Such a wonderful article and so true about finding a means of travel that suits you and the differing seasons of your life. We have tried them all with just the joy of travelling guiding us. The last few years with a motorhome used both here and abroad collecting lovely memories on the way. Now at the age of 80 long journeys are not for us. We have a caravan on a seasonal site but the joy of reaching her on a regular basis still gives us much pleasure. The world is out there it is just finding the right method for you at each stage of your life.
Hi Andrew, thank you for a very interesting and insightful article. We have both really enjoyed your EV tour of Scotland as it is, in our opinion, groundbreaking. You are well ahead of the pack. As always we enjoy your vlogs and articles please keep it up.
You will always get these know-it-alls sticking their 2 penneth in, they just want to draw attention to themselves! You have always explained & demonstrated how anyone in whatever situation, financial or otherwise can enjoy travelling and living the dream (it's all I ever want to do isn't it?!!) I feel as though I am with you on these journeys and I can enjoy them as you do but virtually! You have taken me to so many wonderful and beautiful places so I am grateful and appreciative for all the amazing places you have taken me to!! Thank you!! I have recently had an exchange with one of these people who, just because they've read up on a subject, deem themselves to be experts!! Diabetes, which I have endured for at least 12 years, from diagnosis only in my opinion is a personal experience that only I and others who suffer from it, can become their own doctor and nutritionist! Everyone is different, there are no general rules in this game. I'll end there, I don't wish to bore you! You get the gist! We love you for who and what you are, a very knowledgeable and diverse character who brings so much joy and hope to people, who never claims to be an expert just a lovely, considerate human being who wants to share his life with everyone! Never change!! Love as always xxx
Aww thanks Anne! Yes, some people forget we are humans and not machines. And I'm delighted you have noticed how I will never use the word 'expert' or the like - I call myself 'experienced,' but always remain mindful of the fact that I have so much to learn myself. I good dose of humility keeps our minds and hearts open to learn new things and hear new ideas and stories. All the best xx
So glad that you and Dougal are testing out the caravan and EV for folks. Personally I shall be interested to see how the small caravan does as I too am a single traveller. Thank you also, for putting the rain in. An important factor to consider on a UK holiday!
Thank you for your informative writings. I had not been aware that EVs and towing were real. And thank you for the lovely picture of Dougal who continues be such a wonderful travel companion .
Thanks Sandi. You're in good company - the EV towing is surprising a lot of people. I'm happy to be raising awareness and hopefully improving the lot for the caravanners of tomorrow.
Once again, a very insightful post! As I have said before, EV’s are not high on my list. However, I am thrilled that this is a viable option! I just wish someone would come up with a solution on recycling the old batteries. I don’t mind waiting between your posts! Your videos do fill the gaps!
Thanks Holly! At the moment old car batteries are being used for domestic storage from solar panels etc, but yes, we need some pioneering automation in the recycling process. From what I have read that is not too far off now.
It always makes me happy when I see your newsletter land in my inbox as I know it will be a thought-provoking and interesting read. I completely agree that how we choose to travel is a personal choice and is no more or less valid than the ways others choose. I love that you promote solo travel and your videos were instrumental in encouraging me to drive to the Hebrides (my husband refuses to come after a week of horizontal rain on Mull)! I’ve found this series of videos really interesting and obviously loved the scenery too. Can’t wait to see more of your EV adventures. 😀
Thanks Karen! Yes, it gets my goat when solo travellers are ignored, invalidated, or simply left un-represented. Glad my shenanigans have helped in some way :)
It really warmed my heart to hear you validate using a camper van as a day van. I've barely had my Bongo a year and people always ask why I haven't been camping in it. I find camping stressful to be honest but what I absolutely do love is being able to drive some place, take my Co-Pilot for a short walk, and then having a cup of tea and snack while admiring the view. Thank you for your continued videos and newsletters.
It was seeing a Fiat Panda being used as a day van in Berneray the other day that made me pull on that reference. It would be impossible to sleep in (the occupants were using camping pods along the way) but it had everything they needed to make the most of their days - fridge, stove, camping chairs and table etc - and I just thought how utterly perfect it was to be unencumbered by a huge 17ft caravan in tow (like I have!). I simply can't be done with this rot that one means of camping is better than another. I'm lucky to get to enjoy everything from my 2-person tent to an A-Class Motorhome, and they all have their place. May you continue to enjoy your adventures in your Bongo - no matter what that adventure looks like!
Thankfully the numpties if this world who think the world revolves around them are out numbered by those who appreciate that everyone is unique. Keep up the fabulous work we love you and Dougal. X
Thank you Andrew. Always a joy to receive a new Streamlining post and particularly this one where you address those of us who travel alone. Love to you, and gentle scritch behind the ear for the darling Dougal boy.
Thanks Jackie! Yes, I do feel that solo people are under-represented almost everywhere, so I'm quite happy to do my bit, albeit in a quiet and subtle way ;) All the best. x
Excellent write up Andrew, please keep it coming as most people enjoy and learn from your views and finding.
Many thanks Paul!
Such a wonderful article and so true about finding a means of travel that suits you and the differing seasons of your life. We have tried them all with just the joy of travelling guiding us. The last few years with a motorhome used both here and abroad collecting lovely memories on the way. Now at the age of 80 long journeys are not for us. We have a caravan on a seasonal site but the joy of reaching her on a regular basis still gives us much pleasure. The world is out there it is just finding the right method for you at each stage of your life.
Well said! It's all down to what works for us. Glad to hear you're enjoying your caravan. All the best.
Hi Andrew, thank you for a very interesting and insightful article. We have both really enjoyed your EV tour of Scotland as it is, in our opinion, groundbreaking. You are well ahead of the pack. As always we enjoy your vlogs and articles please keep it up.
Thanks Peter! I must admit I'm finding it really interesting myself, heading out into unchartered territory.
You will always get these know-it-alls sticking their 2 penneth in, they just want to draw attention to themselves! You have always explained & demonstrated how anyone in whatever situation, financial or otherwise can enjoy travelling and living the dream (it's all I ever want to do isn't it?!!) I feel as though I am with you on these journeys and I can enjoy them as you do but virtually! You have taken me to so many wonderful and beautiful places so I am grateful and appreciative for all the amazing places you have taken me to!! Thank you!! I have recently had an exchange with one of these people who, just because they've read up on a subject, deem themselves to be experts!! Diabetes, which I have endured for at least 12 years, from diagnosis only in my opinion is a personal experience that only I and others who suffer from it, can become their own doctor and nutritionist! Everyone is different, there are no general rules in this game. I'll end there, I don't wish to bore you! You get the gist! We love you for who and what you are, a very knowledgeable and diverse character who brings so much joy and hope to people, who never claims to be an expert just a lovely, considerate human being who wants to share his life with everyone! Never change!! Love as always xxx
Aww thanks Anne! Yes, some people forget we are humans and not machines. And I'm delighted you have noticed how I will never use the word 'expert' or the like - I call myself 'experienced,' but always remain mindful of the fact that I have so much to learn myself. I good dose of humility keeps our minds and hearts open to learn new things and hear new ideas and stories. All the best xx
So glad that you and Dougal are testing out the caravan and EV for folks. Personally I shall be interested to see how the small caravan does as I too am a single traveller. Thank you also, for putting the rain in. An important factor to consider on a UK holiday!
I always keep it real Lyn! I'm really really looking forward to my smaller caravan - fingers crossed it won't be long now.
Great article and great YouTube videos. I am not a ‘caravaner’ but love to see your videos. Cheers
Many thanks Jillian!
Thank you for your informative writings. I had not been aware that EVs and towing were real. And thank you for the lovely picture of Dougal who continues be such a wonderful travel companion .
Thanks Sandi. You're in good company - the EV towing is surprising a lot of people. I'm happy to be raising awareness and hopefully improving the lot for the caravanners of tomorrow.
Once again, a very insightful post! As I have said before, EV’s are not high on my list. However, I am thrilled that this is a viable option! I just wish someone would come up with a solution on recycling the old batteries. I don’t mind waiting between your posts! Your videos do fill the gaps!
Thanks Holly! At the moment old car batteries are being used for domestic storage from solar panels etc, but yes, we need some pioneering automation in the recycling process. From what I have read that is not too far off now.
It always makes me happy when I see your newsletter land in my inbox as I know it will be a thought-provoking and interesting read. I completely agree that how we choose to travel is a personal choice and is no more or less valid than the ways others choose. I love that you promote solo travel and your videos were instrumental in encouraging me to drive to the Hebrides (my husband refuses to come after a week of horizontal rain on Mull)! I’ve found this series of videos really interesting and obviously loved the scenery too. Can’t wait to see more of your EV adventures. 😀
Thanks Karen! Yes, it gets my goat when solo travellers are ignored, invalidated, or simply left un-represented. Glad my shenanigans have helped in some way :)
It really warmed my heart to hear you validate using a camper van as a day van. I've barely had my Bongo a year and people always ask why I haven't been camping in it. I find camping stressful to be honest but what I absolutely do love is being able to drive some place, take my Co-Pilot for a short walk, and then having a cup of tea and snack while admiring the view. Thank you for your continued videos and newsletters.
It was seeing a Fiat Panda being used as a day van in Berneray the other day that made me pull on that reference. It would be impossible to sleep in (the occupants were using camping pods along the way) but it had everything they needed to make the most of their days - fridge, stove, camping chairs and table etc - and I just thought how utterly perfect it was to be unencumbered by a huge 17ft caravan in tow (like I have!). I simply can't be done with this rot that one means of camping is better than another. I'm lucky to get to enjoy everything from my 2-person tent to an A-Class Motorhome, and they all have their place. May you continue to enjoy your adventures in your Bongo - no matter what that adventure looks like!
Thankfully the numpties if this world who think the world revolves around them are out numbered by those who appreciate that everyone is unique. Keep up the fabulous work we love you and Dougal. X
Many thanks Susan!
Thank you Andrew. Always a joy to receive a new Streamlining post and particularly this one where you address those of us who travel alone. Love to you, and gentle scritch behind the ear for the darling Dougal boy.
Thanks Jayne! Yes, I feel solo people are under-represented in just about every aspect, so it's my pleasure to do my little bit in our sector.
Thanks Jackie! Yes, I do feel that solo people are under-represented almost everywhere, so I'm quite happy to do my bit, albeit in a quiet and subtle way ;) All the best. x