Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yep, we're completely with you there; the Holy Grail for us also, France is a beautiful place to explore. Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Many thanks for leaving the comment Robert and yes, it's great to have Freddie back and pulling strong. Many thanks again and all the best, Tony and Claire.
We couldn't agree more with you, France is a beautiful country to explore, especially on a road trip. Many thanks for watching and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Many thanks Ross, the series will continue next week after the release of an out of sequence video. Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, all the very best.
Big shout out to you both and to Clare especially, as it’s thanks to her enthusiastic commentary and brilliant sense of humour I was able to convince my better half to venture away from campsites and to camp wherever we stopped. We spent 2 wonderful weeks in the summer touring north wales and Anglesey. Thanks guys keep up the good work and hopefully we’ll bump into you both on our travels Tim & Jen
And that's why we do what we do, brilliant! Thank you so much for leaving such a lovely comment Tim, it's very much appreciated and has made our evening, thank you! We're glad to hear that Jen is coming around to wild camping, once you get used to it, campsites become a place of convenience and chores e.g. showers and laundry.....and maybe the odd alcoholic drink lol. As you will see in our next French vid, we go to a campsite and then back into the wild; guess which location we preferred??? Yep, out in the wild. We're really glad you had a great time in North Wales and enjoyed Anglesey, a great place to explore. Many thanks again and take care. Safe travels and yes, maybe we'll see you on the road sometime, we'd like that! All the best, Tony and Claire.
Hi again, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, it's very much appreciated. Yes, the shower system worked out really well, great addition, no more relying on campsites or leisure centres. Many thanks again and all the best.
Thanks Chrissy, we hope you find our French adventure good to watch. Merci beaucoup, nous espérons que vous apprécierez la campagne française. All the very best, 👍💙❤️🚐🇫🇷
@adventurevanfreddie don't speak much French but get by lol. Did not like that campsite you stopped of at 🫨🫢glad you moved on hahaha hole in the floor noooooo 🤣🧻
Next time you venture into Charente Maritime try the coast further South to Rochfort,Isle d’Oleron and Royan. Been here now for last 5years and never looked back. May you continue your adventures and enjoy this beautiful Country.👍🇫🇷🍷🇪🇺
Hi Jon, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment and recommendations for places to visit, another few places added to our ever growing France bucket list, thank you! You are very lucky to have moved over there, we're both very jealous indeed, but wish you well. Many thanks again, tous mes vœux! Tony and Claire. 🥂🍾🍷🇲🇫
@@adventurevanfreddie Seems to be quite a few Brits still wanting to escape to a better life.I found it hard to adapt to the change from the comfort of everyday routine but after time things are soooooo much better,especially the health system. To anyone who is considering the big chill then just go for it!!!!!
Ahh, thank you and hello! Hope you enjoy the vids when you get time. Thanks for subscribing and welcome to the channel, glad you are here. All the very best, Tony and Claire.
Yep , we've waited a while for this one and lovely to see you back on your adventures with Freddie . We did La Rochelle a few years ago , fantastic place . Looks like some great park ups and I'm clocking every one . You need a fishing rod in the van . Great vlog both of you , looking forward to the continuing adventure . Take care both .
Hi Ken, glad that you're still with us and thanks for waiting for the French trip. Yes, La Rochelle was beautiful and was a great start to our little French adventure. Glad that you are clocking the park ups, the 2 in this video were amazing and very spacious; you'd have no problem finding a place to park, that's for sure. Yes, you are absolutely right, I should put a fishing rod in the van, although I'd want to eat everything I landed; great for Cod in Norway, not so good for the Perch in France lol. Hope you're well and getting out and about? All the best, Tony and Claire.
Haha, yep, it's very much all about the burger lol, it was very tasty!! Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, all the best, Tony and Claire.
Sitting here looking out my Van window at the Snow on the Munro’s 🏴🏴🌧🌧 Its awesome to see some sunshine on your France trip 🥰 Awesome production again Tony I know you two love France 😘 Big hugs Bro 👊 Love to Claire x 🐶🐶🏴🏴👊👊👍🥰🥰 Stephen n Skye from The Misty Isle x
Snow on the Munros doesn't sound too bad bro, we wish we could see it for ourselves, but damn work keeps getting in the way lol. Many thanks for your kind words buddy, it certainly means a lot. We hope you are safe and well and that you are enjoying life. You know where we are should you ever need us. Big hugs back and lots of love from Claire. We'll hopefully see you soon, stay safe and take care. ❤️👍👍👍🚐🏴. Hopefully we will meet again one day under the blue skies of France, until then, we'll meet up in the UK soon. 🚐🚐👍
Many thanks Dave, it's great to be able to hit the road again. Many thanks for your support and kind comments. Take care and all the best. Tony and Claire.
Great to see you guys back in France . Looking forward to hearing Tonys French ! And Tony , ive never seen anyone cut bread like that , you have the knife blade under your hand , i have it over my hand , your wriste side , iam knuckle side .
It's all about my French dialogue lol! Yes, normally I would have cut the bread in a more conventional way, but for some reason whilst on video, on decided on the cack-handed approach lol. It was like cutting through rock. Many thanks again for your support and all the best.
Great to see the show back on the road, hope Freddie is up to it now, well done Claire for trying the cuisine, can't wait for the next episode, take care the both of you ❤
Hey up David, we both hope this finds you well. Yes, our first big road trip after all the repairs and following the great support we have here. Haha, yes, my burger doesn't really count as trying the local cuisine, although it was gorgeous lol. Freddie was a pleasure to dive and the new engine was strong and without fault. Take care and thank you for your continued support. Cheers and all the best. Tony and Claire. x
Oh, you must convince your OH to visit France, its a beautiful country with so much unspoilt countryside and beautiful villages. Thanks for watching David, it's very much appreciated as always. Take care.
Hi there John, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. You will have a great time in France when you manage to get there, it's a great place to explore. Take care and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Hey up, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yep, work certainly does get in the way of adventures. Take care and safe travels when you get to them. All the best, Tony and Claire.
Great to see you both enjoying yourself and chilling after such a terrible year . Well done Claire for being adventurous with the food but an even bigger well done to big Tony for the safe option of the beefburger !! 😂😂 I'm like you Tony 🍔😂👍 Great video and very informative. Thanks guys and take care . Best wishes....... Steven 😊👍
Many thanks Steven, yes, France had been a long time coming after the lockdown and the engine failure. Haha, yes, the menu was extensive, but I couldn't drag myself away from the burger menu once I'd seen it lol, Claire on the other hand is far more adventurous. Our thanks as always is with you Steven for sticking with us and for your support. One day we'll meet buddy! Thank you!! Until next time, all the very best. Tony and Claire.
Another fantastic vlog guys. So lovely to see that side ofFrance. I’ve worked a couple of times in La Ciotat further down the coast and can’t wait to visit in Puddle as soon as we are able. Can’t wait to follow your adventures. Keep up the superb content guys. Regards Robbie, Pauline and campervan Puddle
Hey up team Puddle, we hope this finds you well. Wow, La Ciotat is a beautiful area, we have driven through it ourselves many years ago, following the coast through Monaco and on to Italy. Yes, I bet that you can't wait to go back to France, a beautiful and vast country, perfect for exploring. Let's hope that you manage to get back there soon. Many thanks again for watching and for leaving the comment. Take care and all the best. Tony and Claire.
Just discovered your channel. Some great looking road trips. I am looking forward to watching them all, to find inspiration for our next trip. We went a similar route to this one, a couple of years ago. We found some really nice places. Liked and subscribed.
Hi there Edge 1664, we hope this finds you well. Ahhh, so we've followed in your footsteps, hopefully we will show you more in future vids. Many thanks for watching and for subscribing, it's very much appreciated by us both. We hope that you enjoy some of our back-catalogue. Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
About the litter, my parents and I went on a camping tour across France a few years ago, and we were pleasantly surprised at the excellent state of the roads and camping facilities there. We made small detour in Belgium and Germany, and ... well, Germany did not impress us! We finished our trip with a 3-day camping trip in England. And I would have gladly been back to Germany!
Hi there, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yes, France is always a pleasure to visit, great facilities and a community feel that demands respect, absolutely stunning. It's such a shame that there is very little respect in the UK, a little bit of pride could go a long way. Our little island has so much to give, however, it takes very few people to spoil it. Hopefully things will change. Many thanks again, it's very much appreciated. Safe travels when you get to them. All the very best, Tony and Claire.
Hello Nick, yes, this was the first big road trip following the engine turmoil back in September/October. Thanks for watching and for leaving the kind comment. All the best.
Hello to you both hope your both well sorry not been in much contact been through a bad spot but hope your both OK great video what a lovely spot you found I went to France once and Iur beautiful in the countryside one day might get there lol glad the van is running OK as well and were are you now just watched Stevens video and you were in Scotland lol well you both take care all the best sending love and hugs to you both
Hi there Jamie, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Sorry to hear that you have been in a bad spot lately and hope that you're through the other side of it. Yes, France is beautiful and we hope that you manage to get there someday and experience the beautiful scenery for yourself. Yes, currently the van is running great thank you. Haha, yep, we've just got back from Scotland but need to get the small French trip videos out first lol. Stephen was very lucky on the hill, if it wasn't for that 4x4, he'd still be there lol. You make sure that you take care of yourself and remember that we all have one life, so live it right and as best you can. Best wishes and good to hear from you buddy. Take care!! Tony and Claire.
@@adventurevanfreddie hiya buddy and it's fine I like putting nice comments lol you both deserve it you put a lot of effort into your videos I love them I bet it was nice to see Steven again I love him with everything he been through and to what he has accomplished and I would love to do what everyone else is doing full time living in a van I will get a van one day hoping end of next year will be an old one like fiat ducato 6 berth though as 2 kids lol and hopefully meet with you all one day lol be great party time lol and I bet Steven was greatful for your help. Well you take care both of you love from me the wife Tina and our 2 boys Andrew and Harvey
@@jamieellmers5511 it would be a great party indeed Jamie. Yes, owning and exploring in a van is a great way of life and for Steve, it's very much given him a goal in life of which we love him for. Yes, it's always nice meeting people when we're on the road and there have been plenty of times that we have considered full-time vanlife ourselves; unfortunately we have too many financial commitments like most people and our jobs get in the way. Yes, a big Ducato would be great, but even something Freddie's size can make for a family adventure wagon. I truly hope that you manage to get one, it can change your life. Keep seeking your goal, it will come buddy. Same to you, best wishes for you and your family, stay safe, love from us both and Freddie!
@@adventurevanfreddie I know what you mean mate gotta have goals and my goals are getting a job as a campsite warden and live on the site once the kids are grown up so I can put more money in the savings for the future and then hopefully go full time in a van that's what I wanna do lol and I know mate Steven has come so far he really does impress me cause both me and Steven have anxiety and depression and he inspires me to do what I wanna do in the future I got a while to wait but I know what I wanna do and if it happens I will be so happy lol
Hi Tony and Claire, don’t know how you find those stop overs but man they look good. Any way Tony I’m enjoying the new adventure and can’t wait for a 🌈🌈 Love it both thanks for your effort xx Anthony 🐧🐧
Hey up Penguin Pete, hope this finds you well buddy. Yes, France is full of great stop overs and are relatively easy to find due to the expanse of the country. To be fair, we found the canal many years ago and it has become more popular, but is an extremely large area. Hmmm, I can't remember if we spotted any 🌈🌈 lol, too much sun! Hope you're well buddy and many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. All the best.
th-cam.com/video/or6qzjJLyS8/w-d-xo.html Unfortunately, we didn't film the build itself as we only gave ourselves 3 months of working weekends to get the van finished. The above link will take you to a tour of the van, but it's not the best video to be fair and we've added a few more bits since then. Really appreciate your kind words, take care.
Hi guys great to see back on the road,we cant wait to get to France,look forward to the up and coming travels,we are looking for a drive away awning for our van what make is yours ?safe travels.
Hi there Martin, many thanks for watching. Our awning is an Outdoor Revolution Movelite Cayman, great bit of kit. They do a newer 'air beam' version of it, however, the pole version takes minutes to put up and doesn't go down in the night. There are cheaper versions and they do come up for sale on ebay from time to time. Hope this helps, all the best. Tony and Claire. www.campingworld.co.uk/en/Outdoor-Revolution-Movelite-Cayman-Drive-Away-Awning-2017/m-17159.aspx
Good info there Terry, thank you! Yes, Coypu they were. We did wonder why there wasn't a dam or any tree destruction. We did however see a burrow of which confirms what you already know. Cheers buddy.
Bonjour, another great video, You can’t beat touring around most parts of France, we’ve had many good holidays there over the years, the last one was in Puisseguin, where we stayed on a vineyard featured in the TV program A New Life in the Sun, I managed to make a dent in their wine stocks!. Looking forward to further adventures when you venture further South. Don’t forget to drop me a line when you are visiting South Wales, I’ll provide some useful areas for you to perhaps visit.😁👍🏴🇳🇱🚐🍷🍷 A bientot.
Bonjour Adrian, j'espère que tu vas bien. We absolutely agree with you, France is a beautiful country to just explore, no plans, just choose a road and see what happens. We end up not too far from Puisseguin, lovely area. Absolutely Adrian, we'll definitely message you about South Wales when we're able to get back. Thank you!! Stay safe and take care, Tony and Claire. Cheers.
When did you make this trip? We were over there in September/October - went down through Andorra to Spain and Gibraltar. Wev'e got the same awning as you, but for a T5. Thanks for the vid.
It looks like our paths could have crossed on the road, September/October is when we were there. It would seem we have a few things in common, including our awning, brilliant stuff! Take care out there, safe travels and all the very best. Tony and Claire.
One more question how did you find the move from a small van to a big van? Have the benefits, space, comfort, storage etc, outweighed the disadvantages, ie parking, maneouvering etc
To be fair, the transition to a bigger van was the best thing we did. Yes, the van is larger in all respects, however, the space and storage it provides far out weighs any disadvantages. The biggest difference is probably going to sound like an obvious observation, this being that our smaller van drove more like a big car, whereas the Boxer drives like a van. The best part of having the larger van is having a layout where our backsides physically leave the driving seats to get to a dedicated seating/eating area and the fixed bed. We have never found parking really an issue, however have found ourselves on some very steep and narrow roads whilst touring Norway, however, we would have been in the same predicament even in the smaller van. Our wheelbase is only 6ft longer than our old small van, so not too bad and you quickly adapt to the size. Another advantage is by having a fixed bed, we're not having to store blankets, pillows and the duvet. I could go on and on about the advantages of a bigger van but would struggle with the advantages of a small one. It was game changing for us, especially when considering the photography gear we carry. Space and storage is key, especially if you plan to explore all weather. I hope this helps and all the best, Tony.
Glad to see you back travelling again, if you go further down the Atlantic coast try the ile d' Olerlon, reached by a bridge, loads of oysters to eat in that area, Also further down you have Royan where there is ferry across the Gironde and a Second world war military museum. The Gironde is famous, of course, for the Cockleshell heroes who paddled their cockles (canoes) 70 miles into Bordeaux harbour and sank German ships in 1942, out of the ten only two return home the others died by drowning and execution by the Germans.
Hi there Edward, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comprehensive comment. I've just added those locations to our little journal map for one of our future France adventures, thank you so much for taking the time to let us know about locations. I remember the Cockleshell heroes film from some time ago, however I didn't remember it being in Bordeaux; a real shame as we visited there. Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Hey guys, good to see you touring again. Is that awning new? It looks great. Still a lot of stuff going on about vaccinated/not vaccinated but we have had both vaccines and today had our boosters so we are up to date with it now. Still hoping for a xmas market in Germany next month so fingers crossed on that one. So lovely seeing you two enjoying France again. Cheers.
Hey up David, many thanks for watching. As for the awning, we've had it a few years now our friend, but only use it when we are on a campsite for more than a day. As for the vaccine saga, time will tell, but it certainly seems to be doing the job compared to this time last year; personally we think you have made the right choice. Fingers crossed for Germany, have a great time when you get there! Thanks for watching and safe travels.
Hi enjoying the vids, keep them coming. Just wandering if you have weighed your van after the conversion. I've just finished mine, weighed it and it came in at 3500kg with us both inside, no pay load at all, arrrrg, it's a ducato BTW. Back to the drawing board. Dave
Hi Dave, many thanks for watching. Yes, our van last weighed in at 3135kg fully loaded with all the camping gear and water. We haven't got a shower/toilet onboard and only carry 30ltrs of drinking water (+ the new tank of 30ltrs on the roof). Have you clad the van in wood by any chance? If I can help in anyway, give me a shout. Tony (+Claire).
Hi Tony, thanks for the offer of help, but I'm confused, no cladding, at all just ply walls and ceiling, and lightweight ply for the cupboards, 2 solar panels, awning and oven n fridge, just don't get it. I did move the front double seat back a bit, for4 travel seats, but just removed it, saved about 53kg, but will need to add a lightweight bench seat to replace it.
@@mrdave4735 hmmm, somethings not quite right there. Kerb weight is around 2000kg give or take 50kg. That's 1500kg of equipment and building materials. If you've put windows in, 2 side 2 rear door, this will add around 100kg. Obviously, I have no idea how you built your van but that's still a lot of weight to play with. To help you compare any differences: The majority of our van is clad in 5.5mm plywood and the framing for the majority of the furniture is 38mm x 22mm treated wood with 50mm x 50mm for the bed and a 9mm plywood base. 9mm also for the floor with heavy waterproof laminate bathroom flooring. We don't however have a cooker and fridge. We have a hob and cool box which is large but lightweight. All the cupboards are framed and clad, with doors salvaged from an old caravan (again, these are very lightweight). 7kg gas and 10ltr diesel tank for the heater. If you are anywhere in the vicinity of Suffolk, I will happily take a look for you. Like I say, we don't carry too much water. A work colleague also found his van was overweight, but he had 100 ltrs of water (obviously 100kg), 2 x 7.5 gas bottles with an interchange valve, cooker, fridge, shower room and 4 seats (2 up front and the original bench seat moved to the rear compartment. Again, if there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. All the best. Tony.
Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, we learn something everyday, thank you👍. We've been calling it angers for nearly 15 years....doh! Thanks again! Claire and Tony.
You made a great film thanks we are newbies in France. Your so right respect the countryside Litter is awful in UK sadly! is the ogle.miracles.retainer some sort of reference? Parking in La Rochelle looked tricky we have 6.3metre Coachbuilt van.
Hi, many thanks for watching and for taking the time to leave the comment. Ahh, France is a superb place to explore, such a vast country. Yes, in our videos we reference 'what3words' of which is an app on the phone where the entire world has been divided into 3 meter square areas of which are identified by three unique words (replacing the need forGPS coordinates) what3words.com/about We use this app to allow our watchers to find exactly the locations we share, albeit park ups or places of interest. Yep, the parking at La Rochelle was quite busy to be fair, however, on the opposite side of the bay is an area where all the large motorhomes parked. Many thanks again and all the very best, safe travels when you get to them. Take care, Tony and Claire.
@@adventurevanfreddie thankyou Tony and Claire really enjoy your blogs great filming and tips. Even though we stayed on sites on our first France trip last May, we plan to try more Aires this year. Thanks for the explanation of that App and your kind words of encouragement. PS you gotta get lucky with the Ludo😂😂
Just found your channel, bit of a Holy Grail for me - France, camper van, sun, BEER, food, road trips. I'll be there asap. Keep up the great work!
Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yep, we're completely with you there; the Holy Grail for us also, France is a beautiful place to explore. Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Always a pleasure guys. That Freddie gets around a bit. 👌
Many thanks for watching. Yes, Freddie does enjoy getting around, that's for sure lol. Thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Brilliant, so nice to see you back, I love France
Many thanks for watching Valerie, it's great to be back, especially in France. Cheers. Tony and Claire.
Glad to see Freddie back on the road again
Many thanks for leaving the comment Robert and yes, it's great to have Freddie back and pulling strong. Many thanks again and all the best, Tony and Claire.
Another great video looking forward to the next one…🇨🇦🇨🇦
Many thanks for watching Al, it's very much appreciated!! All the very best, Tony and Claire. 👍❤️🇨🇦
Nothing beats a French road trip 👏❤
We couldn't agree more with you, France is a beautiful country to explore, especially on a road trip. Many thanks for watching and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Looking forward to the rest of this trip. 👍
Many thanks Ross, the series will continue next week after the release of an out of sequence video. Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, all the very best.
Big shout out to you both and to Clare especially, as it’s thanks to her enthusiastic commentary and brilliant sense of humour I was able to convince my better half to venture away from campsites and to camp wherever we stopped. We spent 2 wonderful weeks in the summer touring north wales and Anglesey.
Thanks guys keep up the good work and hopefully we’ll bump into you both on our travels
Tim & Jen
And that's why we do what we do, brilliant! Thank you so much for leaving such a lovely comment Tim, it's very much appreciated and has made our evening, thank you! We're glad to hear that Jen is coming around to wild camping, once you get used to it, campsites become a place of convenience and chores e.g. showers and laundry.....and maybe the odd alcoholic drink lol. As you will see in our next French vid, we go to a campsite and then back into the wild; guess which location we preferred??? Yep, out in the wild. We're really glad you had a great time in North Wales and enjoyed Anglesey, a great place to explore.
Many thanks again and take care. Safe travels and yes, maybe we'll see you on the road sometime, we'd like that! All the best, Tony and Claire.
Bit of a catch up to do on your French trip so some binge sessions - great to see you on the road in Freddie …. Shower system looks great
Hi again, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, it's very much appreciated. Yes, the shower system worked out really well, great addition, no more relying on campsites or leisure centres. Many thanks again and all the best.
Yeah I'm excited to watched these France 🇫🇷 adventures 😄 🤗 💜💚
Thanks Chrissy, we hope you find our French adventure good to watch. Merci beaucoup, nous espérons que vous apprécierez la campagne française.
All the very best, 👍💙❤️🚐🇫🇷
@adventurevanfreddie don't speak much French but get by lol. Did not like that campsite you stopped of at 🫨🫢glad you moved on hahaha hole in the floor noooooo 🤣🧻
Ian has been wanting to visit La Rochelle for a long time. Thanks for showing us around. It looks lovely!
Good look and take care
all the best
Stewart William
Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment Stewart, it's very much appreciated. All the best, Tony and Claire.
Another good video , good music as well !
Many thanks Ally, really glad that you enjoyed it! Thank you. x
Fab vid guys, thanks 👍👍☘️☘️
Many thanks Peter for watching and for leaving the comment. All the best, Tony and Claire 👍🚐☘️👌
Next time you venture into Charente Maritime try the coast further South to Rochfort,Isle d’Oleron and Royan.
Been here now for last 5years and never looked back.
May you continue your adventures and enjoy this beautiful Country.👍🇫🇷🍷🇪🇺
Hi Jon, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment and recommendations for places to visit, another few places added to our ever growing France bucket list, thank you! You are very lucky to have moved over there, we're both very jealous indeed, but wish you well.
Many thanks again, tous mes vœux! Tony and Claire. 🥂🍾🍷🇲🇫
@@adventurevanfreddie Seems to be quite a few Brits still wanting to escape to a better life.I found it hard to adapt to the change from the comfort of everyday routine but after time things are soooooo much better,especially the health system.
To anyone who is considering the big chill then just go for it!!!!!
I'll de Oleron..I' de Re'...both great areas
subbed! and by far the best couple at presenting these vlogs on camping, espiecially the wild bits! will watch more of your vids when i get time.
Ahh, thank you and hello! Hope you enjoy the vids when you get time. Thanks for subscribing and welcome to the channel, glad you are here. All the very best, Tony and Claire.
Yep , we've waited a while for this one and lovely to see you back on your adventures with Freddie . We did La Rochelle a few years ago , fantastic place . Looks like some great park ups and I'm clocking every one . You need a fishing rod in the van . Great vlog both of you , looking forward to the continuing adventure . Take care both .
Hi Ken, glad that you're still with us and thanks for waiting for the French trip. Yes, La Rochelle was beautiful and was a great start to our little French adventure. Glad that you are clocking the park ups, the 2 in this video were amazing and very spacious; you'd have no problem finding a place to park, that's for sure. Yes, you are absolutely right, I should put a fishing rod in the van, although I'd want to eat everything I landed; great for Cod in Norway, not so good for the Perch in France lol. Hope you're well and getting out and about? All the best, Tony and Claire.
Ian LOVES picking blackberries and snacking on them… he did it all over Britain, but especially Cornwall and Devon.
And I had a massive burger 🍔
My kind of guy 🤣
Enjoy the trip folks
Haha, yep, it's very much all about the burger lol, it was very tasty!! Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, all the best, Tony and Claire.
Sitting here looking out my Van window at the Snow on the Munro’s 🏴🏴🌧🌧 Its awesome to see some sunshine on your France trip 🥰 Awesome production again Tony I know you two love France 😘 Big hugs Bro 👊 Love to Claire x 🐶🐶🏴🏴👊👊👍🥰🥰 Stephen n Skye from The Misty Isle x
Snow on the Munros doesn't sound too bad bro, we wish we could see it for ourselves, but damn work keeps getting in the way lol. Many thanks for your kind words buddy, it certainly means a lot. We hope you are safe and well and that you are enjoying life. You know where we are should you ever need us. Big hugs back and lots of love from Claire. We'll hopefully see you soon, stay safe and take care. ❤️👍👍👍🚐🏴. Hopefully we will meet again one day under the blue skies of France, until then, we'll meet up in the UK soon. 🚐🚐👍
🥰👊👊👊👊👊🐶🏴👍🇫🇷
Lovely guys nice to see you both nice video
Many thanks for watching John, really appreciate it. All the best, Tony and Claire.
I’m laughing that Tony is wearing a Los Angeles shirt in France! 😂
Great to see you guys up and running again 👍 😀
Many thanks Dave, it's great to be able to hit the road again. Many thanks for your support and kind comments. Take care and all the best. Tony and Claire.
Great to see you guys back in France . Looking forward to hearing Tonys French ! And Tony , ive never seen anyone cut bread like that , you have the knife blade under your hand , i have it over my hand , your wriste side , iam knuckle side .
It's all about my French dialogue lol! Yes, normally I would have cut the bread in a more conventional way, but for some reason whilst on video, on decided on the cack-handed approach lol. It was like cutting through rock. Many thanks again for your support and all the best.
Off we go again. Great vlog and looking forward to the next episode. XX
Thanks for watching another one and for your support. Glad that you enjoyed it X
Great to see the show back on the road, hope Freddie is up to it now, well done Claire for trying the cuisine, can't wait for the next episode, take care the both of you ❤
Hey up David, we both hope this finds you well. Yes, our first big road trip after all the repairs and following the great support we have here. Haha, yes, my burger doesn't really count as trying the local cuisine, although it was gorgeous lol. Freddie was a pleasure to dive and the new engine was strong and without fault. Take care and thank you for your continued support. Cheers and all the best. Tony and Claire. x
An absolute joy to watch - thank you both...loved every minute of it. Camera work, production and music all top notch as usual. Safe travels guys....
Many thanks Gordon, we are both are truly thankful and we're happy that you enjoyed it. Thank you and all the very best. Tony and Claire. x
Another great vid with sights and history. Wish I could convince MOH to visit France
Oh, you must convince your OH to visit France, its a beautiful country with so much unspoilt countryside and beautiful villages. Thanks for watching David, it's very much appreciated as always. Take care.
Hi both just discovered your channel, we are hoping to go to France for the 1st time in spring. Good tip about drip rail we used tile edge trim,
Hi there John, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. You will have a great time in France when you manage to get there, it's a great place to explore. Take care and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Nice one you two you get about would love to get out more but work kills it
Stay safe you two
Hey up, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yep, work certainly does get in the way of adventures. Take care and safe travels when you get to them. All the best, Tony and Claire.
Great to see you back out and about on adventures , great camera work as always guys
Many thanks for watching and for leaving the kind comment, glad to have you along for the ride. Many thanks again and all the best, Tony and Claire.
Safe travels guys enjoy 😉
Many thanks Andre, we appreciate your support. Safe travels also when you get to them.
Great to see you both enjoying yourself and chilling after such a terrible year . Well done Claire for being adventurous with the food but an even bigger well done to big Tony for the safe option of the beefburger !! 😂😂 I'm like you Tony 🍔😂👍 Great video and very informative. Thanks guys and take care . Best wishes....... Steven 😊👍
Many thanks Steven, yes, France had been a long time coming after the lockdown and the engine failure. Haha, yes, the menu was extensive, but I couldn't drag myself away from the burger menu once I'd seen it lol, Claire on the other hand is far more adventurous. Our thanks as always is with you Steven for sticking with us and for your support. One day we'll meet buddy! Thank you!! Until next time, all the very best. Tony and Claire.
Yes we will meet someday 😊👍 . You are a great couple , love your videos and photography, and I wish you all the very best 👍
Another fantastic vlog guys. So lovely to see that side ofFrance. I’ve worked a couple of times in La Ciotat further down the coast and can’t wait to visit in Puddle as soon as we are able. Can’t wait to follow your adventures. Keep up the superb content guys. Regards Robbie, Pauline and campervan Puddle
Hey up team Puddle, we hope this finds you well. Wow, La Ciotat is a beautiful area, we have driven through it ourselves many years ago, following the coast through Monaco and on to Italy. Yes, I bet that you can't wait to go back to France, a beautiful and vast country, perfect for exploring. Let's hope that you manage to get back there soon.
Many thanks again for watching and for leaving the comment. Take care and all the best. Tony and Claire.
Just discovered your channel. Some great looking road trips. I am looking forward to watching them all, to find inspiration for our next trip. We went a similar route to this one, a couple of years ago. We found some really nice places. Liked and subscribed.
Hi there Edge 1664, we hope this finds you well. Ahhh, so we've followed in your footsteps, hopefully we will show you more in future vids. Many thanks for watching and for subscribing, it's very much appreciated by us both. We hope that you enjoy some of our back-catalogue. Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
About the litter, my parents and I went on a camping tour across France a few years ago, and we were pleasantly surprised at the excellent state of the roads and camping facilities there. We made small detour in Belgium and Germany, and ... well, Germany did not impress us! We finished our trip with a 3-day camping trip in England. And I would have gladly been back to Germany!
Hi there, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Yes, France is always a pleasure to visit, great facilities and a community feel that demands respect, absolutely stunning. It's such a shame that there is very little respect in the UK, a little bit of pride could go a long way. Our little island has so much to give, however, it takes very few people to spoil it. Hopefully things will change.
Many thanks again, it's very much appreciated. Safe travels when you get to them. All the very best, Tony and Claire.
As ever Great vid, Guys. We must dream on
Thanks again Baloo for watching and for leaving the kind comment. Yes, we must dream on......
All the very best, Tony and Claire.
So is this new content following your van repairs? Always a pleasure to watch you guys👌
Hello Nick, yes, this was the first big road trip following the engine turmoil back in September/October. Thanks for watching and for leaving the kind comment. All the best.
Hyper U… Sounds like a shop named after me!
Hello to you both hope your both well sorry not been in much contact been through a bad spot but hope your both OK great video what a lovely spot you found I went to France once and Iur beautiful in the countryside one day might get there lol glad the van is running OK as well and were are you now just watched Stevens video and you were in Scotland lol well you both take care all the best sending love and hugs to you both
Hi there Jamie, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. Sorry to hear that you have been in a bad spot lately and hope that you're through the other side of it. Yes, France is beautiful and we hope that you manage to get there someday and experience the beautiful scenery for yourself. Yes, currently the van is running great thank you. Haha, yep, we've just got back from Scotland but need to get the small French trip videos out first lol. Stephen was very lucky on the hill, if it wasn't for that 4x4, he'd still be there lol.
You make sure that you take care of yourself and remember that we all have one life, so live it right and as best you can. Best wishes and good to hear from you buddy. Take care!! Tony and Claire.
@@adventurevanfreddie hiya buddy and it's fine I like putting nice comments lol you both deserve it you put a lot of effort into your videos I love them I bet it was nice to see Steven again I love him with everything he been through and to what he has accomplished and I would love to do what everyone else is doing full time living in a van I will get a van one day hoping end of next year will be an old one like fiat ducato 6 berth though as 2 kids lol and hopefully meet with you all one day lol be great party time lol and I bet Steven was greatful for your help. Well you take care both of you love from me the wife Tina and our 2 boys Andrew and Harvey
@@jamieellmers5511 it would be a great party indeed Jamie. Yes, owning and exploring in a van is a great way of life and for Steve, it's very much given him a goal in life of which we love him for. Yes, it's always nice meeting people when we're on the road and there have been plenty of times that we have considered full-time vanlife ourselves; unfortunately we have too many financial commitments like most people and our jobs get in the way. Yes, a big Ducato would be great, but even something Freddie's size can make for a family adventure wagon. I truly hope that you manage to get one, it can change your life. Keep seeking your goal, it will come buddy. Same to you, best wishes for you and your family, stay safe, love from us both and Freddie!
@@adventurevanfreddie I know what you mean mate gotta have goals and my goals are getting a job as a campsite warden and live on the site once the kids are grown up so I can put more money in the savings for the future and then hopefully go full time in a van that's what I wanna do lol and I know mate Steven has come so far he really does impress me cause both me and Steven have anxiety and depression and he inspires me to do what I wanna do in the future I got a while to wait but I know what I wanna do and if it happens I will be so happy lol
Hi Tony and Claire, don’t know how you find those stop overs but man they look good. Any way Tony I’m enjoying the new adventure and can’t wait for a 🌈🌈
Love it both thanks for your effort xx
Anthony 🐧🐧
Hey up Penguin Pete, hope this finds you well buddy. Yes, France is full of great stop overs and are relatively easy to find due to the expanse of the country. To be fair, we found the canal many years ago and it has become more popular, but is an extremely large area. Hmmm, I can't remember if we spotted any 🌈🌈 lol, too much sun! Hope you're well buddy and many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. All the best.
Have you done a van build video? I like yours a lot.
th-cam.com/video/or6qzjJLyS8/w-d-xo.html Unfortunately, we didn't film the build itself as we only gave ourselves 3 months of working weekends to get the van finished. The above link will take you to a tour of the van, but it's not the best video to be fair and we've added a few more bits since then. Really appreciate your kind words, take care.
I’m chuffed you saw beavers, 🦫 but to be honest… otters would have been even better 💕🦦
Hi guys great to see back on the road,we cant wait to get to France,look forward to the up and coming travels,we are looking for a drive away awning for our van what make is yours ?safe travels.
Hi there Martin, many thanks for watching. Our awning is an Outdoor Revolution Movelite Cayman, great bit of kit. They do a newer 'air beam' version of it, however, the pole version takes minutes to put up and doesn't go down in the night. There are cheaper versions and they do come up for sale on ebay from time to time. Hope this helps, all the best. Tony and Claire. www.campingworld.co.uk/en/Outdoor-Revolution-Movelite-Cayman-Drive-Away-Awning-2017/m-17159.aspx
@@adventurevanfreddie
Thanks for reply guys will take a look,look forward to the next vlogs take care Martin
Not Beavers, Coypu, often mistaken for Beavers. Great vlog 👍🏻
Good info there Terry, thank you! Yes, Coypu they were. We did wonder why there wasn't a dam or any tree destruction. We did however see a burrow of which confirms what you already know. Cheers buddy.
@@adventurevanfreddie You're welcome 👍🏻🙂
Bonjour, another great video, You can’t beat touring around most parts of France, we’ve had many good holidays there over the years, the last one was in Puisseguin, where we stayed on a vineyard featured in the TV program A New Life in the Sun, I managed to make a dent in their wine stocks!. Looking forward to further adventures when you venture further South. Don’t forget to drop me a line when you are visiting South Wales, I’ll provide some useful areas for you to perhaps visit.😁👍🏴🇳🇱🚐🍷🍷 A bientot.
Bonjour Adrian, j'espère que tu vas bien. We absolutely agree with you, France is a beautiful country to just explore, no plans, just choose a road and see what happens. We end up not too far from Puisseguin, lovely area.
Absolutely Adrian, we'll definitely message you about South Wales when we're able to get back. Thank you!!
Stay safe and take care, Tony and Claire. Cheers.
When did you make this trip? We were over there in September/October - went down through Andorra to Spain and Gibraltar. Wev'e got the same awning as you, but for a T5. Thanks for the vid.
It looks like our paths could have crossed on the road, September/October is when we were there.
It would seem we have a few things in common, including our awning, brilliant stuff! Take care out there, safe travels and all the very best. Tony and Claire.
One more question how did you find the move from a small van to a big van? Have the benefits, space, comfort, storage etc, outweighed the disadvantages, ie parking, maneouvering etc
To be fair, the transition to a bigger van was the best thing we did. Yes, the van is larger in all respects, however, the space and storage it provides far out weighs any disadvantages. The biggest difference is probably going to sound like an obvious observation, this being that our smaller van drove more like a big car, whereas the Boxer drives like a van. The best part of having the larger van is having a layout where our backsides physically leave the driving seats to get to a dedicated seating/eating area and the fixed bed. We have never found parking really an issue, however have found ourselves on some very steep and narrow roads whilst touring Norway, however, we would have been in the same predicament even in the smaller van. Our wheelbase is only 6ft longer than our old small van, so not too bad and you quickly adapt to the size. Another advantage is by having a fixed bed, we're not having to store blankets, pillows and the duvet. I could go on and on about the advantages of a bigger van but would struggle with the advantages of a small one. It was game changing for us, especially when considering the photography gear we carry. Space and storage is key, especially if you plan to explore all weather. I hope this helps and all the best, Tony.
Glad to see you back travelling again, if you go further down the Atlantic coast try the ile d' Olerlon, reached by a bridge, loads of oysters to eat in that area, Also further down you have Royan where there is ferry across the Gironde and a Second world war military museum. The Gironde is famous, of course, for the Cockleshell heroes who paddled their cockles (canoes) 70 miles into Bordeaux harbour and sank German ships in 1942, out of the ten only two return home the others died by drowning and execution by the Germans.
Hi there Edward, many thanks for watching and for leaving the comprehensive comment. I've just added those locations to our little journal map for one of our future France adventures, thank you so much for taking the time to let us know about locations. I remember the Cockleshell heroes film from some time ago, however I didn't remember it being in Bordeaux; a real shame as we visited there.
Many thanks again and all the very best, Tony and Claire.
Brilliant
Thank you Anne, many thanks for watching!!
Was you in Braeclet Bay Mumbles a few weeks back
Hi John, South Wales is very much on the bucket list, but unfortunately it was not us this time. Cheers.
The trouble with watching your videos is I turn a shade of envious green.
Hi there, many thanks for watching and for leaving the kind comment, it's very much appreciated. All the best and take care, Tony and Claire.
Hey guys, good to see you touring again. Is that awning new? It looks great. Still a lot of stuff going on about vaccinated/not vaccinated but we have had both vaccines and today had our boosters so we are up to date with it now. Still hoping for a xmas market in Germany next month so fingers crossed on that one. So lovely seeing you two enjoying France again. Cheers.
Hey up David, many thanks for watching. As for the awning, we've had it a few years now our friend, but only use it when we are on a campsite for more than a day. As for the vaccine saga, time will tell, but it certainly seems to be doing the job compared to this time last year; personally we think you have made the right choice. Fingers crossed for Germany, have a great time when you get there! Thanks for watching and safe travels.
Hi enjoying the vids, keep them coming. Just wandering if you have weighed your van after the conversion. I've just finished mine, weighed it and it came in at 3500kg with us both inside, no pay load at all, arrrrg, it's a ducato BTW. Back to the drawing board. Dave
Hi Dave, many thanks for watching. Yes, our van last weighed in at 3135kg fully loaded with all the camping gear and water. We haven't got a shower/toilet onboard and only carry 30ltrs of drinking water (+ the new tank of 30ltrs on the roof). Have you clad the van in wood by any chance? If I can help in anyway, give me a shout. Tony (+Claire).
Hi Tony, thanks for the offer of help, but I'm confused, no cladding, at all just ply walls and ceiling, and lightweight ply for the cupboards, 2 solar panels, awning and oven n fridge, just don't get it. I did move the front double seat back a bit, for4 travel seats, but just removed it, saved about 53kg, but will need to add a lightweight bench seat to replace it.
@@mrdave4735 hmmm, somethings not quite right there. Kerb weight is around 2000kg give or take 50kg. That's 1500kg of equipment and building materials. If you've put windows in, 2 side 2 rear door, this will add around 100kg. Obviously, I have no idea how you built your van but that's still a lot of weight to play with. To help you compare any differences: The majority of our van is clad in 5.5mm plywood and the framing for the majority of the furniture is 38mm x 22mm treated wood with 50mm x 50mm for the bed and a 9mm plywood base. 9mm also for the floor with heavy waterproof laminate bathroom flooring. We don't however have a cooker and fridge. We have a hob and cool box which is large but lightweight. All the cupboards are framed and clad, with doors salvaged from an old caravan (again, these are very lightweight). 7kg gas and 10ltr diesel tank for the heater. If you are anywhere in the vicinity of Suffolk, I will happily take a look for you. Like I say, we don't carry too much water. A work colleague also found his van was overweight, but he had 100 ltrs of water (obviously 100kg), 2 x 7.5 gas bottles with an interchange valve, cooker, fridge, shower room and 4 seats (2 up front and the original bench seat moved to the rear compartment.
Again, if there is anything I can do to help, please let me know. All the best. Tony.
Good to see you back in France. What month was this filmed in?
Hi Richard, this toward the end of September. Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment. All the best.
Hi what drone do u use. Thanks
Hi John, mostly we use a DJI Mavic air 2 as in this video or a Phantom 4 Pro. Hope this helps, many thanks for watching. Tony and Claire
Great video. BTW, it's not angers, it's pronounced ON-JE.
Many thanks for watching and for leaving the comment, we learn something everyday, thank you👍. We've been calling it angers for nearly 15 years....doh! Thanks again! Claire and Tony.
Cutting bread cack handed...
Haha, well spotted, no idea why I was cutting the bread that way! Many thanks for watching.
You made a great film thanks we are newbies in France. Your so right respect the countryside Litter is awful in UK sadly! is the ogle.miracles.retainer some sort of reference? Parking in La Rochelle looked tricky we have 6.3metre Coachbuilt van.
Hi, many thanks for watching and for taking the time to leave the comment. Ahh, France is a superb place to explore, such a vast country. Yes, in our videos we reference 'what3words' of which is an app on the phone where the entire world has been divided into 3 meter square areas of which are identified by three unique words (replacing the need forGPS coordinates)
what3words.com/about
We use this app to allow our watchers to find exactly the locations we share, albeit park ups or places of interest.
Yep, the parking at La Rochelle was quite busy to be fair, however, on the opposite side of the bay is an area where all the large motorhomes parked.
Many thanks again and all the very best, safe travels when you get to them. Take care, Tony and Claire.
@@adventurevanfreddie thankyou Tony and Claire really enjoy your blogs great filming and tips. Even though we stayed on sites on our first France trip last May, we plan to try more Aires this year. Thanks for the explanation of that App and your kind words of encouragement. PS you gotta get lucky with the Ludo😂😂
@@webgibs hey, no worries. Hope you get the what3words app and find it useful. Take care.