Family of Four Explores Asia in a Bus Adventure

Family Adventure: The Schakat’s Journey Across Asia

Start the day by embracing the spirit of adventure with the incredible Schakat family. They embarked on a vibrant journey traveling around Asia in their converted bus, redefining family experiences and embracing cultural diversity.

Planning the Journey

In their quest for family bonding, Nina and Kai Schakat, along with their two children, Ben and Leni, decided to challenge the traditional notion of travel. They pondered, “Why wait until retirement?” Consequently, they planned a journey that would allow them to explore the world while their children were still eager to travel with them.

Transforming a Bus into a Home

In 2021, the family purchased an old construction labor bus for just $6,000, which marked the beginning of their transformation journey. They converted the vehicle into a fully equipped home on wheels, allowing them to live comfortably while on the road.

Bus tour: Nina and Kai Schakat and their two children, Ben, 11 and Leni, 10, are currently touring Asia on their bus.
Bus tour: Nina and Kai Schakat and their two children, Ben, 11 and Leni, 10, are currently touring Asia on their bus.

Creating Lasting Memories

The Schakat family took a “test” trip to Oman shortly before embarking on their major adventure. This experience helped them prepare for the adventurous scenarios they would face on their journey.

Family fun: The Schakats took a 'test' trip to Oman shortly before embarking on their big adventure.
Family fun: The Schakats took a “test” trip to Oman shortly before embarking on their big adventure.

Exploring New Cultures

On their travels, the family has embraced several new experiences, such as attending a traditional Punjabi wrestling match in Lahore, Pakistan. Such cultural activities provided them with rich insights into different lifestyles and traditions.

New experiences: The Schakats at a traditional Punjabi wrestling match in Lahore, Pakistan last year.
New experiences: The Schakats at a traditional Punjabi wrestling match in Lahore, Pakistan last year.

The Return to Iran

The Schakats began their journey in Iran, showcasing their appreciation for this beautiful country. After exploring Turkey, they returned, further deepening their connection to the culture and the people.

Exploring Iran: The Schakats began their trip in Iran and ended up returning to the country after making a detour to Turkey.
Exploring Iran: The Schakats began their trip in Iran and ended up returning to the country after making a detour to Turkey.

A Fully Equipped Mobile Home

Kai expressed confidence in their modified vehicle, stating, “We have everything we need.” Their mobile home includes a dining and lounge area, bunk beds, a shower room, and a master suite. This setup allowed them to travel without the constant need for water, electricity, or extensive food supplies.

Tiny home: 'We have everything [we need],' Kai says of their mobile home.
Tiny home: “We have everything [we need],” Kai says of their mobile home, which has a dining and lounge area, two bunk beds, a shower room and a master suite.

Bonding Through Adventure

Moreover, Nina highlighted the invaluable lessons learned during their travels. “We’ve discovered a totally different side of the kids,” she remarked. Spending 24/7 in close quarters encourages families to learn and grow together, fostering deeper connections.

Family bonding: 'I feel that we've learned a totally different side of the kids,' says Nina.
Family bonding: “I feel that we’ve learned a totally different side of the kids,” says Nina. “Suddenly, you’re in a bus with four people, two nearly teenagers, 24/7. You learn how far you can challenge the kids.”

Embracing Nature

The family members continually appreciate the beauty of nature, as seen when Nina enjoyed a walk along the sand dunes in Iran. These moments serve as a reminder of the incredible experiences available while traveling.

Golden sand: Nina walking along the sand dunes during their time in Iran.
Golden sand: Nina walking along the sand dunes during their time in Iran.

Shared Experiences and Communication

In conclusion, the Schakat family emphasizes the strength of shared experiences. As Kai states, “We experience everything together.” The trip, filled with shared stories, has brought them closer than ever. Consequently, their adventure serves as an inspiration for other families contemplating a journey of their own.

Quality time: 'We experience everything together,' says Kai.
Quality time: “We experience everything together,” says Kai. “There’s no new stories to tell really. But we still have a lot to talk about.”
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