With our unforgettable European adventure slowly drawing to a close, we began our return journey towards Calais for the ferry crossing back to Dover. Although there was a slight sense of sadness knowing the trip was coming to an end, we were also filled with satisfaction and wonderful memories from the many countries, cities, and experiences we had shared together over the past days.
The drive towards Calais gave us one final opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey we had completed — from the racing heritage of Le Mans, the spiritual atmosphere of Lourdes, the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the elegance of Geneva, and the fairy-tale beauty of Bruges. Every destination had offered something unique, and every mile travelled had added another memorable chapter to our adventure.
As we approached the ferry terminal, Meera bravely took the wheel and confidently drove our beloved old Kontiki motorhome onto the ferry — no small task considering its size and age. Watching the huge ferry swallow up rows of cars, coaches, lorries, and motorhomes was an impressive sight in itself. Modern cross-channel ferries are like floating mini cities, capable of carrying thousands of passengers and hundreds of vehicles across the English Channel in a single journey.
Once onboard, we had time to relax and enjoy the excellent facilities available on the ferry. Large passenger lounges, restaurants, cafés, duty-free shopping areas, comfortable seating, play areas, and panoramic sea views all made the crossing both enjoyable and comfortable. One of the highlights was sitting down to a hearty full English breakfast onboard the ferry itself — far more enjoyable than rushing breakfast at the campsite. With hot tea, eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, toast, and hash browns, it was the perfect meal to enjoy while sailing across the Channel.
As the white cliffs of Dover gradually came into view, there was a comforting feeling that home was not far away. Before long, we were back on British roads and heading home, arriving safely by evening.
Looking back, one very special mention must go to our faithful old 1995 Kontiki motorhome. This remarkable vehicle has already been part of an epic London-to-Mumbai road trip, during which its gearbox developed an issue in Berlin. Since then, it has been driven using only four gears instead of five — yet it still continued to serve us with admirable strength and determination.
Despite its age, and despite this mechanical limitation, the Kontiki carried us across thousands of kilometres and through several countries without a single hitch. It became far more than just a means of transport. It was our home on wheels, our kitchen, our shelter, our resting place, and an important character in the story of our adventure.
Reliable, comfortable, and full of charm, the old Kontiki served us brilliantly from start to finish. Every mile it covered reminded us of its resilience and character, and for that we were truly grateful.
As this journey came to an end, the memories, laughter, friendships, shared meals, long drives, and unforgettable experiences would remain with us forever — until the next adventure begins.
