A group of 11 Deaf students embarked on an unforgettable journey through the Netherlands and Belgium, where they were captivated by the rich cultures, deep-rooted histories, unique sign languages, delicious cuisines, and stunning architecture of both countries. What made the experience even more special was the opportunity to connect with several local Deaf tour guides, who brought each destination to life in a meaningful and engaging way.

One of the most powerful moments of the trip was learning about a Deaf Dutch Jewish survivor of the Holocaust in Amsterdam—a heartbreaking yet deeply impactful story that left a lasting impression on everyone.

Throughout the tour, the group explored several cities, including Amsterdam, Brussels, Ghent, and Zaanse Schans. Each stop offered new insights, exciting sightseeing opportunities, and valuable cultural exchanges, making the journey not just educational, but also truly inspiring.

Some of the highlights of their enjoyable journey along with each local Deaf tour guide included:

NETHERLANDS:

• Dutch Canal Cruise: A charming introduction to Amsterdam by gliding through its iconic canals. A relaxing way to get to know the Dutch capital while enjoying its scenic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
• Jordaan Neighbourhood Walk: Strolling through the quaint streets of Jordaan, once a working-class area and now a hidden gem of Amsterdam. A great way to experience the city’s authentic character beyond the touristy spots.
• Anne Frank House: An emotional and educational visit where students explored the life of Anne Frank. Through quotes, photos, videos, and original artifacts, the story of those who hid in the Secret Annex came to life.
• Guyot High School for the Deaf – Groningen: A meaningful day trip to connect with Dutch Deaf students. The exchange of Deaf culture and sign language fostered international friendship and mutual learning.
• Van Gogh Museum: An inspiring exploration of Van Gogh’s art and personal life. Deaf students were particularly captivated by his expressive works and learned through visuals, letters, and sketches.
• Amsterdam History Museum: A deep dive into the history of Amsterdam—from its origins to its current day as a modern metropolis. Students enjoyed seeing how the city developed over time.

BELGIUM:

• Comic Strip Museum: A fun and engaging experience, learning about the evolution of Belgian comics. Students discovered how comic art developed over the last century and its cultural significance.
• Brussels City Walk: A fascinating tour of Brussels’ landmarks: from the majestic Royal Palace and Manneken Pis to the artistic Kunstberg Garden and the vibrant Grand Place in Market Square.
• European Union of the Deaf (EUD): An insightful visit to learn how the EUD operates. The Deaf students gained valuable understanding of Deaf advocacy in the EU, comparing it with systems in the U.S.
• VisualBox (Deaf-owned media company) – Ghent: An empowering visit to a Deaf-owned media company. Students were inspired by the Deaf co-founders’ journey and their creative projects, reinforcing the value of Deaf leadership.
• Ghent City Walk: A peaceful walk through Ghent’s stunning sites, including St. Michael’s Bridge, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the scenic canals—offering students a rich visual and historical experience.
• Atomium: An awe-inspiring visit to one of Belgium’s most iconic landmarks. Students explored the Atomium’s unique structure and enjoyed a panoramic view of Brussels from the top sphere.

On behalf of Hands On Travel, we would like to say THANK YOU to these 11 wonderful students and 3 professors from the United States for joining this incredible school tour!