ABOUT THE TRIP
Your teen is just a few blinks away from exploring the world on her own—whether it’s study abroad, a college internship overseas, or that first roommate trip to Europe—and this journey gives you the chance to prepare her for it, together.
This isn’t just another sightseeing trip — it’s a journey designed to strengthen connection, build confidence, and teach lifelong travel skills. From mastering public transit and practicing real-world travel skills to sharing meaningful moments that remind you why these years matter so much, this trip blends education, empowerment, and unforgettable memories.
Join us for a mother–daughter adventure through the Netherlands, where you’ll explore charming canals, cycle through storybook neighborhoods, and learn how to navigate the world confidently together.
Led by travel safety expert Lisa from @chasingmemories.co and co-host, this experience helps moms enable their teens toward independence while still creating time to laugh, learn, and reconnect. You’ll return home not only with photos—but with confidence, connection, and the peace of mind that your teen now knows how to travel the world, and so do you!
Why The Netherlands?
The Netherlands is the perfect “training ground” for new travelers. It’s one of the safest countries in the world, with seamless public transit and locals who almost all speak English—making it an ideal place to learn essential travel skills in real time.
From navigating trains and trams to exploring charming towns by bike, it’s the perfect blend of education and the unforgettable, letting moms and teens focus on connection while gaining confidence to explore the world together.
And moms, rest assured—we promise this trip won’t be cringe for your teen. My co-host and I are both seasoned educators who know how to make travel fun and meaningful for teens. We keep things light, real, and confidence-building—so your teen will actually want to participate (and might even admit they’re having fun).
The Netherlands Group Trip Details
WHEN: June 6-14, 2026
WHO: This trip is for adventurous mothers and their daughters (ages 13+) who want to strengthen their bond while gaining real-world travel confidence. Whether your teen dreams of studying abroad or you simply want to feel more at ease exploring together, you’ll join a group of like-minded moms and daughters ready to learn, laugh, and build connection through travel.
WHAT: Our adventure begins in Amsterdam then continues to The Hague, with day trips in between. We’ll explore The Netherlands together by train, tram, and bike—one of the most traveler-friendly countries in the world. Over 8 days, we’ll experience a perfect balance of hands-on travel experiences and heartwarming connection moments, from cycling through Dutch neighborhoods and wandering the canals to practicing navigation skills in real-life settings.
Each day brings a new “Amazing Race–style” challenge (without the chaos!) to help you and your teen build confidence while deepening your connection. Don’t worry—you won’t be doing it alone. We’ll learn and explore together as a group, and when you’re ready to try a challenge on your own, you’ll do it with support and encouragement every step of the way.
(See the full itinerary below for all the details.)
WHERE:
Amsterdam
Our adventure begins in the heart of Amsterdam—a city of canals, bikes, and creativity. From exploring hidden backstreets and vibrant markets to mastering public transit and visiting world-class museums, this lively capital is the perfect starting point for building travel confidence and connection.
Zaanse Schans & Volendam
Step back in time with a day in the Dutch countryside. Wander among working windmills, taste freshly made cheese, and watch wooden clogs being carved. It’s an unforgettable look at the Netherlands’ traditional charm and rural beauty.
Utrecht & Castle de Haar
Discover one of the Netherlands’ most enchanting cities—Utrecht—filled with canals, medieval towers, and cozy cafés. Then step into a fairytale at Castle de Haar, the country’s largest and most romantic castle, surrounded by lush gardens and storybook views.
Delft
Known for its iconic blue-and-white pottery, Delft combines history and charm in equal measure. You’ll visit the Royal Delft factory, stroll cobblestone streets, and explore the lively Saturday market—a perfect mix of culture, craftsmanship, and connection.
The Hague
Our home base for the latter part of the trip, The Hague offers a blend of coastal calm and cultural sophistication. Spend free time exploring museums, relaxing at the beach, or simply enjoying peaceful moments together before your journey home.
COST: $3,800 USD per person*
Early bird discount of $300/person available until December 25th (perfect Christmas gift)
*Price can be reduced by booking hotels through points and miles - see below for more information
Accommodations in beautiful 3- and 4-star hotels (each family has their own room)
✔ Private airport transfer upon arrival
✔ Public transit passes for seamless travel within each city
✔ Guided excursions and day trips with expert local guides
✔ Entrance fees for all guided activities listed in the itinerary
✔ Welcome Dinner
✔ Farewell Dinner
🚫 What’s Not Included:
✘ Flights to and from Amsterdam
✘ Travel insurance (highly recommended; Lisa can help you select the best plan)
✘ EU ETIAS (if applicable at time of travel)
✘ Alcoholic or specialty beverages
✘ Personal expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, or additional activities
✘ Meals (except welcome and farewell dinners)
✘ Free time activities of your choosing
Only a $500 deposit is required to reserve your spot. Payment plans available.
Holland is waiting—are you in?
Lodging and Transportation
All accommodations and in-country transportation within the Netherlands are included in your trip. We’ll stay in beautiful 3- and 4-star hotels, chosen for their comfort, location, and charm—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration and adventure. Expect thoughtfully selected hotels that give you a true taste of Dutch hospitality and spaces for your teens to hangout.
All lodging is shared occupancy, with you and your teen sharing a room and creating your own cozy home base throughout the journey.
For efficiency and connection, we’ll travel primarily by public transit and private coach, giving you hands-on experience with trains, trams, and buses—the same systems your teen will someday use when traveling on her own. It’s the most authentic way to see the Netherlands, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Some highlights include:
🚲 A guided cycling tour through Amsterdam’s hidden gems
🚆 Scenic train rides between cities and countryside towns
🚌 Private coach transfers for select excursions and day trips
Flights are not included, and you’ll need to arrange your own way to and from Amsterdam Airport (AMS), you'll need to arrive by 2pm. Once you arrive, everything within the Netherlands is taken care of—so you can focus on learning, exploring, and chasing memories together.
The Netherlands Group Trip Itinerary Details
🗓️ Itinerary (June 6–14, 2026)
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Day 1 (Sat, June 6): Arrive in Amsterdam Airport (AMS) by 2pm, private airport transfer to hotel, welcome orientation & group dinner
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Day 2 (Sun, June 7): Guided cycling tour through Amsterdam’s hidden gems with local guides, apple pie stop included. Exploring the city and practicing riding public transit.
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Day 3 (Mon, June 8): Canal boat tour, explore Albert Cuyp Market, stroopwafel making class, FREE TIME for museums, shopping, or café exploring.
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Day 4 (Tue, June 9): Full-day countryside tour – We will take the train to Zaanse Schans, then a private coach to Volendam & traditional cheese farm with private tour guides.
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Day 5 (Wed, June 10): AM FREE TIME to explore Amsterdam. Transfer to hotel in The Hague via train.
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Day 6 (Thu, June 11): Day trip to Utrecht & Castle de Haar – walking tour and castle visit utilizing public transit.
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Day 7 (Fri, June 12): Morning exploration of The Hague. Afternoon beach time and group dinner. Free time after dinner.
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Day 8 (Sat, June 13): Day trip to Delft – Royal Delft pottery tour, city walking tour & free time at Saturday market
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Day 9 (Sun, June 14): Departures – hotel transfers to Amsterdam Airport (AMS)
(Please note: The itinerary is subject to slight adjustments to ensure the best possible experience based on weather, availability and unforeseen circumstances.)
Travel Requirements and Other Important Information
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Passport Requirements: A valid passport is required for entry into the Netherlands and must have at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates.
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EU ETIAS: The European Union plans to implement the ETIAS travel authorization system in 2026. If it is active at the time of travel, all U.S. travelers will need to complete the quick online registration prior to departure. I’ll provide clear guidance and reminders as your trip approaches to ensure everything is handled smoothly.
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Visa Information: U.S. citizens can enter the Netherlands (and other Schengen Area countries) for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism purposes. If you are traveling from another country, please verify visa requirements for your nationality.
Fitness Level & Activity Expectations
This trip includes moderate activity—such as walking tours, a 3 hour cycling tour (on and off the bikes), guided excursions, and hands-on travel challenges. You should be comfortable being on your feet for several hours and walking 4-6 miles throughout the day (often at a relaxed pace).
Most activities take place on flat, paved terrain, though cobblestone streets and light stairs are common. A basic fitness level and an adventurous mindset will help you make the most of the experience.
If you have any concerns about the physical requirements, please reach out so we can discuss whether this trip is a good fit for you and your teen.
Can I Use Points or Miles to Reduce My Trip Cost?
Yes! You can reduce your trip cost by booking your own hotel stay using points or miles. Our group will be staying at a mix of Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt hotels, so you can easily use your preferred loyalty program to cover your accommodations. Please note: Points redemptions may not be not available for rooms with an occupancy of 3 travelers.
If you successfully book your room(s) on points, your total trip cost will be reduced by up to $1,150 per person (based on utilizing some or all nights on points - for each hotel you will be required to book all nights for that hotel chain)
I’ve already reserved hotel rooms at the cash rate to ensure availability for the group and will hold your spot until you confirm that you’ve secured your room on points.
More details about the specific hotels and booking instructions will be shared in your welcome email once registered.
If you choose this option, you’ll be responsible for booking your own room on points (subject to availability) and are encouraged to stay at the same hotel as the group for convenience. If you prefer to stay elsewhere, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from group activities.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
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Please also note there is a minimum number of travelers for this trip to go ahead, this group trip will be officially confirmed once this minimum is reached. This is standard for small group travel and you’ll be updated once the trip is officially confirmed and it is recommended you wait to purchase airfare until time of confirmation.
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If you need to cancel within 14 days of registering, you will receive a full refund. After that period, all payments are non-refundable, including cancellations due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances.
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No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 90 days of departure, even if you registered during that timeframe.
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In the unlikely event that I need to cancel the trip, I will either refund you or reschedule for an agreed upon time.
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Because life is unpredictable, I strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Travel insurance can reimburse you if you need to cancel due to unexpected circumstances.
Join Me for an Unforgettable Mother-Daughter Adventure!
💛 This isn’t just a trip—it’s an opportunity to truly connect.
The Netherlands’ charming canals, fairytale towns, and welcoming culture create the perfect backdrop for adventure—but the real magic happens in the moments you and your teen share.
This experience is designed to help you step away from the daily routine and connect through discovery, teaching your teen travel safety and confidence while rediscovering the joy of exploring together. From navigating trams and tasting stroopwafels to mastering the art of asking for help in a new country, every day brings a new challenge—and a chance to grow side by side.
You’ll return home with unforgettable memories, a more confident traveler by your side, and a bond that runs even deeper.
Are you ready to chase memories in the Netherlands?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
If you have additional questions not listed below, please reach out to me at, lisa@chasingmemories.co
How long do I have to decide? Registration will close 3 months before departure on March 6th, but spots are limited and this trip is expected to fill up quickly! There are only 20 spots available, so if you’re considering joining, I highly recommend reserving your spot as soon as possible to secure your place on this unforgettable adventure.
What is NOT included in the trip cost? Your trip fee does not include international flights to and from Amsterdam Airport (AMS). You’ll be responsible for booking your own airfare to arrive by the start time on Saturday, June 6th, 2026. The following expenses are also not included: Alcoholic beverages, snacks, and personal incidentals Meals (except for the Welcome Dinner and Final Dinner) - however there are lots of inexpensive options we will have for meals, the grocery store is amazing there and has great options for cheap. Souvenirs or additional personal expenses Optional activities or excursions during your free time (details on these will be provided closer to departure) Travel insurance — while not included, it’s highly recommended to protect your investment in case of trip cancellation, delay, or emergencies abroad I’ll send detailed information about travel insurance options with your welcome email, including how to choose a comprehensive policy that fits your needs.
Do You Offer Payment Plans? Yes! To reserve your spot, a $500 deposit is required (refundable for 14 days). After that, I offer two different payment plan options to make the trip more manageable: Option 1: Pay in full Option 2: Two payments (1st due on Jan 5th, final payment due March 5th) Automatic email reminders will be sent before each payment is due to help you stay on track. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Where Do I Need to Arrive in The Netherlands? The group trip officially begins at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 6th, 2026, so you’ll need to arrive at Amsterdam Airport (AMS) before that time. This means you will need to depart on June 5th in order to arrive on the 6th. Once everyone has arrived, we’ll meet as a group and transfer together to our hotel in Amsterdam to kick off the adventure. If you plan to arrive a day early (which I highly recommend to recover from jet lag), you’ll need to arrange your own accommodations and transportation to meet the group at the designated meeting point on June 6th. We say our goodbyes at the hotel Saturday night near the airport. The trip concludes on the morning of Sunday, June 14th, 2026, with individual hotel shuttle back to Amsterdam Airport (AMS). You can schedule your departing flight anytime that day. Hotel checkout will be 11am.
What if I want to bring more than one daughter? Or Grandma? Make this a multi-generation trip! Please make sure grandma is in good physical condition and can walk 3-5 miles a day and on uneven surfaces. We can accommodate up to 3 daughters. Please note that due to strict occupancy rules in Europe we can only get a max of 3 people in one room. So if you want to bring 3 daughters you need to be comfortable with 2 of them staying in their own room (connecting rooms are NOT an option).
Why is it more expensive for the 3rd person? European hotels have strict occupancy rules and the standard room only holds 2 people. In order to book a room that allows 3 occupants, it raises the cost, therefore the extra expense for the 3rd person is the extra cost for the larger hotel room.
What happens if I need to cancel after the first 14 days? If you need to cancel after the 14 day refund policy, I will do what I can to fill your spot, however it is not guaranteed nor my responsibility to do so. If I am able to fill your spot, you will get your money back, but if I am unable to sell it, unfortunately you will lose your money. This is why travel insurance is important because it can help refund you when there's a covered reason for cancellation.
When Should I Book My Flight? We need a minimum of 13 participants for this trip to be officially confirmed. While I recommend waiting until the trip is confirmed before purchasing your flights, I completely understand that a great deal can be hard to pass up! ✈️ If you choose to book early, please do so with caution, keeping in mind that the trip still needs to reach its minimum number of participants before it’s guaranteed to run. Once the trip is confirmed, you’ll receive an email notification right away so you can confidently finalize your travel plans.
Can I Use Points or Miles to Reduce My Trip Cost? Yes! You can save money by booking your own hotel stay using points or miles. Our group will be staying at a mix of Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt hotels, so you can choose the option that best matches your loyalty program. If you successfully book your room on points, your trip cost will be reduced by: $750 per person for Hilton stays $350 per person for Marriott stays $70 per person for Hyatt stays I’ve already reserved rooms at each property for the group at the cash rate and will hold your spot until you confirm that you’ve booked on points. More details about the specific hotels will be shared in your welcome email once the trip is confirmed. If you choose this option, you’ll be responsible for booking your room using points (subject to availability) and are encouraged to stay at the same hotel as the group for convenience. If you choose to stay elsewhere, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from group activities.
What About the Food? Are meals included in the trip? Your welcome dinner and final dinner are included in the trip cost — everything else is designed to give you flexibility and choice. What will we do for breakfast and lunch? There are excellent grocery stores and local bakeries just steps from our hotels, making it easy to grab affordable breakfasts or pastries each morning. For lunch, we’ll keep things simple with quick, on-the-go options—perfect for fueling up between activities. What about dinners during the trip? Each evening, we’ll share a suggested group restaurant where you’re welcome to join everyone for a fun, social meal—but you’re equally free to explore on your own if you’d like. Why isn’t every meal included? This setup allows you to customize your dining experience—whether that means enjoying a cozy café with your teen, grabbing street food between adventures, or managing your budget in a way that works best for you. Because travel is even better when you have the freedom to savor it your way. 🍽️
Can I Opt Out of Any Activities If I Choose? Absolutely! While this itinerary has been carefully designed to balance fun, connection, and exploration, you’re always welcome to opt out of any activity that doesn’t appeal to you. If you’d prefer to relax at a café instead of joining a bike ride, enjoy extra free time, or explore at your own pace, that’s completely fine. Please note that because all group activities are pre-arranged and prepaid, there will be no reimbursement for any missed or skipped activities. That said, I encourage everyone to join in whenever possible—some of the best memories (and laughs!) often come from trying something new together. But at the end of the day, this is your trip, and I want you to feel comfortable and enjoy it in a way that feels right for you. 🌷
What Do I Need to Pack? Weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable—one minute it’s sunshine and blue skies, the next it’s a light drizzle. June typically brings mild, comfortable temperatures, but it’s best to be prepared for both rain and sun as we’ll be exploring outdoors most of each day. Be ready for a mix of city strolling, day trips, and light activity by packing: A light waterproof rain jacket (a must in the Netherlands!) A light sweater or fleece for cooler mornings or evenings Comfortable walking shoes with good support for full days of exploring Lightweight, breathable layers you can mix and match A small daypack for carrying water, snacks, and essentials during excursions A travel umbrella or compact poncho for surprise showers Optional: a nice casual outfit for group dinners or evenings out I’ll send out a detailed packing list before departure to help you prepare. With the right layers and a little flexibility, you’ll be ready for whatever the Netherlands weather throws your way—rain or shine!
MEET YOUR HOSTS
This adventure is led by Lisa from @chasingmemories.co and Molly, two lifelong friends and passionate travelers who believe in the power of connection—to the world, to ourselves, and to the people we travel beside.
I’m Lisa, a seasoned traveler who has explored over 30 countries and built my life around helping families—especially moms and teens—feel confident navigating the world. As a mom myself, I know how challenging it can be to balance planning, safety, and connection on international trips. My goal is to take the stress off your plate so you can focus on the good stuff: laughing with your teen, learning new skills, and soaking in every moment together.
Molly is a fun, upbeat mom who’s incredible at connecting with teens and bringing the laughter wherever she goes. Over the years, we’ve traveled together, worked side by side, and shared countless adventures that remind us just how meaningful travel can be when shared with people you care about.
Together, we’ll bring a blend of adventure, encouragement, and authenticity to make this trip unforgettable—for both moms and teens. Beyond the incredible sights and experiences, this journey is designed to help you connect on a deeper level through shared adventures, travel-safety challenges, and moments that strengthen your bond.
You’ll return home not only with memories of windmills and stroopwafels, but with a teen who feels empowered to explore the world safely—and a relationship that’s stronger than ever.
We can’t wait to chase memories with you in the Netherlands! 🇳🇱💛