Marina Piro embodies the innate wanderlust that some are born with. Hailing from Italy originally, she made her way to the United Kingdom before embarking on a global journey aboard her meticulously restored van, fondly named Pam. Since 2017, accompanied by her loyal companion Odie, a cherished labradoodle cross she rescued, Marina has been traversing the world.
Odie reveled in their nomadic lifestyle, relishing the attention showered upon him by people they encountered and the freedom of the great outdoors. However, their blissful companionship was cut short when Odie passed away in 2019, leaving a profound void in Marina’s heart. For four years, he was not just a faithful travel companion but also a beloved presence, adored by Marina’s followers on Instagram.
Undeterred by the loss, Marina persists in her global explorations, driven by an insatiable curiosity to truly immerse herself in each destination she visits. For her, travel isn’t merely about ticking off places on a map; it’s about forging genuine connections and delving into the essence of every locale.
Her trusty steed is a 2001 Renault Kangoo, meticulously refurbished by Marina herself over the course of two months. Stripping the van to its bare bones, she painstakingly redesigned the interior to strike the perfect balance between comfort and functionality. Now equipped with a snug bed, a compact kitchenette, and adorned with LED plants, Pam offers Marina the freedom to roam wherever her heart desires.
The restoration project, costing a modest £500, stands as a testament to Marina’s resourcefulness and determination. It’s an investment that has paid dividends, affording her the opportunity to live life on her own terms. For those curious about her adventures, Marina generously shares her experiences through captivating videos on her YouTube channel.
While Odie’s absence is deeply felt, Marina’s magnetic affinity for dogs continues to attract four-legged companions on her journey. Wherever she roams, stray dogs seem to gravitate towards her, drawn by her compassionate spirit. Through her platform, Marina not only documents her travels but also advocates for the welfare of stray animals, urging others to join her in supporting local organizations and initiatives.
Marina Piro is a traveler at heart!
Marina, originally hailing from Italy, relocated to the United Kingdom before embarking on a global journey in her trusty van. Accompanied initially by Odie, a beloved labradoodle cross who has since passed on, Marina now traverses the world solo.
Dubbed “Pam,” her faithful companion on the road is a 2001 Renault Kangoo with five doors. Marina undertook the restoration of Pam single-handedly, delving into extensive research and dedicating two months of relentless effort to the project.
Beginning the renovation process as a novice, Marina had minimal knowledge of the task at hand. However, she embraced the learning curve, picking up skills along the way and relishing every moment of the endeavor.
Although Pam’s makeover may not boast flawless precision, Marina’s lack of expertise led to challenges in achieving perfect measurements and straight cuts. Nonetheless, Pam suits her needs perfectly, embodying Marina’s determination and resourcefulness.
Marina initiated the project by stripping the van’s interior entirely, setting the stage for the creation of a cozy living space tailored to her preferences.
With a modest budget of £500, Marina transformed Pam into a fully-equipped haven, complete with essential amenities such as a bed, kitchenette, LED lighting, and a touch of greenery to liven up the space.
Marina cherishes the serene beauty of Lac de Longemer (Xonrupt-Longemer) nestled in France. Surrounded by majestic pine trees, the lake exudes an aura of tranquility that never fails to captivate her.
Finding solace in the quietude of this hidden gem, Marina finds it the ideal spot to park her van and immerse herself in its splendor for a few blissful days.
Brighton, United Kingdom, holds a special place in Marina’s heart, as does the picturesque region of Valle d’Aosta in Italy, both offering breathtaking vistas and invigorating hikes that resonate deeply with her soul.
Accompanied by Odie, Marina revels in every moment of their travels, basking in the warmth of the people’s affection and relishing the crisp, rejuvenating air.
Determined to seize the essence of each destination, Marina’s wanderlust knows no bounds. Her journey is not merely about ticking off places on a map but about forging meaningful connections with the world around her.
Embracing a slow travel ethos, Marina dedicates 2 to 3 weeks to fully immerse herself in the culture of each new locale, eagerly seizing opportunities to engage in volunteer work, a pursuit that fills her heart with joy and purpose.
Whether it’s with her trusty companion Pam the van or any other mode of transport, Marina is committed to her globetrotting adventures.
For Marina, the essence of a fulfilling life lies in embracing any lifestyle that resonates with one’s true desires. Whether it involves traversing distant lands, delving into the intricacies of finance, or nurturing a family at home, authenticity reigns supreme.
Her decision to launch a blog and YouTube channel stemmed from a desire to empower fellow women, illustrating that embarking on a nomadic journey is within reach. She champions the notion that independence knows no gender, nor does it hinge on having every detail meticulously planned. Taking that initial leap of faith is paramount.
Marina’s inbox brims with messages from women yearning to emulate her adventurous spirit but feeling daunted by the prospect of forging their own path. They confide in her, expressing a lack of direction and wavering confidence in their ability to pursue a life on the road. Marina’s response is unwavering: she shares her trials and triumphs to dispel any notion of unattainability, demonstrating unequivocally that fear should never be a barrier to realizing one’s dreams.
