Our first trip was in 1976. This trip exposed us to the life and experiences of independent travel. Like many others at that time, we bought a van, added a bed, a few cupboards, a fridge and stove, and most importantly a portable toilet. We bought a few maps, a sketchy guidebook and left Toronto, Ontario in Aug, with plans to drive all the way to Panama. While we didn't reach Panama, we did travel as far south as Guatemala City with a month in Canada, a month in the US, two months in Mexico, and a few weeks in Guatemala, Aug - Dec 1976.
It was a fabulous trip. Certainly, everything wasn't perfect. We got lost (regularly), ate more refried beans than anyone should, ran out of gas, were interrupted by landslides and torrential rain; however, we were hooked! When we returned, the only thing we wanted to do was take another long trip.
But as life unfolded, other things took precedent. It wasn't until 1997 that we were able to get back "on the road." In the interim, we worked and moved. Our jobs were demanding, holidays were nonexistent, and our moves took us from Ontario, to Alberta, and finally to Victoria BC in 1991.
Over time, work demands have changed, holidays have increased, and we have been most fortunate to take several extended trips. Beginning in 2001, we have taken 3-5 months trips almost every year, and hope to continue this pattern for the foreseeable future!