Every Bocholter has at least two  bicycles — one to go to parties and one for every thing else. Feel free to leave the car home. People here have been protecting the environment for a long time. So it comes as no surprise that the German Cycling Association has recognised  Bocholt as being particularly cycling­friendly multiple times.

Looking for that vacation feeling? Why not? Bocholters love the easy­going and sociable nature of their Dutch neighbours. And their own mentality has come to reflect that of their neighbours.  Narrow­minded? That’s the others.

Bocholters like to party! The city has a lot to offer, from big open air concerts featuring international stars and the Bocholt fair, to the annual Schützenfest (shooting match). There is something for everyone.

The largest industrial park area­wise in North Rhine­Westphalia, the technology park and other industrial estates are what make Bocholt so appealing to the international market. World­class corporations and local companies have settled here — and many more are on their way. Jobs with long­term prospects are a given in Bocholt.

Bocholt does not need to hide behind the metropolises. The unique mix of retailers and shopping malls, of small boutiques and restaurants, fascinates the local  population and visitors alike. Another plus: Everything is within walking distance downtown.

Build your own home in an attractive  residential area, rent a place near downtown or enjoy a senior living facility. Many students share flats, or they gather in the modern student residence in town.

Not quite. But the atmosphere in Bocholt is very familiar. Vibrant neighbourhoods and communities, lots of clubs — a strong sense of belonging is normal in Bocholt. But people still remain their own  individuals. And when you run into acquaintances, you feel the sense of community.

Bocholt is compact. The way to work and to daycare, to school, into downtown or out into nature is always short and within cycling distance.

There is an ample supply of childcare options, as well as playgrounds, cultural attractions and events. And happy  children means happy parents.

The Westfälische Hochschule has a campus in Bocholt since 1992. Some of the fields offered at this location include business, mechanical engineering and mechatronics. And bionics is available in only one other place besides Bocholt.