Summer 2023 in Newfoundland Canada has been a whirlwind this year as I roamed the island in search of the perfect oceanfront property to call home. In fact, it was an absolute need to slow down and enjoy some quality family time while enjoying an excursion in Eli the “old school” 1988 Ford Econoline Campwagon. After I purchased Vana the adventure van last Spring, my brother and sister-in-law quickly followed suit. My brother magically manifested Eli Econoline and had the vehicle delivered from Corner Brook (on the West Coast of NL).  In fact, the purchase of Eli was extremely comical and makes for another great story. 

When Eli pulled in the driveway and made his debut in Paradise NL, we couldn’t help but giggle. The original pink velvety interior was in mint condition. In fact, the original Campwagon brochure from the 1980’s was still in perfect condition tucked away in the cupboard. Last weekend the weather was amazing and there wasn’t a draft of wind on Conception Bay. Myself and Kayla (my sister-in-law) rapidly loaded up the camper van and set out on the road with no real destination in mind. I could not stop laughing at how tiny and hilarious she looked in the big huge pink velvet recliner driving this antique van through CBS NL with the tunes blasting whistling away! Ahhh memories! 

Our van life travels took us around the perimeter of Conception Bay, NL. We stopped for a quick look at Chapels Cove beach and debated boondocking there but opted to continue on and search for a more private location with less wind. Luckily, we stumbled upon a random narrow road leading down to the ocean and a large secluded beach offering amazing views across the bay. In fact, I could visualize “the bell” at the tip of Bell Island perfectly without my binoculars. We got the camper van parked and level, the fire pit set up and beach chairs out before heading off on a trail into the woods to explore the area. 

In conclusion, we enjoyed a very beautiful evening camping on the beach by the ocean while staring at the moon and stars. We enjoyed camping activities such as weiner roasting, washer toss, beach combing, hiking and exploring. However, the warm season in Newfoundland is short lived and I could definitely feel the chill of Fall creeping in at night. Instead of turning the furnace on inside the van we opted to rough it out and added on an extra blanket and toques instead. The following morning we enjoyed some relaxing quiet time on the beach listening to the sounds of the waves crash before departing. However, no girls trip to that neck of the woods would be complete without a stop for homemade ice cream at Rising Tide Convenience. Kayla and I “dies for” a buried treasure treat. Who can remember those with the prize inside? Haha. The perfect ending to a perfect adventure!