The Netherlands

One of the things Dirk loves the most about the Netherlands and Belgium is the incredible beer culture. From centuries-old abbey traditions to modern craft breweries experimenting with bold flavors, there is always something new to discover. For our international guests: if you have time during your stay, we highly recommend trying some of these beers. Below you’ll find a few of Dirk's personal favorites, along with some famous classics from the region. Are you a beer fanatic

🇳🇱 A Taste of the Netherlands Why Dutch Snack Bars (and Snack Walls!) Are a Must-Do When visiting the Netherlands, there’s one experience you simply can’t skip — Dutch snacks . Not fancy dining, not Michelin stars, but the wonderfully casual, delicious, and slightly quirky world of snack bars . For first-time visitors, stepping into a place like FEBO or Smullers is both surprising and unforgettable. 🍟 Welcome to the Snack Wall Yes — the Netherlands has vending-machine-st

A first-timer’s fairytale route through Europe (Dirk-approved) Dirk calls this route “The Golden Circle” — because if it’s your first time in Europe, these are the three cities that feel like stepping into postcards, movies, and history books… all in one trip. The best part? It’s simple to do, even if you’ve never traveled internationally before. This guide is written for guests flying in from the U.S. (especially Ohio ) and ending in Amsterdam —ready for the wedding, and an

From Berlin to Prague, Vienna & back to Amsterdam — the scenic way For our adventurous guests who want to turn their journey to the wedding into a true European story, this train route is a perfect choice. It’s ideal for travelers from the United States who fly into Berlin , explore Central Europe by comfortable train, and finish their journey in Amsterdam — just in time for the wedding (and an easy flight home afterward). This route combines culture, history, food, and stu

A hidden gem just minutes from Rotterdam Just a few minutes from Rotterdam lies Schiedam — a city often overlooked, yet deeply rewarding to visit. Schiedam feels unmistakably Dutch: historic, compact, welcoming, and proud of its heritage. It’s the kind of place where history isn’t behind glass, but woven into everyday life. Perfect for a relaxed and authentic day out. 🚆 Getting There (It Couldn’t Be Easier) Schiedam is extremely easy to reach by public transport: Train: Fr

Windmills, fishing villages, and timeless charm If you’re staying in The Netherlands and want to experience something authentically Dutch , a day trip from Amsterdam to Volendam is an absolute must. Just a short journey away, Volendam feels like stepping into a postcard — colorful houses, a lively harbor, traditional culture, and fresh seafood by the water. 🚍 Getting There by Public Transport (Easy & Direct) From Amsterdam Centraal Station , take a direct bus toward Volend

Arc de Triomphe A high-speed fairytale to the City of Light Paris needs no introduction. The romance, history, food, and art make it one of the most iconic cities in the world — and thanks to high-speed trains, it’s easier than ever to visit from The Netherlands. 🚄 Traveling to Paris by Eurostar The Eurostar high-speed train connects The Netherlands directly to Paris Gare du Nord . Departure stations: Amsterdam Centraal Schiphol Airport Rotterdam Centraal Travel time (one

Easy, elegant, and just across the border One of the greatest gifts of traveling in Europe is how close everything is . From The Netherlands, you can be in another country in less time than a commute back home . Antwerp, Belgium, is a perfect example — stylish, historic, and wonderfully walkable. 🚆 Getting to Antwerp by Train You can easily travel to Antwerp using the Intercity Brussels (Benelux train) . Departure stations: Amsterdam Centraal Schiphol Airport Rotterdam Centr

A simple guide for first-time visitors If you’re visiting The Netherlands for the first time, public transportation may feel unfamiliar — especially if you’re used to driving everywhere. The good news? Dutch public transport is safe, reliable, and very well organized , and help is always nearby. This guide focuses on the simplest options , so you don’t need to worry about apps, digital wallets, or complicated systems. We’ll cover: NS trains (travel between cities) RET metro

Where to stay in Hoek van Holland? Here are your top 3 options: Roompot Beach Villa Hoek van Holland (ideal for families) Hotel Amerika Hotel Torpeloods 🌊 Things to Do in Hoek van Holland Welcome to Hoek van Holland , the seaside hometown of Dirk — a place where the North Sea meets wide skies, sandy beaches, and maritime history. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a few extra days, there’s plenty to enjoy at a relaxed, coastal pace. 🏖️ Enjoy the Beach & Pier Hoek van

Once upon a day in Amsterdam… 🌅 Morning – A Gentle Beginning Start the day with a stroll through the historic streets as the city slowly wakes up. Find a cozy café for a Dutch breakfast with fresh pastries, strong coffee, and maybe your first stroopwafel . Let the canals guide your way as bicycles glide past like clockwork. 🚤 Late Morning – Sailing Through a Storybook No fairy tale in Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise . Step aboard and drift through the city’s fa