After 33 years and over 500,000 kilometers, the Scania bus has returned to its source of origin – to the factory in Södertälje (Sweden). All thanks to the unique family who decided to give the vehicle a second life and take it on a tour around the world.
Jean-François and Charlotte Vandoorslaert and their three children, Charles (10), Louise (9) and Victoria (1 year) in July last year set out on a five-year tour around the world. Over the past year, the family has visited 19 European countries, and in July this year, they will begin preparations to go to the United States and Canada, where they will spend the next two years.
From a wreck to the 25-meter „home”
When I bought a bus, it was a wreck, but I renovated it and created a friendly space inside. Everyone thought I was crazy, but it’s better to ride an old bus because it’s easy to fix it if anything breaks down” – says Jean-François.
At 25 square meters, which were to become a home for the next 5 years, Jean-François accommodated many compact solutions to provide the family with optimal conditions. A year-old Victoria even has its own small playground.
Belgian admits that he has got used to driving without modern conveniences such as power steering or automatic transmission. „I do not miss it. It makes you more cautious on the road” – admits Jean-François.
From July last year, the family befriends many people, got to know new places, customs, and traditions. „Every day we learn new things,” says Charlotte, and she hopes that the next years will be as exciting and enriching as the last 12 months spent on the road.
Photo: Scania