View all Blog's
Municipal Unit of Thestieis
Exploring the Municipal Unit of Thestieis: A Family Journey
We’re back on the mainland! Mirre and Jinte kick off the day with a fun shopping trip in Patras—Jinte’s shirts are getting too small. In the evening, we find a peaceful beach spot to park for the night, soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere.
Scenic Drive to the Lake
The following day, we head towards a breathtaking lake. The drive is nothing short of stunning. Along the way, we search for the perfect spot to stay and discover a lovely taverna with a playground right next door—instant joy for the girls!
Fun, Creativity & Family Excitement
Our day is filled with a mix of work, creativity, and play. Jinte invents fruit-themed games, they sing songs dedicated to the king, and most importantly, they start counting down the hours. Why? Because tomorrow is the day Grandma Jeandrine and Grandpa Jan arrive!
Preparing for Family Time
We’re already heading to the house where we’ll spend the upcoming week together as a family—such excitement in the air! Before arriving, we stop for a big grocery haul. Every item the girls want to buy comes with the same argument: “But grandpa and grandma like this too!” They make quite the case!
A Heartfelt Countdown to Tomorrow
Just one more sleep until the big family reunion. The girls can hardly wait. We look forward to laughter, memories, and adventures in the beautiful Municipal Unit of Thestieis.
See you tomorrow, Grandpa and Grandma!
Ioannina
Ioannina: Discovering a Vibrant Greek Student City
Ioannina is truly a lively student city in Greece, full of charm and a relaxed ambiance. We were lucky to find a perfect spot to park our camper, located right next to a small park and within walking distance of the city center. It’s a cozy area, ideal for families traveling with children.
A Stroll Through the City and the Historic Fortress
We started our visit with a refreshing walk around the neighborhood, stopping by a local playground for the kids. The next morning, we explored the perimeter of the famous Ioannina Fortress before entering the historic complex. The experience of walking through the old fortress city felt surprisingly comforting—like coming home. The ancient atmosphere and preserved architecture added a magical touch to our morning.
Visiting a Mosque: A Moment of Reflection
During our exploration, we visited a centuries-old mosque. We were both astonished by how few mosques we had visited before and how little we actually knew about Islam. It turned out to be a powerful educational moment for all of us. Thanks to the informational signs around the site, and some assistance from ChatGPT, we were able to answer all of our daughter Jinte’s curious questions. It became a truly educational and meaningful day for the entire family.
Unexpected Adventures: A Shoe Hunt and Happy Kids
Back at the camper, Johan realized his shoes had finally given up. Remembering a frustrating shoe-shopping experience in Athens, we opted for a straightforward solution this time: go to Intersport and buy a new pair. Quick and hassle-free! Mission accomplished with a fresh pair of trendy sneakers.
Near our camper, we discovered a unique feature seen in various parts of Greece: a children’s traffic park. Our youngest, Jinte, had the time of her life zooming around the mini roads with a local Greek boy. Mirre suspected the boy might be autistic, which made the shared joy between the kids even more special. Meanwhile, Diede was a bit upset about not having a scooter or a proper bike with pedals—a tough life at four!
Bike Issues and Final Preparations
Unfortunately, the new pedal for our family bike, brought all the way from the Netherlands by Grandpa and Grandma, didn’t fit quite right. A minor setback. Thankfully, Jinte’s doll seat fit just fine, so we made the most of it. We squeezed in a quick family workout and lunch before setting out for our next destination.
Next Stop: The Majestic Vikos Gorge
Our journey continues as we head toward Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. This natural wonder promises breathtaking views and unforgettable hikes. Stay tuned as we explore one of Greece’s hidden gems.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or with your family, Ioannina offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and playful discoveries that make it a must-visit destination in northern Greece!
Parga Municipality
Exploring the Beauty of Parga Municipality
With a clean and well-stocked camper, we’re back on the road again. Grandpa and grandma’s suitcase was packed full of everything—from new sandals to aged Dutch cheese. Last week, we gave the camper a much-needed deep clean, including washing the bedding and the couch covers. Now, everything feels fresh and ready for our next adventure.
Easy Travels and Fresh Beginnings
Fortunately, we don’t have to drive far today. We figured that was best, especially after the emotional goodbye with grandma and grandpa—we expected a tough day but it turned out better than anticipated. The girls are a bit quiet and keeping to themselves, which isn’t surprising after such an exciting week. They probably need some time to recharge… just like their grandparents, no doubt!
Back to Our Mobile Home by the Beach
Staying in a house was lovely, but there’s something special about returning to our own cozy camper. We’ve found a beautiful free spot near a beach, and within an hour, all evidence of our deep clean has vanished thanks to the kids’ activities!
Sunshine, Sea, and Family Fun
Although rain was in the forecast, we’re lucky to be enjoying bright sunshine. It’s so warm and pleasant that we decide to go for a swim. The sea water is actually warmer than the pool at the house! Jinte and Mirre set out snorkeling—an exciting first for Jinte in the sea. We even spotted three different kinds of fish! It’s moments like these that convince us to stay an extra day.
Later, Mirre takes a long walk while chatting with a friend on the phone. Afterwards, we all plunge into the ocean together. Jinte even musters up the courage to practice swimming without her floaties!
Charming Local Scenes in Parga Municipality
Every morning, a herd of sheep and goats passes by our camper, and returns again in the late afternoon. It’s such a charming sight! They’re kept in a little stable just down the path.
One aspect that continues to surprise us is how the locals handle waste. Despite the presence of trash bins, litter often surrounds the small farms, which stands out amid the beautiful landscape.
Filming Memories for Family Back Home
We recorded a short video near the goats for our nephew’s first birthday. Remember him? Jinte and Mirre flew out to visit him last year from Slovenia. Back then, we never imagined we’d still be traveling a year later—though it was always a dream. Lucky us!
This time in Parga Municipality has brought us so many unexpected joys and unforgettable family moments. Whether it’s the serenity of the beach, the thrill of discovering marine life, or simply watching the goats wander by, we’re soaking in every bit of it.
Conclusion: Camper Life in Parga Municipality
If you’re planning a trip to Greece, don’t overlook the charm of Parga Municipality. From seaside camping spots and unique wildlife experiences to intimate family adventures, this region has it all. Whether you stay for a day or for weeks, the warmth of the sun and the wonder of nature will leave a lasting impression.
Lefkada
Family Adventures in Lefkada: A Greek Island Getaway
We arrived one day early at the charming vacation home in Lefkada, Greece, where we would be spending the week with Mirre’s parents. Our camper couldn’t fit under the olive trees in the driveway, but thankfully, there was enough space to park it on the quiet street next to the house. The girls were beyond excited — we had a house with a private swimming pool!
Enjoying Simple Luxuries in a Greek Villa
That afternoon, we took our first dip in the pool and fully enjoyed the little luxuries, like having a washing machine. On campsites or in laundromats, you pay around 5 to 7 euros per wash, so we made the most of it now that it was included.
Early Morning Excitement: Airport Pick-Up
The next morning, the alarm rang early, and it was hard to wake the girls — until they heard what we were about to do. They jumped out of bed, put on their beautiful new dresses, and off we went to the airport. And there they were — Opa and Oma! The girls ran into their arms, thrilled. Though they prefer seeing us regularly back in Brielle, it meant a lot that they traveled all the way to Greece. We were ready to make it a week to remember.
Exploring Lefkada with the Whole Family
After picking up our gorgeous seven-seater rental, we returned to our villa. Opa and Oma could definitely use a coffee after their overnight flight, but soon enough they, too, were splashing in the pool. A refreshing swim was just what they needed!
Throughout the week, we explored Lefkada’s hidden gems — we visited waterfalls, secret beaches, a historic fort, and of course, swam every single day. Opa and Oma were amazed by the vibrant turquoise waters — unlike anything they had seen before. A lovely hike led us to one of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever seen.
Unexpected Connections & Sweet Moments
One special highlight: Mirre reconnected with an old colleague who, coincidentally, was staying in the house next door. Strange to call her a “former colleague”; it still doesn’t feel that way. It was such a joy to chat with someone familiar, someone you don’t have to start from scratch with. They had a nearly one-year-old daughter, and Diede adored the chance to be the “big kid,” proudly showing off all her silly tricks.
Meanwhile, Jinte learned to snorkel in the pool, and Diede taught her how to give a thumbs up. All day long, we heard enthusiastic cries of, “Toppie Toppie!“
Delicious Food, Family Fun & Unforgettable Memories
We enjoyed every single day with delicious local meals, exciting activities, and simply spending time together. It was truly a perfect family holiday in Lefkada. On the final day, Oma baked her famous pancakes, and we shared endless hugs before heading to the airport.
Saying goodbye was tough, but surprisingly, the girls handled it well. As we chatted with another family also saying farewell, Johan even managed to connect with a potential client. Mirre shed a few tears once we were on the road — parting is never easy, but it was all worth it for such a beautiful week. Maybe the girls are becoming used to farewells?
The pictures say it all. Until September, dear Opa and Oma!
Zakynthos
Zakynthos: A Family Adventure on the Beautiful Greek Island
With an overcrowded ferry due to Easter, we set sail for the picturesque island of Zakynthos. Upon arrival, our first mission was to find a place to stay for the night. The next morning, we hit the road again — groceries first, then off to explore the stunning west coast. But we didn’t get far. The olive trees hanging low over the roads meant we had to reverse quite a distance back.
As we continued driving, the clutch started acting up. Uh-oh. We made our way to the nearest beach. Despite the clear blue skies, we stayed inside the campervan — outside, the wind was so strong it felt like sandblasting.
This was our first impression of Zakynthos. We looked at each other and thought, “Why did we even come here?” It was Good Friday, so all garages were closed. We parked the camper in front of one and decided to spend the night there.
Stranded for Easter — But Making the Most of It
The next morning at 9 AM, still no sign of a mechanic. So we rented a small car — or as our daughter Diede calls it, “our little car” — to explore the island. Lucky us, the car rental had a garage next door that could fix the campervan. The part wouldn’t arrive until after the Easter holidays, but at least the van was still drivable.
We parked along a quiet beach and set out in our rental to experience the island’s charm: cozy coves, dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and nature in full bloom. Slowly but surely, we began to understand why Zakynthos is such a beloved travel destination.
Celebrating Easter Abroad
We celebrated Easter not with traditional dishes, but with banana pancakes — a family classic. We called our families back home and had a fun Easter egg hunt. Later, we wandered into the local town center. We couldn’t believe how many fellow Dutch travelers we encountered — but then again, it was spring break in the Netherlands.
Hiking, Swimming & New Friendships
We chose a beautiful hiking trail — a bit of a challenge, but our little mountain goat of a daughter hardly blinked an eye. Along the way, we met Pascalle, a friendly Dutch girl around 15 years old, who joined us. Her parents were a bit slower, so we reached the end ahead of them — only to find a rocky shoreline with a rope leading into the sea. Undeterred, Mirre and Pascalle decided to climb down for a swim.
Mirre was in sandals, Pascalle in brand-new sneakers. Mirre insisted she couldn’t go barefoot, curious to see what her parents would think of her swimming in her underwear with a stranger — thankfully, a friendly one. Our daughters Jinte and Diede laughed watching them. The water was incredible, especially after the hike.
A Few More Days of Island Life
After the weekend, we took the camper to the garage. We couldn’t sleep in it overnight since their gates closed at night — so we booked an apartment with a pool instead. Tough life, right?
We made a day trip to the famous Navagio shipwreck beach and the breathtaking Blue Caves of Zakynthos. The water there was unreal — a surreal shade of blue. Next to us, we met a Dutch pediatric nurse from The Hague, who instantly clicked with our girls. It’s amazing how people with the right touch with kids make everyone feel comfortable.
Launching a Dream Project
That night we finished up our course. At 2 a.m., the moment had arrived: our project finally went live! Mirre, being the perfectionist she is, will surely continue refining it, but this was a moment to celebrate. We’re incredibly proud. And guess what? Word of mouth is the best marketing — so if you’d like to support us, please share: www.komteenkindbijdedokter.nl
Goodbye Zakynthos, Hello Adventure
Before we knew it, it was our last day on the island. Most tourists fly home, and people were often surprised — but mostly inspired — by our travel lifestyle. Years ago, we were inspired during a vacation in Italy. Maybe now we became that couple for someone else. You never know when a chance encounter can change your life.
We soaked up the sun at Banana Beach — sounds tropical, right? A restaurant visit, a playground stop, one last ice cream — and then the call came: the camper was fixed and ready to go. It was running smoothly again, and it felt amazing to have our tiny home back.
The next morning, we ferried back to the mainland — rejuvenated and full of stories. It truly felt like a proper vacation week.
Travel vs. Vacation — Yes, There’s a Difference
You might be thinking: “But aren’t you always on vacation?” We hear that a lot. And while we are on the road full-time, there is a distinct difference for us: a vacation means staying longer in one place, working less, and being surrounded by more tourists. Traveling is about moving often, standing free in nature, and embracing simplicity and freedom.
And we’re loving every second of this free-spirited lifestyle!
Camping Ionion
Camping Ionion: An Unforgettable Week in Greece
What a fantastic week! Our stay at Camping Ionion was nothing short of amazing. This campsite had been recommended by several friends, and it truly exceeded all expectations. We originally planned to stay for three nights, but we ended up extending our stay to a full week — and we’re so glad we did!
Family Fun and Kid-Friendly Camping
One of the highlights for our daughters was finally finding a campground with a fully filled swimming pool. Their excitement only grew when they discovered other Dutch children to play with, which led to friendships, laughter, and lots of fun. To top it all off, their parents were just as friendly, and our kids weren’t the only ones making great connections.
Our days were filled with laughter, games, spontaneous beach visits, local markets, communal barbecues, shared dinners, and engaging conversations. I even had a chance to test out my course during the week — a win-win!
Endless Play, Exploration, and New Friends
The kids kept themselves busy with biking, exploring the campground, and discovering hidden corners of this beautiful spot. Our neighbors, traveling in a caravan, had what seemed like a mobile toy library, and were more than happy to share. Very quickly, our daughter Jinte became inseparable from their son Mees.
Johan and Mirre braved an early morning swim one day. Although the water was rather cold, they said it was the perfect way to start the day refreshed and awake.
Unexpected Setback Turned Bonus Night
On the day of our planned departure, our leveling foot broke during the packing process. Johan spent the entire morning fixing it — needing to grind and drill out the bolt. Thankfully, a bar was under construction on the campsite, so he was able to borrow some much-needed tools. While we brought plenty of supplies, we didn’t happen to have a grinder with us. It turned into quite a project and left Johan with some impressive bruises. Because of the delay, we added one more night — something none of us minded at all!
A Magical End to Each Day
Each evening, frogs gathered by the pool for their own musical performance. The croaking concerts were incredibly entertaining, especially when they jumped into the water whenever the kids ran by. It was pure joy to watch.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
All in all, our week at Camping Ionion was a dream. The friendly atmosphere, thoughtful neighbors, happy kids, stunning surroundings, and spontaneous adventures made for a holiday we’ll never forget. The photos truly speak for themselves — a five-star camping experience in every sense.
Looking for the best family-friendly campsite in Greece? Look no further than Camping Ionion — the perfect blend of nature, community, and comfort.
Gythio
Discover our family road trip through Greece, from the island of Elafonisos to the charming town of Gythio. We share wild camping spots, hidden beaches, kid-friendly adventures, and life on the road with children and a dog.
Olympia
Olympia: Exploring the Birthplace of the Olympic Games
After wrapping up our careers as equestrians, we knew we had to keep fitness and sports a central part of our lives. And what better place to celebrate that than in Olympia, Greece—the historical birthplace of the Olympic Games?
A Delicious Greek Lunch and Family Fun
We started the day with a delicious Greek lunch, where there was plenty of attention for the girls and a tasty dessert too. Travel Tip: Try Greek yogurt with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon—it’s an absolute must when you’re in Greece.
Walking Through Ancient History
Fueled and ready, we dove into history. The girls loved exploring the ancient ruins, especially the ones with poses and pictures showing what things looked like centuries ago. We must admit—we enjoyed them just as much.
From running and boxing to pretend-wrestling among the ruins, we immersed ourselves in the ancient Olympic spirit, marveling at the incredible statues and architectural wonders around us. We even took a tour through the archaeological museum, and once again, our eyes were wide with awe.
Career Change? Maybe Not Yet!
For a brief moment, we joked about applying to be museum attendants—just sitting on a chair all day and telling people not to touch anything. But honestly, sitting inside all day just isn’t for us anymore.
Camping by the Sea and a Sunset to Remember
Tonight, we’re parked at a beachside lot, as driving further to the next destination—reportedly an amazing campground—is just a bit too far. Mirre and Diede are playing on the beach while Johan prepares dinner and Jinte is crafting something creative nearby.
One funny moment: a car nearby has all its windows covered with jackets and blankets. As Mirre and Diede walk back from the beach, Mirre casually says to Johan, “I think those two are about to… you know.” Jinte overhears and asks what that means. A quick mini sex education session follows, to which she hilariously replies, “In that car?!” Laughter breaks out. What surprises her isn’t the idea of sex—it’s the location! Moments later she asks, “Will a baby be born in the car too?” Smart girl—always connecting the dots!
Capturing the Magic of the Moment
During dinner, Jinte expresses her wish to take a photo with the sunset. She wants to include Papa, Tinus, and herself. We made it just in time to capture that beautiful moment.
How do you think the photo turned out?
Our time in Olympia was filled with laughter, amazement, and meaningful family moments—a perfect combination of cultural exploration and fun. Stay tuned for our next adventure as we head to what’s been hyped as one of the best campsites in Greece!
Elea Beach
Elea Beach: An Unexpected Adventure in Paradise
We had already heard plenty of great stories about Elea Beach, and we were excited to experience it for ourselves. However, the journey to this hidden gem wasn’t entirely smooth. Especially the last part of the drive was a bit tricky. Mirre hadn’t driven in a while, and though we took turns driving on our previous trip, the thought of getting behind the wheel again felt increasingly daunting. It’s funny how thoughts can snowball in your mind.
A déjà vu moment from our previous trip—back when Johan was recovering from strep throat—motivated Mirre to think, “Let’s just go for it!” After all, if something happens to one of us, we both need to be able to handle the campervan on our own.
Nearing our destination, Mirre confidently drove through a puddle, thinking that driving too slowly might get us stuck. Johan, however, would have taken it slow and careful. We often think differently—opposites attract, right?—but this time we didn’t communicate our thoughts. Hidden beneath the seemingly harmless puddle, a rock caused a dramatic jolt and loud noise. Something underneath the camper now seems loose.
We were both startled, and Mirre instantly thought, “I’m never driving again!” But after the emotions settled, we carried on in search of a safe spot to park. Johan optimistically drove toward what looked like a perfect open field. Unfortunately, it turned into a muddy trap—we got stuck again. That’s when we decided: Next time, we’re getting a 4×4 camper!
This time, we managed to free ourselves without any outside help and found a secure, paved place to park the van. The rest of our stay at Elea Beach was truly magical.
Life at Elea Beach
We spent our days relaxing on the beach, making our signature “witch soups,” and catching up on work. Interestingly, there are people who’ve been staying here all winter. In many ways, it’s like a free campsite community. It’s fascinating to see the wide variety of travelers: some arrive in massive tour buses converted into campers—sometimes with trailers in tow—while others live modestly in rusty Volkswagen vans with their families of four.
Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zone
The girls had been talking nonstop about wanting to go horseback riding. It’s definitely outside our comfort zone, but as we read every night in Diede’s favorite book: “Sometimes you just have to be a little bit brave.”
We booked a guided tour and ended up taking an incredible ride through the forest and along the beach. Diede developed a little crush on our guide Costa—just look at the photos and you’ll see! The experience turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable, and we’ve come away with yet another set of beautiful travel memories.
Elea Beach offered us more than just sun and sea—it gave us stories, challenges, laughter, and the kind of moments that truly make a road trip unforgettable.
Elafonissos
“Experience an unforgettable adventure on Elafonisos! From crystal-clear waters and beachside camping to birthday celebrations and island explorations—follow our journey filled with fun, surprises, and precious family moments.”
Romanos
Exploring Romanos: Family Adventures by the Beach
Our journey began with a small detour — we took the wrong road. A big truck made the same mistake, but with heavy rain expected that night, we preferred to find a secure and solid camping spot. We turned back and arrived at the scenic location we originally had in mind.
Stunning Views and a Private Beach
What a view! From our new spot, we had panoramic vistas and a lovely beach right in front, perfect for the kids. Though we were parked just off the road, it felt safe and stable. The girls spent the entire day playing school. That evening, as Jinte went to bed, she told Johan, “I’m pretty sure that when we return home, I won’t have to go back to school—because I’m really learning everything here. At school, I only played, but with you, I’m actually learning to read.”
This led to a heartwarming conversation about how important play is for learning, and how much children absorb while having fun. Afterwards, we all tucked in for a peaceful night’s rest.
Sunshine and Seaside Discoveries
The next day was sunny and beautiful. We played “school” again, dried flowers between magnetic tiles, and in the afternoon, we relaxed at a serene, sheltered beach. It was the perfect spot to stay out of the wind and dive into nature. Between the rocks, we discovered all sorts of tiny creatures like hermit crabs and small shore crabs.
Diede quickly got soaked and came back to warm up with mom, only to run off again, eager to keep discovering and digging in the sand.
One Last Night, One Big Adventure
The final night before our departure, heavy rain poured down. The next morning, as we tried to drive off, Mirre thought, “We really need to go straight forward, or we’ll get stuck.” She didn’t say it out loud, and Johan turned the wheel. Yep—we got stuck.
After some digging and generous help from our friendly neighbors, we finally managed to get the van out. “Good thing we all share the same hobby,” joked one of them. Phew!
Next stop: Elea Beach.
Methoni
Methoni: Discovering the Magic of a Historic Ruin
Time to explore some fascinating history! We arrive at the breathtaking ruins of Methoni, a place that immediately transports us back in time. Our daughter Jinte has now mastered the difference between a castle and a ruin—so we’re swiftly corrected whenever we get it wrong.
That afternoon, we embark on a wonderful treasure hunt through history. We wander through crumbling buildings and mysterious tunnels, soaking in the beauty and imagining what life was like here centuries ago. The atmosphere is enchanting, and we are completely captivated by our surroundings. What a fantastic afternoon!
Camping with a View of the Methoni Ruins
We’re lucky enough to be parked at a spot where we have a direct view of the stunning ruins. We’ve seen the friendly French couple next to us several times during our journey. Although they speak little English and we speak barely any French, translation apps help us share a smile and conversation.
After dinner, we enjoy some playtime in the nearby playground—thanks to that extra hour of daylight, we can truly make the most of every evening. As night falls, the ruins light up beautifully, creating a magical and unforgettable scene. This is exactly why we came here!
Continuing the Journey Through Greece
The next morning, we take our time departing. Savoring every last moment in this incredible location, we begin to make our way upward along the coast. Methoni has left a lasting impression, and we’re filled with anticipation for the next adventure on our road trip through historic Greece.
If you’re planning a family-friendly road trip in Greece, make sure to include Methoni on your itinerary. Between the stunning historical landmarks, the scenic views, and the relaxing atmosphere, it’s a destination you won’t want to miss.