Where are you from?

We are both from The Netherlands.

When did you start your interest in exploration?

From when I, Lotte, was young I always dreamt of travelling the world. When we were obligated to do show and tell at school ( at a young age) other people would tell us about their pets, but I wanted to tell them about different countries. Milan was taught to travel from a young age by his parents. They travelled all around and the urge to travel stayed. So now we are here travelling the world together. 

What is a brief understanding of your background story up until you started seeking adventure?

From the first moment I decided I wanted to travel I took every opportunity to leave The Netherlands. Even without money, as a student, I tried to hitch hike every free moment to get out of The Netherlands. My interns I all did abroad, same for Milan. And I chose work where I can travel. I work in the television industry and I am able to make programs abroad. 

What special skills do you have to help with your explorations?

Milan is definitely a really good driver. Probably the best I've ever met. I am the one who does the navigation. And besides that I am trying to capture the moment as best as possible on camera. 

Where have you explored so far?

There are a lot of countries. I, Lotte, travelled to all of Europe, except Denmark, Norway, Ukraine, Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and scotland. Besides that I have been to The United States, Morocco, Tunisia, Thailand,Laos, Cambodja, Indonesia, Mexico, Cuba, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Surinam, Curaçao.

During this trip we have travelled through Europe, Türkiye, Georgia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Irak, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain.

What is a brief understanding of your adventures so far?

During our overland trip we want to discover the different countries for what they really are. This means we go off the beaten track. We drive a lot off road and meet locals that have never seen a tourist in their lives. 

What are the top three destinations you hope to explore next, and why?

Next trip we hope to overland to Africa as it is the continent we haven't seen that much. Really looking forward to Namibia, Rwanda and Tanzania. 

Where would you recommend others visit?

Go to Mongolia, Saudi Arabia and Kyrgyzstan!! 

How do you primarily travel on your adventures today?

We have a Toyota Landcruiser 100 from 1999. It is an oldy, but with the engine one of the most reliable ones. We have a rooftop tent, solar panel, fridge, kitchen and water system to go wherever we want. 

What are five pieces of equipment that you always travel with?

The most important gadgets are definitely our saw, shovel, compressor/deflator, 12 volt charger for the laptop and our water dip pump.

What inspires you to explore more?

There is still so much to see. I want to understand the world as good as possible. 

How do you engage with others?

We mostly use instagram to engage with fellow travellers. 

Why is it important to embrace global cultures?

To understand that we are all human.  

What are your goals when you explore?

Our goal is to get to know a country, its culture, history and religion as well as possible. 

What are some challenges you have experienced?

I think the biggest challenge is sitting in a car all day with your partner. No way you can run from any problems. So you have to fix it. But luckily it works! 

What has been your most meaningful moment so far?

We see a lot of locals and poverty. The moment that we got offered food from two local girls next to a sign of the world food program really stayed with me. Even if people don't have anything they want to share. 

How has exploration changed you?

Understanding the differences around the world and being way more open.

What is the number one lesson that you have learnt through your exploration?

Don't take everything for granted. Be grateful for everything! 

How do you explore locally?

With the car or train.

What does the explmore mantra mean to you?

Totally agree.  

What advice would you give to others who are seeking life changing adventure?

Just do it! Don't wait.