Last Updated on May 27, 2025 by sophibee
As a Dutch luxury travel advisor, there’s one uniquely Dutch word I often think about when helping clients plan their journeys: voorpret.
It’s a word that doesn’t have a direct translation in English, but if you’ve ever felt a thrill of joy while scrolling through your flight confirmation, or smiled just thinking about the first sip of wine at your destination — then you’ve felt voorpret.
It’s that delicious anticipation, the joy before the trip even begins. And if you ask me, it’s one of the best parts of traveling.
The Joy of Booking Ahead
Voorpret starts the moment you confirm your plans. Suddenly the adventure is real. You start browsing restaurant menus in Paris, imagining the breeze in the Caribbean, or in my case, watching YouTube POVs of rides at Universal’s Epic Universe.
Every time you see your airliner’s countdown — the number of days until departure — it gets better.
Right now, my own “voorpret” is in full swing as I look forward to my upcoming summer in the United States. It’s a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and pure indulgence in the itinerary I’ve crafted. Let me give you a peek:
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Fenway Park, Boston – While there won’t be a game during our visit, touring a classic American ballpark is still a must. Walking through the stands, seeing the dugouts, and standing on the field offer a unique glimpse into a beloved U.S. tradition. For a Dutch traveler like me, it’s a chance to experience a slice of Americana—no crack of the bat, but all the atmosphere.
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Epic Universe at Universal Orlando – Yes, it’s finally open, and I’m headed straight into the magical chaos of Harry Potter’s Battle of the Ministry. I’ve already watched every teaser. The voorpret is real.
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CocoCay, Bahamas – Sun, turquoise water, and serenity. Just thinking about the private cabana, frozen cocktail in hand, is enough to transport me already. This isn’t just a beach day — it’s a chapter of paradise in the middle of my summer escape.
Voorpret Is Luxury Too
As someone who curates luxury travel for a living, I’ve come to believe that voorpret is part of the luxury. It’s not just about where you go — it’s about how long and how sweetly you get to anticipate it.
Planning ahead gives you more time to imagine, to dream, to savor. And luxury isn’t always tangible — sometimes, it’s in the soft glow of looking forward.
So, whether your next trip is months away or just around the corner, give yourself permission to feel the voorpret. Watch those travel vlogs. Pin those outfits. Talk about your plans over dinner. That’s the magic of travel already working.
Because the journey doesn’t start when you board the plane — it starts the moment you dream it.
Bookings
I’d love to help you plan your perfect family getaway. Please get in touch with me to discuss your travel plans. I’m here for your family every step of the way — before you travel, during your stay, and after you return home.
Ilonka Molijn – van Ginkel
Creator & Founder of Sophibee
Luxury Travel Advisor Sophibee & 360 Private Travel
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