Couple Finds Love After Chance Encounter on Contiki Tour

Lanie van der Horst moved 10,000 miles from New York to Australia to be with Mark, a man she initially found 'an absolute idiot'.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A chance encounter on a Contiki tour in 2008 blossomed into a transatlantic love story for Lanie van der Horst and Mark. Initially finding him 'an absolute idiot,' Lanie ultimately moved 10,000 miles from New York to Australia to be with him. Their story underscores a growing trend of people uprooting their lives for love, often sparked by travel experiences.

Why it matters

The circumstances of travel often accelerate connection, with individuals more open to vulnerability and forming intense bonds. Lanie and Mark's story highlights how a first impression can be misleading, and extended exposure can reveal hidden qualities. Their relocation during the pandemic also exemplifies the increasing global mobility and ability to maintain relationships across borders.

The details

Lanie and Mark met on a Contiki tour in 2008, traveling through Latvia, Russia, and Scandinavia. Lanie initially found Mark 'giggly' and focused on activities she didn't enjoy, but their deeper conversations about 'real things' proved pivotal. After years of maintaining a long-distance relationship and meeting up around the world, Lanie ultimately moved from New York to Australia to be with Mark.

  • Lanie and Mark met on a Contiki tour in Riga, Latvia, in 2008.
  • They maintained a long-distance relationship for several years, meeting up in various locations before Lanie moved to Australia.

The players

Lanie van der Horst

A New York resident who moved 10,000 miles to Australia to be with her partner, Mark, after initially finding him 'an absolute idiot' during a chance encounter on a Contiki tour in 2008.

Mark

Lanie's partner, whom she met on a Contiki tour in 2008 and initially found 'an absolute idiot,' before their relationship blossomed into a transatlantic love story.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.