We bought a new caravan. We wanted to try something new (to us), and we wanted to go overseas. So in the school summer holidays we went for it and booked an 'epic trip' to Rudesheim, Germany.

Two adults, two 13 year od twin boys, one Bailey Orion 460-5 and one Kia Sorento towcar. All off to Dover ferry port to take a mid morning crossing to Calais. A brand spanking new caravan, but not our first trip having toured lots in the UK our older 6 birth van and before that our Conway folding camper. But it is our first time to Germany. The first leg of our tour took us to Mauberge in France, a simple site ( http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/planning-your-holiday/overseas-holiday-planning/types-of-sites/continental-caravanning-overseas-sites-in-europe/france/paris-the-north/camping-du-clair-de-lune/ ). 1 night stay, very nice site - simple, cheap and family friendly.

Woke up early for a long drive to our final destination, packed up and got on the road with 3 stops planned along the way. One in Belguim, one just into Germany and last stop at the campsite! TomTom and Euopean atlas made the journey easy with no nasty surprises like low bridges etc to spoil the drive. After many hours, 2 comfort stops in 'Aires' (why pay for motorway coffee when i can make my own in the Bailey?) and a ferry ride across the river (no mention of that in the directions but no big deal) later we arrive in Rudesheim ( http://www.caravanclub.co.uk/planning-your-holiday/overseas-holiday-planning/types-of-sites/continental-caravanning-overseas-sites-in-europe/germany/rudesheim-am-rhein/ ). Great site right on the river bank.

Cutting a long story short, we all had a lovely time, weather was amazing, food and wine in this region is fantastic! Satallite tv worked perfectly here so no worries! Caravan was brilliant too. Site was lovely. New loo blocks with waterfall, mood music and lighting, marble everywhere was the best i have ever seen.

Anyway, from Germany we travelled back to Mauberge for 2 nights, went to the local zoo (highly recommended - cheap and loads to see) then off to Calais and back to Blighty. 8 nights away, 3 different countries, 1 fantastic adventure.

If you want a real adventure and to experience different cultures do not worry about the 'scary' idea of going to Europe. Get on the phone to the Caravan Club, let the experts help you book a trip and go for it! We did and it was unbelievable. Next year we will do it again - but where to go next time......