July 2023 (G.T.) – When our editorial staff receives reports on the countless Vespa journeys, it is always happy news that reeks of freedom and discovery, of encounters and emotions, with a pinch of adventure. The email sent by Jana Milić, however, is truly special. Jana writes, “I am writing this email to bring to your attention a matter that holds significant importance to me. Throughout my upbringing, I have witnessed my father's unwavering passion for Vespa scooters and all things related to them. He has acquired and cherished more than 10 different Vespa over the course of his life, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to each one. His fervour for these iconic machines has even led him to embark on several extensive journeys, with the ultimate goal of traversing the entirety of Europe on these small yet powerful vehicles. As an avid reader of your esteemed online magazine, Wide Magazine, he constantly seeks inspiration from its articles.
Just recently, he returned from a remarkable 17-day expedition alongside my mother, during which they visited 10 countries aboard a brand-new Vespa from this year: Vespa GTS Super Tech. Covering a remarkable distance of 4,800 kilometres, they explored numerous cities and experienced the splendour of each region's most renowned landmarks.
Capturing the essence of their journey, over 3,000 photographs were taken, and I am pleased to share a video comprising a selection of these images, showcasing the entirety of their route. I sincerely hope that this captivating narrative has piqued your interest.”
And how could it not? Of course, we want to get to know the two Vespa riders better, beginning by asking where they departed from and, since one question leads to another, we ended up “interviewing” their kind daughter Jana about her fun-loving parents’ trip.
Hi, Jana and thank you for the video and the news about the journey. Where did your parents depart from?
“From Kraljevo, Serbia.”
What countries did they ride through on their Vespa?
“Their journey began in Serbia and they subsequently visited the following countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany, Austria, and Montenegro.”
From the video, we can see that the trip took place during the month of June, since they participated in Vespa World Days 2023, right?
“Correct, they attended the meeting and participated in Vespa World Days 2023, which took place in Interlaken, Switzerland. They have captured several photographs from this event.”
Do your parents belong to a Vespa Club?
“They are not affiliated with any Vespa club in our country. Their trips have always been self-organized and completed independently.”
Did they post images of their trip on any social media platforms?
“While they are not active on social media platforms, my father has created a public Viber community group where he posted an avalanche of photos! Receiving many compliments for their fantastic Vespa journey.”
A selection of photos from the couple’s tour, not in chronological order, are included with this article (editor’s note).
Thank you, Jana, for telling us this wonderful story of Vespa fans. Last questions for you: how old are you? And have you ever ridden one of your father’s Vespas?
“I am 20 years old and, as per an agreement with my father, I have recently tried a Vespa Elettrica since we also own one. Although I no longer reside in the same city as my parents, I eagerly awaited an opportunity to visit and, surprisingly, I drove it for the first time today!” (10 July 2023). This is certainly a date to remember: the first ride on a Vespa is never forgotten!
