Our care holiday experience with the Heinz Special Holiday Travel Foundation
By Britt Keulen (19) and Esmée Sassen (20)
Nursing Student IG - Internship abroad in May 2025
In May 2025, we, Britt and Esmée, went on an unforgettable care holiday to Bad Bevensen as interns with the Heinz Special Holiday Travel Foundation. We were in our final year of nursing training. It wasn't the first time for either of us: Britt had previously traveled to Bad Peterstal, and Esmée had traveled on the Prince Willem Alexander Ship.
This internship week was part of our international internship. It was a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the healthcare sector, in a way that truly makes an impact. A healthcare holiday is not only special for the guests, but also incredibly educational and enriching for us as healthcare students.
The week in Bad Bevensen – Day by day
Saturday, May 17
The trip began early in the morning in Maastricht, at the Appelpark Hotel. After meeting the other volunteers and a briefing from Heinz, we met our guests at the Geusselt. Around 10:00 AM, the bus departed for Bad Bevensen. On the bus, we got to know the guests better. After arriving at the hotel at 6:00 PM, we settled everyone into their rooms. That evening, we enjoyed dinner and a quiet evening. 
Sunday
We started with a free morning walk. In the afternoon, there was a fun game of bingo, which everyone enthusiastically participated in.
Monday
We visited the charming town of Celle. On the way back, we passed the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, which the driver briefly described. That day, we also celebrated the birthday of one of our guests.
Tuesday
In the morning we went for another walk with a small group. In the afternoon we enjoyed a pleasant afternoon at the forest café, organized by the hotel.
Wednesday
On a trip to the zoo in Hannover – an impressive and large zoo where everyone visibly enjoyed themselves.
Thursday
A relaxing day. In the morning and evening, we played games with the guests. As interns, we had the afternoon off, which we spent relaxing in the thermal baths of Bad Bevensen.
Friday
We visited the historic town of Lüneburg. We shopped, strolled, and finished off with a delicious ice cream.
Saturday
On the return trip, we stopped in Vaals for a delicious three-course dinner. In Maastricht, our guests were picked up by family.
Working with guests – Personal care experiences
Britt:
My guest had a brain injury, was partially paralyzed, and had difficulty speaking. He had been with me before and knew me from a previous trip. We started each morning singing—his enthusiasm was infectious. We laughed a lot and built a strong bond.
Esmée:
My first guest, born with asphyxia, was on his first unaccompanied holiday. Unfortunately, we didn't get along very well. After consulting with Heinz, I switched guests with a colleague. I was caring for two good friends at the time: one had COPD, diabetes, and heart problems, among other things, and the other had epilepsy. It was special to care for these men and give them a wonderful holiday.
What this internship abroad meant to us
Our care holiday with the Heinz Foundation was more than just an internship: it was an enriching experience full of fun, connection, and personal growth. We not only provided care but also built warm relationships and gained valuable practical experience.
What we take away most? The smiles of the guests, the wonderful collaboration with the volunteers, and the satisfaction that comes from truly making a difference for others.
Are you looking for an internship abroad in healthcare? Or would you like to volunteer on an unforgettable healthcare holiday?
Visit our page on care holidays and internships abroad for more information.