Montreal Gazette

BORED OF THE SAME OLD VACATIONS? GIVE RVING A TRY!

- Miranda Lightstone

It might be hard to imagine, but spring really is just around the corner, which means summer vacations are in the works and being planned. The possibilit­ies seem endless, but the majority of Montrealer­s have “been there, done that” with the usual trips. Oh sure, you could visit another all-inclusive or head down to Florida but why not try something different this year?

What about a staycation? I don’t mean staying in Montreal per se, but I do mean staying put in Quebec or elsewhere in Canada and taking an RV (Recreation­al Vehicle) vacation.

If you’ve never considered one before, the weekend of February 16-19 is your chance to explore everything RVing has to offer at the annual Salon du VR at the Palais des Congrès. Celebratin­g its 30th year in Montreal, the Salon du VR is a one-stop shop for all things RV. Each year so far, the Salon du VR has attracted more than 40,000 show-goers and this year is shaping up to host the same number of road-tripping enthusiast­s.

If you’ve never considered the benefits of RVing in place of a standard getaway vacation, know this: it’s about more than just the vehicle you’ll rent for the journey. Sure, your choice of RV is key (how many sleeping quarters? Will it have a built-in awning; on-board washroom; kitchen; how many TVs; rack for bikes in the back?), but at Salon du VR you’ll also be able to explore accessorie­s like Tupperware, toiletries, cooking accessorie­s and even car detailing along the way (should you experience a cracked windshield or the like while on the road).

On site at the Salon du VR you’ll discover a multitude of RV dealers where you can buy, trade or rent the recreation­al vehicle of your dreams. You can gain valuable advice for planning the perfect road-trip from campground­s and tourism boards across Canada and pick the brains of a whole host of other exhibitors ready to help you take the guesswork out of your RV vacation.

To make it even easier, for the first time, the Salon du VR has a user-friendly app that you can download to your iPhone or iPad for free. The app lists all exhibitors, as well as conference­s being held (with the option for reminders so you don’t miss the ones you want to see!). There’s also a show floor plan, and even downloadab­le documents from various exhibitors.

RVing is a great way to explore our great province and country, with all the creature comforts of home just behind the driver’s seat. Make 2017 the year you get behind the wheel and really enjoy the journey. For more informatio­n, visit www.salonvr.com.

 ?? Supplied ?? Salon du VR is a must-visit when planning your next RV vacation.
Supplied Salon du VR is a must-visit when planning your next RV vacation.

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