We embark on an exciting journey to Jordan, a country filled with historical and cultural wonders.

Petra

It is known for its beautiful rock-cut buildings, like the Treasury and the Monastery. It used to be the capital city of the Nabatean Kingdom and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We began our journey by entering the “Siq”, the narrow canyon that leads you to the treasury.

Walking through the Siq canyon can be a mesmerizing experience.

The walls rise high above you, creating a feeling of being enclosed and even protected.

Finally, as you reach the end of the canyon, the dazzling sight of the Treasury comes into view.

As we turned the corner, the Siq opened up to reveal the magnificent Petra Treasury, also called Al-Khazneh. The intricately carved façade, made from rose-colored rock, left us speechless.

To fully appreciate the site’s beauty, we opt to ascend the cliff.

the city extends over a vast area mixing residences, amphitheater, temples and tombs.

This experience will take you back in time.

A local musician.

it’s like a cinema set…

Or maybe a desert postcard…

To visit the monastery, we take the northern path in the early morning to avoid the scorching heat and the large number of tourists.

At the end of the path…

.. we are greeted by the magnificent monastery building, slowly unveiled by the gentle rays of the rising sun.

The effort will be greatly rewarded.

Now it’s time to contemplate.

It was a challenging day filled with historical findings and breathtaking views that we will remember for a long time, as the children completed the journey riding on the backs of donkeys.

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum in Jordan is a stunning desert valley. It is famous for its majestic sandstone mountains, unique landscapes, and vast open spaces.

Also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a stunning desert located in southern Jordan.

Its breathtaking landscapes and unique rock formations make it a popular filming location for movies.

It is a location where you have the opportunity to examine historical engravings that date back 1000 years.

It is also a fantastic playground for kids.

After a rather difficult ascent up Jebel Burdah.

We discovered one of the highest natural rock arch in Wadi Rum, standing at a height of approximately 35 meters. It can be quite intimidating.

Our Bedouin guide prepares a traditional meal for us in the heart of the desert. As he lifts a board from the ground, something unexpected happens.

There was a black scorpion hiding underneath. It is one of the most venomous scorpions in the world.

Upon returning to the camp, we receive an invitation to indulge in a customary dinner, followed by a pleasant evening. To culminate the experience, we collectively decide to spend the night beneath the shining stars.

Despite the cold and the wildlife, we spent an incredible night that we will not soon forget

We couldn’t conclude the experience without a camel ride back.

Not as cozy as one might expect.

Our experience at Wadi Rum has come to an end.

It’s definitely the highlight of that country.

The Valley of the Moon.

The Dead Sea

Traveling north towards the capital city of Amman, we are tracing the coastline of the Dead Sea. And naturally, we have to put it to the test.

Despite the weather, we stopped at a place recommended by bloggers.

The place might not be the tidiest, but it’s free and it’s famous for its mud and warm water streams.

The impact is truly unexpected! However, be cautious of cuts or insect bites, as the high salt concentration can be harsh.

The Baptismal site of Jesus Christ

The Jordan River separates the two countries of Palestine and Jordan.

All religions have buildings represented in the area.

It seems that this is the place where Christ was baptized by John.

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Beypazari

After renting a car in Istanbul and driving to Cappadocia, we make a detour in Beypazari, which is famous as the carrot capital of Turkey.

We enjoyed a warm welcome in our hotel room with a lovely view.

Beypazari is a charming rural village that is very typical in its beauty.

And, of course, you must try the local specialty: carrot delight.

We are going for a walk at night in a peaceful village to find a restaurant.

The clairvoyant at the living museum entertained us by pouring molten metal into a basin above our heads and revealing our future.

Zola attempts to create a hand-printed design on a canvas bag using the serigraphy technique.

We have just seen a small bear that lives nearby.

Cappadocia

Göreme

Cappadocia has a variety of different landscapes, whether you’re looking at them from the ground or from above. It’s a popular destination in Turkey, and we were captivated as soon as we got there.

We couldn’t resist taking a hot air balloon ride to truly marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Uchisar Castle is a fascinating historical landmark.

The valley of “love”.. I wonder why?

The apartment provides a stunning view of the picturesque village of Göreme during the night.

Our cave studio is humid but cozy.

The captivating cave Churches of the Göreme open museum…

The apprentice photographer is vigilant.

The religious troglodytes built monastic communities and their cave churches bring a spiritual atmosphere to the region that resembles the Flintstones.

In order to reach the hidden cellar, we were required to scale the wall.

The ancient underground city of Derinkuyu could accommodate 20,000 people and is located 250 ft below the surface of the earth.

Take a moment to contemplate.

Hundreds of balloons floating in the sky, creating a magical moment at daybreak with the only sound being the roar of the burners.

We continued our journey in the direction of the South…

Lake Beyserir on the way to Antalya.

As we travel over the mountains towards the south, we sense a feeling of being the only ones on this vast road.

And suddenly, what was once a modern, well-paved highway becomes a dirt road where only a few vehicles can pass.

Antalya

The Turkish Riviera.

As a popular tourist destination, Antalya offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly options.

Antalya has a vibrant atmosphere resembling Miami beach, with a notable influence from Russian visitors. Despite this, Zola manages to have a great time in the city.

The city has a beautiful place where the river joins the ocean, creating a stunning waterfall.

Aspendos/Perge

The Amphitheatre of Aspendos Is a well preserved Roman theater.

The ancient city of Perge mostly dating back to the Roman period.

Olympos

A few kilometers from Antalya lies the archaeological site of Olympos, an ancient Roman town situated on the edge of a magnificent pebble beach.

You can easily envision the city’s impressive architecture.

It almost feels like a new Indiana Jones movie.

Mix of ruins and vegetation.

Pamukkale

Pamukkale, literally meaning “cotton castle”,is known for its mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces.

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Pamukkale, literally meaning “cotton castle”,is known for its mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces.

The clear blue water is perfect for swimming and looks like a beautiful, untouched pool.

The water temperature in the tavertines is approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

A surreal picture is formed by the combination of blue and white colors.

Cleopatra’s Pool.

According to legend, the pool was a gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra. A temple to Apollo once housed the pool, but an earthquake toppled the Doric columns, which now decorate the bottom of the pool.

I will let you try to find Janet and the kids.

Kusadasi

Kusadasi, is a vibrant coastal town that offers beautiful beaches, rich history, and lively nightlife.

We were lucky enough to rent a spacious apartment facing the sea, at a very reasonable price.

Kusadasi’s color quarter is vibrant, lively, and colorful.

Zola enjoys the sunset, but where is Janet?

Zola and I had a fun time at a Turkish salon with hairdressers who didn’t speak english.

“Life is ruff when you’re a dog sitting on a chair. It’s like the pet version of sitting on a throne!”

Sirince

The village of Sirince is located near the ancient city of Ephesus. It is known for its charming and picturesque streets, traditional stone houses, and beautiful scenery.

The village is nestled among vineyards and olive groves, creating a scenic backdrop that adds to its charm.

It’s is also home to a number of small boutique shops and local crafts.

Exploring the narrow streets of Sirince, visitors can discover traditional crafts such as pottery, embroidery, and handwoven textiles.

Ephesus

Ephesus was an ancient Roman city located in modern-day Turkey. It was once a thriving metropolis and one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire

Known for its impressive architecture, Ephesus was home to many famous structures including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, and the Temple of Artemis.

The Library of Celsus.

The Great Theater.

Counterfeit fashion: because why pay a fortune for real Gucci when you can rock a “Gugii” bag?

“Turkey is a land of rich history and warm hospitality, its people epitomizing the concept of friendly and welcoming.”

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After settling and resting in our Airbnb we decide to immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the capital.

After wandering for five days in the streets of Istanbul, we decide to rent a car to discover the Asian part of Turkey.

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It is time to change of country and almost of continent… heading to Turkey!

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We decide to stay few more days for severals reasons: The children need to catch up on school, my parents are coming to bring us the suitcase containing the rest of our things that we will send by post to Santiago and Janet is not feeling very well, surely because of fatigue…

We do the COVID test just in case…

Positive!!! OMG and my parents are on the way! … She will wear a mask.

We will still spend a good time with them.

Leon

After lengthening our stay in Burgos by one day so that Janet can continue to recover from the Covid. I buy train tickets for Leon the next big city, it also allows us to avoid the most boring part of the path.

Ouch! I got the wrong days and our tickets are out of date and of course there are no more trains and buses available, Panic! We have a reservation planned in an Albergue… No choice: Hep Taxi!

Mission accomplished! We made it! We stay in the old town which looks very festive. After a few tapas the children stay at the hostel and we leave for a romantic evening walk.

Astorga

A new long day awaits us and it promises to be very hot with a fairly steep path but a postcard landscape.

 We sometimes have to cross the highway which is very busy with trucks.

It is time for us to arrive at Astorga..

We take advantage with Janet to take a tour of the city to admire its Gothic cathedral and the episcopal palace designed by Gaudi

Molinaseca

We have to catch up on our delay so it’s a new long walk that awaits us today.  We are going more and more into the mountain ranges.

We will pass by the famous cross where pilgrims leave a personal object.

We will also visit the hermit hut.

After a long steep descent and a few crossings of picturesque villages, we arrive at our destination: Molinaseca.

Las Herrerias

We leave the hostel early pushed by a rather grumpy host. The taxi that will advance us a little will confirm its reputation.

This morning we follow the road for the majority of the way. It is a very green landscape that surrounds us.

We arrive at Las Herrerias which has a fell of an alpine village crossed by a pretty little river where we refresh ourselves.

O Cebreiro

Departure in the morning mist towards O Cebreiro.

On the way we meet our first family of four children, they come from Israel.

If there is a village that I had to choose on the Camino I think it would be this one. By its location and its architectural and picturesque charm. It reminds me of my childhood vacation village.

Fronfria

After spending the night in a barn transformed into a dormitory, we start our day by taking more or less steep mountain paths.

But fortunately the walk will be of short duration today because we have not found accommodation for the next stage, only a brand new hotel a few kilometers away.

Ferreiros

Once again we start the day by transport to Sarria, it is from this city that many pilgrims start the camino because it corresponds approximately to the last 100 km necessary to validate the pilgrimage to Santiago.

We will meet many walkers on its rocky trails. Finally we land in a refuge in the middle of the countryside where we will spend the night.

Palas de Rei

Departure rather cool, in a morning mist.

We stopped at a couple of elderly house who have decorated their inner courtyard beautifully, to have breakfast. Journey to rural and verdant Spain.

To enter the city of Portmarin we have to cross a bridge of a dizzying height, the pedestrian way being very narrow it is better to look ahead!

We will finally arrive at Palas De Rei where I will not dwell on the details (it is not a very pleasant city).

Melide

Another beautiful day awaits us, we will meet more and more pilgrims on the way as well as groups of students.

The medieval stone villages delight us.

But the children hurry to get to our next accommodation as quickly as possible, where there is a swimming pool… but not heated. Mixed the capital of the octopus, we will absolutely have to taste the specialty.

A Lavacolla

After a good night of digestion and rest, we begin our penultimate stage towards A Lavacolla, it’s the last 50 kilometers that separate us from Santiago.

It is there that we meet an Australian couple accompanied by two young children who are also traveling le world for a period of four months.

We will end the day in the last dormitory of our Spanish adventure. We must not go to bed late because tomorrow we have to get up early for the final stopover.

Santiago de Compostela

Waking up very early and wet for this ultimate and last stage of our long journey. Indeed we start walking in the light of our headlamps and under a light rain.

Even if the day is not looking good, we remain motivated.

We cross the big city of Santiago in the greyness.

Even if the day is not looking good, we remain motivated to complete this final day of walking.

And it is with a lot of emotions that we take the last steps on the famous square of Santiago like all the other pilgrims. Despite the pain, fatigue and discouragement we complete one of our biggest challenges of this trip. Without really having done the precise calculation, I think that we covered about 350 km (217 miles) on foot with the backpacks except once. It fills us with joy and pride!

We stay another day in Santiago to recuperate and to participate in the famous Botafumerio mass where we are invited by a pilgrim in honor of his deceased brother.

It is now necessary to move on, direction Madrid to take the plane for Turkey.

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Villebois-lavalette

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Until the last minute, just before taking the taxi, we were still packing up and sorting out the final arrangements for the rental of the house, vehicle sales, cat sitting and much more.

Saint Saturnin les Apts

Thanks to the warm welcome of my cousin, we can breathe and appreciate the wonderful assets of the region.

Magnificent little town in the north of salon de provence. We stayed there for three days, including a memorable one swimming near the Fort de Brégançon, the presidential summer residence.

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Our Year of World Travel

As a formal family of four, we made the decision a few years ago to embark on an incredible adventure – to travel the world for one year. This was not a spontaneous decision, but one that required careful planning and consideration. We understood the challenges and sacrifices involved, but we also knew that the learning experiences and memories we would gain from our journey would far outweigh any temporary inconveniences.

Preparation and Logistics

Before we set off on our journey, we spent months preparing and organizing every detail. This included researching destinations, creating a budget, and ensuring that our children’s education wouldn’t be compromised during our absence. We also made the necessary arrangements regarding our jobs, finances, and visas to ensure a smooth transition into a nomadic lifestyle.

Itinerary

We were eager to explore as many countries and cultures as possible during our year of world travel. Our itinerary included a mix of well-known tourist destinations and off-the-beaten-path locations. We wanted to experience a range of landscapes, cuisines, and traditions, exposing our children to the diverse beauty and wonders of our planet.

Education on the Road

We firmly believed that our children’s education should not be put on hold during our year of travel. While we embraced the opportunity for hands-on learning experiences in various countries, we also made sure to incorporate structured education into our daily routine. We used online resources, homeschooling materials, and local educational opportunities to ensure our children continued to develop academically and intellectually throughout our journey.

The Joys and Challenges

Our year of world travel was filled with countless joys and unforgettable experiences. The bond we formed as a family grew stronger with each new destination we explored together. We delighted in witnessing our children’s curiosity and adaptability in new environments. We also learned valuable life lessons along the way, becoming more resilient and appreciative of the world’s diversity.

Of course, there were challenges as well. Living out of suitcases and constantly adapting to new surroundings could be tiring and overwhelming at times. Language barriers occasionally presented difficulties, but we always found ways to communicate and connect with locals, creating meaningful connections and memories.

A Year That Transformed Us

Our year of world travel was truly transformative. We returned home with a changed perspective on life, a deeper understanding of different cultures, and a profound appreciation for the world’s beauty. This adventure strengthened our family bonds and instilled in us a sense of wanderlust that will continue to shape our lives and future travels.

We are forever grateful for the opportunity to have embarked on this journey together and would encourage anyone considering a similar adventure to follow their dreams and explore the world – it will be an experience of a lifetime.

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