I’m heading to the Netherlands to pick up my (new to me) van! His name is Kenny, and I’m buying him from The Steiners, a family that have been travelling through Europe and surrounds for the past few years.

After months of anticipation, and a few weeks visiting with my daughter in the UK, tonight is the night I finally lay eyes on it. But first, there’s a journey ahead.

The Journey Begins

I’ve been staying in a town just outside of Oxford. Step 1 – get the bus to the train station. After a quick check, it’s confirmed—bus number five is the one I need. Next stop: the train station, where I catch a train from Oxford to Paddington. Navigating through Paddington Station, I make my way to the Circle Line, heading towards my next connection.

Arriving at St Pancras International, I brace myself for what feels like an airport-style boarding process. The efficiency of the staff is incredible—hundreds of people are being processed at lightning speed. Before long, I’m sitting in the station, waiting to board my train to Rotterdam. A quick breakfast—pastry and an apple turnover—keeps me going.

Across Borders

The journey continues as my train departs. As we roll into Brussels, I take a short break, enjoying the fact that everything so far has gone smoothly. With two hours to wait before my next train, I grab a drink and observe the flow of people around me. There’s something about traveling that makes you appreciate the little things—like the eco-friendly cardboard cups here, with no plastic lids.

The next leg of my trip takes me from Rotterdam to Zwolle by train. From there, I need to book another ticket to Houten, where I’ll finally meet the lovely people selling me my van. Even though I won’t actually receive it until tomorrow, tonight I get my first look at it—a moment I’ve been eagerly awaiting.

Note to self. Pay attention to crossing timezones! I missed my train because my clock was still on UK time! Thankfully there was another one that still made my connection.

The First Look

After several train rides, minor delays (including realizing my clock was off by an hour and missing a train), and some hurried connections, I finally arrive in Houten. And then—it’s here. My van. The excitement is overwhelming.

I meet The Steiners, a family of four that have lived in Kenny for the past year. and they take me to see my new home on wheels. It feels much bigger than my old van, and I take in every detail. The Netherlands’ famous bike culture is on full display as I notice the sheer number of bicycles at every train station—ten times more bikes than people. And Kenny comes with his own bike!

Tonight, I won’t sleep in the van just yet; we’re staying in a large shed behind the house. But tomorrow is the big day. No more waiting—this is happening!

First Drive: Terror and Triumph

Morning arrives, and it’s time. My van comes to pick me up, and reality sets in—I’m about to drive this thing! As I settle into the driver’s seat, one small issue becomes apparent: the gear stick is on the wrong side. Adjusting to driving on the right-hand side of the road is a challenge, to say the least.

Nervous but determined, I set off. Within minutes, I find myself in a school zone, adrenaline pumping as I try to navigate my first real stretch of road. Everything feels enormous. Every turn is an exercise in caution. I pull over to take a breath, reminding myself that I can do this.

And then, it’s time for the real test: a three-hour drive to my first campsite. A deep breath, a quick call to my kids (just in case), and I’m off.

The Adventure Begins

I made it! I survived my first drive, and now, the real adventure begins. If you want to follow along, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and check out my latest video. There’s so much more to come on this incredible van life journey!