Caravan holidays

I haven't done many caravan holidays - but I have very fond memories of two.

The first time that I clearly remember is visiting Dunbar where my in-laws had rented a caravan just off the links golf course. If my memory isn't playing tricks on me, we stayed for a few days - and it was a quick walk from the caravan to the beach. The weather was glorious and the atmosphere lovely and friendly.

The second time I stayed in a caravan was when I met my second husband. A friend and I visited her parents' caravan near Strachur in Argyll. (OK, it was a static van rather than a mobile caravan) and it was very comfortable. We had a great holiday - and when, on the first evening, we went to the Glendale hotel, I met Sandy and that sealed my fate. The small, exlusive park is still there - but, strangely, I haven't been back in over 20 years. I still think fondly of the experience though.

Caravan holidays can be as straightforward or as complicated as you like. I prefer the freedom of choosing when to have breakfast, when to face the world - and love being able to cook simple meals (although I do love to go out for meals as well). Also, dress code can be slightly more relaxed than staying in hotels. The nice thing about owning or hiring a caravan is that there is usually a fairly sociable group of people who will welcome you and help with any problems - or who will leave you to your own devices, if that's what you prefer.

I'm checking out second-hand caravans right now - I'm told that the bargains are being picked up fast as more people choose to tow their holiday home behind them as they cut down on the expenses of vacations.