The Airborne Experience
From History to Reflection
I don’t guide you through history
I guide you through what history left behind.
From the past back to the future
From war to inner peace
Welcome,
My name is Jasmijn Derckx. I grew up in Oosterbeek, surrounded by the stories and memories of Operation Market Garden. As a child, I was one of the local flower girls who honoured the veterans each year. Veterans stayed in our family home across from the former Hotel Dreijeroord, known as The White House. Their stories became part of my own story.
Today, I invite you to experience Oosterbeek in a different way.
The Airborne Experience is not a traditional battlefield tour. It is a personal journey through places, stories and memories that continue to shape generations.
Why People Join
Many visitors come to Oosterbeek because of a personal connection.
A grandfather who fought here.
A relative who never returned home.
A family story that has been passed down through generations.
Others come because they are fascinated by the history of Operation Market Garden and want to understand its human impact beyond the facts and dates.
Whatever brings you here, The Airborne Experience offers an opportunity to explore this remarkable landscape in a meaningful and personal way.
What to Expect
During this guided experience we visit significant locations connected to the Battle of Arnhem and Operation Market Garden.
Along the way, I share stories, local insights and historical context. We take time to reflect on the people behind the history and the lasting impact of war on individuals, families and communities.
This is not about reliving the past.
It is about understanding it.
The experience creates space for remembrance, reflection and connection while exploring one of the most important historical landscapes in Europe.
A Unique Perspective
My professional background combines more than thirty years of experience in the field of personal injury and recovery support with a lifelong connection to Oosterbeek and its wartime history.
As an author, recovery coach and guide, I bring together history, storytelling and human experience in a way that helps visitors connect more deeply with the places they visit.
Practical Information
The Airborne Experience is suitable for:
- Descendants and family members of WWII veterans
- Visitors with a personal connection to Operation Market Garden
- History enthusiasts seeking a more meaningful experience
- Individuals and small groups
The experience can be tailored to your interests and personal connection to the region.
Book Your Experience
Whether you are searching for a family connection, a deeper understanding of history or simply a meaningful way to experience Oosterbeek, I would be honoured to guide you.
Reserve your place and discover the stories that still live within this landscape.
Maybe you know my story about PAX44? You can read it here
I’m looking forward to welcome you in Oosterbeek!
Lest we forget.
Jasmijn Derckx
In half a day you will:
- Discover Oosterbeek beyond the history books
- Walk through the landscape of Operation Market Garden with a local guide
- Hear personal stories that reveal the human side of history
- Experience a journey of remembrance, reflection and connection
Picture: ‘Lecture in The Hague with Marco Kroon (Militaire Willems-Orde) about PAX44’
Practical information
What’s included?
The Airborne Experience is a half day guided experience in Oosterbeek, the Netherlands. The tour is conducted in English and is suitable for individuals, couples and groups up to 4 persons.
During the walk, we visit significant locations connected to Operation Market Garden while exploring the stories, memories and human impact that continue to shape this remarkable landscape. Every experience offers space for reflection and a deeper understanding of the history behind the places we visit.
The experience is offered on selected dates throughout the year. The meeting point and all practical details will be shared after your booking.
Pricing
€99,00 per person exl. VAT
(children above 16, because of the workshops it’s not suitable for younger children)
Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Airborne Memorial Service; https://airbornememorialservice.nl/organisatie/
Cancellation policy
If you cancel your booking, I am unable to offer a refund. You are welcome to reschedule to another available date within one year of your original payment.
If I need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a full refund.
Included:
English speaking guide
Transfers
A drink per person
Surprise gift as a rememberance