Intro to EuroTrip2015

When we have told people that we're taking this trip, we will get one of two responses. Either they speak with envy and excitement and hopefulness, or they look as us like we're crazy and mutter something about terrorists or carjackings or hostage situations or the like. My 83 year-old patient recommended a stun gun and fighting dirty.

So why would we pack up our 4 young boys in a 7 year old minivan and drive from Portugal to Turkey?

Why not?

The logistics are extensive, but doable.
The risk is present, but acceptable.
The participants are excited and adaptable.

As those with young children know, travelling is difficult. When we move to Turkey, we'll probably do a lot of local travel, but it is daunting task to plan long distance travel into a foreign country with kids. This may be the only chance we get to try something so crazy!

Also, because it is part of a move, the US government will pay for the majority, if not all, of the trip. When else are you going to get a most-expenses paid road trip to Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey?  I'll tell you- never.

Finally, many we talk to are nervous for us about the safety of the trip. While I appreciate your concern, bah-hum-bug! Europe is a safe place to travel and, while we will practice proper discretion, we also are approx 100 times more likely to die in a car crash on this trip than we are to experience a violent attack of some kind. Additionally, according to the State Dept, the most dangerous location is our destination.

So here we are, two weeks from setting out on this grand adventure, that will be epic either way. This blog will be a way for Bek and I to keep our friends and family in the loop as to our adventures and travel progress.

Tomorrow I'll walk you through the route. Until then the Map screenshot will have to do...