The group is split into two smaller biking groups for this portion of the program. Here’s an update from Cara’s group.

Hello there! Cara here, writing from our lovely hostel in Noordwijk.

After the hustle and bustle of city life, we are very much enjoying the fresh air and countryside of the Netherlands. The group arrived at the Amsterdam train station Tuesday afternoon, then took a short bus ride to our first hostel in Heemskerk, where we stayed in a castle — complete with a moat and incredible gardens! We excitedly received our bicycles upon arrival, and several students enjoyed a leisurely ride through the gardens after dinner.

On Wednesday, the group split in half to embark on the bike journey, each group riding the same loop over the course of the week, but in opposite directions. My group began the trip en route to Noordwijk, which will be our longest day of riding — over 50 km. It was a beautiful ride through the Dutch countryside via farms, dunes, and beaches, and we enjoyed seeing windmills and various animals along the way. Today (Thursday) we had a much deserved beach day with lots of rest and relaxation. Tomorrow we embark on our next journey to our hostel in Haarlem. Can’t wait!

– Cara