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There’s a Dutch saying that goes, “Once you step outside your door, the hardest part is already behind you.” And it’s true, planning a trip and heading out on the road is often much easier than you expect. The hardest moment is deciding to go. That one step means change, excitement, and leaving your comfort zone for something new.
We know the feeling well, we’ve taken that same step ourselves. And so have millions of theme park fans and travelers who discovered how rewarding it is to explore the world beyond their hometown.
If you’re unsure where to begin or still wondering whether travel is right for you, don’t worry. We’ve gathered some inspiring guides, stories, and tips to help you take that first step.
Let’s make your next journey unforgettable.
If you told me five years ago that I would be a “YouTuber,” I would have laughed and if you really know me, you know why. I don’t like being in the spotlight. I’m not someone who naturally wants to hear my own voice, watch my own face, or be “the one on camera.” The idea alone used to make me cringe.
If you’ve been anywhere near Efteling fandom lately, you’ve probably felt it: Danse Macabre isn’t “just” a new attraction. It’s the kind of ride people argue about in group chats. The kind you re-ride “for research.” The kind that makes even seasoned theme park travellers pause… and then quietly say, okay wow. A few weeks ago, we got a message from one of our followers who travelled all the way from Australia to visit Efteling. Her verdict?
Yes, we’re Dutch, our accent gives it away in the first five seconds so why do you keep writing and vlogging in English when Dutch is your first language? It’s a fair question. One I get often. The simple answer is practical: most of the people we connect with online don’t speak Dutch but the real answer goes deeper.
Queues get a bad reputation. They’re the “price you pay” for the ride. The thing you tolerate. The time you try to skip. The part of the day you complain about while you’re already standing in it. But the older I get and the more theme parks become the place where I feel most alive the more I start to think we’ve misunderstood queues completely. Because a queue isn’t just waiting.
A few years ago, one of my friends who lives abroad asked me something that sounded simple, but actually isn’t that easy to answer: “Why do the Dutch love tulips so much?” I can’t speak for all Dutch people. But I can tell you why I love tulips so much. And I have a feeling many of us would recognise ourselves in this.
Last week we hit the jackpot. We were staying at Efteling when the first snowflakes started to fall… and then they just kept coming. Hour after hour. Day after day. The kind of snow that doesn’t just decorate a theme park, but completely transforms it. I think it’s been at least ten years since we last saw Efteling like this: a real winter wonderland. Not the “winter vibes” version. The real deal.
Travel is more than just getting up and going. It’s about being knowledgeable so you can travel better, cheaper, and longer. So besides the destination guides above, below you will find links to articles I’ve written that deal with planning your trip and other general advice, so your total vacation is as amazing as it can be. These articles are relevant for any trip, no matter how long!
