Sometimes a dream doesn't suddenly come true - but rolls into your life on four wheels.
A year ago, a new chapter began for us: since we were able to call our Carthago liner-for-two our own, we have experienced countless wonderful moments. The liner-for-two became part of our history. Since then, we have been on a journey of discovery - not only through Europe, but also through unforgettable moments full of freedom, happiness and adventure.
In these 12 months, we have spent 198 nights under strange starry skies, rediscovered life for 32 weeks, undertaken four major journeys and experienced 10,000 kilometres of pure joie de vivre.
Our journey took us through five fascinating countries: Germany, Italy, Austria, France and Spain. Every single kilometre was a little adventure and a great joy. And our liner was always our faithful companion, our cosy home, our little luxury when travelling.
In Germany, we were able to enjoy the perfect combination of comfort and freedom. Whether at picturesque lakes or historic cities - our Liner was always a cosy home on wheels. The well thought-out room layout, the luxurious living comfort and the excellent workmanship have always accompanied us.
In Austria, we were enthralled by the impressive Alpine landscapes. Our Carthago mastered even steep mountain pass roads with ease and we were able to camp in secluded places, always surrounded by beautiful nature. In the evenings, we relaxed in the spacious living area, enjoyed a glass of wine and reminisced about the days full of experiences.
Italy gave us pure dolce vita: from picturesque villages to spectacular stretches of coastline and beaches - our liner was the perfect travelling companion. The generous kitchen allowed us to enjoy fresh Italian specialities on the spot while we admired the sunset through the panoramic windows.
France spoilt us with culinary delights, cultural richness and enchanting landscapes. We travelled through the south of France and Alsace - everywhere we went we felt at home thanks to the excellent facilities and the cosy feel of our Carthago.
In Spain, lively cities, endless beaches and breathtaking natural parks awaited us. Even high temperatures or the cooler nights during the winter didn't affect us: The ingenious air conditioning, the Alde heating and the vehicle's excellent insulation always ensured a pleasant, cosy climate.
Of course, you also encounter small challenges on such a long journey: A problem with the Iveco's AdBlue system and a replacement of the radar for the assistance systems, which were easily fixed under warranty. And yes, there were also small blemishes on the body: decorative foils coming loose, a sink drain where the chrome was splintering, an LED strip with sparkling gaps.
But you know what? All of this pales in comparison to the countless wonderful moments we were able to experience. And we are convinced: Carthago stands behind its promise and will fix these little things with the same passion with which they built this vehicle.
Because what remains is more important: The feeling of opening the door at the first ray of sunshine and embracing the world.
The scent of pine trees on Spain's coasts.
The gentle lapping of the canals in the south of France.
The rugged mountains of Tyrol that made our hearts beat faster.
The taste of fresh Italian espresso in a small market square.
And the reassuring knowledge that we could return to our Liner at any time - to our little travelling paradise.
Our Carthago not only took us from place to place, but from experience to experience. From sunrises over tranquil lakes to evenings under a sky with so many stars that we felt tiny and infinitely big at the same time.
Today we look back on this year full of magic and we know: The decision in favour of the Carthago liner-for-two was exactly right.
It has fuelled our wanderlust, carried our dreams and given us a home that turns every new day into a gift.
