Motorhome Shenanigans

Six years ago we went on a family holiday in America where we hired a motorhome (RV in US speak) and toured round some of the most spectacular national parks: Death Valley; Yosemite; Yellowstone; Grand Canyon; Zion and others.  We really enjoyed it, it was one of our best ever holidays.  Ever since then, Linda and I have nursed the idea of owning one, buying motorhome magazines, attending the Motorhome & Caravan Show at the NEC, visiting dealers, gradually agreeing on what we liked and didn't like.  With retirement fast approaching, in March this year we placed an order for a Benimar Primero from Marquis.

Our key requirements for the van were: Max length, six metres; Seat and sleep four; Fixed bed that didn't require making up each evening.  We liked the people at Marquis, we liked the fact that Marquis has a large dealer network and we liked the competitive price that Marquis were able to offer us when comparing to another dealer for a similar van.

Just over two weeks ago we picked up our new van from Marquis Newbury. It did not go as smoothly as hoped!  Unfortunately, it transpired that my driving record (having driven a company car since my twenties and not personally had any insurance of my own - thus no personal 'no claims bonus'.  Plus six points on the license.  Plus both Linda and I had been involved in accidents recently - both third party at fault.) was not acceptable for the Marquis default "Free One Year Insurance" plan.  However, in terms of going the extra mile, I cannot fault the Marquis team, who spent most of the Friday afternoon trying to find an insurer who would cover me.  After a few hours at the dealership (we did take a 60 minute break for lunch at a local pub) everything was sorted out and I was able to drive our new toy home.

Looking all shiny and new on our drive

This weekend just gone, Linda & I took the van on it's first outing to a campsite in the New Forest.  A chance to test various features and check all was working as it should be.  We're very happy to report that all was working as it should be.  We were on a site in the forest with no facilities - but the van provides everything: fridge; hot water; toilet; proper shower; cooker.  The bed was comfortable and gave us a good nights sleep.  A definite upgrade from our last visit to the forest, when we were in a family tent.

Park, pull out awning, make a coffee, relax.

Getting out and about for a walk

British weather at it's best

The obligatory ponies picture

Lyndhurst in view, home of pubs, restaurants and tea shops

Yep, if this is retirement, bring it on.

So, having got back to sunny Berkshire, what have I learnt?  Well, we're both really happy with the new motorhome.  It was good to drive, I didn't have any issues handling it, the seats are comfortable and the higher viewpoint is a pleasant change from driving a car.  We're both pleased with the layout and size of the van and (based on 24 hours) it works really well for us as a couple when we're the only ones using it.  We did notice a couple of small niggles - a screw missing on one of the seats, effecting the armrest and a missing manual for the heating - but I've e-mailed Marquis and they're sorting it out for us.

Based on first impressions then, it's a good purchase and Marquis have been excellent.  Very early days, but no regrets so far.