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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Après nous être installés et reposés dans notre appartement, nous décidons de nous immerger dans l'ambiance de la capitale.

Après avoir erré pendant cinq jours dans les rues d'Istanbul, nous décidons de louer une voiture pour découvrir la partie asiatique de la Turquie.

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Il est temps de changer de pays et presque de continent… cap sur la Turquie !

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Nous décidons de rester quelques jours de plus pour plusieurs raisons : Les enfants doivent rattraper leur retard scolaire, mes parents viennent nous apporter la valise contenant le reste de nos affaires que nous enverrons par la poste à Santiago et Janet n'est pas très bien, probablement à cause de la fatigue… -

Nous faisons quand même le COVID test au cas ou…

Positive!!! Oh non et mes parents qui arrivent bientôt! … Elle va devoir porter le masque.

Nous passerons quand même du bon temps ensemble .

Leon

Après avoir rallongé d'une journée notre séjour à Burgos pour que Janet puisse continuer à se remettre du Covid. J'achète des billets de train pour Léon la prochaine grande ville, ça nous permet aussi d'éviter la partie la plus ennuyeuse du chemin.

Aie! Je me suis trompé de jours et nos billets sont périmés et bien sûr il n'y a plus de trains et de bus disponibles, panique ! Nous avons une réservation prévue dans une Albergue… Pas le choix : Hep Taxi !

Mission accomplie! Nous sommes arrivé a bon port! Nous logeons dans la vieille ville qui s'annonce très festive. Après quelques tapas les enfants restent à l'auberge et nous partons pour une balade romantique en soirée.

Astorga

Une nouvelle longue journée nous attend et elle s'annonce très chaude avec un chemin assez raide mais un paysage de carte postale.

 Nous devons parfois traverser de grandes avenues très fréquentées par les camions.

Il est temps pour nous d'arriver à Astorga..

Nous profitons avec Janet, de faire un tour de la ville pour admirer sa cathédrale gothique et le palais épiscopal conçu par Gaudi.

Molinaseca

Il faut rattraper notre retard alors c'est une nouvelle longue marche qui nous attend aujourd'hui. Nous allons de plus en plus dans les massifs montagneux.

Nous passerons devant la fameuse croix où chaque pèlerin depose un objet personnel.

Nous passerons voir aussi le fameux hermite.

Après une longue descente raide et quelques traversées de villages pittoresques, nous arrivons à notre destination : Molinaseca.

Las Herrerias

Nous quittons l'auberge de bonne heure poussés par un hôte plutôt grincheux. Le taxi qui nous avancera un peu confirmera sa réputation.

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

Nous arrivons à las harresa qui a des airs de village alpin traversé par une jolie petite rivière où nous nous rafraîchissons.

O Cebreiro

Départ dans la brume matinale vers O Cebreiro.

En chemin nous rencontrons notre première famille de quatre enfants, ils viennent d'Israël.

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

Après avoir passé la nuit dans une grange transformée en dortoir, nous commençons notre journée en empruntant des chemins de montagne plus ou moins escarpés.

Mais heureusement la marche sera de courte durée aujourd'hui car nous n'avons pas trouvé d'hébergement pour la prochaine étape, seulement un hôtel tout neuf à quelques kilomètres de là.

Ferreiros

Une fois de plus nous commençons la journée en transport jusqu'à Sarria, c'est de cette ville que de nombreux pèlerins commencent le camino car cela correspond approximativement aux 100 derniers km nécessaires pour valider le pèlerinage à Santiago.

Nous croiserons de nombreux promeneurs sur ses sentiers rocailleux. Enfin nous atterrissons dans un refuge en pleine campagne où nous passerons la nuit.

Palas de Rei

Départ plutôt frais, dans le brouillard matinal.

Nous nous sommes arrêtés chez un couple de personnes âgées qui ont joliment décoré leur cour intérieure, pour prendre le petit déjeuner. Voyage en Espagne rurale et verdoyante.

Pour entrer dans la ville de Portmarin il faut traverser un pont d'une hauteur vertigineuse, la voie piétonne étant très étroite il vaut mieux regarder devant soi!

Nous arriverons enfin à Palas De Rei où je ne m'attarderai pas sur les détails (ce n'est pas une ville très mémorable).

Melide

Une autre belle journée nous attend, nous croiserons de plus en plus de pèlerins sur le chemin ainsi que des groupes d'étudiants.

Les villages médiévaux en pierre nous ravissent.

Mais les enfants se dépêchent d'arriver au plus vite à notre prochain logement, où il y a une piscine… mais pas chauffée. Melide: la capitale du poulpe, il nous faudra absolument goûter à la spécialité.

A Lavacolla

Après une bonne nuit de digestion et de repos, nous entamons notre avant-dernière étape vers A Lavacolla, ce sont les 50 derniers kilomètres qui nous séparent de Santiago.

C'est là que nous rencontrons un couple australien accompagné de deux jeunes enfants qui parcourent également le monde pour une durée de quatre mois.

Nous terminerons la journée dans le dernier dortoir de notre aventure espagnole. Il ne faut pas se coucher tard car demain il faut se lever tôt pour la dernière escale.

Santiago de Compostela

Réveil très matinal et mouillé pour cette ultime et dernière étape de notre long périple. En effet nous commençons à marcher à la lueur de nos lampes frontales et sous une pluie fine.

Même si la journée ne s'annonce pas belle, nous restons motivés.

Nous traversons la grande ville de Santiago dans la grisaille.

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

Et c'est avec beaucoup d'émotions que nous faisons les derniers pas sur la célèbre place de Santiago comme tous les autres pèlerins. Malgré la douleur, la fatigue et le découragement nous complétons l'un de nos plus grands défis de ce voyage. Sans vraiment avoir fait le calcul précis, je pense que nous avons parcouru environ 350 km (217 miles) à pied avec les sacs à dos sauf une fois. Cela nous remplit de joie et de fierté !

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.

Il faut maintenant repartir, direction Madrid pour prendre l'avion pour la Turquie.

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Villebois-lavalette

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Jusqu'à la dernière minute, juste avant de prendre le taxi, nous étions encore en train de faire nos bagages et de régler les derniers arrangements pour la location de la maison, la vente des véhicules, la garde du chat et bien plus encore.

Saint Saturnin les Apts

Grâce à l'accueil chaleureux de mon cousin, nous pouvons respirer et apprécier les merveilleux atouts de la région.

Magnifique petit village au nord de salon de provence. Nous y sommes restés trois jours, dont une journée mémorable à nager près du Fort de Brégançon, la résidence d'été présidentielle.

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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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