In 2024 we both retired and guess what? We started planning the most incredible trip we never thought possible! The image below tells the whole story…a world cruise starting January 7, 2025. Follow us in real time on the Polarists.
This first test trip went exceptionally well - everything worked as expected! Excited by our success, we set off on a month-long road trip starting August 1st. We test a lot of route planning tools during this trip and let’s figure out what information and tools we’re missing. It’s a good experiment to help define TWAI characteristics.
In January 2024, we received our new Ford Transit and began assembling it. From January to April, we dedicated about three days a week, working from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. From May to the end of July, we both increased our efforts, spending almost six days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
By 2023, we were ready for a better pickup truck. We’ve been to RV shows in Montreal and Quebec, but can’t find exactly what we need. We were looking for a vehicle that could be maintained throughout North and South America, had rear-wheel drive instead of front-wheel drive, and could accommodate four people, as we wanted to bring our young grandchildren.
Unable to find the perfect match, we decided to purchase a brand new 2023 Ford Transit with an extended high roof and customize it ourselves. We went through six versions of the development plan, and during construction we had to make two additional versions to address the vehicle’s constraints. Today, we’re proud of how we’ve adapted it to meet our needs, and we look forward to more adventures on the road. Before the end of the year, our plan was realized, all necessary parts were ordered and received. We are now waiting to receive our vehicle.
Feel free to download my Google Sheet Template to help you plan your own van conversion
In 2021, we purchased our first van for VanLife - a GMC Savana with a high roof, previously owned by Gaz Métro. Initially, we considered renting one, but the cost was so high that we decided to buy one instead, planning to sell it before upgrading. After our first trip left us with a sore back, we decided to modify the bed. We took the opportunity to add two drawers to the garage and installed some swivel bases on the seats.
In 2018, my wife and I spent two weeks in Ecuador, immersing ourselves in its rich culture and stunning landscapes. The Tout Équateur Francophone network was invaluable, helping us plan before our trip and providing support during our travels. When we encountered a problem booking accommodation at 7 p.m.—when everything was closed and night had fallen—their assistance was invaluable.
Our trip was an unforgettable adventure filled with diverse experiences and natural beauty!
During our trip to Ecuador, we took an incredible adventure to the Galapagos National Park aboard the Lonesome George Galápagos catamaran. This intimate ship, accommodating only 16 passengers, gave us an incredible experience.
I had the opportunity to dive four times and enjoy numerous snorkeling adventures throughout the cruise. We swam with penguins, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, sharks and a multitude of colorful fish.
It was a unique experience that we will never forget!
In 2016, my wife and I traveled to Costa Rica with the French-speaking network Solic Solidar de Tout Costa Rica. It was an incredible trip filled with breathtaking natural beauty.
Also in 2016, my wife took an eight-month sabbatical, allowing us to spend a month exploring Europe. We began our adventure in northern Italy in the first week, followed by a two-week Celebrity Constellation cruise in the middle. We concluded our final vacation of the week near Rome. It was our first month-long getaway, and if we could, we would have loved to extend our trip for a month!
In 2009 we went to Walt Disney with 4 children and grandparents
After my wife and I got married in 1991, we began taking occasional camping trips. As our family grew to include four children and a dog, we began camping less frequently, often in a tent. Although we don’t camp regularly, each trip has created lasting memories.“,
In the early 1970s, as a skilled welder, he built his first motorhome for his brother. In the mid-1970s, he began manufacturing trailers for boats and snowmobiles. In the 80s, he built at least 2 portable campers. In the mid-80s, he built his first Fifth Wheel.
Our family spent many summers in Gaspésie, enjoying vacations at my grandparents’ campsite. What unforgettable memories!
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