An airstream adventure
Some people may think of a caravan holiday as being a bit of a safe option, an ideal-family friendly vacation if you’re not going too far from home and just looking for somewhere with a bit of space that the kids can run around in. But, like any sort of travel experience, a caravan holiday can be whatever you choose to make it.
One of my dream holidays is to tow an Airstream caravan across the United States — visiting some of the iconic destinations, the ultimate road-trip.
Why an Airstream caravan?
The company behind the Airstream began building caravans in the late 1920s, but it was in 1936 that the classic Airstream model was first introduced to the world. Made from silver aluminium and constructed in a streamlined shape to cut down wind-resistance. The Airstream has found a place within the world’s popular culture consciousness primarily because company founder Wally Byam began leading groups of Airstream owners (referred to as “Airstreamers”) on group holidays around the country — there is nothing quite as striking as witnesses a convoy of Airstream caravans on the move.
How to do it
Airstreams are still being manufactured at the company’s factory in Ohio, but for the casual Airstreamer there are also options to hire a caravan for your expedition. California was the original home of the Airstream and there does seem to be some sort of spiritual connection between an Airstream adventure and the wide open spaces and rugged landscapes of California and the South West of the United States.
The best time to visit this part of the world is between June and September when you can enjoy the beaches and the great outdoor living that California offers. But the desert climate of the south-west region means that there is sunshine all year round so you really can enjoy your Airstream caravan travels without too many restrictions.
Where to go
My dream Airstream caravan holiday is to begin from Los Angeles up the coast road to Carmel and Monterey and then cut across to Yosemite National Park.
Carmel is a small coastal artists’ colony perched on a beautiful white-sand beach. Once you’ve parked the airstream, everything is within walking distance as you wander around this village with its laid-back beach-side vibe.
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary features tide pools and kelp forests which create a home for a huge range of aquatic life including sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and humpback whales. You can go sea-kayaking to get a closer look.
Yosemite National Park covers a huge area of spectacular wilderness. The best place to start is with some hiking in Mariposa Grove and then aiming for the top of Sentinel Dome. If you fancy some serious climbing then there are climbing schools and guides available.
Caravan holidays don’t have to be too safe — with a bit of imagination and an appetite for adventure, your travels can take you wherever you want to them to go.