This trip has been filled with surprises. But the quirkiest one is the IKEA connection. Every single place we go there’s an IKEA reference, a tip, a symbol and most importantly, a CATALOGUE!

The night before we left Manchester, our IKEA catalogue arrived on our doorstep. It was the first correspondence we’ve got in our new house – even though we’ve never ordered IKEA before. Gillian thought it was such a shame we wouldn’t have time to browse the catalog, but little did we know…

When in Brussels, at the entrance to Verity’s apartment was an IKEA catalog. Of course, her flat is furnished with IKEA and that’s ok, a coincidence. But when we got to Turin, not only Francesca’s apartment was filled with IKEA boxes and furniture but we had a surprise as we walked down the Porta Palazzio. Holding our hot Pizzas ao Taglio, ready to eat them, we stumbled upon two IKEA catalogues, delicately balanced on a hydrant.  There were two, so we took one to Francesca’s apartment.

So far, no IKEA in Spain.  We’re loving Palma and we can’t wait to show you some of the good times we’ve had.

Love from Palma,

Gillian y Fritz

I’m letting this Morrissey’s song title confuse the readers about the current state of things on purpose. I’m not seasick, but as it suggests, I’m already being influenced by the trip, even though it’s months away from us. The tickets are bought – by 2€ each leg – itinerary decided, and this wonderful project is set up. I’m in Europe.com is one of the most exciting plans in which I’ve ever partaken. I’m specially excited about the friends we’re gonna make – since we were extremely lucky in our last trip, meeting all these sweet and cool people. Now I feel like I checked in at the counter and I’m waiting at the shops, before embarking. It’s gonna be a three month waiting, so let me have another look at these overpriced adapters, batteries and inflatable plane pillows they’re selling here… See you soon! x