HEY, we are Manon Frenière and Yvan Ross
In 2024, we both retired, and guess what? We began planning the most incredible trip we never thought possible! The picture below tells the whole story...
A 120-day world cruise.
HEY, I’m Yvan Ross
I am a retired software engineering lecturer with extensive expertise in object-oriented analysis and design, software architecture, robotics, automation, artificial vision, voice recognition, and signal processing. Upon my retirement in May 2024, I transitioned my focus to developing travel itinerary planning solutions and providing specialized training in these areas. My goal is to leverage my technical background to create innovative tools and share knowledge with others in the travel and tech industries.
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Our first test trip with TWAI went exceptionally well—everything worked as expected! Excited by our success, we set off on a one-month road trip starting on august 1.
By the end of July 2024, our TWAI van wasn’t fully completed, but all systems were operational. So, we decided to embark on our first trip. Upon our return, we made a slight detour to our supplier, who was ready to install our foldable passenger seat as the final step.
By January 2024, we received our new Ford Transit and began assembling it. From January to April, we dedicated about three days a week, working from 11 AM to 5 PM. From May to the end of July, we both ramped up our efforts, spending nearly six days a week from 10 AM to 8 PM.
Our Ford Transit features
- Ford Transit 350 EcoBoost, extended high roof, all-wheel drive, equipped with recreational features
- 2 swivel seats
- 2 places foldable seat for the little child
- 4 kw air heater under passenger seat
- 2 kw air conditionner
- 10 kw ecoflow power kit (containe 2 x 5kw litium battery, 800Ah total)
- 2x 200 watts solar pannel
- 120 liters of water inside the vehicule
- 120 liters of gray water inside the vehicule
- 2 x 20 litters of drinkable water
- 74 x 60 inches short queen bed of 10 inch
- 2 x 1500 watts induction plate
- 25 liters hot water tank connected to vehicule radiator and 100 vac
- 3 x 5 foots garage drawer
We decided to name our vanlife Twai to give it a personal touch, reflecting our new life objectives
Travel With Artificial Intelligence through the world
Our TWAI is much more spacious than our GMC Savana and meets all our requirements. We didn’t want it to be too big, and we believe we’ve found the perfect solution.
By 2023, we were ready for a better van. We attended recreational vehicle shows in Montréal and Quebec City but couldn't find exactly what we needed. We were looking for a vehicle that could be maintained throughout North and South America, had rear-wheel drive instead of front-wheel drive, and could accommodate four people, as we wanted to bring our young grandchildren along.
Unable to find the perfect match, we decided to buy a brand-new 2023 Ford Transit with an extended high roof and customize it ourselves. We went through six versions of the development plan, and during construction, we had to make two additional versions to address the constraints of the vehicle. Today, we're proud of how we've tailored it to meet our needs, and we're looking forward to more adventures on the road. Before the end of the year, our plan was done, all needed parts were ordered and received. We are now waiting to receive our vehicule.
My own vanlife conversion
This blog is all about vanlife travel planning, but I’m excited to also share my van conversion process with you. Check out my Google Sheets template, which contains a complete inventory of the parts I use for my conversions. It includes detailed descriptions, supplier links, dimensions, weights, and costs in Canadian dollars. Get organized and streamline your own van build with this easy-to-use tool.
In 2021, we purchased our first van for vanlife—a GMC Savana with a high roof, previously owned by Gaz Métro. Initially, we considered renting one, but the cost was so high that we decided to buy one instead, planning to sell it before upgrading. After our first trip left us with sore backs, we decided to modify the bed. We took the opportunity to add two drawers in the "garage" and installed swivel bases on the seats.
In 2018, my wife and I spent two weeks in Ecuador, immersing ourselves in its rich culture and stunning landscapes. The Tout Équateur Solidar Francophone network was incredibly helpful, assisting us with planning before our trip and providing support during our travels. When we encountered a lodging booking issue at 7 PM—when everything was closed and night had fallen—their assistance was invaluable.
- Quito: The capital city, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and breathtaking views from the surrounding mountains.
- Otavalo: Famous for its vibrant indigenous market, where we experienced local crafts, textiles, and traditional foods.
- Baltra: A gateway to the Galápagos Islands, offering unique wildlife and beautiful scenery.
- Guayaquil: Ecuador's largest city, known for its modern waterfront and lively cultural scene.
- Alausi: Home to the famous Devil’s Nose train, providing an exhilarating ride through stunning landscapes.
- Baños: Renowned for its hot springs and adventure sports, a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Cotopaxi: Featuring the iconic Cotopaxi volcano, this area is a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Our trip was an unforgettable adventure filled with diverse experiences and natural beauty!
During our trip to Ecuador, we embarked on an incredible journey to Galápagos National Park aboard the Lonesome George Galápagos catamaran. This intimate vessel, accommodating just 16 passengers, provided us with an amazing experience.
I had the opportunity to dive four times and enjoy numerous snorkeling adventures throughout the cruise. We swam with penguins, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, sharks, and a vibrant array of colorful fish.
It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will never forget!
In 2016, my wife and I traveled to Costa Rica with the Tout Costa Rica Solidar Francophone network. It was an incredible journey filled with breathtaking natural beauty.
Still In 2016, my wife took an eight-month sabbatical, allowing us to spend a month exploring Europe. We began our adventure in the north of Italy during the first week, followed by a two-week cruise on the Celebrity Constellation in the middle. We concluded our last week vacation near Rome. It was our first month-long getaway, and if we could, we would have loved to extend our trip for another month!
In 2009 we went to Walt Disney with 4 kids and grand parents
After my wife and I got married in 1991, we started going on occasional camping trips. As our family grew to include four children and a dog, we began camping less frequently, often in a tent. While we didn't camp regularly, each trip created lasting memories.
By the 80s, Yvan father had built a fifth wheel. Our family spent summers in Gaspesia, enjoying vacations at my grandparents' campsite.
In the 80s, Yvan Father constructed his own camper.
In the early 1970s, Yvan father, a skilled welder, began repairing boat propellers and built his first motorhome for his brother. By the mid-70s, he expanded into crafting trailers for boats and snowmobiles.
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