Monthly Archives: August 2023

Motorhome Diesel Vs Gas

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I was asked a few days ago by one of my blog readers which is better Gas or Diesel on a motorhome. Since I have only owned diesels I had to go talk with some of my friends that own Gas models and discuss with them what they like and don’t like. As I have only owned Diesel’s I am a little bias towards those.
 
From my many discussions the first and most obvious was the power for climbing mountain and hills. I have driven the Colorado and Montana mountains and my diesel takes them like they are not even there. The gas models struggle a little but they are able to make the climbs without too much issue.

Diesel’s you will find have the following concerns and advantages: they are usually larger motorhome so you have more room in them and due to the engine sizes do not have as strict carrying capacities as most gas models. They also will last much longer than 150000 miles with little issues but if you have a gas model you may start with issues around the 60000 to 70000 miles range. This also effects your trade in value in the future if you ever plan to upgrade or downsize.

Photo is of my current diesel pusher which my wife and I drive. Its carrying capacity is well over whatever I could put in its storage bays. I even carry with me 4 steal scuba tanks which anyone will tell you are not light in themselves.

Gas models are much cheaper in general than the diesels. So your budget will play a large part in any decision making you have. The diesels you also will have the added cost of adding DEF to your exhaust system every couple thousand mile or so where the gas doesn’t require this additive.

As I had never been in a gas model before one of my friends took me for a drive and I did the same for him for comparison. We discovered that the Diesels are much more quitter in the front when driving due to our engines being in the rear and the gas is in the front under the driver. Also the gas model seemed to get warmer in the front due to the engine heat.
 
However, the gas model is much easier to have the engine worked on as it is in the front with easier access. The diesel is in the rear under the bedroom on most models so for most repairs the closet has to be taken apart a little to work on the top of the engine.
 
You also will find in floor plans that on most gas the door entry is mid vehicle and on the diesel it in at the passenger seat. Entry in and out is much easier on a gas as you don’t have to maneuver around the seat to get things in and out the door.

I found the consensus with all my friends that everyone but one that owned a gas model would change it for a diesel if they could have afforded the difference in price. The size and carrying capacity as a full timer is well worth the added costs.

I look forward to hearing from others as to what they think on this matter.

Tent Camping In The Wilderness: A Guide For Beginners

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1. Introduction

Have you ever wanted to get away from it all and spend some time in nature? Tent camping is a great way to do just that! It’s an activity that’s perfect for those who love adventure, and it’s a great way to connect with nature.

Tent camping can be a bit daunting for beginners, but it’s really not that difficult once you know the basics. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started, including what type of equipment you’ll need, how to set up your tent, and how to stay safe in the wilderness.

2. What do you need to go camping?

One of the first steps in getting started with tent camping is gathering the right equipment. The list of items you need will depend on the type of camping trip you’re taking and the number of people you’re camping with. Generally, here are the basics for camping:

– Tent: The first piece of equipment you’ll need is a tent. You’ll want to choose a tent that can accommodate the number of people you’re camping with. There are a variety of tents on the market, so make sure you read reviews and shop around to find the best one for you.

– Sleeping bags: Depending on the temperature outside, you’ll need to find the right sleeping bag for the climate you’ll be camping in.

– Camping mattress: A good camping mattress is key to a good night’s sleep.

– Cooking equipment: This will depend on the type of camping trip you’re taking. For car-camping trips, you may be able to bring a camping stove and a cooler. If you’re backpacking, you’ll want to invest in a lightweight cooking setup.

– Camping supplies: Depending on the length of your trip, you may need supplies like matches, a flashlight, rope for climbing or for securing a tarp, and a first-aid kit.

– Clothes: Make sure you bring clothes that

3. How do you set up a tent?

Setting up your tent and making sure it’s complete and ready to use is an essential part of camping, whether you’re car camping or backpacking. To set up your tent, you’ll need to find a level camping spot and check the weather to make sure the area is safe. Here are some steps to setting up your tent:

– Lay out the tarp: If you’re not car camping, you might want to bring an extra tarp to lay out your tent on. This keeps it cleaner, drier, and more comfortable.

– Unfold your tent: Take some time to familiarize yourself with all of the parts of the tent, and make sure you know how to assemble them properly. If it’s your first time, set up your tent at home to get comfortable with the process before you go camping.

– Set up the tent poles: Add in the poles, making sure to slot each one into the proper corner of the tent before continuing. Spread the tent out and adjust it as needed until everything is even and symmetrical.

– Secure the tent: Most modern tents come with stake loops, allowing you to secure the tent to the ground using tent stakes. It’s important to make sure the tent is fully secured, as strong weather can pull out even the best-staked tents.

– Add the rainfly: Put on the fly and make sure

4. What are some activities you can do while camping?

Camping in the wilderness is the perfect time to relax, stay connected to your natural surroundings, and enjoy the outdoors. There are a variety of activities you can do while camping, depending on your interests and skill level.

– Hiking – Whether you enjoy an easy stroll on well maintained trails or a strenuous adventure through rugged terrain, you’ll find everything you need for a challenging and enjoyable hike in the wild.

– Fishing – Fishing can be a relaxing or a thrilling experience and can be enjoyed from shoreline or from a canoe or Kayak. Always take precautions and never head out alone.

– Foraging – Foraging for wild edibles is an activity that is both interesting and rewarding. Always make sure you know what you are picking to avoid eating any toxic plants.

– Birding – Birdwatching is an enjoyable and educational past time, and is especially ideal for camping trips. Bring a pair of binoculars and you can get up close and personal with these beautiful and fascinating creatures.

– Stargazing – The darkness found in the wilderness can provide perfect opportunities to gaze at the stars. Enjoy the beauty of a night sky unfiltered by urban light pollution.

– Campfire Fun – Campfire are the ideal place to cook up some hearty meals, roast marshmallows, tell stories and sing songs

5. What are some things to be aware of while camping?

No matter how experienced you are, there are always some things to be aware of when camping in the wilderness.

– Respect Wildlife – Always remember that when you are camping, you are an outsider in the natural environment. Animals like bears, moose, and other wild creatures may be dangerous, so it’s important to keep your distance and not approach or feed wild animals.

– Respect the Environment – If you are using a campfire, consult local regulations before you start a fire and never leave a campfire unattended. Always bring a bucket of water to keep your fire contained and make sure you extinguish the fire before you leave.

– Respect Other Campers – Even when you are in the wilderness, you must remember that you are not the only one out there. Make sure you stay away from other people’s campsites and keep your noise to a minimum.

– Health and Safety – Take sensible precautions against possible danger and illness, such as carrying a first-aid kit, sunscreen and mosquito repellent, and wearing appropriate clothing.

6. To wrap things up

Camping in the wilderness can be a great way to relax and explore nature. As with all outdoor activities, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards and take sensible precautions. Plan ahead and prepare a checklist of necessary items. Also, remember to be respectful of the environment, wildlife, and other campers while you are out in the wilderness.

By following these important tips, you can ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and memorable camping trip. Whether it’s your first time camping or you’re an experienced camper, the rewards of having spent time in nature can last a lifetime.

Why Are Americans Rude to Others

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First let me say that I am an American and very proud to be from America as I believe it is the land of the free and it’s the one country you can accomplish anything if you want to. If you are not successful in life in the USA, then you didn’t try hard enough. I came from a small logging town of 1200 people and have been very successful in life and retired at a very young age with no help from anyone but my own determination.

However, since I have spent so much time over the past two years traveling both in the United States and abroad. I have to say of all the people I meet and see Americans seem to be the rudest people I have ever met.

I realize that this is stereotyping American’s and I don’t mean to do that as there are some great people in America and some will go way out of their way to help you if you are in need. However, as a whole they appear to be higher number of rude people per capita than anywhere else I have been. Below I want to point out some things that help me come to this conclusion. Hopefully pointing some of these things out will have you thinking about how you do things during the day and possibly change some people’s attitude towards others.

Jobs:

There are many ways when it comes to jobs that I can point out that show my point. However, there are 2 in particular that I want to bring up.

1)Customer service jobs. These people must have the toughest job in the world. I wonder sometimes if they ever get a call during a day that they are not yelled at or called names because of something that their company is doing. Customer service jobs can be some of the lowest level jobs in a company and most likely they have very little decision making in the direction a company takes. So why yell at them as they have no control over how things are done in the company. They get blamed when people call them like it’s there faults something doesn’t work or you got over billed. I find talking nicely with this group of people gets you a lot further with your issue than yelling.

2)Hotel workers. I have met many American’s that when I point out there are cleaning jobs at a local hotel there first comment is I am not cleaning someone else’s toilets The funny part of all this is this most of the time is coming from someone that doesn’t have a job and is complaining that there are no jobs out there for people. I always believed you do whatever it takes to survive but American’s think it’s just easier to stay on unemployment because it pays better. I sure am glad of immigrants as they seem to be the only ones willing to do the jobs many Americans feel are below them.

Aruba:

Now let’s take the country of Aruba. One of the major industries on this small Caribbean island is tourism. Of all the tourist visiting this county about 75% of them are American’s. When the American’s are there they just seem to think it’s the United States and complain when they are not treated as kings. When they have to pay for drink refills or the drivers on the street don’t drive like in the United States it’s the fault of Aruba. Americans have to realize that every country does things different and nothing says that the United States way is the only way things should be done.

Let’s also talk about Aruba and the two missing girls. There you have a 19-mile country that has had two deaths in a 5-year period. I wonder if there is anywhere in the United States that has a 19-mile area with only 2 deaths in 5 years. I am sure there is but not many. They also are probably small communities and not the 100000 that Aruba has before any tourist show up. You may not like how the police acted but it’s how they do things in Aruba and that doesn’t mean it was the wrong way. You expected them to act as if they have all the same tools they do in the United States but they don’t and they also are not a country that owes money to China and then complain that China is taking over. With the latest missing lady, I don’t see a lot of Aruban’s killing other Aruban’s but there sure is a lot of American on American murders. Only in America can you be shot on the Highway because you cut someone off and they didn’t like it.

Road Rage

Road rage is almost a separate topic on itself. However, in all the countries I have driven in America seems to be the only one that you can drive down the road and get the finger from someone. Either you are driving too slow in the fast lane even if you are driving at the speed limit and not speeding or breaking the law. It’s also one of the few places I have driven that most people don’t have the habit of letting others into traffic because it might slow them down 5 seconds from getting to where there going. A lot of this is because Americans are always in a hurry to get somewhere due to their fast paste life. However, if there are so many American’s unemployed in the United States I am not sure what there is such a hurry to get to because it’s obviously not to a job.

Shopping Stores

This issue exists in almost every store on every corner. I want to talk about the rude people in stores. It seems the person in front of you is never getting through the line fast enough for the person behind them. If someone uses coupons or writes a check all of a sudden it’s the end of the world. You may just have spent two hours in the store shopping but as soon as you get up to the line to check out you are in a hurry. If you want stores to open up more lines for people, then you should just tell the manager you’re willing to pay more for the products you are buying so that you can pay for more employees to have on the line. You see this more at the discount stores because they do make less profit and have less employees.

Those of you that say companies make enough profit and it’s not fair. Well then just tell your realtor you’re willing to sell your house for less because making a profit on your investment is not important to you and you want to make sure the next person buying your house gets a good deal. As a previous owner of a couple companies I am here to tell you if you want to make the money then take the investment to start the company. Work 7 days a week 15 to 16 hours a day and on vacations still have a cell phone tied to your hip. If you’re not willing to do this, then don’t expect the profits that come to those that make this sacrifice.

In closing: I think the main reason Americans are inconsiderate of others is that most of them are in such a hurry in everything they do. We need to learn to slow down and enjoy life and enjoy the things around you. One thing to always think is Treat Others Like You Want to Be Treated. I will admit that I use to be one of these rude people but over the last couple years I have realized how I was treating people and the effects it has on them. I may at times still get out of line but I am at least thinking about it and trying to be more considerate. Americans are not going to change overnight but if we each try and change it could be a better place.

How To Make The Most Out Of A Caribbean Cruise

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1. Introduction

The Caribbean is a gorgeous place to cruise and there are so many amazing things to see and do. However, it can be a bit overwhelming to try to figure out how to make the most of your time on a Caribbean cruise.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to make the most of your time on a Caribbean cruise. We’ll talk about how to plan your days, how to make the most of your time onshore, and how to find the best deals on cruises.

So, if you’re planning a Caribbean cruise, read on for some great tips on how to make the most of your time on board and ashore!

2. What to expect on a Caribbean cruise

Once you’ve decided on a Caribbean cruise, it’s important to know what to expect. Cruise ships vary greatly in size and amenities, so it’s helpful to research the exact cruise you’re taking and the activities offered on board.

Most Caribbean cruises offer a variety of activities and entertainment both on board the ship and at the various ports of call. On-board activities may include poolside games, live music and theater, formal dining, and cocktail hours. Depending on the cruise, you may find additional activities such as shopping, art classes, cooking classes, and wine tastings.

During your time in port, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the local area, take in the sights, and sample some of the local cuisine. From beach lounging to motorcoach excursions, a Caribbean cruise can be a great way to experience multiple islands on a single vacation.

Be sure to give yourself enough time to appreciate all of the different activities available to you during your Caribbean cruise. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vacation spent reclining on the sunny decks of a cruise ship, or an active adventure spent exploring the Caribbean islands, there’s something for everyone on a Caribbean cruise.

3. The best time to go on a Caribbean cruise

The best time to embark on a Caribbean cruise depends on what kind of experience you want. The peak season for consuming the region runs from mid-December to late April, meaning balmy weather, bustling ports and higher ticket prices.

Travelers looking to escape the cold winter months will find the season to be an ideal time to take a Caribbean cruise, as it’s often warm enough to spend time snorkeling or swimming in the crystal blue waters. Though September to November is technically considered to be hurricane season, with the right planning, you can work around it and snag some great deals during this time. You’ll just have to keep an eye out for potential bad weather.

For those looking for a more peaceful Caribbean cruise experience, consider traveling during the off-season from May to August. During this time, you won’t have to battle the crowded cruise ship decks and ports can be empty. Additionally, ticket prices tend to dip because there are fewer travelers flocking to the area.

4. What to do on a Caribbean cruise

Once you have booked your ticket and are on board a Caribbean cruise, the fun begins. There is a host of activities for you to do. Depending on the cruise itinerary, some of the activities you can expect to find on board include:

– Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

– Beach day excursions.

– Visiting lush nature reserves, such as the Mayan Jungle.

– Exploring colonial cities and old forts.

– Entertainment and dance shows.

– Shopping at ports of call.

– Relaxing in the spa or library.

– Exploring port cities like San Juan, St. Thomas, Grand Cayman, and Barbados.

– Participating in on-board events, such as games, trivia, and themed parties.

No matter what activities you choose to participate in or are able to depending on the length of your cruise, you will assuredly find abundant ways to make the most out of your time on a Caribbean cruise.

5. How to make the most of your Caribbean cruise

No matter what cruise you are on in the Caribbean, there are steps to take in order to make the most of the experience. Here are five ways to do just that:

1. Plan ahead. Research the ports of call and the cultural activities available at each destination before leaving home. This way, you can have a general idea of what you would like to do when arriving at the ports and make the most of the experience.

2. Go for the early morning excursions. This is when the streets and attractions are less crowded.

3. Talk to other passengers. Cruise ships are filled with interesting people and you may find some with similar interests or knowledge that can show you something new.

4. Travel with a spirit of openness. A Caribbean cruise presents many opportunities to experience new cultures. Be aware and open to new experiences in order to make the most of the experience.

5. Don’t forget to enjoy the cruise and its amenities. From the meals, activities, and entertainment, the cruise can be an unforgettable experience that you will cherish.