avatarBryan Dijkhuizen

Summary

The article discusses the joys and benefits of domestic travel within the Netherlands, emphasizing the beauty and activities available within one's own country, especially during times when international travel is restricted.

Abstract

The author reflects on the limitations of international travel during the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent discovery of the Netherlands' natural beauty and photographic potential. Despite initial skepticism about finding "wow"-worthy subjects at home, the author shares stunning photographs taken in the Dutch province of Friesland, highlighting the serene landscapes and the joy of local exploration. The article encourages readers to appreciate and explore their own countries, suggesting that there are countless hidden gems and experiences to be found close to home, such as cycling through picturesque villages and enjoying the tranquility of nature. The author also promotes their work by inviting readers to join their email list and Medium membership, offering full access to their travel stories and insights.

Opinions

  • The author initially underestimated the photographic opportunities within their home country, the Netherlands, but came to appreciate its beauty.
  • The pandemic-induced travel restrictions led to a renewed interest in domestic travel and the discovery of local attractions.
  • The article suggests that financial constraints or travel restrictions should not prevent one from enjoying travel experiences within their own country.
  • The author expresses that even without the convenience of international travel, there is plenty to see and do domestically.
  • The author uses personal experiences, such as a bicycle tour in Friesland, to illustrate the appeal of domestic travel.
  • The author believes that every country has its unique charm and encourages readers to explore their own.
  • The author promotes their writing and invites engagement from readers by offering a free email list and a Medium membership referral link.

TRAVEL

When You’re Traveling In Your Own Country

It’s a small one as well

Image by Author: Bryan Dijkhuizen | Appingedam 2022

During the corona pandemic, it was almost impossible to travel internationally.

Something we did a lot. I’ve been to France, Italy, Switzerland, parts of Germany, and even the United Kingdom. But that was out of the question for the last two years. Too bad, but there are plenty of places to think of in your own country.

I often say that in the Netherlands I can’t take good pictures with the “wow” effect. But that’s totally untrue of course. Just look at this picture.

Image by Author: Bryan Dijkhuizen | Appingedam 2022

It’s a beautiful picture of the sky. No filters or editing done, this has been taken with an iPhone 13 Pro Max camera. The sky was phenomenal that night.

But there are lots of different other places you can go and do in your own country. Wherever you’re from, there are always nice places to go.

For example, we recently took a bicycle tour of the province of Friesland in the north of the Netherlands. We were looking for some kind of old castle. We hoped that there was something to do but unfortunately there wasn’t too much liveliness in the village called Marsum.

But, it was a very nice and quiet area to cycle through as a couple.

Image by Author: Bryan Dijkhuizen | Marsum 2022

As you can see, there is plenty to do at home. For example, there are dozens of beautiful cycling routes in the Netherlands. Probably many more than that.

So even though you can’t leave your country because you may not have money to take an expensive vacation or you can’t leave the country because of things that happen beyond your control. Then stay in your own country and enjoy the little things you would normally never see.

If you like my articles, you can signup for my free e-mail-list here. But if you’re not a medium member yet, you can sign up with my referral link down below and I’ll receive a small portion of your fee.

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