This November, a group of 2nd year Business students took part in a short international study trip to Amsterdam, designed to bring classroom topics such as international business Unit 5 to life in a real-world environment. Organised by the college, the visit aimed to help students explore how culture, tourism and global business connect in one of Europe’s most distinctive cities.
The journey itself was part of the experience. Students travelled on an overnight ferry from North Shields, spending 18 hours on board before arriving in the Netherlands. The long crossing allowed the group to relax together, plan the day ahead, and get a first taste of travelling as a group outside the UK. For many, it was their first time travelling this way, and it added a sense of adventure before they even stepped into the city, as well as spending time on the ship.
Once in Amsterdam, students were immediately struck by how different the city felt. Bikes filled every street, narrow buildings leaned at unusual angles, and canals wound through neighborhoods that felt both historic and modern at the same time. The emphasis on sustainability and outdoor living made an impression, with students noticing how people seemed to priorities active travel, green spaces and a slower pace of life, over money and fast paced life.
The group began their day with a guided canal tour, which offered both a scenic introduction to the city and a chance to learn about its economic foundations. The tour passed key landmarks including the leaning canal houses, the Mayor’s House, and Amsterdam’s original stock exchange, previously known as one of the first in the world. Students learned how these buildings weren’t just architectural quirks, but evidence of a city built on trade, innovation and global connections developed over the centuries. The guide explained how the canals once functioned as both transport routes and business lifelines, shaping Amsterdam’s development into a major trading power. Additionally, passing under the “Seven Bridges” gave students a panoramic view of the city’s layout, prompting discussions about how geography has influenced economic success.
Throughout the day, students explored historic trading areas and cultural districts that illustrated Amsterdam’s transition from a city known for materials, tools, and shipping to one shaped by tourism, creativity, and international organisations. Seeing these changes in a real place added context to topics covered in lessons about global markets, service industries, and cultural economics.
Academically, the trip showed how European cities have adapted to globalisation while retaining a sense of identity. Students observed how Amsterdam has used its heritage as part of its economic strategy, turning history into an asset that attracts millions of visitors every year. This raised discussions about consumer behaviour, sustainability, and the challenges of balancing tourism with local life.
Outside of structured learning, students enjoyed exploring the city on foot and sampling local food. Visiting cafés and food stalls gave them a chance to experience Amsterdam’s relaxed culture first-hand. Many were surprised by how friendly and laid-back the atmosphere felt, especially in such a popular and busy destination.
Several students reflected on how the trip encouraged them to think differently about their futures. Stefan, one of the students who attended, said that visiting Amsterdam “made me wonder what it would be like to live there and start an enterprise in such a dynamic place,” noting how visible entrepreneurship and start-up culture seemed in the city.
For many, the trip offered much more than sightseeing. It brought theory to life, encouraged independent thinking and helped students gain confidence in navigating new environments, outside of the UK.
As the ferry returned to the UK, the group reflected how quickly the day had passed, but also how much they had seen, learned, and experienced. The visit left students with new perspectives on business, culture, and international living and a shared excitement for future opportunities to explore beyond the classroom.
An amazing opportunity, which our students took advantage of and now understand more about international business and globalisation.
Written by Stefan Tica
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