Greg, Rachel and their family

Name and age

Greg, 33; Rachel, 32;

Hometown

The world is our home, but most of us were born in Utah, except for Atlas. He was born in Alaska.

When did you leave and from where?

For our current trip we left from Homer, Alaska.

Reason for taking this trip

After returning to the States from India, we traveled to Alaska to have baby number five. We considered settling there, but after analyzing what we really liked and wanted in life, we realized that we loved travel and exploration. We couldn't imagine spending our lives in one place.

Why did you decide to drive?

While living in Costa Rica (after driving there from the States), we loved the freedom of having a vehicle to take us wherever we wanted to go. In contrast, we used public transportation while living in the Dominican Republic, and our travel was limited. We wanted to explore South America, but with the freedom to dictate where and when. Driving seemed like the perfect solution.

Are you also taking along pets?  If so, names.

No.

Are you also taking along children?  If so, names and ages.

Kyah, 9; Parker, 7; Kimball, 6; Aaliyah, 4; Atlas, 1

What type of car are you driving?

Ford F250 Super Duty - Diesel converted to run on vegetable oil.

Did you make any modifications to your car for this trip?

We converted it to run on vegetable oil, we also added a third row in the truck bed, put on shell, roof rack, and a roof top tent (from a generous sponsor).

How did you save up or finance your trip?

We've used savings from traditional employment, and we also have an online course we sell on Family Lifestyle Design.

How long do you plan on traveling?

This trip we estimate will take a minimum of 2 - 2 1/2 years.

Where do you plan on driving?

From Alaska to Argentina, visiting every country in North America, and possibly South America.
 
What were your family’s and friends’ reactions when you told them about your trip before you left?

This was not our first 'rodeo' (crazy adventure) so most of them weren't too shocked by it. However, we still receive plenty of kickback and 'counseling'. Others think it's awesome and inspirational, and wish they could come along.

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?

My husband is an excellent Spanish speaker (often asked if he's a native). I picked up most of mine while living in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic. The kids have some, but lost a lot while living in India. We plan to learn more through immersion throughout our trip. We love spending lots of time with the locals.

Do you have a favorite place or country that you have visited during your trip?

We're excited to return to Costa Rica. My husband is excited to return to Peru, a place he spent two years living.

What was the weirdest thing you experienced on your trip?

When a police officer in Nicaragua accepted a sandwich for a bribe.

What was the worst border crossing?

On our first trip, we got 'caught' without passports for our children at the border of Honduras and Nicaragua (but that's a whole other story) :)

Do you have any advice for others who may be considering driving the Americas?

Do it! But be prepared for upsets, inconveniences, and of course, potholes. Be flexible. Go expecting the best, and the worst, and be okay with it.

Would you do it again?

And again, and again, and again.

Do you have a blog or a website describing your trip?  If so, what is its address?

We share our adventures at www.DiscoverShareInspire.com, and offer tips and advice to help plan family travel and to design the life of their dreams.