Friday, 17 July 2026
All good journeys eventually come to an end.
Today was our final day in France and, fittingly, it was also a very special day for me—my 73rd birthday.
Knowing we had a long drive ahead, the adults quietly woke early, freshened up and packed the last few remaining items without disturbing the children, who were still fast asleep after another fun-filled day.
At 7.25 am, our two motorhomes rolled gently out of Camping La Roche d’Ully, leaving behind the peaceful valley that had been our home for the past two nights.
As we set off, Hansa, Nitin, Shital, Bharti and Vienna were the first to wish me a happy birthday.
I smiled quietly to myself.
There could hardly have been a better way to celebrate another year of life than sitting behind the wheel of a motorhome, surrounded by the people I love most.
It felt as though I had completed another small mission in life.
Last year I had promised my grandchildren that I would introduce them to camping and motorhome travel.
Today, on my birthday, that promise had been fulfilled.
The Long Road to Calais
The journey back to Calais was uneventful, just as every long drive should be.
The French motorways carried us smoothly northwards through miles of beautiful countryside, with only a couple of leisurely stops along the way to stretch our legs and enjoy refreshments.
Without encountering any significant traffic delays, we reached Calais at around 4.00 pm.
There was no need to rush.
Fortunately, we had booked flexible ferry tickets, allowing us to choose a later crossing if required.
One Last Challenge
Before boarding, we completed the UK immigration and customs formalities in Calais.
The customs officers decided to carry out a detailed inspection of the first motorhome.
Cupboards were opened.
Storage lockers checked.
Every corner seemed to attract attention.
During the inspection, one officer accidentally stood on a drawer, breaking one of its hinges.
Although I felt the inspection was rather heavy-handed, experience has taught me that border crossings are never the place for arguments.
Sometimes the wisest approach is simply to remain polite, cooperate fully and continue your journey.
Interestingly, the second motorhome received only the briefest of inspections before being waved through.
Soon afterwards we boarded a later P&O ferry and settled down for our final crossing of the English Channel.
As France slowly disappeared into the distance, I found myself reflecting on everything we had experienced over the past eight days.
The laughter around the campsite tables.
The children’s endless bicycle rides.
Swimming pools and barbecues.
Paris, the Eiffel Tower and our cruise along the Seine.
The panic of getting lost around Paris.
My unexpected swimming pool rescue.
Storm-damaged awnings.
Quiet lakes.
Mountain valleys.
And countless moments of laughter shared by three generations of one family.
Home Again
By around 7.00 pm UK time, we rolled off the ferry at Dover and were back on British soil. Although everyone was beginning to feel tired after another long day on the road, there was also a sense of satisfaction. We had completed another memorable family motorhome adventure together.
After one final fuel stop, we set off on the last leg of our journey to Leicester.
At around 10.00 pm, we turned into Ellis Drive, where Shivem was already waiting outside to welcome us home. Having flown back to England a few days earlier because of work commitments, he was eager to hear all about the adventures he had missed.
The children rushed excitedly towards him, talking over one another as they shared stories of Paris, swimming pools, bicycles, barbecues, go-karts and life in the motorhomes.
As Nitin, Bharti, Vienna and Druv left for Stanley Road, Shay and Ashaani had one final surprise in store for me.
Unbeknown to me, they had bought a small birthday cake—more like a decorated doughnut—with a single candle in the centre and tiny Eiffel Towers on the sides. They proudly placed it in front of me, lit the candle and asked me to cut the cake to celebrate my 73rd birthday, which had fallen on our journey home.
It was a simple gesture, but one filled with love. Seeing the excitement and pride on their little faces made the moment far more special than any elaborate celebration ever could. It was the perfect ending to a holiday built around family, togetherness and creating memories that money simply cannot buy.
Our French motorhome adventure had come to an end.
But the memories—and the stories—had only just begun.
Reflections
People often ask me why I continue travelling by motorhome after all these years.
The answer has never really been about the destinations.
It has always been about the journey.
Motorhomes have taken me across Britain, throughout Europe and to countless unforgettable places since 1979.
But this holiday was different.
This wasn’t about ticking famous landmarks off a list.
It wasn’t about luxury hotels or expensive restaurants.
It was about slowing down.
Eating breakfast together under an awning.
Watching grandchildren race around on bicycles.
Sharing simple meals.
Helping one another through little mishaps.
Laughing at wrong turns.
Making memories that no photograph can ever fully capture.
If, many years from now, my grandchildren remember only one thing from this holiday, I hope it won’t be the Eiffel Tower or the swimming pools.
I hope they remember how wonderful it felt to be together.
Because in the end, that is what family holidays are really about.
A Message to My Children and Grandchildren
To my dear children and grandchildren,
Thank you for giving your Grandad one of the happiest birthdays of his life.
Watching each of you laugh, play, explore and look after one another has filled my heart with immense pride.
Life will take each of you on different journeys, but never forget that the greatest adventures are rarely measured in miles. They are measured in the memories you create, the kindness you show, and the people you share them with.
Keep travelling.
Be curious.
Take the road less travelled whenever you can.
Do not be afraid to make mistakes, get lost occasionally, or change your plans. Some of life’s greatest discoveries happen when things don’t go exactly as expected.
Most importantly, always make time for family.
One day, you will realise that the people sitting around the camping table are far more important than the places you travelled to.
I hope that one day, when you have children of your own, you will take them camping, tell them stories about this holiday, and pass on the same love of travel, nature and togetherness that has given me so much happiness throughout my life.
That will be the greatest birthday present you could ever give me.
Until the next adventure…
Happy travels, and thank you for following our journey through France.
Trip Cost Breakdown
Many readers have asked about the cost of travelling around France in two hired motorhomes with a large family. To help anyone planning a similar adventure, here is a summary of our main travel expenses.
| Expense | Cost |
| Peugeot Motorhome Hire | £1,790.00 |
| Fiat Motorhome Hire | £1,750.00 |
| Peugeot Motorhome – P&O Return Ferry | £374.00 |
| Fiat Motorhome – P&O Return Ferry | £404.00 |
| Dartford Crossing (2 Motorhomes) | £14.00 |
| French Motorway Tolls (2 Motorhomes) | £580.00 |
| Six Campsites (2 Motorhomes) | £831.00 |
| Fuel (2 Motorhomes) | £1,024.00 |
| Total (excluding personal expenses) | £6,767.00 |
Journey Summary
- Total distance travelled: 1,389 miles (round trip)
- Travellers: 10 (6 adults and 4 grandchildren)
- Duration: 8 days
- Average cost per person (excluding personal expenses): £676.70
Considering that this covered transport, accommodation, and the freedom to explore France at our own pace, we felt it represented excellent value for a memorable three-generation family adventure. Naturally, everyone also had their own personal expenses for meals, shopping, attractions, and souvenirs, which are not included in the figures above.
If this blog inspires your own motorhome adventure, I hope this cost breakdown helps you plan your budget with confidence. The memories we created together were, without doubt, priceless.
Final Thoughts
As our two motorhomes rolled off the ferry at Dover and we headed home, there was a quiet sense of satisfaction among us all. What had begun as an idea to introduce our children and grandchildren to the joys of camping had turned into a journey none of us will ever forget.
Over eight wonderful days, we travelled 1,389 miles through England and France, discovering beautiful campsites, historic towns, bustling cities, and breathtaking countryside. We laughed together, solved unexpected challenges, cooked and ate together, explored together, and created memories that will stay with us for years to come.
For many of the younger members of our family, this was their very first motorhome holiday. They quickly embraced the camping lifestyle, making new friends on the campsites, enjoying the freedom of outdoor living, and appreciating the simple pleasures of life away from television and electronic gadgets. Watching them play together, ride their bikes, explore nature, and share each day’s adventures reminded us that some of life’s greatest lessons are learned outside the classroom.
Like every motorhome journey, there were a few unexpected moments. We experienced a tripped electrical supply, a wasp sting, a damaged awning, and a locker door that required repair. Yet these minor setbacks became part of the adventure and gave us stories to laugh about afterwards. Every trip teaches us something new, and every challenge becomes another cherished memory.
One of the highlights was undoubtedly sharing breakfast together each morning. Fresh French baguettes and buttery croissants sat happily alongside Indian pickles and steaming cups of masala tea—a perfect blend of our British, Indian, and African heritage. Those leisurely breakfasts, with no timetable and nowhere to rush, became some of the happiest moments of the entire holiday.
Travelling by motorhome offers a unique kind of freedom. Your accommodation, kitchen, dining room, and transport travel with you wherever you go. There is no constant packing and unpacking, no hotel check-in times, and no rigid itinerary. If you find somewhere beautiful, you simply stay a little longer.
Most importantly, this holiday reminded us that travel is not measured by the number of places visited but by the moments shared with those we love. Seeing three generations enjoying each other’s company, helping one another, and creating lifelong memories was worth far more than the miles travelled or the money spent.
Would we do it again?
Without hesitation—the answer is a resounding yes.
In fact, by the time we reached home, conversations had already begun about where our next motorhome adventure should take us. Once the camping bug bites, it rarely lets go.
To everyone who has followed our journey, read our daily blogs, commented, shared, and encouraged us along the way, thank you. Your messages made reliving each day even more enjoyable.
Until the next adventure…
Happy travels, and remember—life is not about the destination, but the wonderful memories we create along the way.
Mahesh Karadia
Wanderlove Chronicles
Awesome planning, family trip, photos, travelogue….and for less than $700 p/p for 8 days of amazing and unforgettable memories….would love to plan something like this…thank you for sharing Maheshbhaii.
Dad, you have documented this so perfectly. It’s beautiful. I cried. Thankyou for everything you have introduced us too and this incredible trip for the children. They loved every part of it and have told you repeatedly that wish it was for longer. Massive thankyou. Love you x
I am totally wowed by this, it fills my heart that you all did this together as a family. I have enjoyed reading this so much. It has been written so well, that it made me feel like I was there with you all.
What a journey it has been for you all, from the simplicity of driving to Dover and then the adventures of being in France.
You have clearly shown us all that holidaying this way is in fact more wholesome than a standard holiday.
So Happy that you and Hansabhabi achieved this and that you fulfilled your dreams and also created memorable moments for the children. You are the Best Grandad Dad and Brother.
And What a way to celebrate your 73rd Birthday.. Happy Belated Birthday…with Love from Lina and The kotadias. Xxx