Owen and Lynn ( an Debbie and John) have really inspired us. Judy and I just put a down payment on a new Coachmen Beyond, AWD with lithium package. Not sure when it will be ready, but we sure are excited. Previously we owned an Airstream Interstate and then an LTV Unity. We thought we were hanging up our RV keys, but here we go again!
Congratulations on your new rig it sounds awesome. We love Debbie and John... they inspire us also. Glad you didn’t hang up your keys there’s so much to see out there. We appreciate you sharing your comment.
What great music and videography in this video! I love your reviews and you both have such great attitudes...makes it so much fun to watch. Thanks so much!
We appreciate your comment. We try to be positive and look on the bright side of things but we also want to be realistic, glad to hear it was beneficial.
Hello. I am a new viewer. Glad I found you. I really like your videos. They are very fun. Yet you also show and let us know the real view. We have the same interests as you 2 and hope to be following in your foot steps in the future. Keep up the great work. And continue to make your best life.
Finally took some time to catch up on some videos... and of course, yours is the first one I look at! Great journeys as always... we've put down a deposit on our RV, so maybe next year we'll be seeing you along the way! Happy travels!
Hahahahaha “what are you doin the rest of the day?” Answer “we’re doin it.” I am going to borrow that one from you Owen if you don’t mind. That is amazing. I love listening to you guys just sit a talk. I’m glad no one farted and knocked the blanket down. You gotta make a book of sayings. Stay safe and funny my friends. ❤️🇨🇦❤️ Cheers!!!
Owen does have a lot of one liners... I use to tell him he needed to write down all the saying that his grandfather use to say, but now he has built quite the list of his own. You are welcome to borrow any of them you like. Thanks so much for watching and following along.
We went snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in 2005. It was very interesting going with a tour group, but like you, we would not go during a pandemic. We loved paddling among the mangroves, too! It is so fun to watch Maggie enjoy the water! Have you ever considered a fold-up kayak? We have kayaks similar to yours, but our tow truck now has a cover making it almost impossible to place the kayaks on the top of the truck. Thank you for sharing!
Yes, we have considered fold-up and inflatable kayaks, we went for the the hard ones because of the convenience, however pulling the trailer is not always convenient so we may have to rethink things. We have friends that have a Oru’s and love them.
Nice video of you all in your kayaks even with Maggie. That’s cute that she goes with you and wears a life jacket. It’s good they have those for dogs. Sad you finally go out and eat and didn’t find the food you liked. Sorry there were a lot of people there but it was spring break probably. I heard a lot of people were down there on the news. Glad you were there while it was nice instead of raining. I noticed at the end you both were wearing grey. You both matched that day of the video. Looking forward too seeing your next adventure. See you soon!
We do have to be careful when taking Maggie on the kayaks, but we always love taking her, she loves the water. You are probably right about spring break. We were very blessed with great weather. Thanks so much for your comment.
I'm sure your space is very limited. But, I always keep one of those 12" Vortex fans around when there's a lot of sun and no breeze. Those buggers move some air. Makes a huge difference!
Thanks for including Nancy and I into your Key Largo video! It was fun meeting you guys on our way out. Your video reminded us of our trip there. On the Tamarind Trail we ran into some man eating spiders that creeped me out. Until we meet again, safe travels. Nancy and Will.
It was great to meet you. I’m glad I didn’t know about the man eating spiders, I’m not sure I would have walked the trail every day we were there. Stay safe. Thanks for watching.
After living in Florida for 13 years, I finally made it to the Keys. The end of June yes it was hot, buggy, and crowded. We were able to stay in a friends driveway in Big Pine Key, spent time with the key deer and did a lot of experimenting with different bug sprays. Did venture to Key West, what a tourist trap that is, but we did the tourist things, and enjoyed it.
We would love to go to Bahia Honda... it’s very hard to get into. it’s one of those places you need to book way in advance. That is the first places we check for availability.
Hi Thanks for sharing! We love the Keys. We have never stayed at John Pennekamp. We have stayed at Curry Hammock State Park which we truly enjoyed. This year we are splurging and heading to Sunshine Key. Little worried about the large number of camp sites. Would love to know a little bit about your kayaks. Thank you for sharing. Always love your videos. Can't wait to see you in your next video. Have fun.
Our kayaks are Hurricane Skimmer 106 sit on top, they weigh around 39 pounds. They are light weight and they track very well, we love them. We also have a bigger Hurricane that we’ve had for many years, it was a big reason we went with the smaller version. We’ve tried several years to get into a SP in the the keys, so we felt pretty lucky we landed John Pennekamp. Have fun at Sunshine Key, I bet it will be great.
Come down there first and work your way north next time. It’s lovely in January/February . Pity the poor Boy Scouts that go down in the summer and stay in tents. I live in Florida and everyone that visits thinks the keys is the place to go for beaches. There is very little beach access in the keys. We always went down to Islamorado to go diving and fishing off our little whaler. The water is the most beautiful blue.
This is great! I love to see the Keys, and you guys do all the things I love, too. I've just booked a site at Myakka River SP for early October. It's a 1200 mile road trip for me! What you said in the very beginning about "the sunset drive" is an important point. You've taught us that it's all about the journey; and considering the sun's position on your route is critical. Adjusting when you drive so you're not heading directly into the sun, or as you did, to take it in and enjoy it, may make or break a travel day. Love & Prayers!
You are going to love Myakka River SP, and what a wonderful time to go. That is a very long drive I hope you are going to stay for a while. Thanks so much for sharing your comment, it is much appreciated.
My parents took us to Bahia Honda when we are kids. There were 8 of us. We have carried on this tradition as adults and go to Bahia Honda every year. We have reservations in July. Totally love it so much!! My family bring their boats and we always make a trip to Key West. It's our paradise. :)
What a great tradition. We have heard so many good things about Bahia Honda, hopefully one day we will get to stay there. Enjoy your trip and your family.
That water was super clear, the ray was cool. Just wondering why you two haven’t got your shots yet? Y’all should be able to by now 🤷🏼♂️. I got mine for obvious reasons. I think MB has an update for that 4wd issue. Maybe get that looked at when you get home. Great looking campground that’s for sure, I’m surprised you got a site. I like the keys all the way to Key West. I will say the keys are great for diving and the weather 😍. I’ve found good Cuban food in the keys. Yes it’s always crowded. My parents rent a house for a month in KW in February and it’s great. It’s warm and sunny. Stay safe ✌🏼
We are not eligible to get the vaccine until April 4th. Thanks for the information on MB update on the 4wd issue, we will check that out. We were very surprised we got a site too, we’ve tried for several years. That’s great you get to spend time with your family and get to stay in Key West. Thanks for the comment.
we’ve been down there several years ago but not camping. Now that we have a camper we think maybe a good idea. Hope to see ya out there. From Ricard and Becky.
Lynn, you got sunkissed by the Florida sun! Welcome to our world. For about 10 years we were in Key West in July! Best hotel rates for conferences but it can be brutally hot. We always managed to ride bikes, and tour the island. We love the keys so much. Glad you got into Pennekamp. I also like the advice you guys gave at the end. We travel to explore, to find the bad and the good! The good we do again! We wanted to jump in the van and head to Key West, but we have other things we have to do, like Anastasia in a few weeks. Love the video! David and Juanita!!!!
The good definitely outweighs the bad in the keys. We love it too and will always go back when we have the chance. Have fun at Anastasia, I’m a little jealous. Thanks so much for watching.
Love love love 🥰🥰🥰🥰. If is quiet and you make the Best it’s worth it!!! Love Maggie love her adventures 🥰🥰🥰. Love your adventures. It’s on my planning trips for next year 🥰
Another really good, helpful video from Lynne and Owen (and Maggie)! What I appreciate most is your honesty and real assessments of the places you go. If you let unrealistic expectations guide you, disappointment is bound to sneak into your experience. Going with basic knowledge is helpful, let the experience unfold as it must and be ok with adjusting to what is. If y’all had a motto, that’d be it! This was actually one of your more relaxing videos and your description of the heat actually had me sweating. LOL When Owen was mentioning how hot it was, I actually shouted at the screen to take off that long sleeve shirt! It made me too warm just looking at it. LOL You guys are the best! Thanks for reminding your followers to proceed with caution as we see glimmers of hope regarding Covid. Numbers ARE rising again in some places so we are not out of the woods yet. Everyone needs to look at their personal circumstances to determine the risks they’re willing to take. Glad to see you having fun but using common sense and caution to guide your activities. My husband and I, along with my niece and her husband have a house/cabin rented in Blue Ridge, Ga. in April. We’ll be careful on our journey and make minimal stops to get there. Being at the cabin, hanging out and just relaxing is our goal. We’ve all had our Covid shots and we mostly stay home. So we are ready for some family time and fun! Thanks for your wise words of how to be safe but still live your best life!
Thank you so much for your wonderful comment. I loved how you describe our motto, that is exactly how we feel about traveling. Owen wears the long sleeve fishing shirts a lot to keep the sun off him, they are actually pretty cool, that’s what he says anyway. We should be eligible to get our vaccine the first of April, but I’m sure we will still be careful. I hope you have a great trip with your family.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle snorckling was fun there too, but I really preferred the boat. Not the best at swimming, so wasn’t as relaxing as the boat. But just your videoing of driving into the park brought back great memories. And isn’t that what camping does.
I so enjoy watching your beautiful adventures..such harmony and love...I love that you take Maggie along, I'm a dog person, just got a new buddy, and I look forward to adventure myself...you both are inspiring...God bless you three!
What fun! We have not yet been to the Keys yet. We are getting our van next January, so maybe we will go in February next year. Looks great. We don't have kayaks or bikes yet either. Lots on my wish list! At least we have the Blackstone Griddle. Did you two get vaccinated before you left? We had them before we went to FL in February. We were still careful, doing our own cooking and wearing masks.
We are not eligible to get the vaccine until April 4th, we will get it as soon as we can. The keys would be a first great trip in your new van. Thanks for watching and keeping in touch.
I love your description of Florida heat "Two rats in a wool sock". It's going to be in the low nineties today in Jax. Fl. Thank you for letting us ride along! Safe travels and happy tails.
Food For Thought while napping with your eyes open is to review your friends at "From She To Me' where she designed a cover on the outside of the windshield. Outside blocks the heat before it enters the cab..Love the relaxing share you experienced in the keys. Thank you.
We have seen Deb’s outside cover and it looks great, we may have to look into that. Thanks for the suggestion, we love “From She to Me”, they are very inspiring.
Yes sir , and yes ma’am, this was so interesting and was so beautiful to watch this video. I have learn so much from the both of you which is priceless. Love the scenery, notice the clear water the fantastic greens around you. Those tans that you two have makes me smile that the warmth is coming here so I can enjoy this also . Thank you for making the time to make this video and sharing it with me. Happy tails Maggie. BS & BK
We appreciate you following along. It is enchanting and we are very greatful that we are able to do what we do, but sometimes things are not what you build them up to be. So, you have to set those expectations and make the best of where you are.
Good morning sweet friends! Beautiful views and great commentary. I love that Maggie always gets to enjoy the journey, too! Have a great week! Love from SC, Jane❤️🙏🏻
In January 21 we got out to Key west. It was Beauiful. Weather was a tab bit chilly. We stayed at Hotel not a campsite but did spend time at the beach beautiful area we can’t wait to go back. Looking forward to checking out all the keys when the time is right.
We have learned in the many years we’ve traveled to Florida in the winter you can experience all kinds of weather and temperatures. You just have to prepared for them all. Thanks for watching and taking the time to share your comment.
At my age I'm also wary of the virus. News is, the age for vaccination will be 16 and above come April 15. I can hang in there a little while longer. Hand sanitizer, a mask, and six feet of distance are all my friends.Stay safe. Love your channel.
We should be available for the vaccination after April 7th here in NC, we will feel a lot better about traveling when we get it. Thanks for watching and sharing your comment.
We didn’t get to enjoy the reef this time, I guess we will have to go back. We did love all the kayaking trails and the beautiful clear water. Thanks for your input.
Despite the covid, and the heat, there’s always the adventure of exploring new places to keep things interesting. Maggie, you are the apple in everyone’s eyes and make us happy, happy tails. 😅😩 that heat, The guy who invented air conditioning must of lived in the Deep South, Bless him LOL 😅 so here’s to working air conditioners for a good nites sleep and safe travels. Nice video 👍👍
You are so right... new places = adventure, which is what we are looking for. We are also very thankful for the person who invented the AC. Thanks so much for your comment.
Watching your travels has really helped us get the courage to do so too during this covid time. We have been planning for this road trip a very long time, years really and now we're making happen. So enjoy all of your videos. You guys do just a great great job. Always so positive and uplifting. Thank you
Owen...... Think about getting a small to mid size oscillating fan (electric or battery) for outside when it's hot. Personally, I would love to go to the Keys, but the parks are just hard to get into during the fall and winter months unless I book two years in advance. Till next time.....Be Safe and Be Well.
We do have fans that we should have used. We use them in our room a lot to move the air around and in the van if you are boondocking, I guess we just didn’t think about it. That’s a great idea.
You are correct I am heading back to Maine this week its getting to hot here. Ill be back next year time for me to go explore Maine some more. My uncle used to live down in the Keys so I have been there different times of the year and it has become to crowded now cant say I won't be back but someday maybe. Love the video you 2 are great . Go get the van fixed
Great job!! Will be retiring soon and want to spend winter in the Keys or at least two months. Thinking of work camping to make that happen. Any ideas of best place to try to get on as work camping ??
Sounds like a great plan. Florida State Parks has a work-camping application and you can select that region... but... it’s a hard one to get a spot for the first job placement... or so we hear. Pennekamp would be a good one. The work-campers have their own section of the campground there. But with any of them we’ve visited you could not go wrong.
We did not swim, the swimming area was pretty crowded but we did walk around in the water a lot to cool off. I’m not sure about getting back in the kayaks if we were to swim while kayaking.
We love you guys. Taking our class B to the Keys next week. I notice the two of you wear the spiral cords on wrists and ankles to deter bugs. They must be working for you! Do you recommend one or other no seeums deterrent?
I think you said you had a small travel trailer at one time. Maybe you could compare and contrast that experience to the van. How would it affect your travel style to use a small
Both have pros and cons. We traveled all over with a 19-foot retro camper. Once you’re set up it’s a great little experience with more living room than we now have in the van. But towing, backing and driving experience is more stressful. You could equip one with solar and lithium but the just get in and go part of the Revel wins out for us. It is a lifestyle kind of difference. Same experience whether you’re plugged in or not. So easy to drive and park that it’s our daily driver. And, we could pull a small trailer behind if we wanted more room. Disadvantage comes in when you get all set up at a site and want to run to town or explore. Being able to just hop in a car and leave the camper at the site is a little easier than disconnecting and going. But just a little. Hope this helps.
Have you been able to get your Covid vaccine? I've received both of mine and feel a little better about going out but to be honest, I like to eat outside because I can have my dog with me. I always love Owen's sayings, "two rats in a wool sock" cracks me up. Love you guys. Stay healthy and safe travels.
I love the chairs and yes I would recommend them. They are great for back support. The only bad thing it sometimes they are hard to pull up and get the setup, we may need to use a little wd40. They pack up small and are great to carry to beach. We do have them in our Amazon page if you interested here’s the link www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle.
I’m considering a new kayak and have a couple questions about your hurricanes. I have a Necky Touring kayak and have found it harder and harder to get in/out. A wee bit stiff these days with my replacement parts. Love my kayak though. We live in New England and use to paddle a lot of coastal locations which you need a cockpit but not paddling last few years has been a real loss for me. Tipping over and crawling out just is a drag. Lola. Are the sit on tops easier? AndI bet lighter too.Can you compare to a regular cockpit? Thanks. Give Maggie a treat from me.
We believe they’re easier... at least they are for us. It’s the only safe way to go in rough waves. They weigh just a little over 30 lbs so yes they are very, very lightweight. There’s no skirt to worry about and if they tip they still float... just turn the over, gather your crap that fell out and do the self-rescue maneuver... which is hard at our age so if shore is close we push them there and get dry and go back. But really that’s what we “would” do... we’ve never tipped one yet. A cockpit kayak may be a little easier to paddle because you’re closer to the waterline. But visibility and openness of the sit-on-top outweighs that for us. Maybe rent one and check it out? Many dealers have demo days too and if you can find one of those it would be the perfect way to make sure it works for you. Hope this helps.
VAN TREKKING lifestyle I will rent one when our waters clear40 degrees! I also have dog Maggie’s size and he’d be able to go with me.Thank you .Enjoy your adventures.
Hey guys! Love your extremely informative videos. Have a quick newbie question. We own a ‘21 Travato KL. Just coming out of winterizing and ready to install a new Culligan under sink water filter. Bought a 3-pack and when I opened it, a bunch of carbon poured out. Is that normal? I’m thinking the carbon is to filter the water. KInda confused. Ideas??
You're about to have a blast. Yes it is common for carbon to come out. It is in most of the filters. So just make sure you run water through it for a few minutes the first few times you use it and you should be fine. Have fun!!!! KL is AWESOME.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Many thanks, Owen!!! We’re gonna swing through Forest City late July, then on out through the Badlands on the way to a Red Rocks concert in CO, and probably a Niagara Falls to South Carolina, to Nashville swing in September. We have a 90# German Shepherd that loves to travel as much as Maggie!!!!!
Having been FL born and settled in central PA (army brat), I've visited FL quite a few times and decided it's a nice place to visit, but not a good place to live.
Owen and Lynn ( an Debbie and John) have really inspired us. Judy and I just put a down payment on a new Coachmen Beyond, AWD with lithium package. Not sure when it will be ready, but we sure are excited. Previously we owned an Airstream Interstate and then an LTV Unity. We thought we were hanging up our RV keys, but here we go again!
Congratulations on your new rig it sounds awesome. We love Debbie and John... they inspire us also. Glad you didn’t hang up your keys there’s so much to see out there. We appreciate you sharing your comment.
You two would have really enjoyed snorkeling the reef, it's the sole reason we visit that park.
We will definitely go back and do some snorkeling. Thanks for the comment.
Fun Fact - Daughter had Univ Miami Grad party at Pennekamp State Park in 2005. It was a blast. Love the Keys!
That sounds like a great Grad party. Thanks for sharing.
Your videos are part of my Sunday morning routine. Cup of coffee watch your video, they always made me smile. Keep up the good work and be safe.
Thank you for spending part of your Sunday morning with us, we appreciate you following along.
What great music and videography in this video! I love your reviews and you both have such great attitudes...makes it so much fun to watch. Thanks so much!
Thank you so much for your kind comment. We appreciate you watching.
Always look forward to seeing what you are up to every week. Love your videos.
Thank you, we appreciate you watching.
Thanks for the straightforward reporting - very very helpful - and it keeps your credibility high! Great photography, too.
We appreciate your comment. We try to be positive and look on the bright side of things but we also want to be realistic, glad to hear it was beneficial.
Hello. I am a new viewer. Glad I found you. I really like your videos. They are very fun. Yet you also show and let us know the real view. We have the same interests as you 2 and hope to be following in your foot steps in the future. Keep up the great work. And continue to make your best life.
We are so glad you found us. Thanks so much for sharing your comment, it means a lot.
wise choices on doing what your comfortable with! great vibe to your videos
We are all different in what we are comfortable with, hopefully the end is in site. Thanks for watching.
Next time, try Whale Harbor Seafood Restaurant in Islamorada. It’s all you can eat seafood buffet.
Thanks for the suggestion, we will put that on our list for next time.
A windshield cover that goes on the outside works wonders! They also cover the driver and passenger windows.
We may need to look into those, especially when we are traveling in warmer weather.
Love the keys, especially John C Pennekamp! Got my kayak instructor certification there! Awesome place! 🤙
What a wonderful place to get your certification. It’s a kayaking dream.
Finally took some time to catch up on some videos... and of course, yours is the first one I look at! Great journeys as always... we've put down a deposit on our RV, so maybe next year we'll be seeing you along the way!
Happy travels!
Congratulations on your RV!!! What did you decide on? We would love to see you both on the road.
Hahahahaha “what are you doin the rest of the day?” Answer “we’re doin it.” I am going to borrow that one from you Owen if you don’t mind. That is amazing. I love listening to you guys just sit a talk. I’m glad no one farted and knocked the blanket down. You gotta make a book of sayings. Stay safe and funny my friends. ❤️🇨🇦❤️ Cheers!!!
My wife and I said that today. He has some many one liners, they need to be published!!! David and Juanita ( grey goose adventures)
@@greygooseadventures5212 Cheers!!!
Owen does have a lot of one liners... I use to tell him he needed to write down all the saying that his grandfather use to say, but now he has built quite the list of his own. You are welcome to borrow any of them you like. Thanks so much for watching and following along.
I just wanted to let you know that I very much enjoy watching your videos
Thank you so much we appreciate you letting us know.
We live here in Fort Myer we have not gone camping at the Florida keys yet it’s on the list 👍🏻 be safe 🐶 hugs for Maggie
Camping in the Keys are definitely worth checking out, I’ve heard all the SP’s are great.
Catching up! It's on our bucket list!
It’s a good place to have on your bucket list for sure.
We went snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in 2005. It was very interesting going with a tour group, but like you, we would not go during a pandemic. We loved paddling among the mangroves, too! It is so fun to watch Maggie enjoy the water! Have you ever considered a fold-up kayak? We have kayaks similar to yours, but our tow truck now has a cover making it almost impossible to place the kayaks on the top of the truck. Thank you for sharing!
Yes, we have considered fold-up and inflatable kayaks, we went for the the hard ones because of the convenience, however pulling the trailer is not always convenient so we may have to rethink things. We have friends that have a Oru’s and love them.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thank you Lynn and Sparky! (loved the Clark W. Griswald reverence)
Nice video of you all in your kayaks even with Maggie. That’s cute that she goes with you and wears a life jacket. It’s good they have those for dogs. Sad you finally go out and eat and didn’t find the food you liked. Sorry there were a lot of people there but it was spring break probably. I heard a lot of people were down there on the news. Glad you were there while it was nice instead of raining. I noticed at the end you both were wearing grey. You both matched that day of the video. Looking forward too seeing your next adventure. See you soon!
We do have to be careful when taking Maggie on the kayaks, but we always love taking her, she loves the water. You are probably right about spring break. We were very blessed with great weather. Thanks so much for your comment.
I'm sure your space is very limited. But, I always keep one of those 12" Vortex fans around when there's a lot of sun and no breeze. Those buggers move some air. Makes a huge difference!
We have a couple of small fan, we definitely should have gotten them out. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for including Nancy and I into your Key Largo video! It was fun meeting you guys on our way out. Your video reminded us of our trip there. On the Tamarind Trail we ran into some man eating spiders that creeped me out. Until we meet again, safe travels. Nancy and Will.
It was great to meet you. I’m glad I didn’t know about the man eating spiders, I’m not sure I would have walked the trail every day we were there. Stay safe. Thanks for watching.
After living in Florida for 13 years, I finally made it to the Keys.
The end of June yes it was hot, buggy, and crowded.
We were able to stay in a friends driveway in Big Pine Key, spent time with the key deer and did a lot of experimenting with different bug sprays.
Did venture to Key West, what a tourist trap that is, but we did the tourist things, and enjoyed it.
The good definitely outweighs the bad in the keys. Thanks for sharing.
Go to Bahia Honda . If you can get a site. If not just go for the day. While you’re down there. It’s one of the nicest places in the keys.
We would love to go to Bahia Honda... it’s very hard to get into. it’s one of those places you need to book way in advance. That is the first places we check for availability.
Thanks for another great video.
You are so welcome and thank you for watching.
Hi Thanks for sharing! We love the Keys. We have never stayed at John Pennekamp. We have stayed at Curry Hammock State Park which we truly enjoyed. This year we are splurging and heading to Sunshine Key. Little worried about the large number of camp sites. Would love to know a little bit about your kayaks. Thank you for sharing. Always love your videos. Can't wait to see you in your next video. Have fun.
Our kayaks are Hurricane Skimmer 106 sit on top, they weigh around 39 pounds. They are light weight and they track very well, we love them. We also have a bigger Hurricane that we’ve had for many years, it was a big reason we went with the smaller version. We’ve tried several years to get into a SP in the the keys, so we felt pretty lucky we landed John Pennekamp. Have fun at Sunshine Key, I bet it will be great.
Come down there first and work your way north next time. It’s lovely in January/February . Pity the poor Boy Scouts that go down in the summer and stay in tents. I live in Florida and everyone that visits thinks the keys is the place to go for beaches. There is very little beach access in the keys. We always went down to Islamorado to go diving and fishing off our little whaler. The water is the most beautiful blue.
We noticed the same about the beach access. We may try Jan/Feb next time, that does make sense. LOVE, Love, Love the water. Thanks for sharing.
Another great video, safe travels!
Thank you, we appreciate you watching.
Thank you for a reality check
You are welcome. I just wanted to say the good definitely outweighs the bad. Thanks for watching.
I want to be Maggie when I grow up! Hope you two have a Happy Easter with your family!
That’s too funny. Maggie deserves all the happiness we can give her... because she gives us so much in return.
This is great! I love to see the Keys, and you guys do all the things I love, too. I've just booked a site at Myakka River SP for early October. It's a 1200 mile road trip for me! What you said in the very beginning about "the sunset drive" is an important point. You've taught us that it's all about the journey; and considering the sun's position on your route is critical. Adjusting when you drive so you're not heading directly into the sun, or as you did, to take it in and enjoy it, may make or break a travel day. Love & Prayers!
You are going to love Myakka River SP, and what a wonderful time to go. That is a very long drive I hope you are going to stay for a while. Thanks so much for sharing your comment, it is much appreciated.
Can't wait to go to the keys. Hopefully January will be the plan.
It’s a great place, I hope your plan works out. Thanks for watching.
Thank you Owen and Lynn, that was just beautiful. Loved the music as well. 👍
Thank you so much we appreciate you watching.
My parents took us to Bahia Honda when we are kids. There were 8 of us. We have carried on this tradition as adults and go to Bahia Honda every year. We have reservations in July. Totally love it so much!! My family bring their boats and we always make a trip to Key West. It's our paradise. :)
What a great tradition. We have heard so many good things about Bahia Honda, hopefully one day we will get to stay there. Enjoy your trip and your family.
That water was super clear, the ray was cool. Just wondering why you two haven’t got your shots yet? Y’all should be able to by now 🤷🏼♂️. I got mine for obvious reasons.
I think MB has an update for that 4wd issue. Maybe get that looked at when you get home.
Great looking campground that’s for sure, I’m surprised you got a site. I like the keys all the way to Key West. I will say the keys are great for diving and the weather 😍. I’ve found good Cuban food in the keys. Yes it’s always crowded. My parents rent a house for a month in KW in February and it’s great. It’s warm and sunny. Stay safe ✌🏼
We are not eligible to get the vaccine until April 4th. Thanks for the information on MB update on the 4wd issue, we will check that out. We were very surprised we got a site too, we’ve tried for several years. That’s great you get to spend time with your family and get to stay in Key West. Thanks for the comment.
I hope to get to go sometime. Thanks for taking me on your journey.
It should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list, we appreciate you watching.
The ice blanket’s that go over your windshield on the out side work a hole lot better down here in Florida to block out the heat . You might try that
Thanks for the suggestion, we will have to look into that.
we’ve been down there several years ago but not camping. Now that we have a camper we think maybe a good idea. Hope to see ya out there. From Ricard and Becky.
It is a fun place to camp, the state parks are hard to get into so book well in advance if you can. Maybe we’ll see you there.
Thanks for the keys!
You are welcome and thank you for watching.
Looks like fun to me. That’s the truth what you say at the end.
It was fun and all in all we really enjoyed ourselves.
Lynn, you got sunkissed by the Florida sun! Welcome to our world. For about 10 years we were in Key West in July! Best hotel rates for conferences but it can be brutally hot. We always managed to ride bikes, and tour the island. We love the keys so much. Glad you got into Pennekamp. I also like the advice you guys gave at the end. We travel to explore, to find the bad and the good! The good we do again! We wanted to jump in the van and head to Key West, but we have other things we have to do, like Anastasia in a few weeks. Love the video!
David and Juanita!!!!
The good definitely outweighs the bad in the keys. We love it too and will always go back when we have the chance. Have fun at Anastasia, I’m a little jealous. Thanks so much for watching.
Love love love 🥰🥰🥰🥰. If is quiet and you make the Best it’s worth it!!! Love Maggie love her adventures 🥰🥰🥰. Love your adventures. It’s on my planning trips for next year 🥰
Thank you so much for your kind comment, it is much app
Another really good, helpful video from Lynne and Owen (and Maggie)! What I appreciate most is your honesty and real assessments of the places you go. If you let unrealistic expectations guide you, disappointment is bound to sneak into your experience. Going with basic knowledge is helpful, let the experience unfold as it must and be ok with adjusting to what is. If y’all had a motto, that’d be it! This was actually one of your more relaxing videos and your description of the heat actually had me sweating. LOL When Owen was mentioning how hot it was, I actually shouted at the screen to take off that long sleeve shirt! It made me too warm just looking at it. LOL
You guys are the best! Thanks for reminding your followers to proceed with caution as we see glimmers of hope regarding Covid. Numbers ARE rising again in some places so we are not out of the woods yet. Everyone needs to look at their personal circumstances to determine the risks they’re willing to take. Glad to see you having fun but using common sense and caution to guide your activities. My husband and I, along with my niece and her husband have a house/cabin rented in Blue Ridge, Ga. in April. We’ll be careful on our journey and make minimal stops to get there. Being at the cabin, hanging out and just relaxing is our goal. We’ve all had our Covid shots and we mostly stay home. So we are ready for some family time and fun! Thanks for your wise words of how to be safe but still live your best life!
Thank you so much for your wonderful comment. I loved how you describe our motto, that is exactly how we feel about traveling. Owen wears the long sleeve fishing shirts a lot to keep the sun off him, they are actually pretty cool, that’s what he says anyway. We should be eligible to get our vaccine the first of April, but I’m sure we will still be careful. I hope you have a great trip with your family.
Took glass bottom boat tour of coral reef there quite a few years ago. But agree...a great park.
I bet the glass bottom boat was a great way to see the coral reef. I guess we need to go back so we can experience that. Thanks for sharing.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle snorckling was fun there too, but I really preferred the boat. Not the best at swimming, so wasn’t as relaxing as the boat. But just your videoing of driving into the park brought back great memories. And isn’t that what camping does.
Love the keys. At least you are not in a tent
Very true, we love the keys too.
Awesome video!
Thank you, we appreciate your comment.
Great video
Thank you, we appreciate you watching.
We're in Asheboro to see the Zoo, supposed to be freezing while we are at Ashville.
There seems to be a cold front coming through. Have fun at the zoo, you will love Asheville.
Welcome to Key Largo - hope you enjoyed your visit! Try Flamingo Campground in Everglades National Park.👍😎
We loved Key Largo and we did enjoy our visit. We will try Flamingo Campground next time. Thanks for watching.
I so enjoy watching your beautiful adventures..such harmony and love...I love that you take Maggie along, I'm a dog person, just got a new buddy, and I look forward to adventure myself...you both are inspiring...God bless you three!
Thank you so much for kind comment, it is much appreciated. Good luck with your new buddy and we hope you have many happy adventures together.
Nice tour as usual. Thanks and have a nice week.
Thank you, we appreciate you watching.
What fun! We have not yet been to the Keys yet. We are getting our van next January, so maybe we will go in February next year. Looks great. We don't have kayaks or bikes yet either. Lots on my wish list! At least we have the Blackstone Griddle. Did you two get vaccinated before you left? We had them before we went to FL in February. We were still careful, doing our own cooking and wearing masks.
We are not eligible to get the vaccine until April 4th, we will get it as soon as we can. The keys would be a first great trip in your new van. Thanks for watching and keeping in touch.
Hope you had a great time in the keys - I live in Key West - usually due Bahia Honda State Park.
We would love to do Bahia Honda, maybe one to these days. We didn’t make it all the way to Key West this year but you live in a beautiful place.
I love your description of Florida heat "Two rats in a wool sock". It's going to be in the low nineties today in Jax. Fl. Thank you for letting us ride along! Safe travels and happy tails.
I’m not really sure where they saying comes from... probably Owen’s Poppa. Sounds like it’s getting warm in Jax. Stay cool and thanks for watching.
Food For Thought while napping with your eyes open is to review your friends at "From She To Me' where she designed a cover on the outside of the windshield. Outside blocks the heat before it enters the cab..Love the relaxing share you experienced in the keys.
Thank you.
We have seen Deb’s outside cover and it looks great, we may have to look into that. Thanks for the suggestion, we love “From She to Me”, they are very inspiring.
nice!
Thank you!
LOL. You summed up why we don’t do Florida: buggy, hot, windy. But seriously, you need one of my windshield covers.
There’s always good and bad, but for us the good outweighs the bad. Send us a link to your windshield cover and we’ll take a look.
Yes sir , and yes ma’am, this was so interesting and was so beautiful to watch this video. I have learn so much from the both of you which is priceless. Love the scenery, notice the clear water the fantastic greens around you. Those tans that you two have makes me smile that the warmth is coming here so I can enjoy this also . Thank you for making the time to make this video and sharing it with me. Happy tails Maggie. BS & BK
Thank you so much for your kind comment. We both really appreciate your inspiring words. So glad to hear you enjoyed the video.
Great video as always! Looks like an enchanted lifestyle. Thanks for the advice on traveling. Thanks for taking us along.
We appreciate you following along. It is enchanting and we are very greatful that we are able to do what we do, but sometimes things are not what you build them up to be. So, you have to set those expectations and make the best of where you are.
Good morning sweet friends! Beautiful views and great commentary. I love that Maggie always gets to enjoy the journey, too! Have a great week! Love from SC, Jane❤️🙏🏻
Thanks so much for your weekly comment, it is appreciated. See you Sunday.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle ❤️I'll be here. I hope y'all have a great Easter wherever you are! Can't wait to see!
In January 21 we got out to Key west. It was Beauiful. Weather was a tab bit chilly. We stayed at Hotel not a campsite but did spend time at the beach beautiful area we can’t wait to go back. Looking forward to checking out all the keys when the time is right.
We have learned in the many years we’ve traveled to Florida in the winter you can experience all kinds of weather and temperatures. You just have to prepared for them all. Thanks for watching and taking the time to share your comment.
At my age I'm also wary of the virus. News is, the age for vaccination will be 16 and above come April 15. I can hang in there a little while longer. Hand sanitizer, a mask, and six feet of distance are all my friends.Stay safe. Love your channel.
We should be available for the vaccination after April 7th here in NC, we will feel a lot better about traveling when we get it. Thanks for watching and sharing your comment.
Livin the dream. Cant wait to be doing the same in 15 years or so when we retire.
I agree we are living our dream and we both feel extremely lucky. Enjoy life now and as my mom use to say don’t wish your life away.
That park is all about getting out to the reef, but there is also excellent snorkeling under that bridge and back towards the beach.
We didn’t get to enjoy the reef this time, I guess we will have to go back. We did love all the kayaking trails and the beautiful clear water. Thanks for your input.
Despite the covid, and the heat, there’s always the adventure of exploring new places to keep things interesting. Maggie, you are the apple in everyone’s eyes and make us happy, happy tails. 😅😩 that heat, The guy who invented air conditioning must of lived in the Deep South, Bless him LOL 😅 so here’s to working air conditioners for a good nites sleep and safe travels. Nice video 👍👍
You are so right... new places = adventure, which is what we are looking for. We are also very thankful for the person who invented the AC. Thanks so much for your comment.
Haven't been, but intending to visit. I'd like to get a 'real' Key Lime pie someday!
We love Key Lime pie and have sampled a lot in the past while traveling in the keys. Thanks for watching.
Nice
Thank you.
Stayed there on our way to Key West.
It is a good place to stay on the way to the keys.
Glad you being safe and still having fun!!! ♥️ Maggie
It is possible to to do both, but we are looking forward to when things get back to normal. Thanks so much for watching.
Will be there may 1st!
Have a great trip.
Watching your travels has really helped us get the courage to do so too during this covid time. We have been planning for this road trip a very long time, years really and now we're making happen. So enjoy all of your videos. You guys do just a great great job. Always so positive and uplifting. Thank you
Great video Thanks
Thank you we appreciate you watching.
Glad you guys had a good time and Maggie she had a good time boat riding. I was down there last year had a so so time planning on going back soon.
We do like to include Maggie when we can, she did love going. Thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment.
Planning a trip to Florida next year in febuary hope to get a reservation at one of the parks in the keys looks awsome love th o kayack
I’ve heard great things about all the SP’s in the keys, but they are hard to get into. It is a great place for kayaks.
Yes, hot, crowded but always expected. Have been when lesser crowds too
No matter how hot or crowded it is it is always worth the trip. We always have a great time.
September is the “off-season” in the keys. You might find less crowds at that time. It will still be hot though.
We might have to try September. The good definitely outweighs the bad. We do love the keys.
Owen...... Think about getting a small to mid size oscillating fan (electric or battery) for outside when it's hot. Personally, I would love to go to the Keys, but the parks are just hard to get into during the fall and winter months unless I book two years in advance. Till next time.....Be Safe and Be Well.
We do have fans that we should have used. We use them in our room a lot to move the air around and in the van if you are boondocking, I guess we just didn’t think about it. That’s a great idea.
You are correct I am heading back to Maine this week its getting to hot here. Ill be back next year time for me to go explore Maine some more. My uncle used to live down in the Keys so I have been there different times of the year and it has become to crowded now cant say I won't be back but someday maybe. Love the video you 2 are great . Go get the van fixed
Enjoy your trip to Maine it’s a beautiful place to be in the Summer and Florida is great for the winter, sounds like you have it figured out.
Great job!! Will be retiring soon and want to spend winter in the Keys or at least two months. Thinking of work camping to make that happen. Any ideas of best place to try to get on as work camping ??
Sounds like a great plan. Florida State Parks has a work-camping application and you can select that region... but... it’s a hard one to get a spot for the first job placement... or so we hear. Pennekamp would be a good one. The work-campers have their own section of the campground there. But with any of them we’ve visited you could not go wrong.
You used the words gators and relaxing in the same sentence... oxymoron? : ) lol. thanks for the video
You might we right it is hard to relax when you have to be aware of gators. Thanks for watching.
Another great video! Do you ever swim in the water to cool off? Are there just to mant gators to chance it ?
We did not swim, the swimming area was pretty crowded but we did walk around in the water a lot to cool off. I’m not sure about getting back in the kayaks if we were to swim while kayaking.
We love you guys. Taking our class B to the Keys next week. I notice the two of you wear the spiral cords on wrists and ankles to deter bugs. They must be working for you! Do you recommend one or other no seeums deterrent?
What brand of the bracelets❤️
The bracelets are just cheap Walmart bracelets. They do seem to help when they are fresh out of the package.
Who put up the new wallpaper in the galley and behind the driver?
Thanks, I thought maybe I was imagining a change.
I (Lynn) installed the wallpaper, it’s just peel and stick.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Looks awesome!!!
I think you said you had a small travel trailer at one time. Maybe you could compare and contrast that experience to the van. How would it affect your travel style to use a small
Both have pros and cons. We traveled all over with a 19-foot retro camper. Once you’re set up it’s a great little experience with more living room than we now have in the van. But towing, backing and driving experience is more stressful. You could equip one with solar and lithium but the just get in and go part of the Revel wins out for us. It is a lifestyle kind of difference. Same experience whether you’re plugged in or not. So easy to drive and park that it’s our daily driver. And, we could pull a small trailer behind if we wanted more room. Disadvantage comes in when you get all set up at a site and want to run to town or explore. Being able to just hop in a car and leave the camper at the site is a little easier than disconnecting and going. But just a little. Hope this helps.
Also, enjoyed our music
Thanks.
Have you been able to get your Covid vaccine? I've received both of mine and feel a little better about going out but to be honest, I like to eat outside because I can have my dog with me. I always love Owen's sayings, "two rats in a wool sock" cracks me up. Love you guys. Stay healthy and safe travels.
We have not had our vaccine yet, we should be eligible on April 4th. We would rather eat outside too, because of Maggie. Thanks so much for watching.
How comfortable are those pico chairs do you recommend them thanks
I love the chairs and yes I would recommend them. They are great for back support. The only bad thing it sometimes they are hard to pull up and get the setup, we may need to use a little wd40. They pack up small and are great to carry to beach. We do have them in our Amazon page if you interested here’s the link www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle.
I’m considering a new kayak and have a couple questions about your hurricanes. I have a Necky Touring kayak and have found it harder and harder to get in/out. A wee bit stiff these days with my replacement parts. Love my kayak though. We live in New England and use to paddle a lot of coastal locations which you need a cockpit but not paddling last few years has been a real loss for me. Tipping over and crawling out just is a drag. Lola. Are the sit on tops easier? AndI bet lighter too.Can you compare to a regular cockpit? Thanks. Give Maggie a treat from me.
We believe they’re easier... at least they are for us. It’s the only safe way to go in rough waves. They weigh just a little over 30 lbs so yes they are very, very lightweight. There’s no skirt to worry about and if they tip they still float... just turn the over, gather your crap that fell out and do the self-rescue maneuver... which is hard at our age so if shore is close we push them there and get dry and go back. But really that’s what we “would” do... we’ve never tipped one yet. A cockpit kayak may be a little easier to paddle because you’re closer to the waterline. But visibility and openness of the sit-on-top outweighs that for us. Maybe rent one and check it out? Many dealers have demo days too and if you can find one of those it would be the perfect way to make sure it works for you. Hope this helps.
VAN TREKKING lifestyle I will rent one when our waters clear40 degrees! I also have dog Maggie’s size and he’d be able to go with me.Thank you .Enjoy your adventures.
Hey guys! Love your extremely informative videos. Have a quick newbie question. We own a ‘21 Travato KL. Just coming out of winterizing and ready to install a new Culligan under sink water filter. Bought a 3-pack and when I opened it, a bunch of carbon poured out. Is that normal? I’m thinking the carbon is to filter the water. KInda confused. Ideas??
You're about to have a blast. Yes it is common for carbon to come out. It is in most of the filters. So just make sure you run water through it for a few minutes the first few times you use it and you should be fine. Have fun!!!! KL is AWESOME.
@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Many thanks, Owen!!! We’re gonna swing through Forest City late July, then on out through the Badlands on the way to a Red Rocks concert in CO, and probably a Niagara Falls to South Carolina, to Nashville swing in September. We have a 90# German Shepherd that loves to travel as much as Maggie!!!!!
Planning a family vacation thru the Keys on June.
Have a great trip.
Having been FL born and settled in central PA (army brat), I've visited FL quite a few times and decided it's a nice place to visit, but not a good place to live.
We love Florida in the winter, I’m not sure we would enjoy it as much in the summer. Thanks for the comment.
Will
To worry less about Covid, you both should get your vaccines. That’s how you end a pandemic and get things back to normal.
We’re home to get our shots. April 7th is when it opens up for our age group in NC. Can’t wait.
Most of the country is opening up to people 50 and older for the vaccine, you two now qualify.
We qualify April 7th in NC. We are looking forward to things getting back to normal.