It’s hard to believe we’re just four days away from setting off on our Europe 2022 trip. There’s a mix of excitement and a quiet kind of anticipation in the air as we pack, finalize plans, and try to savor these last moments at home before the adventure begins.

Preparing for the Journey Ahead

With a family of four, travel always involves a bit of juggling—packing just enough without overdoing it, making sure the kids have their favorite books and snacks, and figuring out how to keep everyone comfortable on long train rides and flights. We’ve mapped out a route that takes us through nine countries over 78 days, from the bustling streets of London and Paris to the quieter corners of Slovenia and Croatia.

Our Route in Brief

Starting in London, we’ll hop on the Eurostar to Paris, then make our way through Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, and back to England. Each stop will be a chance to walk new streets, sip coffee in local cafés, and soak in the rhythms of everyday life.

Thinking About Pace and Presence

We’re trying to remind ourselves that this trip isn’t about rushing to check off sights, but about the small moments—morning runs along unfamiliar rivers, discovering a quiet park bench for tea, the way the kids’ faces light up over a shared pastry. It’s these memories that will stay with us long after the trip ends.

As the days dwindle down, we’re embracing the mix of nerves and excitement. There’s so much to look forward to, but also a comfort in knowing we’ll take it all one step, one train ride, one coffee break at a time.