Meet Kris

Hey, I'm Kris!

I'm a 23-year-old girl from the Netherlands. I'm in love with rainbows, animals, vegan food, different cultures, jokes and new adventures. Because of my illness and late diagnosis (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome), I missed out on school and having a social life for most of my childhood. But the day my wheelchair arrived, I chose to deal with my physical handicap and started the best journey of my life. 

Right now, with my backpack on my electric-powered wheelchair, I'm on my own and travelling through every country in Europe! 

I'm travelling by train so I can travel with the lowest climate impact and see more of every place I pass. I share my story and adventures on YouTube and Instagram to inspire people to look for the beautiful things in life. And damn, it's a big challenge, but life is definitely beautiful! 

What's travelling like for me?

So, I'm able to walk, but will use a wheelchair for long distances. I don't need any special facilities other than space for my wheelchair in the train and my accommodation (usually hostels). As I can't walk up long flights of stairs in my accommodation (usually hostels), I need a lift to get my wheelchair to my room, or use a downstairs bedroom if possible. I can walk up small flights of stairs, too, if I can store my wheelchair somewhere. 

On the train, getting on and off with my wheelchair can be a real challenge. Some trains are accessible, but most of the time I need ramp assistance to get in. That's not something a lot of train companies are used to booking for solo backpackers like me!

When I'm finally sitting in the train and then arrive at my next destination, it feels like a really exciting victory! I'm now on my way to Estonia after two months of travel through Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland. These countries are a real winter wonderland - they were so beautiful! Now, my plan is to travel from the Baltic States to Eastern Europe, and then to the south of Europe. Wherever the train stops, I will explore! 

I finally have the feeling that I can make my life a good one. No matter the challenge, I will make the very best of every day!

Follow Kris' journey here on the Rail Life Stories Magazine, and of course also on her YouTube and Instagram channels (Dutch). 

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