Two Months, Four Countries: More Than Just Croissants and Castles

Hello again!

With the sun sneaking through the window, the birds whispering their songs in the early hours, and the first flowers bravely peeking back into the world, it finally feels like we’re waking up again. Just like squirrels, we’re coming out of hibernation.

And trust me, we did not sit still.

Over the past three months, we somehow managed to hop through four different countries. So let’s rewind for a second.

After one incredible season with humpback whales, we spent our last few days in Perth soaking up the scenery. We cruised down to Margaret River for a weekend escape, stopping by Busselton Jetty for a dive. And honestly… it was about time. I was starting to get withdrawals: soft pale skin, smooth hair, a perfect pedicure — none of which exactly scream “I live in the ocean.”

Busselton Jetty, the longest jetty in the Southern Hemisphere at 1,841 metres, hides an artificial reef dotted with more than ten sculptures. Those artworks attract a colourful community of over 300 marine species. If you’re not keen on getting wet, there’s even an underwater observatory where you can learn all about the local marine world.

On our way to the dive shop, we came across a tiny snake. Don’t let the size fool you though, these little juveniles can be pretty dangerous. Thankfully, other than a dog having the fright of its life, nothing happened, and we carried on with our little Australian adventure.

With sandy feet, salty hair, and big smiles plastered on our faces, we jumped back in the car and headed for Margaret River. We reunited with our Italian flatmates and made it down to Augusta, where big stingrays cruised past the beach right at our feet. We stayed for sunset and despite the wind trying its absolute best to knock us into the Indian Ocean, the sky’s warm orange and red glow managed to blow us away in the nice way.

The next day we visited Quinninup Falls which, if we’re being honest, was… a bit of a disappointment. Tiny, barely flowing, and not exactly the waterfall of the century. But no dramas, we stretched our legs on a little hike and then drove straight to our next stop: the Injidup Natural Spa.

Just a heads-up: don’t expect spa bubbles or anything remotely sauna-like. But if you arrive with the right tide, the right swell, and the right mindset, the waves crashing into the rock pools will give you a natural show that’s surprisingly fun.

We wrapped up the weekend with a visit to Canal Rocks; a rugged, beautiful spot where turquoise water swirls around dramatic rock formations. Andrew almost went for a dip, but the icy water only touched his toe before he abandoned the mission entirely. So we stayed dry and kept our dignity… kind of.

Back in Perth, we dropped off our friends, picked up Andrew’s sister, and immediately drove to Jurien Bay. Yep, we were ready to try our luck with the sea lions again.

And this time? Absolutely worth it.

We met Mark, the cheekiest little sea lion you’ll ever see. A pup from last year, full of energy and mischief. He instantly vibed with Andrew’s golden-retriever energy and even gave him a big hug.

Australian sea lions are an endangered marine mammal, so operators strongly prioritise conservation. They only run morning tours, and even if there are two tours in the day, only one group is allowed to visit the island.

It's simple: the sea lions come first.

Being able to explore a bit more around Perth before heading back to our home countries felt refreshing. Like a little breather before the big jump across the world. Europe, here we come!

We kicked off our mini holiday in France. After a slow stroll through Nice, soaking in the pastel-coloured streets and seaside views, we headed up to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world and Andrew’s hometown.

Between family catch-ups, coffees with friends, and a much-needed haircut, we quickly found ourselves packing the car again for a road trip.

First stop: Andrew’s grandparents in the Jura. We were greeted by cows, goats, generous slices of Comté cheese, and an entire town wrapped in a perfect white winter blanket. It felt like stepping into a postcard.

Next destination: Belgium; where hugs, souvenirs, and storybook cities welcomed us like we were wandering into a Harry Potter film set. And before looping back to France, we squeezed in a visit to the largest aquarium in Europe. Yes, I know… it sounds a little contradictory considering our beliefs, but Nausicaá is genuinely surprising. Immersive exhibits, stunning marine life, and entire sections dedicated to ocean conservation and climate change. It feels like learning, reflecting, and dreaming all at once.

We wrapped up the road trip with a visit to Andrew’s other grandparents in Limoges before returning to the South, settling in Cannes. And honestly? The South has everything. One day you’re sailing around the islands and dipping into clear water with the fish, and the next you’re driving into the mountains for a weekend of skiing.

As a devoted Formula 1 fan, a trip to Monaco was non-negotiable. We had one mission: find a red Ferrari that matched my little toy car. It took us exactly two seconds. And then came the unbelievable part. It wasn’t just parked; it was a learner car. Yes. In Monaco, teenagers learn to drive in Ferraris. I still don’t understand how we live on the same planet.

Monaco wasn’t the only must-see. We wandered through the charming towns that make the Côte d’Azur feel like its own little universe: Èze, Saint-Tropez, Fréjus, Sainte-Maxime, Antibes, Mandelieu, Gourdon… and that’s just naming a few.

Christmas Eve was wonderfully traditional: skiing during the day, cozy sweatpants and comfort food at night. Our three weeks in France flew by - too fast - and there’s still so much left to explore. But with heavy hearts and full suitcases, it was time to head back to Belgium.

Our time in Belgium was less about sightseeing and more about togetherness: nephews’ birthday parties, Christmas dinners on both sides of the family, long conversations, warm reunions… and of course, a few volleyball games to work off all the festive food.

From there, we crossed the border to Köln, Germany, to visit a friend we met in Australia three years ago. One of those travel friendships that somehow survive continents, time zones, and terrible Wi-Fi. And Germany greeted us in the best possible way: with a real snowy winter day. Thick flakes falling from the sky, rooftops dusted white, and Christmas markets glowing under strings of warm lights. We wandered between wooden stalls, trying all the good traditional foods; bratwurst, flammkuchen, cinnamon sugar treats, and enough glühwein to warm up the soul. It felt like stepping straight into a winter fairytale.

Those weeks were heartwarming; filled with love, laughter, and moments we’ll treasure forever. But a new chapter was already calling us from the other side of the world. Our bags weren’t done travelling yet.

Australia is waiting.

And so are the orcas.