Rotterdam took me by surprise. I knew it was a city with a fascinating history, but I didn’t expect to fall in love with it as quickly as I did. From its bold architecture to its quirky public art and lively waterfront, Rotterdam completely won me over. Here are some of my favourite things about this incredible city. A City Rebuilt with Creativity Unlike many … Continue reading Why Rotterdam & Amsterdam are SO COOL!

I’m about to do the most stereotypical thing imaginable in the Netherlands — ride a bike to see some windmills. But what I didn’t expect was to come away genuinely fascinated, a little bit awestruck, and suddenly very aware that these beautiful old structures are the reason entire communities are still standing today. I came to Kinderdijk because it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and … Continue reading Van Trip to Netherlands Windmills – Amazing UNESCO Engineering Marvel

I’ve just had my first night in the van, and let me tell you, it’s been a mix of excitement, learning curves, and a little bit of chaos. But, so far, it’s been amazing. I’m in a beautiful spot, surrounded by windmills, with the sun setting on the horizon, and I can’t help but feel that I’m exactly where I need to be. Here’s a … Continue reading My Van Life Adventure: First Days on the Road

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 … Continue reading Starting my Europe Solo Female Van Life!

I recently found myself in the beautiful town of Cirencester, the unofficial capital of the Cotswolds, while on a house-sitting adventure. This charming town offers so much history, from its connection to an Earl whose family inspired the name of the Australian town, Bathurst, to its Roman roots when it was called Corinium. I stayed in a cozy house with a little cat, and we … Continue reading A Journey Through Cirencester: Discovering the Heart of the Cotswolds

Visiting Oxford feels like stepping into a living storybook. This city, with its roots tracing back over 900 years, has been a wellspring of inspiration for some of literature’s greatest minds, including C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Lewis Carroll. Each cobblestone street and ancient college whispers tales of the past, making it a vibrant tapestry of history and creativity. On my latest trip, I immersed … Continue reading Exploring the Enchantment of Oxford: A Journey Through History and Inspiration

🚐 Hi, I’m Helen I’m a fifty-something Aussie living and travelling in my Toyota Coaster bus — figuring out off-grid life, renovations, and everything that comes with doing something a little different later in life. What started as a van for weekend trips turned into a solo vanlife adventure around Europe… and now a full-time bus life back here in Australia. This website is where … Continue reading I’m Helen. Nice to meet you!