists on camp in low light conditions. Wear Hi - Vis, stick to the paths and ensure cycles have working front and back lights. 

Munster Send 25th Oct - 2nd November - Massive funfair in Munster. One of the largest funfairs in Münsterland attracts up to one million visitors to Münster's Schlossplatz every year. Large Fireworks show on the Friday night.   Drive time 1hr 30 mins.

Image Copyright Stadt Munster

NAPLES : Avoid train fines - The validation survival guide

 

Avoid Train Fines in Italy : The Ticket validation survival guide

Raise your hand if you have ever stared at an Italian train ticket wondering if you are going to get a fine?

The Italian train system can be confusing at best!

The Golden Rule:

If your ticket has a blank strip on the side, validate it before boarding. Look for the small yellow or green machines near platform entrances, marked with "Convalida il tuo bigletto"(Validate your ticket) 

Insert your ticket, wait for the ka-chunk, and you're safe.

Validating Rail Tickets

NAPLES : Naples Airport - Runway closure works postponed to November 2026

 

Naples Airport closure postponed to November 2026

Good News!

The temporary closure of Naples Capodichino Airport to allow for runway resurfacing has been postponed to November 2026.

Initially scheduled for February and March next year, the decision to postpone the work following an ENAC meeting.

It is planned to divert some flights to Salerno but details to be confirmed next year.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

Defence Update: Almost £1 million awarded to projects that support Service partners

Almost £1 million awarded to projects that support Service partners

The Supporting Partners Programme 2025/26 awards almost £1 million to projects that empower Service partners to thrive.

A further 17 projects have been awarded almost £1 million (www) to help promote skills and experience in the workplace, enhance access to vital services, and improve wellbeing.

Compared to last year, this year’s Supporting Partners Fund allocated over 20% more funding to projects and received more overseas applications than ever before.

NAPLES : Poppies are on sale now - Donations appreciated.

 

Poppies are on Sale now at NSE. Donations appreciated.

When: From Wednesday 29th October to Friday 7th November, 8.30am - 3:00pm

Where: NSE

No more than 2 poppies allowed per person.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Feedback Friday, Launching Friday 7th November.

 

🚀 Launching: Feedback Friday!

Starting next Friday (7 Nov), here at Lago Patria we’re kicking off a new initiative: Feedback Friday – your weekly opportunity to share your thoughts on specific areas of our community.

🔍 What we want to know:

• What are we doing well?
• Where can we improve?
• Got ideas or suggestions to make things better?

💬 Your feedback will be anonymous, honest, and valued.

📅 Stay tuned next Friday for more details and a link to share your input.

Let’s shape the future of our community – together.
Your voice matters. Let’s make it count.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

DIO SFA Communications Update: 23 Oct – Defence Homes Colour Palette

Patch Hacks: New painting guidelines for UK SFA

As part of their commitment to modernise outdated policies and give Service families more freedoms, DIO has introduced a new Defence Homes Colour Palette. And they say:

“We understand that being able to personalise your home is important. Whilst previously all interior walls had to be returned to magnolia or white before moving out, our new colour palette offers a broader range of colours for families to choose from.

“Colours within this range are light and neutral and will not require reverting to white. Take a look at our new colour palette along with some inspiration on how they could be styled in your home here.

“To give you as much freedom as possible, we haven’t dictated particular paint brands, colour names or types (like matt or silk). If you’re unsure whether your chosen colour complies with the approved range on the colour palette, you can check with your dedicated Housing Officer.

“As always, you are welcome to paint your interior walls other colours outside of the new palette range, but these will require reverting back to white upon move out.

“More information on this new policy, including a Top Tips guide for painting the interior of your SFA, can be found on the Defence Homes website. This includes helpful guidance on everything from choosing the right type of paint for a room to prepping the walls and aftercare.”

NAPLES : Ideas to keep the Kids occupied in the holidays

 

A few ideas to keep the kids occupied for Halloween holidays!

If you would like a copy please email nicki.kewley100@mod.gov.uk

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Looking for somewhere to Trick or Treat?

 

Dress up and walk with your friends through the support site housing area for some Halloween or Trick or Treat fun!

When: Friday 31 October 

Where : SS Housing area

Time: 6 - 9pm

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Calling all Teens - are you Halloween ready?

 

Download the leaflet here

Register by 24th October for a scary good time.

Where: SS Site

When : Friday 31 October 2025

Time: 7-10pm

Have a fabulous time!

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Spooky Golf Tournament, Friday 31st October - Teams of 4

 

Get your team and head to the Golf Course.

When:    Friday, October 31st

Time:     5.30-7.30pm

Shotgun start, nine holes, four person scramble.

Register Here

Wear a costume for fun - Who 's in?

Register by October 29th

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Open House at Carney Park, Saturday 13th December

 

OPEN HOUSE, SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER  AT CARNEY PARK.

Have you ever wondered what the facilities are within the cabins at Carney Park? 

On 13th December it is open house and a great opportunity to look at the cabins on offer at Carney Park.

On the day, get 20 % discount off when you reserve an overnight stay on this day!

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Halloween Movies

 

Free Movies

Enjoy some free Halloween movies in October!

Adults : October 30 and 31st

Youth : October 26

Movies are FREE but reservations are highly recommended.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Zombie Fun Run at Carney Park

 

Come and join the party!

When:  Saturday, Nov. 1
Time:    5:30-10 p.m.
Where: Carney Park

Details on Access

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Tiramisu Making, Friday 7th November 2025

 

Get ready to indulge in something sweet!

Over at SS this Thursdays coffee connection is all about Tiramisu making, a morning of creativity for spouses and delicious |Italian dessert!

Whether you are a tiramisu expert or have never made it before, this relaxed  morning is a perfect opportunity to meet new friends and learn something new.

Book here

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE 

NAPLES : The Healthy Choice Quiz - are you ready? Official launch in November.

 

The quiz captures some basic demographic information and encourages users to reflect on their health motivations before guiding them through a series of lifestyle questions spanning six key themes:  

• Movement
• Eating
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking and vaping
• Mental health
• Sleep

Take the Quiz

Upon completion, users receive an overall score out of 10, giving them an indication of how their lifestyle may be impacting their health and wellbeing, as well as showing how they’re doing in each individual area.

 

Most importantly, the quiz provides personalised recommendations for any areas where changes may be beneficial. These include signposting to proven NHS apps, expert advice, and supportive resources, empowering users to make positive changes with confidence. There’s also an option to sign up to our email programme for ongoing tips and support delivered straight to their inbox.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : The doggies need your help!

 

Do you have any unwanted towels, bedding, blankets? Its getting cold in the kennels.

The dogs came to see us at MWA on Thursday and they need your help!

They need food, blankets, help..

There are several ways to donate via the QR codes, if you would like a copy of the poster, please email nicki.kewley100@mod.gov.uk

Alternatively if you have something to donate please let me know and I will arrange to get it collected and delivered.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE 

NAPLES : A few ideas for the holidays for the families.

 

Stuck for ideas to go ?

Here s a few to share, if any of the above interests you, please email me on nicki.kewley100@mod.gov.uk and I will send the copy.

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Teen holiday ideas

 

Are you ready for the Halloween holidays?

A few ideas to get you going, if you 'd like the poster, please pop down to Villa Angela or NSE or contact nicki.kewley100@mod.gov.uk and I can email it to you direct for the QR codes.

Information can be provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Lago Patria Kids Holiday Timetable

 

Stuck for ideas for October Holidays?

Here's some ideas to get you started

Hope it helps!

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES : Raffle Prizes required for FOBFS

 

Raffle prizes required.

Check your cupboards, last years unwanted presents , this years raffle prizes.

Thank you for looking.

Please contact the FOBFS on Facebook with any donations.

Information provided by HISO NAPLES

NAPLES : FOBFS BINGO Wednesday 5th November from 7pm

 

Lets help to make some extra funds for the school.

Join the FOBFS for what looks to be an excellent night of fun and fizz.

When: Wednesday 5th November 2025

Where: Villa Angela

Time: From 7pm

Tickets: £5.00

For tickets please leave your name on the Facebook post on Britannia in Italia

Information provided by NAPLES HIVE

NAPLES: Have you checked your boiler?

          

Winter is coming!

Better to check the boilers - there is nothing worse than putting the heating on and the boiler doesn't work.

Lets be proactive and do the checks.

If your boiler isn't working, report it to the help desk immediately.

+44 01527 919123 (From UK number)

800 819 704 (From Italian number)

or email GWE.helpdesk@mod.secmitie.co.uk

Information provided by HISO NAPLES