📍 Episode Location:

Lhee → Zwolle, The Netherlands

📝 Episode Notes:

On this September 14, 2025 episode, Andre wakes up in the quiet countryside near Dwingeloo — in the small village of Lhee, where a former farmer transformed his land into an efficient, thoughtfully designed campsite. Between reorganizing his gear and finding a dry spot to reflect, the day unfolds with a visit to Zwolle, a lively mid-sized town rich in character.

There, Andre reconnects with his nephew Arjen and family, who have embarked on an inspiring 10-year community living project — turning an old farm into five shared homes with common spaces. It’s a story of vision, collaboration, and long-term commitment to a shared way of life.

⏱️ Key Moments:

• 0:00 — Morning in Lhee: Staying at a small, efficient campsite built on a former farm.
• 1:15 — Finding Order: Sorting through what to keep and what to leave behind.
• 2:40 — Journey to Zwolle: Traveling through the Dutch countryside to a mid-sized town full of charm.
• 3:20 — A Family Project: Visiting nephew Arjen’s new co-living farm venture on the edge of Zwolle.
• 5:00 — Shared Vision: Learning how a group of families are creating homes together through collaboration and patience.
• 6:10 — Reflections and Rest: Ending the day inspired by family and the idea of building something lasting.

📍 Episode Location:

OB Ende → Groningen → Dwingeloo, The Netherlands

📝 Episode Notes:

In this reflective September 13, 2025 entry, the journey continues through the Netherlands as preparations for life on the road evolve. Andre shares stories of reconnecting with his lifelong friend Gerard van Daalen — from kindergarten to their army days in Suriname — and visiting his nephew Gert-jan in Groningen, whose support has been key in making this adventure possible.

From gathering essential equipment (and some “just-in-case” extras) to finding a cozy, no-frills campsite in Dwingeloo called Stay in Lhee, this episode captures the mix of nostalgia, practicality, and simplicity that define van life in motion.

⏱️ Key Moments:

• 0:00 — A Familiar Face: Gerard van Daalen joins the journey, bringing back memories of childhood and Suriname.
• 1:45 — Gratitude for Family: Visiting nephew Gert-Jan in Groningen, who helped source important gear.
• 3:10 — The Just-in-Case Dilemma: Balancing necessity versus overpacking for the road ahead.
• 4:30 — Dinner with Friends: Enjoying good food and laughter with Nienke and family.
• 6:00 — Arriving in Dwingeloo: Discovering Stay in Lhee campsite — basic but ideal for regrouping.
• 7:15 — Lessons in Simplicity: Finding order in small spaces and learning what to let go of.

📝 Episode Notes:

Episode Date: September 12, 2025

Location: Opende, Groningen, Netherlands

In today’s episode, I continue van life DIY projects in Groningen. After discovering that the roof vent installed yesterday wasn’t completely watertight, I returned to JWG Camping NL to fix it. Once that was solved, the main task of the day was fitting a “French chair” into the van—a custom seat from a Renault to safely carry extra passengers.

The process was challenging, requiring cutting and adjusting boards in the back of the van, but with persistence and help from Wiebe, progress was made. Even though the installation wasn’t fully complete, it was a big step forward.

I also experienced the Dutch work rhythm with structured breaks at 10:00, 12:00, and 15:00—a reminder of how consistency can improve productivity. The campsite is quiet as the season winds down, but still well-maintained and welcoming.

⏱ Key Moments:

• 00:00 – 02:00: Morning at OB Ende; discovering the roof vent is not fully watertight.
• 02:00 – 05:00: Returning to JWG Camping NL to fix the roof vent.
• 05:00 – 15:00: Attempting to fit the French chair into the van with help from Wiebe; adjusting and cutting boards to make space.
• 15:00 – 17:00: Experiencing the Dutch work break schedule and productivity habits.
• 17:00 – 18:00: Returning to a quiet campsite; noting the seasonal closure preparations.

Follow the Journey: Visit: bridgingthecontinents.com

Location: Opende, Groningen, Netherlands

In this episode, I take you along on a hands-on van life adventure in the Netherlands. Starting the day in a cozy waterside cabin at OB Ende, Groningen, I prepared for some vehicle upgrades and explored the local camping scene.

Key Moments:

• 00:00 – 02:00: Waking up at a well-organized campsite with all gear in place; meeting Andre Rautenberg, the owner, who’s also a traveler.
• 02:00 – 10:00: Visiting JWG Camping NL to install a roof opening on the van for better ventilation and safety; working with Jeroen and Wiebe to drill, cut, and fit a 28cm square vent.
• 10:00 – 12:30: Challenges of tall-vehicle access and the initial waterproofing issues of the roof installation.
• 12:30 – 15:00: Returning to the cabin; discovering the Wi-Fi doesn’t reach, making work online a bit tricky.
• 15:00 – 17:00: Evening meal highlights: enjoying delicious pizza while sharing the campsite with a lively group of kids.

Takeaways:

• Hands-on van modifications can be fun but always expect small challenges.
• Choosing a campsite is not just about comfort; connectivity and facilities matter!
• Local campsites like OB Ende offer unique experiences and warm hospitality.

Episode Summary:

On September 10th, the big day finally arrived: I went to pick up my Land Cruiser after months of preparation. I was joined by my longtime friend Rene, with whom I’ve shared many adventures in Suriname. We had lunch in Groningen, caught up on life, and talked about the upcoming Suriname reunion on September 20th, as well as the 50-year anniversary of Suriname’s independence.

I also share updates on the Land Cruiser itself—repairs completed, new tires installed, and preparations for future travel. Plus, I visited camper builders in Grotehost and got the chance to use their tools to work on some modifications myself, which I’m really excited about.Key

Moments:

• 0:00 – 1:15 – Introduction and context for September 10th: picking up the Land Cruiser.
• 1:15 – 3:00 – Lunch with Rene in Groningen and reminiscing about past travels.
• 3:00 – 4:30 – Discussion of upcoming Suriname reunion on September 20th and the 50-year anniversary of Suriname’s independence.
• 4:30 – 6:00 – Historical context: Suriname’s size, jungle terrain, and Dutch training efforts.
• 6:00 – 7:30 – Highlight of the 1974-75 Suriname video available online, including content description.
• 7:30 – 9:30 – Picking up the Land Cruiser, repairs completed, new tires installed, and preparations for future travel.
• 9:30 – 11:00 – Visit to camper builders in Grotehost: plans to do modifications personally using their tools.
• 11:00 – End – Wrap-up and teaser for next report on progress.

Resources & Links:

• Watch the 1974-75 Suriname video
• https://bridgingthecontinents.com

In this episode of Bridging the Continents, André Vandermost continues his journey from Iceland to the Netherlands. From an early morning wake-up in Reykjavik to navigating airport logistics and a comfortable flight on a Boeing 737, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the start of this overland adventure.

Along the way, André shares a meaningful encounter with a young man from Syria, reflecting on resilience and adaptation. Upon arriving in the Netherlands, André reconnects with family in Zwolle and secures the final chair for the Land Cruiser, highlighting the international connections that are helping make this journey possible.

This episode captures the blend of travel, human stories, and preparation that sets the stage for the larger expedition across Europe and into Africa.

Key Moments:

• 00:00 – Morning departure and early wake-up in Reykjavik
• 01:15 – Airport challenges: car drop-off and check-in
• 02:30 – Flight experience on Boeing 737 and seat comfort
• 04:00 – Conversation with a young Syrian traveler about life in Iceland
• 06:00 – Arrival in the Netherlands and train ride to Zwolle
• 07:30 – Family reunion and catching up with relatives
• 08:30 – Picking up the final Land Cruiser chair from an international contact
• 10:00 – Reflections on the journey name and next steps

Follow the Journey: Visit: bridgingthecontinents.com

In this episode of Bridging the Continents, André Vandermost explores Reykjavik, Iceland, and the surrounding areas on the second day of his journey. From an early morning wake-up at the City Hub Hotel to a rejuvenating visit to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, André shares his experiences, tips, and the people he meets along the way.

Listeners get a firsthand look at the unique geothermal landscapes, the relaxing saunas and steam baths at the Blue Lagoon, and the charming towns of Grindavik and Selfoss. With interesting local insights, fun encounters, and reflections on Reykjavik’s vibrant music scene, this episode captures the beauty and culture of Iceland in just a few days.

Key Moments:

• 00:00 – Morning wake-up at City Hub Hotel
• 01:00 – Driving to the Blue Lagoon and first impressions
• 02:30 – Blue Lagoon experience: saunas, steam baths, and meeting fellow travelers
• 05:00 – Trivia about the Blue Lagoon: water source, temperature, and lava surroundings
• 06:30 – Exploring Grindavik and tasting the local “hot lava soup”
• 08:00 – Coastal route to Selfoss and Iceland’s moss-covered landscapes
• 09:30 – Back to Reykjavik: walking the city, enjoying live music
• 11:00 – Reflections on Reykjavik and travel tips for visiting Iceland

Follow the Journey: https://bridgingthecontinents.com

In this episode of Bridging the Continents, André Vandermost shares the exciting first leg of his journey, departing from Vashon Island and making his way to Reykjavik, Iceland. From navigating ferry schedules and airport logistics to exploring the city’s vibrant culture, this episode captures the thrill and unpredictability of travel.

Listeners get a glimpse of André’s experience renting a car, staying at the innovative City Hub hotel, and discovering Reykjavik’s local food, music, and atmosphere. Join André as he begins this ambitious overland adventure across Europe and into Africa.

Key Moments:

• 00:00 – Welcome and September 7 update
• 01:15 – Departure from Vashon Island and ferry adventure
• 03:00 – Flight details: Iceland Air Boeing 737 and Keflavik Airport
• 05:00 – First impressions of Reykjavik
• 06:30 – Renting a vehicle and preparing for city exploration
• 07:30 – Staying at City Hub hotel and unique accommodation setup
• 09:00 – Exploring Reykjavik: food, music, and local culture
• 11:00 – Signing off and teaser for the next update

Follow the Journey: https://bridgingthecontinents.com/

In this inaugural episode of Bridging the Continents, André Vandermost shares the excitement, planning, and anticipation just 30 hours before departure. After a year and a half of preparation, the journey from his home on Vashon Island is about to begin.

André outlines the early stages of his expedition: from Reykjavík, Iceland, to Amsterdam to pick up the Land Cruiser, and through Europe toward Morocco. Listeners get a glimpse into the organized chaos of last-minute preparations, route planning, and legal considerations for driving on export plates.

This episode sets the stage for an ambitious adventure, full of exploration, culture, and meaningful connections with communities along the way. Tune in to follow André’s journey and discover the challenges and thrills of traveling across continents with a purpose.

• 00:00 – Introduction and departure countdown
• 02:15 – Thoughts on the year-and-a-half preparation
• 04:00 – Overview of the first leg: Iceland, Netherlands, and picking up the Land Cruiser
• 07:30 – Route through Europe toward Morocco and travel logistics
• 11:00 – Legal considerations for driving with export plates
• 13:00 – Signing off and invitation to follow the journey

Follow the Journey: Visit: bridgingthecontinents.com