Barber family from New Zealand and Londen

Cindy and Tim Hartin from Texas, USA 

Deborah Camacho from Texas, USA

Magda and Frank Fronek from New York, USA

Barber family, New Zealand and London                                         

When Hans asked me what we were interested in, he worked out an amazing itinerary, which included everything we had dreamed about and more! 

Of particular interest were, the Alkmaar cheese auction and the visit to a family owned cheese farm, where we watched the whole process of cheese making and were able to sample and buy the cheeses. Being farmers ourselves, it was interesting talking of the Dutch farmer's way of life .

Our special day was driving amongst the flower fields with many stops to photograph and experience the sheer beauty and smell, finishing the day at Keukenhof Gardens. 

Sylvia and Lindsay Barber at the Zeeland sign at
their arrival in the province of Zeeland
(The Netherlands)
 

The Aalsmeer flower auction was amazing and earned a second visit for us. So many flowers, and such a hive of activity.  

Julie Barber in the tulip fields, painting tulips 

We visited the steam pumping station of Cruquius, and on our way to Belgium stopped at the Storm surge barrier at Hook of Holland, the Haringvliet dam and the Oosterscheld (Eastern Scheldt) dam, an open storm surge barrier. As we are from 'New Zealand, driving through 'Zeeland' province was of special interest to us. Records tell us in 1642, a Dutch explorer, Abel Tasman, was the first  European to sight New Zealand,although he never set foot on land. Then it was through Westerschelde (Western Scheldt) tunnel and onto Bruges which was a wonderful place to walk around and shop.

Lindsay Barber and tour guide Hans Noltes in the roof of a Dutch windmill

Our trip was special in many ways. Hans planned our itinerary meticiously, he researched all places thoroughly, so was able to give us a running commentary as we travelled. He did not hesitate to stop for photo opportunities, yet always arrived at places in time for an English speaking tour. His local knowledge enabled him to drive off the beaten track, and where the best places to eat were.

A truely amazing holiday in Holland.

Lindsay and Sylvia Barber, New Zealand

Julie Barber, London

Cindy and Tim Hartin from Texas, USA                                             

Our Het Loo trip was very enjoyable. Mr Noltes arrived at our apartment on time and provided information regarding the former Royal Palace and the House of Orange.

Tim and Cindy Hartin at a fountain in the garden at Het Loo Palace

The historical perspective prepared us for our visit to the Royal Stables and the Palace. The grounds were beautiful and well maintained.

The historical background from Mr Noltes enriched the experience and the tour of the landscape gardens. The Palace is a glimpse into the fascinating and somewhat turbulent past of the House of Orange in the Netherlands. Thank you Mr Noltes for your depth of knowledge and memorable trip

Cindy and Tim Hartin, Texas, USA

Deborah Camacho from Texas, USA                                                

Hans,

I wanted to thank you for the tour trip you provided me when I had a lay-over of 10 hours in Amsterdam back in October. That time was used wisely since we were able to see so much in just a few hours. Experiencing local transportation to and from the Zaanse Schans Theme Park (windmills, traditional wooden houses, cheese factory and wooden shoe maker) along with all the information you provided, gave me a good history of Amsterdam and surroundings.

Deborah Camacho at the Zaanse Schans Theme Park

My favorite part of my tour had to be the Canal Boat ride, it was interesting to hear all about the houses and reasoning for the canals and how it was used to form that part of the city.

Thank you again for such a great experience and I would love to see more next time I get a chance.

Deborah Camacho

Frank and Magda Fronek from New York , USA

The Waterworks in Holland came out of shear necessity to survive under the sea level and became an engineering and construction marvel to admire.
Visiting the various gates and dams that are part of the Delta Works is a highly enjoyable and educational experience for technically oriented as well as lay people.

Pijlerdam

Hans makes the whole tour an unforgettable experience. His deep knowledge and obvious enthusiasm for the subject brings the complete scope and overall benefit of the works to the surface. We greatly appreciated his guidance, hospitality and flexibility to accommodate everyone's tastes and desires. We highly recommend the tour he offers.

Magda and Frank Fronek at the Pijlerdam

Frank & Magda Fronek , Fronek Power Systems , Orangeburg, NY, USA