Marius and Emmanuelle
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From Drive the Americas
Name and age
Marius Bulota (26) and Emmanuelle Baril (26)
Hometown
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Reason for taking this trip
Lifetime experience to have before getting into other serious stuff!
Why did you decide to drive
We had several options, but basically, we wanted to have the liberty to go ski where we want. To do that, whether in Canada, in the US, in Argentina or Chile, a car makes it quite easier and more exciting.
Are you also taking along pets? If so, names
No pets, but we have "mascots". A teddy Panda bear names Tao Diego (because Emmanuelle is found of Pandas!) and Albert Arthure, a viking sitting on ou dash, showing us the way, a gift from my sister who is traveling in Europe for a year.
Are you also taking along children? If so, names and ages
Not yet...
What type of car are you driving?
Hehe, here is where we stick out. We are driving a Toyota Town Ace. Basically, it is the same a an LE Van, quite common in Central America, besides the fact that ours, is a import car from Japan, and the steering wheel is on the RIGHT SIDE! Wouhou, seeing the faces of people who notice I'm driving on the other side is quite amusing! We named our car El Bolido II.
Did you make any modifications to your car for this trip?
We took out a few seats to put a board in and make a bed, Most of the time we sleep in the van.
How did you save up or finance your trip?
Basically, we negotiate a loan. So in a few years, I'll be able to tell you how long:). But before leaving, I worked many hour on a mining project in northern Quebec, which gave us a little head start. As for Emmanuelle, she finished here degree a few days before we left!
How long do you plan on traveling?
No longer than one year.
Where do you plan on driving?
The goal is to traverse from Alaska to Oshuaia in Tierra del Fuego, leaving from Montreal.
What were your family’s and friends’ reactions when you told them about your trip before you left?
Cool, be careful and enjoy you trip. As we are getting further on our itinerary, people are showing more signs of jealousy ;)
Did you speak Spanish before you left your home country? How much Spanish? Are you taking more Spanish lessons as you travel? If so, where and for how long?
I spoke some Spanish and Emmanuelle had a good understanding. Although basic, we are getting better by speaking and auto-learning with a book. The dictionary is quite handy!
Do you have a favorite place or country that you have visited during your trip?
Until now, the most magical has been Yukon and Alaska. Astonishing.
What was the weirdest thing you experienced on your trip?
After 8 days of traveling, on our 3rd day of skiing in the Rockies, our first car caught in flames and burnt all the way! Total loss. We got most of our stuff out, but still lost a few things. An amazingly nice farmer from Salmo in Canada took care of us while we negotiated with our insurance. What a hassle, that lasted for almost 2 months. That was the end of El Bolido I, a dodge RAM VAN 2500, and the birth of our actual El Bolido II! Quite a shock after only 8 days.
What was the worst border crossing?
Honduras. A bunch of "ladrones" (thieves), disorganized and lazy. 45$US for 2 hours in their country! Not to mentions 9 "Policia National" inspections followed on that 2h drive!
Do you have any advice for others who may be considering driving the Americas?
Read info about countries and border crossing before leaving. Get information about change rates. Get yourself some maps for big cities you will cross. Check for auto parts in countries (it might be just us, but we are driving on the same oil filter since Canada!! ouf).
Would you do it again?
No. Simply because you don't repeat a lifetime travel. There are so many places to see and other experiences to live!
Do you have a blog or a website describing your trip? If so, what is its address?
