It's been an education

CAMPING!

It's eight years since we have experienced campsites and how things have evolved!  Camping today isn't just about tents as it was when I was a nipper.  Today it also encompasses caravans, campervans and mobile homes - yes, there is a difference, believe me!

What a wide spectrum camping is.  At one end you have the humble back-packer, carrying everything with them and sleeping at the end of each day in the tiniest of tents.  These back-packers are not just youngsters either.  Not my idea of fun but, thankfully, it takes all sorts.

At the other end of the spectrum there is the large, fully-equiped motor home.  These are not campervans - they are far too sophisticated!  Bedrooms are permanent arrangements, fridges are the same size as in a household kitchen, there are freezers on board, self-seeking satellite dishes for the flat-screen TV/DVD systems, full size showers, microwaves etc, etc.  Wow!

And in between?

First, the cyclists - again carrying everything with them balancing paniers wherever a panier will balance!  Again, not my idea of fun but  it takes all sorts!  Mind you - some bikes are definitely more appealling than others!  Bed and Breakfast at the end of every day ....................?  Much better idea! 
**  see pictures above

Then there are the good old tents - the REAL campers!  Gone are the days when you have to freeze inside, however,  What about this idea?  A wigwam complete with central fire - excuse the poor picture - it was pouring with rain, blowing a gale and getting dark!  Good eh?

Next - the small campervans and caravans.  All sorts ...............

 

Then the larger caravans whose accommodation space is doubled by attaching an awning which come in assorted sizes, colours and fancy windows!

 

There's never a dull moment on a modern day campsite!  We've also noticed how it seems to be an accepted thing amongst the ladies that they go to the shower block in their dressing gowns and PJ's.  One took the biscuit though - she took the dog for a walk dressed like this ............... she didn't even remove her rollers!!

On the subject of showers - how things have improved!  Must be all to do with rules and regulations.  The funniest shower we have ever had was years ago on Harris.  Mrs MacDonald had put a notice on an old caravan which had seen much better days that there were showering facilities within but she insisted that only one at a time entered.  We thought this was to forbid any 'hanky-panky' but .... no!  It was because, despite the six layers of carpet on the floor of the caravan, the wieight of two people would cause the rotten floor to collapse!!  The worst experience was in Ireland.  The shower was in an old stone building that was barely still upright.  HUGE cobwebs were everywhere and, where daylight could be seen, tryphids encroached upon one's body trying to entrap an arm or leg!! Ugh!! 

Today, we have even been treated to underfloor heating on some sites!  No battling with coins and water temperature and spotlessly clean.  What a difference!

Anyway, as I write it's Thursday 23rd June (can't be sure this will publish when I want it to)  and where are we now?  We are in Wales!  Llangollen - and we have had moments of warm sunshine!

Why here?  Because The Richardsons (Ken & Sandra) are here in their boat and we wanted to see something of them this year.  It was looking less and less likely that we would be able to catch up with them on our own boat so this ensures that we see them.  It will be a really nice way to end our 'grand tour'.  Back to our boat for Saturday.