Today we traded the energy of Barcelona for the open road. We slowly packed up our Airbnb, still mourning England’s loss, and somehow fit six people and what felt like half our possessions into a rented Mercedes V-Class van, and pointed ourselves four hours west toward Autol, the hometown of our au pair, Lidia.

Traveling as a family of six has taught us one thing: a normal rental car simply isn’t an option. Between three kids, six suitcases, backpacks, snacks, and all the miscellaneous things that seem to multiply every day, the Mercedes van isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. It feels enormous until every seat is occupied and every inch of cargo space is full.

Lidia’s family has been counting down the hours for our arrival. Our phones have been buzzing with excited messages all day: ”¿Dónde estáis?” (“Where are you?”) and ”¡Os esperamos!” (“We’re waiting for you!”). Their excitement has made the drive feel like we’re not just visiting another town—we’re being welcomed home.

The soundtrack for today’s journey has been equal parts Benito Kamelas and Apple’s Spain Top 100 playlist. Somewhere between rock anthems and Spanish pop hits, the scenery rolled by in shades of gold, green, and dusty hills.

Of course, no family road trip is complete without the universal question that transcends every language on Earth.

“Are we there yet?”

Every ten minutes.

Seriously—why do children everywhere, regardless of nationality, seem to receive this programming at birth?

About halfway through the drive we stopped at one of Spain’s roadside service areas. Calling it a “rest stop” almost feels unfair. These aren’t rows of fast-food chains and vending machines. They’re more like casual cafés serving real food, just quickly.

Lunch was simple and delicious: jamón y brie on fresh French baguettes, crispy croquetas de jamón y queso that the woman at the register happily popped into the oven for us, and wonderfully hot café con leche to keep the adults going. Fresh bread, good coffee, warm croquetas—it was exactly what a road trip should taste like.

We didn’t need fuel just yet, though the van’s diesel tank will eventually remind us that our adventure is only beginning.

For now, we’re back on the highway, music playing, kids asking if we’re there yet, and a family in Autol waiting with open arms.

Sometimes the best part of travel isn’t the famous destination. Sometimes it’s the road between two places, good coffee in hand, Spanish music on the speakers, and knowing that somewhere ahead, people are genuinely excited to see you.

Hasta pronto, Autol. We’re almost there… I think.

~Steph