WA-based solo traveller Joyce L, 74, made the switch form a caravan and neither her – not poodle companion, Amber – have looked back since!
So, you travel alone?
Not really. I travel with my red standard poodle called Amber Rose, who actually thinks she is part human. I would never consider travelling without Amber. Sure, I can’t take her into some national parks etc, but I am comfortable with that. The comfort I have from knowing that she will alert me if there is anything odd around is worth everything to me. She goes everywhere with me and knows the right behaviour on the ‘cafe strip’, and waiting outside dress shops!
What’s your rig?
I now travel in my nice new 21’ Fiat Ducati motorhome. It’s completely self contained, is the perfect size for me, and is easy to park and reverse … but it’s still comfortable for living. Over the years, I have had four caravans but now find hooking up and unhooking a bother.
Is a motorhome different?
Yes, there is a difference, and you do have to adapt. After being used to having a separate vehicle, I now plan my food shopping to be done before I ‘settle in’ for the night. I also carry a lightweight electric folder bike just in case I might need to ‘duck down the shop’. After raising my family and running my business, I now love having time to enjoy every day’s adventure.
Is ‘solo’ life good?
I am happy to be alone but I also enjoy meeting and chatting to like minded people. I enjoy my evenings, usually in the security of a van park with my music on or watching a video and cooking a healthy meal, something like fish and veggies, salad, or soup.
What wouldn’t you be without?
My coffee machine and the pressure cooker!
Where do you camp?
I sometimes stay out at free camps, providing there are other caravanners/motorhomers there, but I don’t feel comfortable ‘camping out’ alone. I feel there is a place for caravan parks and a place for free camping in this large and beautiful country. I think we all should have the option.
Hobbies of the road?
One of my favourite things to do is to fossick around old deserted towns and buildings, taking good photos, and always enjoying seeing people’s collections and antique shops. I also love going in ‘convoy’ with friends and visiting friends on the east coast.
Where next?
My next trip will be to Tamworth, New South Wales, for the country music festival. I plan to stay on the road at least a couple of months and ‘do’ some trips later in Western Australia. And, if there is any time left over, I would like to fit in an overseas trip.
