July 2019 caravansa.co.za| 11
letterscaravans seem to be getting bigger, and
the small- or mid-sized caravan is now
being replaced by off-road trailers.
Camping has become much more
controlled and quieter, and if you look
around after 9pm most caravan lights are
off and the occupants fast asleep in bed.
It’s a big no-no for anybody making
the slightest bit of noise during the day or
night. I feel that noise has almost become
an obsession, as far as camping goes
(however, I do understand this in game
parks). Perhaps some campers should
chill a bit and be more understanding
to fellow campers. Remember, there is
only a piece of canvas or, at best, a thin
caravan wall between you and the next
camp, so it is expected that you will hear
your neighbours from time to time - you
are camping after all, not staying in a
private house.
Many caravan parks now also offer
special rates for semi-permanent
pensioners, and this has become very
popular at some parks.
I understand the economics of it, as
a park owner, as it’s filling sites. But
for the average ‘family’ holidaymaker
I'm not so sure if it’s a good thing - as I
think they could feel they are camping
in an old age home.
Perhaps management should
consider keeping a section of the park
for holidaymakers only, and relaxing
the rules a little so the kids can enjoy
themselves as well.
So, that’s my take on camping in
the past and in the present. Both have
their good and bad side, but, if I had
to make a choice, I think I would vote
for the past. It was just so much more
relaxed then.
I'm sure some will agree with me
and many will disagree, but that’s what
makes the world go round.
The picture enclosed is of my father,
mother, myself and my dog Shadow
camping in our 1958 Gypsy. I remember
the trip from Queenstown through the
former Transkei well, it was mostly on
dirt roads to the factory in Pinetown,
to take delivery of the Gypsy. A great
adventure for an 11-year-old.
Electricity of any sort was unheard of
in a caravan in those days, so no fridge
and the lighting was two gas lights,
which made the caravan so hot at night
it was unbearable. My Father made the
awning in the photo out of broom sticks
and calico, but, as you can see, it didn't
work so well.
Roy Kallaway
WRITETOUSANDWIN
This month, Alan & Juliana Espey
wins a Fiamma mosquito net. The
easy-to-install screen for your caravan
or motorhome door has overlapping
panels, is height adjustable, and comes
with Velcro to tie back when not in use.WANT TOShARE
your story?
hAVE SOMEThING
to say?
nothing beats sitting around
a campfire and telling caravanning
and camping stories.
But what if the entire country was your
campfire, and you could share your
adventures with thousands of other
outdoorlovers?This is whatCaravan&
OutdoorLifeistoourreaders.
our magazine and website brings
together the camping community,
and is a fantastic place to tell
others about your travels, ask for
advice, let your voice be heard, or
simply share some news.
So pull up a chair, sit down and
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