"Fifi Le Van"!

First sight of the new Chausson Flash 30, with Joan and Claire (Claire from Lowdhams) measuring for awning size.
Fifi arrived in England from France (ex factory via transporter) during the second week of March 2012, it is now at Lowdhams near Nottingham where the solar panel, LPG gas cylinder and other bits are to be fitted. It's all action!

Full handing over and familiarisation takes place on 25 April 2012. The first two nights will be spent at Lowdhams' camp site to ensure all is understood.

Decision made!

A Chausson Flash 30 motorhome. This is a low profile 'van with rear island bed and a second drop down bed above the dinette. Large storage space beneath the rear bed to fit two bicycles and other baggage. To see what we bought click link below.

http://www.chausson.tm.fr/uk-uk/profile/flash/line-chausson

In the meantime it was farewell to Milwaukee's finest (Harley-Davidson) which went as a part exchange on the Chausson motorhome. This visit to Germany was its last ride abroad. A fond farewell ...

H-D Electra Glide Classic 1690cc

And now the approaching winter in England, until the Spring of 2012, when 'A new Adventure' begins.

Across the road from Ulster Terrace, Regent's Park, this tree in full autumn colours.

Followed by winter. Taken from the roof of Ulster Terrace.

Early Beginnings

All things have a starting point, and so too with 'A New Adventure'. The broad plan is a comprehensive grand tour of 'old Europe' in a motorhome lasting anything from 6-12 months - maybe longer. Enjoyment, budget and inclination will be the guiding factors. Autumn and winter 2012/13 to be spent on the Mediterranean coast.

So ....

Entrance to the world's biggest Motorhome exhibition. Visit aimed at new 2012 models and left-hand drives. Lots to look at and lots to learn over two full days in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Joan sampling the 'vans - this a Carthago!
Very pricey.

And then 4 days at the Mohne Dam east of Dortmund (Ruhrgebiet of Dam Busters 1943 fame) for some reflection.

The Mohne Dam, Westphalia.

Next is a visit to the NEC Birmingham, where the British 'vans are to be viewed, and a final choice to be made; weekend of 15-16 October 2011.