Mike Humphreys: American RVs far more affordable

AMERICAN real estate agent Mike Humphreys says he is horrified at the high cost of caravanning in Australia.

The former Englishman told Caravanning News that he and wife Alison were planning a six-month caravanning sojourn around Australia ... but were having second thoughts because recreational vehicles are so pricey Down Under.

"Caravans seem so expensive for what you get there," he said. "Here, for $15,000 you'll get a 25ft with a slide-out that's in perfect nick ... and a nice truck to tow it. But in Oz, $15,000 appears to get some old piece of junk. And then there's the car to tow it. Crikey!"

Mike, from Florida, claimed that enjoying the outdoor life in America was much more affordable.

"We are spoiled here," he said. "Recreational vehicles are cheap, gas is cheap, cars are cheap ... and so are RV parks."

As an aircraft mechanic in the Royal Navy, Mick has sailed the seven oceans and seen much of the world. During his 24 years' service he was awarded the Queens Jubilee, Long Service, Good Conduct and NATO Campaign medals.

In 1998 he and Alison left England for a new adventure in the USA, touring extensively for two years in their RV.

"We obtained our green cards and legal resident alien status and worked at an RV resort in Georgia in the summer and wintered at an RV resort in Hudson, Florida," he said.

The couple eventually settled in Florida where they have lived for 12 years.

"We were living the American dream, but the travel bug is biting and Alison wants to see her Ozzie relatives," he said. "We want to get back on the road again."

But Mike said he was now "torn" between staying at Australian B&Bs, hotels, motels, cabins or camping.

He and his wife are planning to travel Down Under in 2012.

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