Ka-Hung, Melanie, and the Bug

Names and ages

Ka-Hung, Melanie, and the Bug (aka Dante)

Hometown

Kingston, Ontario

Reason for taking this trip

Traveling has become of bit of an addiction. Typically when we are half-way through a trip, we are already planning for our next trip. Sitting at home for too long brews a certain level of restlessness and being on the road, whether it is with a backpack or in a truck seems to be the only remedy.

When we were traveling in Zambia and Malawi, we ran into a couple who were on an eight month drive from Amsterdam to Cape Town. We decided then that we should make our dream of driving from Canada to then end of South America a reality.

Currently, we've taken eight months off to do this trip. We initially wanted to drive to Ushuaia but a certain four and a half year old boy likes the beaches so much that we think we'll only get as far as Panama before shipping our vehicle back...

...which is not a problem because it just means that we will have part II of the drive to do in the future.

Why did you decide to drive?

This is the first time we've traveled, overland style. Although we were a bit skeptical of being tied to a vehicle, it has actually been a fabulous experience. So far, the truck has taken us to places and afforded us experiences that we would otherwise not have if we were depending solely on public transportation.

Are you also taking along children?

Yes. Dante is a four and a half year old little boy. Contrary to what a lot of people think, traveling with a child has not been a burden; in fact, it has added a whole new dimension to being on the road. Prior to this trip, the Bug has been to Argentina, Uruguay, Amsterdam, Zambia, Malawi, New Zealand, and Italy. He likes his Argentine beef and Italian prosciutto while I like using him as a prop at border controls.

What type of car are you driving?

We are driving a 1987 Toyota Landcruiser HJ60 diesel. Some of my friends call it the Gravel Crusher. I call the Mule.

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

We are traveling with an Autohome roof top tent. It sleeps three and it is more comfortable than our bed at home. I have the typical overland gear on the outside; a swing out tire carrier that holds my spare, a hi-lift jack, a water can, and a fuel can. The truck is slightly lifted. Oh, and it has big tires.

Inside, I modified the truck so we can cook from it and store our tools and traveling gear.

How did you save up or finance your trip?

Melanie and I are very fortunate in that we were both able to take leave of absences of eight months from our jobs. Financially, we took two years to save for this trip.

How long do you plan on traveling?

Eight months.

Where do you plan on driving?

Initially, we inspired to drive to Ushuaia. However, we've been taking more time than we expected and now this trip has turned into a drive to Central America. We are hoping to get to Panama before shipping the Mule back to Miami, where we will drive it back north to Canada.

What were your family’s and friends’ reactions when you told them about your trip before you left?

Mostly positive. Some thought we are a bit looney but we've traveled enough that most of our friends and family are used to it by now.

Oh, and when I send them pictures of the beaches in January, I think they'll also be a bit jealous.

Did you speak Spanish before you left your home country?

I speak enough to get by. Melanie spent time in Mexico learning Spanish awhile ago. She won't admit it, but her Spanish is pretty good. Between our previous travels in Latin America and her Spanish, we have been able to converse with most locals.

How much Spanish? Are you taking more Spanish lessons as you travel? If so, where and for how long?

We have conversational Spanish. No, we are not taking more lessons while on the road. I just hang out at grocery stores and that seems to improve my vocabulary to some degree.

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

Western North America is beautiful. For those of you driving south from Canada, book extra time for the US west coast. Just because it is next door doesn't mean that you should ignore it. You could spend a lifetime there, exploring all the parks, shores, and mountains.

We are currently in the Baja, Mexico and I've always had a special place in my heart for the deserts and the sea here.

What was the weirdest thing you experienced on your trip?

Hanging out at the Honda motorcycle pits during the Baja 1000. Weird, exhilarating, sad, and mind blowing, all at the same time.

What was the worst border crossing?

None yet, although I'm expecting them to be more difficult as we cross into Central America.

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

Life is short and the world is a big place. Go out and see it.

Would you do it again?

We are still on the road but so far so good. Knock on wood.

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

Kahunglaw.blogspot.com