Practical Motorhome January 2009
Did you make it to the International Caravan and Motorhome show at the NEC in October? It took place against a backdrop of soaring inflation, growing unemployment and the threat of a full-blown recession.
And yet, against all this doom and gloom, I'm delighted to report that motorcaravanning is as popular as ever. Manufacturers and dealers across the board reported better-than-expected sales, and if you were one of those who picked up a tasty bargain on last-season's heavily reduced stock, good for you! What was also encouraging was the unprecedented number of first-timers visiting the show. With high-profile package holiday groups in much-publicised trouble, question marks over airlines, and fuel prices at the pump here in the UK finally easing up, it seems that an increasing number of people are coming around to the view that motorhomes bring the kind of holiday independence on which you can rely in times of uncertainty.
My thanks to everyone who came along to enjoy the clinics at our Practical Motorhome stand – it was great to meet you all! I was amazed at how many people I chatted to about full-timing: couples who'd recently sold their house and were planning their exit date.
I envy their bravery to live out their dreams, and wish them all the best.
Check out our show report on p80: find out what fellow motorcaravanners are doing to cut the cost of touring; what our reader team overheard at the show; which are the best new 'vans for your cash; and how £500 spent on gadgets and gear can make your 'van feel like a million dollars in time for the new season.
Elsewhere in this issue we've got some great destinations to escape the UK winter, with Auvergne (p6) and Sicily (p60). And some great ideas for short breaks with a seasonal flavour, from ghost-busting in Wiltshire (p44), to Christmas markets abroad (p23).
Plus, we've got plenty of advice for those who want to keep on touring, and those who want to lay up their 'van (p68). We also find out how and where to store your motorhome safely this winter (p92).
Have a great run-up to Christmas. Enjoy the issue!
Rob Ganley,
Editor
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