Gerrit Vandenberg

Local travel blogger, author, coach, tour guide

Education:

Bachelor's degree Tourism Management

Expertise:

Netherlands, Amsterdam, Blogging, Planning

Highlights:

  • Bachelor degree in Tourism Management
  • Certified Crambridge English CAE - advanced level (C1)
  • Travel planning coach at Hidden Holland
  • Private Tour Guide at Hidden Holland

Experience:

Gerrit is the driving force behind Hidden Holland, a destionation blog about the Netherlandsβ€”a country he knows like the back of his hand.

Gerrit's love for the Netherlands isn't just something he writes about – it's a part of who he is. Traveling, writing, or just having a chat over coffee, you'll always find him sharing a story or two about his favorite Dutch spots.

Gerrit's explored the country from North to South and East to West. From the beautiful canals of Amsterdam to the historic charm of Maastricht, and everywhere in between. What is most important for him is to show you the real Netherlands, both in Amsterdam and outside.

Wether that's a beautiful canal in Amsterdam away from the crowds, a hidden courtyard, or a painting at the Rijksmuseum you could otherwise pass without noticing.

While many visitors picture the Netherlands as just flat grasslands, windmills, and cows, Gerrit is passionate about showcasing a more realistic image.

He enjoys introducing travelers to the country's forests with stunning fall colors, unique islands which together form another UNESCO World Heritage location in the Netherlands, and yes, there are even some hilly regions.

The Netherlands isn't as flat as you might think!

He has always been to the to go source for family and friends to fine tuning their itineraries, besides crafting his own travel plans and he is excited to share that knowledge now with people at large trough his blog.

And he is just a video call away to help you craft your own.

Gerrit's writing is a unique blend of local insights combined with practical travel advice.

If you want a genuine taste of the Netherlands, Gerrit's articles on Hidden Holland are a great place to start planning your trip.

Education:

Gerrit has a degree in Tourism Management and passed the Cambridge English CAE at an advanced level. He's a big fan of continuous learning and often takes new courses. And he enjoys exploring museums to deepen his connection to Dutch history. He tries to visit 2-4 Dutch museums every month.

About Hidden Holland:

Hidden Holland is a local destination travel blog written by a local. It's the dream child of Gerrit. Learn more about his inspiring story "From a critical health scare to celebrating Holland's charms" here .

The blog is dedicated to the best of the Netherlands. Hidden Holland combines both the top attractions with local off the beaten track sights.

With practical articles you'll be empowered to travel with confidence no matter whether you'll stay only in Amsterdam or venture beyond. Handy how to guides, insides in Dutch culture, and destination guides are all there to ensure you'll have a smooth journey.

Hidden Holland reaches over 100,000 readers annually through its content. All content on hiddenholland.com is fact checked and reviewed by a local editor for accuracy. Every article gets an annual check-up to ensure it's always up-to-date.

Learn more about our editorial process here.

If you want to send Gerrit a quick message, you can contact him here.

Articles written by Gerrit

Open air museum Enkhuizen view on windmill.

Open Air Museums Netherlands: Which To Pick

Open Air Museums Netherlands: How to pick the Open Air Museum that is right for you? Zaanse Schans, Enkhuizen, Kinderdijk, Archeon & Arnhem.
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Tall Ship during Sail Out Parade at Sail Amsterdam with Sailors in the masts.

Sail Amsterdam 2030: Europe’s Biggest Maritime Festival

My guide to Sail Amsterdam's once-in-5-years ship festival. What makes 800+ historic vessels and many Tall Ships special and how to plan it right?
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Gay Pride Amsterdam one of the boats during the canal parade: show your true colors.

Gay Pride Amsterdam – Europe’s Most Colorful Canal Celebration

Plan Gay Pride Amsterdam right! Complete guide to canal boat parade viewing, comfortable spots, walking tours & practical local advice.
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View on Amersfoort from the Muurhuizen.

Things To Do In Amersfoort

Things to do in Amersfoort: Local's guide after 17 years living here. Attractions, restaurants tips (where I eat), and practical day trip planning.
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Rotterdam Metro entrance Wilhelminaplein.

Rotterdam Public Transport Simplified

Rotterdam public transport simplified by a local. Learn about metro lines, best tram routes, and water taxi shortcuts. Plus ticket tips to save money.
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Jumbo is the 2nd largest supermarket chain in Amsterdam.

Best 15 Amsterdam Supermarkets

Stop paying €15/lb for cheese/candy in tourist shops. Here's where Amsterdam locals actually buy groceries, what to buy, and credit card tips πŸ’³.
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GVB Amsterdam trams are part of the Amsterdam Public Transport network.

How To Use Amsterdam Trams

Learn exactly how to use Amsterdam trams with insider tips from a local. Complete guide to routes, ticket costs, and money-saving tricks.
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Amsterdam Metro station.

Amsterdam Metro Guide

Skip the crowded trams! Use Amsterdam's metro for faster travel between major attractions. Get maps, ticket tips, and the best stations for tourists.
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The iconic FEBO automat. Insert coins and pull your snack.

FEBO in Amsterdam The #1 Local Fast Food

FEBO in Amsterdam isn't tourist food β€”it's where locals grab croquettes from automated walls. What to order, best locations & why you should try it.
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Arriving on the ferry between Volendam and Marken.

Volendam and Marken Day Trip

I used to avoid recommending Volendam and Marken to clients. Here's what changed my mind and which experiences are worth your time βœ….
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