Ashley and Moreno
Hometown
Vancouver, Canada
Reason for taking this trip
We were both travelers at heart. We had the idea to drive to Baja, Mexico, so we bought the vehicle and planned to take off two months of work. Two months didn't seem enough. We wanted to do something bigger. After a little research and preparation, we came up with the idea to drive across the Americas. We were inspired by Gerry and Sharon Channer, a couple who did this entire trip a few years ago in their Volkswagen camper van. They have been so incredibly helpful, providing us with so much information. Sadly Gerry lost a 9 year battle with leukemia on Oct. 23, 2008. We have devoted a page in remembrance http://www.southboundexplorers.com/inmemory.html Gerry.
Why did you decide to drive?
It was the only option for us. Backpacking would have been a cheaper option, but we would be stuck on the tourist track and have to rely on public transportation, and that is something that doesn't appeal to us. We wanted the freedom to explore roads less travelled, and to have no timelines. If we liked a particular camping spot we would stay for as long as we wanted. Our vehicle also provides our accommodation and kitchen, everything we need to stay comfortable.
What type of car did you drive?
1991 Volkswagen Vanagon Westfalia, our little home on wheels.
Did you make any modifications to your car for this trip?
- Yes. Moreno installed a Propex propane furnace to keep us warm on cooler nights (come in handy a few times)
- Added an Odyssey PC1200 12V deep cycle battery.
- Added 1200w power inverter.
- Installed wireless kill switch in case of carjacking.
- Created front tire carrier (made about an hour prior to departure.)
- Added old style round headlights, cheaper to replace
- and provide better light than square ones.
- Installed rubber floor mats to replace carpeting for easier cleaning.
- Added metal bumpers
- Removed anything too flashy from the outside of vehicle (we don't want to draw even more attention).
How did you save up or finance your trip?
We lived cheaply. We made a few changes to our lifestyle, such as finding free/thrifty activities (hiking, camping, cooking in) and replacing many expensive date nights with dates in. We both are hard workers and found it easy to save up, especially once we knew what we were actually saving for.
How long do you plan on traveling?
Until the money runs out. About 2 years on the road.
Where do you plan on driving to?
We have already driven through: the USA, Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil, and part of Argentina.
And for the 2nd part of our trip we will visit: Uruguay, Paraguay, the less explored areas of Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and we hope to explore more of Central America, including Belize which we skipped on the way down.
What were your family’s and friends’ reactions when you told them about your trip before you left?
My family (Ashley's) was in shock and had some concern. Now both mine and Moreno's family are very supportive, although a little apprehensive.
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?
No we didn't speak Spanish before we left. We took spanish lessons in Antigua, Guatemala for 2 weeks but a lot of what we learned has been through listening to locals speak and trying to join in on the conversations. Also we try to practice with each other in our van on long driving days.
Do you have a favorite place or country that you have visited during your trip?
Colombia (friendly people and amazing scenery) and doing the 15 day hike to the top of Auyan Tepui (Venezuela) to see Angel Falls from the top of the mountain.
What was the weirdest thing you experienced on your trip?
So far, it has been others' reactions to our trip.
What was the worst border crossing?
Most of Central America' borders caused some stress for us, but Guatemala was probably the worst because we got scammed for $200...that hurt!
Do you have any advice for others who may be considering driving the Americas?
Don't be afraid to follow your dreams! As daunting as this trip seemed, it wasn't too hard to actually make it happen, all it took was a little planning and dedication to save. Also make sure you have a strong relationship with the person/people you decide to take along on such a long term adventure, there are a lot of obstacles you will have to deal with.
Would you do it again?
Probably not the Americas again, unless we have time in the future. We are already planning our next trips to overland across Europe, Mongolia and possibly motorcylcle across Africa.
Do you have a blog or a website describing your trip? If so, what is the address?
Yes, our blog can be found at Southbound Explorers.
