35 000 ks from Melbourne by road  is Thessaloniki in Greece. 25 000ks is Kashgar in Western China.

Jack has taken more than 8 000 photos

We have averaged 14 litres of diesel per 100ks, but can get it down to 12 if we go slower…

Cheapest diesel is Iran, where we paid Aust$3 for 165 litres. That is not a typo. $3 for 165 litres.

Most expensive has been Turkey at A$2.60 equivalent a litre

Two punctures, one in Mongolia and the other in No Mans Land on the Torugart Pass between China and Kyrgyzstan, in the snow.

No mechanical breakdowns or failures at all. Burglar alarm switches and the CD player have broken. One driving light bulb has blown. Two wheels buckled and repaired imperfectly, just as well we went for steel instead of alloy wheels which would have cracked or split ages ago. So we have a wonky spare and a slight front end wobble at speed until at least one wheel can be replaced.

To those who thought we chose the wrong car….  we didn’t. I could say a whole lot more about this but it could be misunderstood as marketing. To the nice people from the Land Rover Club who wrote on their chatroom that I was an idiot and knew nothing about cars and was heading for disaster, sorry to disappoint you.

Nothing has been stolen except Jacks notebook and sunglasses pickpocketed in Thailand. Nothing lost except two guidebooks I can not find which could still be buried deep in the car !!!!

The biggest waste of money was buying tickets for the plane to Dili and then two days later being offered a ride on the cargo ship. Not refundable.

Equipment not used includes the EPIRB [but good to have it, you do hope you never need it] and binoculars. Various and extensive tools carried and thankfully not used, but again you have to have them. Tyre repair kit not touched….  you can get tyres repaired everywhere we have been. So that well travelled kit will go onto eBay !

The budget… well, a work of fiction and I have not dared look at the totals and will not until we get home because that would spoil the last bit of the trip.

And more than  1,400 comments on this blog…. and well over 500 000 visitors to the site. We never thought we would get one tenth of that.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 at 8:27 am and is filed under Europe, Indonesian Archipelago. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

116 comments to “Some numbers and weird stuff.”

  1. By Staeven Vallak December 10th, 2008 at 9:55 am

    Hi Guys,

    The trip is nearly over :-(

    I’m glad you made it to Pammukale, an amazing landscape and I guess that also means your route took you to the simply awesome Ephesus?

    Your friends getting to stay in Bodrum are lucky folks indeed. That crusader castle is a stunner, pity they destroyed what was left of one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world to build it…….

    Cheers,
    Staeven

    PS. You guys still haven’t satisfied our collective curiosity with an answer to the “Ping” question.

  2. By Ilona Riener December 10th, 2008 at 11:08 am

    Congratulations Jon,
    We are all looking forward to have you back in Melbourne.
    I.R.

  3. By Mary Jones December 10th, 2008 at 1:47 pm

    This has been an awesome experience! Can’t believe it is nearing it’s end, but in another sense, it is probably only the beginning.
    Blessings for the rest of the journey.
    Mary

  4. By Milena France December 10th, 2008 at 2:19 pm

    What an amazing experience for you both…what fantastic commentary and pictures you have painted for us as we journey with you. Thanks

    Enjoy your reunion with Jan. Best wishes to you all for Christmas.

    Milena

  5. By Maureen December 10th, 2008 at 3:07 pm

    Has the cruise control been useful?

  6. By Natalie December 10th, 2008 at 3:33 pm

    All in all it sounds like you’ve been really fortunate with your car and its mechanics. How many k’s have you driven? Where are you spending christmas? Maybe in sunny old London!!!!! We had the heating on here last night. Blessed summertime downunder style. London’s gone back to the ice age with thick frost on the windscreen of the car. They’ve had flurries of snow too. All is not lost, you can come back to sunny Melbourne in the new year. Jon, you’d better spoil your wife BIG TIME in Paris or London. Not many wives would let their husbands indulge themselves like that. We’ve all had a fabulous time with you and now it’s nearing its conclusion. Pure escapism for me.

  7. By margaret mcnally December 10th, 2008 at 5:20 pm

    I have been interested in your travels, but was disappointed when there was very little written
    in the last few weeks. I know you were on the move, but hope you will spend time when you get home relating the travel tales.

  8. By Mandy Gaylard December 10th, 2008 at 7:05 pm

    I wonder are are you having mixed feelings about nearing the end of your journey. Such a big adventure and different lifestyle coming towards it’s end. No doubt looking forward to the family reunion though. I’ve really enjoyed reading about your adventures. Sounds like you’ve had a great time.

  9. By Carlene Gregory December 10th, 2008 at 9:11 pm

    Hi Jack and Jon,

    I started reading your blog in England when you left Melbourne and kept reading when we came home 3 months later. Have enjoyed all of them and will miss the daily look to see the latest offering.

    Not sure what you plan to do Jack but you have a great way with words.

    Look forward to your return to 774 Jon. At this stage work must feel like something in the remote past.

    When we came home years ago from living overseas in a third world country for 3 years I found I was really annoyed by people here worrying about such trivia as matching carpets and curtains, when so many have no home and not enough food, let alone curtains.

    It still irritates me but worse still is how easy it is to fall back into it all.

    It will be interesting to see how you settle back. It took us a long time and we were changed for ever. For the better I hope.

    Happy festive season and safe return

    Carlene

  10. By John Brownlie December 11th, 2008 at 7:27 am

    Jon & Jack,
    As your extraordinary odyssey nears its end, I just want to say how wonderful it has been to follow your journey, and from the confines of our homes and offices, be a part of it.
    Your site was added to my “favourites” whilst you were still in Australia, and it has become part of each day’s ritual to check your progress, and read of your adventures.
    What you have acomplished is something each and every one of us secretly desires, and I hope you are able to take the time on your return to publish a fuller account of your travels.
    Nothing but blacktop driving from here on, but not of course without its perils.
    Travel safely.

  11. By Annette Harman , Shepparton December 11th, 2008 at 7:47 am

    Jon and Jack,
    Thankyou for sharing your wonderful journey with us. Have loved following your travels on the map, reading of the adventures and earlier the chats with Ally when I was at home or in the car.
    Enjoy the rest of this journey together, have a wonderful festive season and we look forward to hearing Jon on 774 in 2009.
    Keep safe as you travel,
    Annette.

  12. By Ann Robinson December 11th, 2008 at 9:39 am

    Jon and Jack,

    Fantastic stories, incredible photographs. What a wonderful trip, I have lived every moment (with tears at times). Thanks.

    Our best wishes for Christmas and it will be a happy new year indeed to have you back on 774.

    Ann

  13. By Taya December 11th, 2008 at 10:50 am

    I have missed Jon’s broadcasts so much, your professionalism & quick intelligence & breadth of knowledge- which I imagine will have been added to enormously over the past few months.
    Looking forward to your return to the airwaves, refreshed & inspired.
    If you have an apartment in Paris, try cooking some meals yourselves. I found that the fresh food I bought (& prepared myself) in Paris was superb- much better than any dining out experiences. And with the Aussie $ buying only 50 euro cents, a much cheaper option!

  14. By Jen December 11th, 2008 at 12:53 pm

    Wow, where do I begin, I have enjoyed so very much reading your news, entralled with your wonderful descriptions, made me feel that I was almost there with you both.

    Thank you thank you so very much for sharing your “dream” which has now come true.

    Have a great Christmas which from memory I think you said would be in Paris, enjoy your travels in England.

    Most importantly have a wonderful time with Jan and Nigel (if he is also joining you both)

    Save travel home and look forward to hearing from you when you return.

    Cheers
    Jen

  15. By wolfgang zwierlein December 11th, 2008 at 3:13 pm

    hi jon and jack
    it truely has been wonderful to read your stories of your travel all the best for christmas and the new year
    regards wolfgang

  16. By Gayle - Melbourne December 11th, 2008 at 3:46 pm

    Hi Jon and Jack,

    I too have enjoyed your regular updates and amazing photos - Jack your way with words has created the most amazing journey for us all - enjoy your reunion with Jan who I am sure must be relieved to know she will be spending Christmas with you both. Looking forward to all the stories on 774 in 2009 Jon - I have certainly missed you.

  17. By Cheryl Hammill December 11th, 2008 at 4:25 pm

    Jon & Jack,

    What a ride you have taken us all on. Thank you for sharing yuor stories and for the amazing photos.
    Can’t wait for the book - and to hear you again on 774 where you will be inundated with travel questions. Happy Christmas to you and happy reunion with Jan.

    Stay safe.

  18. By Rob December 11th, 2008 at 5:52 pm

    Have you decided whether you’ll drive the car home in the opposite direction, or will you be retracing your footsteps?

    Well done, boys!

    Rob

  19. By Jane December 11th, 2008 at 6:33 pm

    Hope you enjoy the last few weeks on your trip. Looking forward to hearing you back on 774 Jon. (Although Ali Moore and other fill-ins have been doing a superb job).

    PS. Probably should have kept quiet about the fact that “you can get tyres repaired everywhere…”. The secret is out now, so it is unlikely anyone’s going to buy your tyre repair kit on eBay now!

  20. By Afton December 11th, 2008 at 6:55 pm

    Dear Jon and Jack,

    Like many others my husband and I have enjoyed reading your blogs about your adventures. What a shock it will be when you go back to work and uni!

    Glad that you have kept safe and will be ready to see Jan when she arrives.

    Have a happy Christmas and safe return Down Under.

    Afton

  21. By Lynne Meek December 11th, 2008 at 7:47 pm

    Hi Jon & Jack

    What a fantastic trip - and so many memories! My partner agrees wholeheartedly with your choice of vehicle. He has one of the original Land Rovers, but always says that the new ones are just not up to it. Looking forward to hearing you back on 774. I’ve never been able to hear any of your broadcasts but someone has recorded them and put them on a website for everyone to download.

    If you’re ever in the Geelong region, call in for a coffee or hot chocolate (check the website).

    Best wishes for Christmas - Paris and London, sigh!

  22. By Rhys & Melinda Timms December 11th, 2008 at 9:28 pm

    Ahh Jon, you could have taken a rusty old french car from your back garden …. or, the new Jap 4WD (mmm are we allowed to mention brand names). From the outset a good choice. Excellent reliability.

    Thoroughly enjoyed reading about both of your globe trotting adventures. Jack - keep up the writing and the photography. Great photos.

    As you are nearing France, dont get too excited Jon - soon it will be just like the all french car day, everyday.

    Kind regards

  23. By Natalie December 12th, 2008 at 6:38 am

    Am beginning to feel all the excitement bubbling up for you both on here, as you near the end of your travels. I’m sure we don’t want it to end either. We’ve all been hanging on your coat tails! I’m sure christmas in Europe will be wonderful and quite different to any Aussie christmas - it may even be white! Hanging on your every word now……….

  24. By Alison December 12th, 2008 at 10:01 am

    Jon and Jack

    Your modesty is ever present Jon, but you must have worked out by now that you are a much loved feature of Melbourne life, and that your trip was always going to attract enormous interest! Thanks for the beautiful writing, the photos and for allowing us to follow your journey. I feel teary at the prospect of your reunion with family in London or Paris or wherever the end really is, and can’t wait to read the book.

    Happy Christmas to you all.

    Alison

  25. By Caroline Piesse, Melbourne December 12th, 2008 at 10:04 am

    When in Paris, have a look at the Sainte Chapelle next to Notre Dame. The windows, in fact almost the entire walls on ground and first floor, are the most wonderful example of glorious stained glass.
    A lunch of bread and cheese & wine (of course)on the banks of the Seine having checked out the booksellers - what a way to spend lunchtime, even in mid-winter!
    Au revoir and hear you soon back on 774. Looking forward to the book with photos.
    Caroline Piesse
    East Bentleigh

  26. By Yuri December 12th, 2008 at 10:47 am

    Latest conversation between Jon and Derek (10 December) now up at http://rapidshare.com/users/SUGWPA.

  27. By Yuri December 12th, 2008 at 11:17 am

    Thank you for taking us all along on your travels - I’ve followed your trek with a mixture of excitement, anticipation, sometimes a little trepidation and envy. I’m delighted to see that you’ve been able to pursue and fulfill your dreams so successfully - that tumour’s been excised now, I guess!

    My brother-in-law drives a Prado and I a Discovery, which is like putting an Essendon and Collingwood fan together in the same room. But if I attempted a journey like yours I know which car I would pick - so I hope he doesn’t read your blog or I’ll never live it down that I would go with a diesel Prado any day for all the reasons you listed.

    I’m sure I reflect everyone’s thoughts when I wish you and your family a happy and safe Christmas and a chance to relax, unwind and reflect before it’s time once again to “set your bulldust detectors to high” and ride the airwaves again next year.

    Now where do we sign up for pre-orders for your book?

  28. By Jenny December 12th, 2008 at 1:08 pm

    Have so enjoyed keeping up with your travels but have missed your good sense and insight in the morning when at home.Have a wonderful Christmas then hasten back to 774.Cheers Jenny

  29. By DavidLloyd December 12th, 2008 at 1:41 pm

    If you head to Paris via Dijon look up http://domainedavidclark.com as the owner has an interesting story and of course say hi from David of Red Hill.

  30. By RICBRUN December 12th, 2008 at 10:40 pm

    Congratulations Jon and Jack on a truly remarkable adventure of a lifetime , I admire your unimaginable courage to cross these countries even at times in crisis,I reckon the aussie voice will be as sweet as a meat pie when you get back, It did with us… thanks for sharing with us your blogs -I look forward in hearing you soon in Melbourne.
    Cheers Rick from Shepparton Vic

  31. By Jacqui December 13th, 2008 at 6:54 am

    Muzzeltoff Have a great Hunuka Christmas and New Year
    Have missed a few of your talk segments in the morning and evenings.
    But have enjoyed checking and reading your progress.
    Glad you are still both safe and that you will arrive back on oz soil in peak of health.
    Enjoy your reunion with Jan (very romantic Paris with your best friend and lover) Hope Jack won’t suddenly feel lonely.
    So many places and people to see and so little time left but boy you have packed a lot in. More than most in one life time.
    I too want to be on the Book Buyers list please.
    Have started to ready Danny and Sandys travellogue but find theirs more difficult to navigate. I can only read a little each day.
    Travelling with young ones sounds like a nighmare to me. Big ones ok.
    Thanks again for a wonderful armchair ride.
    I love Paris and wish I could be there again but I think my memories of my 2 visits will have to suffice.
    Jack we are eargerly waiting for the next lot of photos
    they have been excellent well done.
    I would be very glad of some cheaper diesel it is still 30 cents a litre dearer than unleaded and paid $1.37 a litre in Geelong last Sunday
    Cheers and tread lightly and safely.

  32. By Jean from Tarneit December 13th, 2008 at 10:37 am

    Goodmorning Jon and Jack. I have been following your epic journey from day 1 and am going to miss my daily update of your adventures. You must surely be getting so excited as your trip nears its conclusion and your reunion with the lovely Jan. I do hope you enjoy your Christmas and I hope you spoil Jan rotten - she deserves it.

    We have had the most wonderful downpour of rain over the last 24 hours - the wettest day since January of this year. More to come which is wonderful.

    Enjoy what is left of your journey and I wish you both a safe trip home.

    Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe 2009 and return to the Land of Oz.

    I hope Jack publishes a book on your trip. Reading his blog made me feel as if I was a back seat passenger travelling with you. Thanks Jack.

    Jean

  33. By Natalie December 13th, 2008 at 12:39 pm

    This morning I listened to your last chat with Derek earlier in the month and noted that you were in Verona. I spent a very happy month there, many moons ago. My friend and I were lucky enough to go to L’Arena to an open air opera and though we didn’t appreciate opera at our ages, it was absolutely stunning amtmospherically and so romantic. I remember Piazza Bra, having a gelato and a granita. Oh happy days.

  34. By Peter Andrews December 13th, 2008 at 12:53 pm

    I have been following your odyssey with great interest, and it must be fantastic to be near the end and closer to a family reunion. A truly memorable experience for you and your son. Hope to hear you on the airwaves again in 2009,
    regards Peter

  35. By gerard December 13th, 2008 at 3:17 pm

    hey, good work
    i’ve been following you guys (not literally) on the website, which i think is a great idea, except of course when it cuts into travel time, i just thought i’d say good on you for having an idea and doing it.
    merry christmas, have fun in paris.

    cheers.

  36. By Margaret December 13th, 2008 at 10:33 pm

    Jon and Jack,
    Thank you to you both for sharing your adventures - not always easy with time and technical challenges. You have both been very generous to us all. I hope Paris eases you back to the mad rush of “life” but suspect you will both need quiet time and personal space before resuming “normal” activities again. Maybe an Aussie “bush holiday”????
    Marg

  37. By Ray Walker December 14th, 2008 at 11:22 am

    Jon and Jack,

    I have been following your journey with much admiration. It must be very satisfying for you to have completed what must have been a very scary trip initially across Asia,China and the middle eastern countries.
    Congratulations on your achievement.
    Ray

  38. By Helen Booth December 14th, 2008 at 6:55 pm

    Jon and Jack, Your descriptive narration of your journey just makes me be there, Just love it
    Best wishes
    Helen

  39. By Sylvia Williams December 14th, 2008 at 8:33 pm

    Dear Jon & Jack,
    I haven’t written before but I have read your entries very regularly. Thank you for taking us along on your wonderful, dangerous, exciting and enviable travels. Hope the rest of the trip is safe. I look forward to your return to 774.
    Sylvia Williams

  40. By Soph December 14th, 2008 at 8:37 pm

    Thanks for sharing, fellas.
    You’re ace.

  41. By Paul at Torquay December 14th, 2008 at 8:39 pm

    Jon and Jack, Congratulations on a great achievement.
    I suppose you’ll be dropping in to St Remy in Provence and picking up that DS21 Chapron.
    Do you reckon you could get some more of that Iranian diesel and bring it back? My 307 would do 3600km on 165 litres.
    Paul

  42. By Alexandra Williams December 14th, 2008 at 8:57 pm

    14.12.08
    Have loved reading about your journey, how I envy you both. Congratulations.

  43. By Matt Schaper December 15th, 2008 at 12:35 am

    Hi folks,
    I happened to notice, that you haven’t moved on the map. Are you having a rest time or are you simply snowed in ? Heard some places in Austria had nearly 1 (one!) Meter of Snow overnight. Even the best 4WD get’s stuck in that. All the best for the Big Finish.
    Matt

  44. By Christine Crooks December 15th, 2008 at 8:20 am

    is it just me or is everyone getting excited for Jon,Jack and Jan as that black squiggle on the map edges mightily close to Paris!
    I’d also love to see your arrival and lap around Trafalgar Square with your ‘yi-hah’!!
    love to the three of you
    Christine

  45. By Lorraine December 15th, 2008 at 8:26 pm

    Jon and Jack
    Have been following your trip and loving the writing from both of you. I have to say that Jack you have a great way with words and you take a fantastic photo….
    I wish you both well for the remainder of your trip and look forward to the book.

    Take care and travel safe

  46. By warrick dawson December 16th, 2008 at 8:42 am

    Now that you have almost finished your journey, please hurry home and prepare for another year of informative radio. You have been greatly missed from the airwaves. Thanks for the opportunity to travel vicariously with you both.

  47. By Liz Allen December 16th, 2008 at 10:09 am

    Thanks for sharing your exciting adventure with us all.I hope that a conversation hour will be set aside so that both Jon & Jack can be interviewed in depth about the trip! Happy holidays and look forward to listening to you in 2009!!

  48. By Sue December 16th, 2008 at 4:12 pm

    Jon and Jack
    Have thoroughly enjoyed following your progress.Congratulations. All the best for Christmas & the New Year.
    Sue

  49. By Colin Shoebridge December 16th, 2008 at 9:26 pm

    Thanks for the wonderful descriptions of your journey.It has been fun following the adventures of you both.

  50. By Liz Norman December 17th, 2008 at 12:45 am

    Hi Jon and Jack,
    I have just caught up with you after a few weeks out of circulation. It’s hard to believe that the trip is nearly over. Thankyou for being so generous as to share your special time with us. I have not been to any of the places you have visited and have enjoyed reading your experiences so much. The travel bug is biting me. Jon, It will be great to have you back in Melbourne and on the radio again. Congratulations to Jack on the beautiful photography. Tons of natural flare for a good picture. God Bless and enjoy the rest of your journey.

  51. By Shirley Hardy-Rix December 17th, 2008 at 8:53 am

    Jon,
    Listening to you this morning brought back so many memories..the dual-edged sword of the end of the journey. We too were sick of the same clothes and the constant eating out. I was dreadfully homesick after a year on the road and wanted nothing more than home - yet we didn’t want the journey to end. After two weeks at home I was ready for the road again!
    The memories stay with you forwever and we have relived some of ours through your journey. We look forward to catching up when you get home.
    Cheers
    Shirley & Brian

  52. By Yuri December 17th, 2008 at 9:17 am

    Almost missed this last conversation of Jon with Ali Moore from Brittany in France - thank heavens radio streaming is 10 seconds behind live-to-air. Conversation now up on http://rapidshare.com/users/SUGWPA

  53. By wendy December 17th, 2008 at 10:37 am

    what a journey.Thank you for letting me share it with you.Have a wonderful reunion with Jan.
    Blessings for a wonderful Christmas with family and friends,
    Look forward to seeing Mr worm make it to London,
    Also looking forward to hearing about your journey in the new year.

  54. By pam murison December 17th, 2008 at 12:16 pm

    Thank you both for your pictorial diary. I was particularly interested to know you had been to Pamukkale, Turkey, having had an email recently showing an incredible natural phenomenon there. Unfortunately I can’t remember it’s name.

  55. By Les December 17th, 2008 at 2:51 pm

    Don’t underestimate your fan base, Jon - the detractors are always the noisiest. Enjoy the reunion and best wishes.

  56. By myrtle beeton December 17th, 2008 at 4:27 pm

    I never thought I would actually say this to Jon Faine BUT - HURRY BACK! I am actually missing lots of news items because I turn the radio off so often - much more than I ever did on you Jon!
    I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your site. The photography has been stunning and the freshness of Jack’s input has been great. Congratulations to you both.
    P.S. My belated apologies for the many times I have turned YOU off (tongue in teeth of course)

  57. By Natalie December 17th, 2008 at 4:57 pm

    Looks like you’ve veered away from Paris. What’s going on? We’re all hanging out for another blog from either of you. They’re dwindling off now. When you get to London, please kiss the ground for me. I haven’t been back since 2000. I reckon you should hire out the Myer Music Bowl to address all of us fans, when you get home. Nothing less will satisfy our thirst for your stories and a slide show. All the best for the season. Happy new year. We have missed you on 774 Jon and we won’t mind if you share your mike with Jack.

  58. By Dave Jenkins December 17th, 2008 at 5:11 pm

    What an inspiration.
    Life’s full of talkers. You guys are clearly doers!
    Unbelievable guys!!!!

  59. By John December 17th, 2008 at 7:30 pm

    Hi Jon & Jack

    Wow what a journey we have enjoyed with you both.

    It was great to hear your “froggie” voice this morning Jon when you were talking to Ally.

    Trust you will have a great reunion with Jan today and have a great Christmas and New Year.

    Looking forward to a much wiser morning show presenter next year!

  60. By Wally & Eleanor December 17th, 2008 at 9:08 pm

    Hi J J Its me again. I have a couple of ? to ask How is the Ping comming home or are you leaving it in England 2 When will you be arriving back in Melbourne So that I can organise your fan club to meet you at the Airport. My wife and I wish you a safe journey home and a Happy Chanuka,and a happy new year.I have kept in touch with Danny & Sandy and they will be meeting up with my son John and his family in Laos.Enjoy the reunion with Jan.One more time keep on treking Wally.

  61. By Samantha Stayner December 17th, 2008 at 9:50 pm

    Congrats Jon! What a fantastic journey! Truly the trip of a lifetime. Thanks for your blog posts and pics - some fantastic photos. Brendan and I got back yesterday from 2 months in Africa (we’ve been blogging too!).

    A wonderful and special Christmas to you and your family. See you in 09 :)

    Samantha

  62. By Matt Schaper December 18th, 2008 at 5:50 am

    Hi folks,
    what’s cooking ? Is your GPS out of batteries or have you slurped the alco out of the compass ?
    You’ve missed Paris !!
    (Turn back and ask the locals for directions …)

    Matt

  63. By Lyn December 18th, 2008 at 6:27 am

    Congratulations on completion of the journey, I have really enjoyed the stories and photos.
    Very envious! Looking forward to your return in January on 774.
    Happy Christmas
    Cheers Lyn

  64. By greg December 18th, 2008 at 7:49 pm

    Thankyou for sharing your personal adventures its have been very enjoyable reading Now for the photo night BEST WISHES FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON OO no does this mean we have to listern to Faine on air in 09

  65. By Natalie December 19th, 2008 at 5:58 am

    I heard that you and Jack had parted company and you were waiting for Jan to join you in Paris but you can’t just leave us hanging on. You’ve got to give us an ending to the story - PLEASE.

  66. By Maureen December 19th, 2008 at 1:55 pm

    It has been fantastic following your journey, your wonderful photographs and panoramas, but surely its not finished yet! You have yet to reach London and fill us all in on your reunion with Jan. Safe travels on your return to Melbourne and have a great festive season and a very Happy New Year.

  67. By Anne December 19th, 2008 at 6:21 pm

    This is just to wish you all a wonderful Christmas in Paris with your friends and the happiest of New Year’s in London. I hope that you can sell Ping easily in the UK, but if not, that it doesn’t totally break the bank when shipping it home.

    Thanks for the journey. Looking forward to hearing you again on 774.

  68. By Czaba December 20th, 2008 at 10:17 am

    When do you cross the Channel?

  69. By Joan McDonald December 20th, 2008 at 4:32 pm

    Thank you both for sharing your wonderful adventure with us. I wish you all a fantastic christmas in Paris and look forward to hearing about your arrival in London at the end of your journey. My very best wishes for a happy New Year and am looking forward to your return John on 774. Happy Christmas.

  70. By Victoria December 20th, 2008 at 6:12 pm

    We’re all agog waiting for the denouement! Thank you both and your family for sharing your life with us, and wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

  71. By Ros December 21st, 2008 at 9:09 am

    You can’t leave us hanging — we need to know that you have arrived safely at your final destination.
    Journeys begin, they also finally end. We need ‘closure’. How are you getting home?
    Best wishes for the festive Season and for 2009. I look forward to your return to 774 next year.

  72. By Diane... December 21st, 2008 at 1:36 pm

    TO JON & JACK THANK YOU FOR A WONDERFUL JOURNEY YOU SHARED WITH US ALL… Looking forward to hearing you again on 774.

  73. By Natalie December 21st, 2008 at 3:36 pm

    Boys, you have created a monster now. We may not leave you alone. As someone’s already said, we want closure. Put us out of our misery then we can continue with our own (miserable) lives.

  74. By Mike O'Mara December 21st, 2008 at 4:30 pm

    Jon and Jake

    Well done. been watching your progress with admiration, jealousy, amazement and at time some frustration. (Like a serial or a book you can’t get enough of). The only worry I have Jon, is that as an avid listener, how can you return to the drudgery of work after this. And for you Jake, I wonder what this has done for your choice of careers. Thanks for your trip. Have a good christmas and safe journey home.
    Mike

  75. By Czaba December 22nd, 2008 at 7:37 am

    Are you there yet? Are you there yet?

    Have a great holiday season. Hannukah. Christmas, Dancing around the monoliths at Stonehenge. Soaking in a warm spa sharing a bottle of something special with Jan. Whatever takes your fancy. Probably won’t be too many barbecues!

    What an epic you and Jack have lived. Looking forward to having you back on 774, and hearing stories. There must be stories. Funny, scary, poignant.

    Thanks for the posts from both of you. And welcome home soon.

    Czaba

  76. By Debbie from sunny Beaumaris December 22nd, 2008 at 3:34 pm

    Thanks so much for sharing your journey and opening my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities.

    Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

  77. By Maureen from Aberfeldie December 23rd, 2008 at 9:37 am

    Hi Jon and Jack,

    It has been one day shy of 2 weeks since your last post - such a long time to leave us all hanging on for the next instalment. How are you finding Paris in the Winter? Cold? Festive? Good food? Good wine? Even better company? Enjoy!!!

    Maureen

  78. By Muriel Doos December 24th, 2008 at 8:33 am

    Well done Jon and Jack!…. What a trip. I was one of the 500,000 hits on your site to read about your adventures.

    You are now in my country and I saw that you went trough my city (Nantes) and Brittanyb to catch a ferry to England. Will be interested to hear your comments on France in general.

    Indeed you must have looked weird with your 4WD. Have you been able to park easily? And what about driving in some of the city centres which streets are so narrow?

    Hope you have a lovely Christmas with your family and we look forward to hearing you again on the radio. Do not be shy to talk about your trip on the radio.

    Kindest Regards,

    Muriel Doos

  79. By Andrew December 24th, 2008 at 12:08 pm

    Jack (not John,
    Now honestly…how many Citroen spare parts has your dad been able to fit into the Prado for shipment home???!!!

  80. By Caroline Piesse, Melbourne December 25th, 2008 at 8:46 am

    To all the Faine family
    Glad to see the worm has got to Paris.
    Have a great time together in Paris and in London for the New Year.
    Thank you for the fabulous journey that you have shared with all of us. Have a safe trip home and hear Jon again on 774.
    Caroline Piesse

  81. By Wally December 25th, 2008 at 8:07 pm

    Well J & J your epic journey is almost over,Will you now have time to answer all the comments from your fans. As I have read every detail of your Trek there are so many questions I would like to as you So How would you like to come to my place for a nice cup of coffee and maybe a couple of Blinzes to go with it.Looking forward to your reply. Your fervent fans Wally & Eleanor.

  82. By Terry December 25th, 2008 at 9:52 pm

    Jon,

    I’ve also been following your journey whilst on one of our own- different but a big one none the less. We left Melbourne in August to come to live in Paris for 16 months. Today is Christmas and we are spending it in Geneva with my husband’s family. I finally have a few spare moments so I’ve been checking on you and Jack! It’s been a pleasure to follow your path and know that you were ending up not far from us here on the other side of the world. Hope you enjoy Paris for the New Year. We’ve enjoyed getting to know our temporary home there and look forward to more adventures before we too return down under this time next year!

    Can’t wait

  83. By Bernie O'Kane December 26th, 2008 at 8:26 am

    Well done boys. In the European summer, I cycled 2,200 km solo through Northern Europe. My blog is not in the same league as yours but perhaps I can identify with your travels a little more than most.

    Your efforts and experiences will stay with you forever. You can be well satisfied.

  84. By Carol December 26th, 2008 at 8:37 am

    I see the worm has finally reached Paris! Don’t keep us in suspense… What happened ????

    Loved reading your adventures, but was unable to listen to your conversations on Wednesdays, so I am completely frustrated as I’m sure are many others.
    Looking forward to your return to 774.
    Thank you Jon and Jack for sharing with us.

  85. By Jim Kennedy December 26th, 2008 at 9:00 am

    Dear J & J, I get a little watery to feel that a great epic is almost over. I do hope a book is more than ‘on the drawing boards’. Would be best seller- Paid for by a certain Jap. Car Co. of coarse. The Chinese version would turn the world economies around. Have a Happy Christmas & best for the New Year Hope to hear you soon. & dont forget to discuss it on 774 Give it a 1/2 hr. bash every week,- Now that would increase the ratings, Get Jack involved too. Regards Jim.

  86. By Cameron Martin December 27th, 2008 at 1:46 am

    Wonderful trip!
    Jon, you won’t need any guests on the show for at least 6 months after this!

  87. By Matt Schaper December 27th, 2008 at 7:02 am

    …marvellous. You’ve found Paris. And when you head approximately to 320 degrees, London shouldn’t be missed. Really, guys, Top Job, you’re actually going to make it on time. Well done !
    Matt

  88. By Mary Jones December 27th, 2008 at 11:24 am

    Please Jon, can you tell us the end of the road? I have been waiting to hear about the final days of the journey. Guess there have been happy reunions.
    Hope that you have had a fantastic Christmas, and all the best in the New Year. Awaiting your return to 774 (if you can ever settle back!!)
    Mary

  89. By Max December 27th, 2008 at 2:37 pm

    Please hurry back Jon. Your replacements are driving me up the wall and please give a report on your adventure each day.

  90. By Joy December 27th, 2008 at 8:21 pm

    Merry Christmas & a Happy 2009
    Finally heard you on morning radio on our Boxing Day - 9pm in Paris for you!
    We need to know what happened to you both since 10th Dec and how you meet up with Jan in Paris!
    Hope you don’t ask for another 12 months off as you suggested….
    best wishes

  91. By Darren December 27th, 2008 at 8:46 pm

    Almost done! When do you arrive in Trafalgar Square London, in ‘Rally of Monte Carlo’ finish line Style? New years day? I’m in London, look forward to seeing you both when you arrive. Will you be having an after party in one of London’s many great pubs? Cheers Darren

  92. By Amund Schniedehagen December 27th, 2008 at 9:15 pm

    Congrats. Jack & Jon,
    Well done on your choice of a Toyota 4WD!; according to our tyre dealer. My good wife Adina had prevailed upon me to purchase a Camry (back in 2000). However needing to do 4 trips to Canberra,
    and about 2 additional trips to Leura (BMtns) (annually) we dis-covered that the front tyres wore prematurely. Our tyre dealer informed me that Toyota’s strength is in their 4WDs not city sedans; they don’t have the integral suspension strength for long distance highway “pounding”. In 2005 we, upon his advice, changed to a Peugeot 406; we found that no longer were six monthly wheel alignments needed, as well, no premature front tyre wear.
    It goes to show; right vehicle for the right application.
    Looking forward to that book being published!
    Amund.

  93. By GREGIEM December 28th, 2008 at 4:30 pm

    Dear John & Jack,
    WE ALL NEED TO KNOW HOW YOUR TRIP ENDED?

  94. By john snell December 28th, 2008 at 5:48 pm

    G’day, well may we say “where the bloody hell are you” but after zillions of hits, still nothing, come on jon give us something, anything, even a squiggle to London will do, cheers, john and dianne

  95. By annie December 29th, 2008 at 6:27 am

    Whats happened since the 10th December/ You have certainly left your interested “fans” high and dry.
    Did you have mental health problems after all the holiday or are you relying on Jack to finish the story as he seems to be the one with the words.

  96. By Natalie December 29th, 2008 at 7:37 am

    Guys, guys the two J’s aren’t even reading our blogs. We’re all flogging a dead horse. They’re all having too great a time living it up to bother with us lot, who have been left behind wondering. We’ve got to get over it and move on, as they say in the classics!!!

    This is what you call a cliff hanger.

    Happy new year to all of you out there.

  97. By shanew December 29th, 2008 at 6:31 pm

    Are you there yet ? Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?Are you there yet ?

    I assume the answer is yes :-)

  98. By Geraldine December 31st, 2008 at 8:45 am

    Jon and Jack, Congratulations on completing such a remarkable trip, and on time!
    You have been sorely missed , Jon, but the expectation of you returning with amazing stories will ensure very bright mornings.Can we look forward to a book from you, and an exhibition of photos taken by Jack,in the near future??
    Enjoy London, but do try to spend quality time with the family in the real England, away from the cities. Good luck, and Happy New Year to you both.

  99. By am December 31st, 2008 at 2:10 pm

    Jon, Jack, what are you doing to us? Finish the tale, guys. Sheesh.
    For the sake of closure folks, go to …

    http://www.nowwearetalking.com.au/blogs/melbourne-to-london/paris-for-christmas

    and you’ll read Jon’s Christmas Eve posting (yes, that’s right, he’s been seeing another blog.)

  100. By Maureen Kelson December 31st, 2008 at 3:58 pm

    Dear Jon, Jan and Jack,
    Happy New Year.
    We wish you Peace, Health and Happiness for 2009.
    Thanks for sharing your trip with us.
    Hurry up and come back to the ABC Jon, we have missed you so much,
    Best Wishes,
    Maureen and Bob

  101. By mary e January 1st, 2009 at 10:03 am

    please jon, just a quick update, are you lost in paris

  102. By Lee January 1st, 2009 at 12:54 pm

    Just found the Christmas update posted 24 Dec @ this site
    http://www.nowwearetalking.com.au/blogs/melbourne-to-london/paris-for-christmas

    Go figure ???

    And here I was thinking that they had just driven off the road straight into the English Channel

  103. By Wally January 1st, 2009 at 4:35 pm

    HI J & J HAPPY NEW YEAR.to you and your family. As most of your fans have asked where is the finish.?Do you read any of the Blogs? How about some answers.? We are a selfish lot your fans and we wont let up until we get some answers. The offer still stand Coffee and Blinzes at my place when you get back. Wally & Eleanor.

  104. By sean godsell January 1st, 2009 at 7:40 pm

    Dear Jon

    My wife Annemarie and 17 year old son Jack were wandering the streets of Paris last night when we came across a white Toyota Land Cruiser parked just near boulevard St Germain. ‘I’ll bet that’s Jon Faine’ Sure enough it would seem to be. Jack and I have spent many years listening to your programme en route to school (the same nameless school that Red sneds his kids to) and have missed your dulcit tones over the past six months. We are holidaying in France and England to celebrate the end of VCE (99.8!) school fees etc etc. All the best for the new year and I look forward to hearing all about your trip on 774 in the coming months.

    best wishes

    Sean, Annemarie and Jack Godsell - fellow Melbournians and fans.

  105. By Richard Woodhouse January 2nd, 2009 at 2:25 pm

    Congratulations and a happy New Year. Sorry to hear about the lurgy, better in Paris than on the road though.

    Looking forward to hearing your voice again on 774 later in the year.

    Best Regards,

    Richard & Barbara.

  106. By Moira Tucker January 3rd, 2009 at 9:41 am

    Sorry to hear you were ill in Paris. My memory of illness [ a chest infection ] in France was the medical treatment seemed to be at the wrong end of my anatomy…. made for an interesting exchange of cultural practices. Hope antibiotics are now administed orally. Happy New Year to all.

  107. By Kathryn Nauta January 9th, 2009 at 7:18 pm

    Congratulations, both of you.
    Always looked forward to your Wednesday phone calls. I think it’s called travelling vicariously! Now I’m really looking forward to hearing you again on 774.
    Happy New Year to all three of you and good luck for the last leg of of the journey.
    Kathryn

  108. By Warren Hart January 12th, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Congratulations to both of you for a wonderful adventure and experiencefor a father with his son. First heard of your journey via Geoff Hutcheson and 720 Perth. Sorry we can’t hear your dulcet tones in the West so look forward very much to ‘the’ book.

  109. By Greg McAdam January 29th, 2009 at 5:00 pm

    Thanks for your reports and photos. What a great trip. Oh glad you are back on 774. Its about time someone was giving the powers at be a hard time.

  110. By Dodi May 20th, 2010 at 1:14 am

    Hi, i hope your remember me, how are yuo jack and jhon, i glad to met you, when you are come back to way kambas national park, i glad to met you. really i glad. tanks for vissit.

  111. By Shane Driscoll August 7th, 2010 at 5:45 pm

    Very excited as today I went out and purchased the book. Once I have completed Tim Bowden’s “Penelope Goes North” this is a must.

    Looking forward to the book, which if it conveys your intellect and humour that we are accustomed to on 774, will ensure this will be a book that is hard to put down.

  112. By Greg Shepherd September 1st, 2010 at 3:50 am

    It’s great to hear about your ultimate father-son bonding trip… it sounds like the Middle-East is a a great path for following our parenting urges.

  113. By mONIKA newbound March 3rd, 2011 at 8:57 pm

    Hi Guys, great adventure, amazing dream, can i ask how did you get your vehicle from Oz to Indonesia andwhich shipping company did you use.

    Kindly Monika

  114. By used cars shepparton March 28th, 2011 at 3:17 pm

    It’s a great experience and adventure. Thanks for sharing it here.

  115. By Gary April 20th, 2011 at 9:57 pm

    Hello Jack and Jon
    U did an amazing adventure, congratulations!!!
    Me and my girlfriend are planning to go from France to Hong Kong by car
    We would like to ask you some questions, most of all about crossing China with your own car…
    Could you please contact us by mail?
    Thanks a lot

  116. By Erik Nap April 22nd, 2011 at 12:04 pm

    Hi Jack and Jon,

    For a long time I have been dreaming of a simmilar trip and finalley are things working out here and hope to leave in February next year. But I have a few questions and so does my parten. ANy change to get in contact with you guys. We are living in Wangaratta.,
    This book was my Xmas present last year and I am telling you I didn’t do much else over Xmas then finishing it. Bot usre if the family liked that,haha

Leave a Reply

Archives

Categories