Dad and Son's Epic Vespa World Tour Amidst Chaos

Mario Gabrieli, 54, and his 11-year-old son, Leonardo, embarked on a remarkable 10-month pilgrimage in early January 2026 from Sydney to Gabrieli's birthplace in Trieste, Italy. Their chosen steed is a classic 1976 blue Vespa, with only necessary water crossings planned. This ambitious journey, intended to pass on a sense of adventure, is being undertaken amidst significant global challenges, including a war in the Middle East, widespread oil shocks, and extensive border closures.

Their voyage has already presented considerable obstacles, from a complete engine failure before shipping the Vespa to Bali to ongoing fuel restrictions and petrol station closures in Southeast Asia. Gabrieli estimates their Vespa's range at 150km, making finding open fuel stops a daily gamble. Despite these difficulties, they are embracing the unpredictable nature of their trip, which they believe is the true essence of travel.

As of late March 2026, the pair have traversed Indonesia, Malaysia, and southern Thailand. Their planned route includes Laos, China, and the challenging Pamir Highway through Central Asia, eventually reaching Azerbaijan. Gabrieli is aware that border restrictions and potential visa issues could necessitate detours, possibly through Russia, to reach their destination in Italy. They are currently relying on the kindness of numerous Vespa communities for support and accommodation.