Around the world in 12 square metres

An MAN truck has become the new home of an Italian couple. They carry only what they need in their converted truck while they travel the world. Simone and Lucia have a whole new respect for professional drivers when it comes to driving.

When Simone Monticelli answers the phone, he is doing it hanging at a height of three metres. The truck belonging to the native Italian is on the lifting platform in a workshop in South Africa. For years now, Simone and his wife Lucia have been living in a kitted-out MAN F90 all-wheel drive (construction year: 1995). Together they travel the world.

The couple post all about their experiences on their Instagram page, on YouTube and in several published books – always accompanied by impressive photos. “We both take photos every day,” says Simone.

This thrilling project started ten years ago. Simone and Lucia were both stuck in office jobs and longed to change things up. In Munich, they bought a beautifully preserved truck from the German Armed Forces. “We were deliberately looking for an old vehicle,” says Simone. “We wanted to make sure that even a workshop in a remote region of Africa would have no problems carrying out potential repairs. This special model is one of the best in its class in terms of fuel consumption and is so reliable.”

An old MAN from military inventory

The truck’s interior gives absolutely nothing away of its military past. Simone and Lucia spent two years on the build and fitting out the truck – today they take to the road with their own power supply, a water filter system and even a washing machine. “The truck is our home,” says Lucia. “However, we do have more spare parts and tools on board than clothes.” Both have to laugh. “When you move into a 12-square-metre box, you realise that you do not need much stuff at all,” adds Simone. “We cannot take souvenirs with us.”

From North Africa the two drove all the way to Senegal on the west coast of Africa. From there, the journey continued by ship to Uruguay. They spent six years travelling the roads of North and South America. “We made it all the way to Alaska,” says Lucia. Upon their return to Italy, the pair carried out some conversions and repair work. Since then, Simone and Lucia have crossed the African continent again – from north to south.

So much respect for professional drivers

And now? The two do not have a set plan. “We do not even know where we will be heading after this workshop visit,” laughs Simone. “Our long-term plan is to get to Asia and, if possible, Australia.”

After many years behind the wheel of an MAN truck, the two also see professional drivers in a new light. “Truckers have a really tough job, with long work days,” adds Simone with admiration. “And many so drivers also live in their trucks. In Africa, it is not unusual to spend two weeks queuing at a border.”

The couple still has borders to cross. Their passports are already full of stamps. And we wish them a future full of adventures.