Ella & Geert
Who are we and what motivated us to change our lives?
Hi, I am Ella, a Nijmegen native from the Netherlands. As a young girl, my love for travel was already ignited by family trips and winter sports adventures. However, our annual summer vacations to Southern Europe hold a special place in my heart, because they truly shaped my passion for discovery.
I enjoyed a fulfilling childhood in Nijmegen. Later, my professional journey led me to work as a contract manager. In fact, it was at an international software company where I met Geert in 2012. After two years of commuting, I finally made the move to Amsterdam in 2014 to start a new chapter.
In my final working years, I focused on the automotive sector and sustainability. Specifically, I worked on the recycling of Lithium-ion batteries at Auto Recycling Netherlands. Through this, I contributed to the circular economy.
Besides our shared passion for travel, I also indulge in running and photography. Although I’m not typically one to share personal stories, I invite you to get to know me better here or on Instagram. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out via our contact form.
Hi, I am Geert, a sports enthusiast, adventurer, and traveler at heart. Although I was born and raised in Amsterdam, I now explore the world. Furthermore, I am a proud ‘father figure’ to Jacqueline.
Even though she is not my biological daughter, I have largely raised her and consider her my own.
From an early age, I have always been passionate about sports. For example, tennis has been a lifelong love of mine.
I started playing as a kid and even spent years as a tennis coach. In recent years, golf has also become a new passion.
In fact, there’s something incredibly satisfying about hitting the perfect shot.
I have always been active through running and fitness. Despite getting a titanium hip in 2013, staying fit remains a big part of who I am.
When it comes to watching sports, my heart beats fastest for Ajax. Actually, if there’s a ball involved, you can count me in!
The adventurous side of me has always been there. Previously, I lived and worked in Boston, because I have always been drawn to the broader world. This curiosity eventually brought us here, into this incredible booming journey.
Now, I invite you to follow us here or on our other channels to get to know us better.
And together we are Ella & Geert
It all began in the spring of 2012 when we met at work. A few years later, when Ella’s daughter left for college, it felt like the right time for Ella to move to Amsterdam.
Initially, we started our life together in Geert’s apartment in the city. Although it was a wonderful first step, we dreamed of having more space and a quieter lifestyle.
Consequently, we turned that wish into reality in 2015. We sold our apartment in Amsterdam and moved to a beautiful new home in Abcoude.
For nearly four years, we lived there with great joy.
However, as they say, life is an adventure. Therefore, our greatest adventure began in September 2020.
If you have read our story so far, you now know why we no longer call Abcoude home. Instead, we travel the world and often say: ‘The world is our garden’.
Actually, that is exactly how it feels. Every day, we have the freedom to make our own choices and explore new places. Ultimately, that freedom is our greatest wealth.
Since we have let go of material possessions, we find true fulfillment in the experiences we share. For us, The Journey is our Home.