
Mieke Arendsen
Born and raised in the province of Gelderland in the east-central part of the Netherlands, I have traveled to most corners of the world, especially to Asia. But deep down, I will always remain a true Dutchy. I love cycling, I even own a pair of wooden shoes and you can wake me up any time to have some cheese.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"The Netherlands are excellent for cycling since it is extremely flat and has the most brilliant cycling lanes in the world. As distances between sights are relatively short, I would suggest the bicycle as a means of transportation. For those that like to take it easy, an e-bike can be a good choice.
I especially love the landscape on the northern islands and the vast forests in the central part of the country. But it’s not all nature that charms me; I also enjoy a stroll through the small cobbled streets of the lesser known characteristic cities of the Netherlands, such as Deventer and Groningen."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I have been in the travel business for over twenty years, both in outbound as well as in inbound tourism. Distant places have always fascinated me, but closer to my home there’s also a lot to explore….it’s a never-ending process of finding new places and routes. What also keeps my work interesting is that every guest has his/her own wishes and interests; every request is different and thus treated as such. I take joy from trying to make an itinerary that fits their specific wishes best. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Cycling the island of Texel with one of my kids in the bicycle front seat, the sea breeze cooling us down. With the sound of the cycle wheels on the lane consisting of shells and sometimes a screeching seagull flying over, I secretly stuffed my nose in my kids hair to sniff that baby smell. Heaven!"
Mieke's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice

Castles, cathedrals, windmills, canals: this two-week itinerary takes you through highlights of the Netherlands and Belgium. Starting in the vibrant Dutch capital of Amsterdam...

This itinerary is all about flowers! In just five days, you will cycle through Dutch tulip fields on an e-bike, learn how tulips are grown, and see how they're sold at auction...

Wander among the canals of three countries in 10 days on this well-rounded journey through northern Europe. Start in Amsterdam, where you'll discover its hidden beauty as you...
Family itineraries

Filled with outdoor adventures and colorful sights, this weeklong trip around the Netherlands is fun for the whole family. Cruise around the canals of Amsterdam on a private...

Welcome to the perfect family destination — Holland! On this 10-day adventure, you'll explore the canals of Amsterdam on a private boat, see the windmills of Kinderdijk and...

Filled with outdoor adventures and cultural highlights, this family-friendly tour is a wonderful introduction to the Netherlands. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam in a private...
Luxury itineraries

Get away from the crowds and experience Holland's finer things on this 5-day luxury tour around the Netherlands. Explore the smaller cities of Leiden, the Hague, and Delft,...

Experience the best Holland has to offer on this 10-day luxury tour! You'll sleep in one-of-a-kind boutique hotels and dine in fine restaurants while exploring the capital city...
Recent trip reviews for Mieke
Adult Family trip to the Netherlands & Belgium
Belgium
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May 2 - May 10, 2025

Hi Dana,
Great to hear from you and reading your feedback and comments. Glad you have enjoyed your trip so much. It has been a pleasure planning this trip with and for you!
Thank you for your kind words, and wishing you all the best for the future
Best regards,
Mieke
Amsterdam was amazing . And the itinerary Kim...
The Netherlands
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May 8 - May 12, 2025

Hi Jill,
Glad to hear you have enjoyed your trip so much. The weather has been amazing, indeed! Perfect circumstances for seeing the blooming flower fields and the Keukenhof park. Good to know you have managed the public transport system well - it is indeed a very practical way to get around.
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback, and wishing you all the best,
Mieke
The entire trip was truly spectacular.
The Netherlands
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May 7 - May 14, 2025


Dear Nancy and Nicole,
How lovely to read about the good times you had, and to see these lovely pictures of all your adventures, and especially enjoying good food with Mark.
Again, apologies for the change in train timings - gladly you have managed the stress and made your way to Bruges. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences and feedback with us - that is very helpful!
It had been a pleasure hosting you here! Wishing you all the best,
Mieke
Lowlands Travel Asessment
The Netherlands
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Apr 9 - Apr 17, 2025

Hi Victor
Thanks for taking the time to provide us with feedback and thoughts on the itinerary and program. It has been a pleasure organizing the trip for you and it's very valuable. Glad to hear you have enjoyed your experience at the Mystic Lamb so much!
All the best to you,
Mieke
Thank you for the opportunity to safely trave...
The Netherlands
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Apr 10 - Apr 17, 2025
Day 1:Our arrival at Schiphol Airport was well timed, and our driver was very kind, patient and helpful. Our stop for groceries was important and very much appreciated. The Bollenschuur Hillegom was everything we hoped for and more; in a beautiful... Read more

Hi Connie and travel buddies,
Thank you so much for taking the time to review the trip and provide us with feedback, that is very helpful! And thank you for your kind words☺️
You have indeed very throughly explored the flower bulb area - to the max! I am glad the parade was a success for you. It was a pleasure organizing your trip for you
Best regards,
Mieke
Two fun weeks in the Netherlands and Belgium
The Netherlands
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Mar 31 - Apr 11, 2025

Hi John & Michele...thank you so much for your review and feedback. Glad to read you have enjoyed your trip and to read your comments.
You wont believe it, but today it started raining after it stayed completely dry during all of your trip (which is quite exceptional in springtime).
I am glad you have enjoyed your trip, and I am honored to have been able to be a part of arranging it for you!
Wishing you all the best,
Mieke
Belgium
Belgium
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Sep 29 - Oct 4, 2024
Great guides esp in Ypres
Great hotels esp in Antwerp and Bruges
Would include the alter of Ghent in tour and the Madonna sculpture in tour
Thanks

Dear Jean,
Hope you had a pleasant and safe journey home!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts about the hotels, guides and excursions, and I am glad you have enjoyed the trip. Weather has not been the best last week, but I am glad you have made the most of it.
Wishing you all the best,
Mieke.
Entire trip was excellent!
The Netherlands
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May 25 - Jun 8, 2024


Thank you so much for taking the time to review your trip and send us valuable feedback - especially about having a smartphone and wifi coverage - that is very helpful indeed and a very good suggestion.
I am glad to hear you have enjoyed the trip so much and have found your way with the planned activities and the free time as well. I am not surprised you love the stroopwafel bakery in Gouda, it's a gem of a place. I
Cherish your happy memories of this very special trip -... Read more
Transforming Dreams into Reality: A Glowing Review for Mieke's Dutch Adventure Planning Expertise
The Netherlands
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Jun 2 - Jun 11, 2024


hi Kristie and family,
I am so glad you have had such an amazing family time. The places you have stayed at were indeed very bespoke and one-of-a-kind. I loved seeing your pictures of family fun. Lots of happy memories and quality time with the 4 of you. It has been a great pleasure organizing the trip for you and I am thrilled that it was such a success! Kudos for trying all the local specialities and cycling too!
Till next time! :)
Wishing you all the best,
Mieke
Our wonderful trip to the Netherlands!
The Netherlands
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May 13 - May 22, 2024


Dear Jan & family, Thank you for taking the time to review your trip. Glad you have enjoyed and have survived climbing the Martini tower in Groningen and spending time with your family here.
Your feedback about the different hotels is also very valuable for us, thank you so much!
Wishing you all the best,
Mieke