DEALING WITH ANGRY LOCALS - Scotland Winter Vanlife Travels

[@johnhaggerty4257]

You know what guys. I'm Scottish. There's clown's everywhere you go, even in the middle of nowhere in sunny Scotland. You found your clown & he knows who he is. WHAT AN ABSOLUTE CLOWN. Keep up the good work you two. Don't let these clowns get you down.

[@isobelchapman9548]

As a Scot, I am even more vexed at what you experienced . I’d certainly have gone into the pub and made The Landlord aware and it could be that you’re not the only ones who had such hospitality shown to them!!!! 😁 What a very very sad eejit he is. Take care lovely folks, God bless xx

[@meichong8278]

I'm wondering if the strong anti English sentiment often stoked by the totally corrupt SNP leadership might have had something to do with it ....

[@johnmandy]

The eejit won’t spoil our time travelling in Scotland, you can’t let them win.

[@meichong8278]

@@johnmandy Never a truer word said .... you cannot let the bullies win !!!

[@peezebeuponyou3774]

Well I think you just did. Never let arseholes like that get the better of you. I like your videos, but I'm disappointed with how you handled this.@@johnmandy

[@pamelaadam9207]

​@meichong8278 excuse me ! 😊

[@ruthaisling]

Hi John and Mandy, I'm from Dumfries and Galloway and I'm really sorry you had this awful experience while visiting the area. Most of us living here are friendly and welcoming! I hope the rest of your travels in the region are more positive.

[@neilt]

A growing problem locally is a significant number of people parking vans inappropriately, albeit legally, annoying local residents and emptying toilets down the street drains. Those numpties give everyone in vans a bad name. I dont know what can be done to stop these people. I wish we could have the same system as France, where most village have proper parking facilities.

[@Demun1649]

Once you mention a civilised country, such as France, you know, without a shadow of a doubt, that it WILL NEVER HAPPEN HERE.

[@Charlieb377]

Guys I remember leaving a comment on a video you did in the Italian mountains on this subject and I don't think you appreciated my comment then. I understand it from both sides. You live this way. Stopping in various parts of the countryside overnight. I remember during lockdown our little village was heavily publicised on social media because of a lovely little (once unknown) walk. It became infamous and a tourist spot and we literally had thousands of people every day park up on our grass verges, double yellow lines, across driveways and on peoples driveways too etc etc. Leaving rubbish including dirty nappys outside our cottage on the verges. The sides of the roads were used as toilets. Our peaceful quiet village became the opposite and the stress it created for all the residents who treat their home as their sanctuary was immense. There is concern that a few people parking up overnight can soon become a well known place for everyone to park up and people homes turn into something they've not experienced before and far from a quiet sanctuary. I do think there has to be some balance and some consideration on both sides. This isn't hate. I just see it from both angles. I understand people wanting to protect the place in which they live in all the time. I don't agree with actions of the people who drove up in their vans sounding their horns but seeing they're upset, I think you did the right thing in quietly moving on.

[@johnmandy]

This is where I fully agree with you. We arrived at a designated location to park overnight, we respectfully parked during the daytime in a designated parking space and got this treatment at 3.30 in the afternoon. The treatment you described in your community is totally unacceptable and that’s an indication of the pathetic nature of some in our society who simply have no morals.

[@petetimbrell3527]

You asked how others have gone on. On Anglesey I got a smashed windscreen, dents down one side and trim torn off the back end. I was only there fishing a late tide, not spending the night. Well over a grand's worth of damage. I could hear the vigilantes from down on the rocks where I was fishing. Welshmen shouting go back to where you come from, so they obviously thought there was somebody in the van. They'd gone by the time I'd got my stuff together and got back to the car park. I spent a couple hours under a bush and tooled up, waiting for them to come back. They didn't, sadly.

[@linarez90]

The thing is, without tourism they'd be in poverty. It puts the idea of 'escape to the country' in perspective!

[@johnmandy]

The law would have treated you as the criminal if you’d have succeeded though, crazy eh!

[@robertedward9456]

The travel trolls had same sort of thing in Scotland too and somebody else on KZbin had there windshield smashed maybe Scotland don’t want holiday makers or fall time van life people in Scotland.no holidays up there for me spend my money in Cornwall

[@ktd2956]

I've been camping,fishing, and holidaying in North Wales for nearly 50 years, and the scenery is breathtaking. But the Welsh are an unpleasant, unfriendly and miserable people, they don't seem to get it that tourism keeps their economy going,and if all stopped going there,spending our money,they'd be screwed.

[@Manifestings]

Shows a lot of strength of character being calm during a stressful situation. WELL DONE. MOST IMPRESSIVE.❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@fionavickers7946]

We parked in the field as did several other vans with no problem and had a lovely meal in the pub and a peaceful nights sleep. We managed to find a level spot and were very impressed with the facilities provided free of charge.

[@johnmandy]

If it wasn’t for the working plant machinery in the field then we would have parked there too

[@steve-marsh]

As a Scot, sorry you had this experience, it reminds me of why I sold my van, it's getting beyond a joke and I'm a worrier, so I found I wasn't even sleeping well at night anymore when parked up.

[@retirement-adventures]

Yes John, we get to that age where we don't feel our age until we either don't bounce so well, or we just find it difficult to get back up off the floor.

[@khogg3235]

Exactly! Rubbish isn't it!

[@talesfromthetiller]

Oh the joys of senior years (62 tomorrow!) we live on our narrowboat and back in the day I would have cruised for 12 hours, I have done 1 hour today and have had to rest up for the remainder of the day. Hope the leg is back to 100% soon

[@stuartfletcher9742]

The people who set up the NC 500 have alot to answer for. I suspect no community involvment and definitely no plan for infrastructure development along the way. The locals have never had to cope with this amount of people and vehicles and as farmers or fisherman have work to do. I was travelling the northern coast of Scotland before the NC500 and the change is immense.

[@pamelaadam9207]

Folks i know woke up to find van in their garden and someone setting up a bonfire.

[@NiallWardrop]

Many of these remote places are split between the people who welcome visitors and appreciate the opportunity they offer for improving the local facilities and infrastructure and a hard core of antisocials who object to everything and everyone, the sensible locals don't like them either but have to live beside them year round, as seen here they don't hesitate to be unpleasant if crossed.

[@linarez90]

The attitude you encountered reminds me so much of the Isle of Man. I didn't park anywhere, but did constantly encounter locals who would tell me to go home, get off the island, knock my drink over in quiet pubs, threaten me etc..etc..I've never encountered a place like it. It was hell!

[@tommo9757]

Thanks for the tip.

[@raykeogh1972]

Really good video, nice to see Mandy in the video to. I to have had a problem like your but the difference was because of my job I knew the land owner, I looked after he’s grand daughter and on a visit we met and was fascinated by my life style and stories. The guy was in his 80’s but was all there and in good health. He told me if you ever need a place to stay you can stay in one of my lay-by’s. I laughed and told him I do that’s my Wednesday night. So on nice summer night I was getting my electric scooter out and this farmer pulls up and has a go at me. I stayed very calm as he is shouting that I can not live there and I can’t just park where I like. I asked him does he own all this land and he went on to tell me how many people he employs on all this land. I listened to him politely and said “ again do you own this land? Because I know who does and he has give me his best wishes as well as staying here. Two of his children who are in their late 40’s live in old blue Volkswagens. To say his face did not BOIL over was a overstatement lol. That was 3 years ago and it’s still my Wednesday night stop over while in work. Thanks for sharing Ray K UK 🇬🇧 YNWA.

[@Crusty_Camper]

We live just on the other side of the Solway from where you were in this video. It's our favourite place to visit in our van and we've always been made welcome all over Dumfries and Galloway. Sadly, you do get little gits like the one in his little van with his squeaky little horn everywhere in the world. But they are particularly rare in that part of Scotland. In the season, a great campsite to use if you want a day with great showers, hook up, etc is the one at Sandyhills on the coast south of Dalbeattie. We usually stop over there for a night when we are in the hills for a week or more.

[@gordon0918]

There is an issue with vanlife in Scotland. Whilst it maybe a small minority it definitely exists. You may say it exists everywhere which maybe true in some cases but generally speaking it is luck of the draw in Scotland. You may have a pleasant trip you may not. I would never even consider doing the NC500 in a campervan. People there are fed up of the influx. Go to Europe, it’s vast and you will be far better catered for with all the amenities you need, many of which are free.

[@ianmacewan9416]

I have just completed three years living in my self built. I am a Scot and circled the whole of Scotland with detours three times and spent months exploring the North of England. The only trouble I had was from an English man with a midlands accent who had been given a job by an English controlled council as what he called a "community warden" I was parked for a few hours break in a very large layby in Appin. He tried to hand me a list of what looked like 15 local bylaws for campers. He got told to disappear quickly while he still could. Which he did. The other two were at different sides of the North Yorkshire moors. Both times I was causing no obstruction or bother to anyone whatsoever. In fact I carry black bags and a pickup stick to clear up round about me every time I stop. Something I notice the locals don't do, in fact I have seen them tipping the rubbish. But there was an attempt to make me move anyway. Same result as previously. What I don't and have never done however is make fun of the accents in different parts of this so called union. I guess that is an attitude thing. I have had the occasional horn being sounded, I sound my own very loud one in return and wave at them. The seem to get the message..

[@alexanderscott3962]

Hi John and Mandy You were just unlucky with “grumpy vanman”, but don’t let such incidents put you off from parking up respectfully. I always find speaking in a friendly manner with a smile on your face to such individuals generally works, but some are just angry and want to fight the world such is life, happy travels. Alex

[@craigberesford726]

Hi John and Mandy I think sometimes it’s a case of the few spoil it for the many down at the bottom of Winnats pass. There is a hard-core group of people who spend months there and they’re not tidiest of people. This is gonna spoil it for a few as they abuse this beautiful area and eventually, this will impact the people like yourselves to appreciate the hard stay on the beautiful scenery

[@worldofrandometry6912]

What a nutter that van man was. Does he know the rules about the use of a car horn? Did he miss that in the highway code?

[@everythingspain9442]

Small Town mentality, They see you as a intruder in their Town even though you was doing nothing wrong! As a Sales Manager I have to travel through the countryside and I have uncounted this sort for situation a few times when I pull up to have a sandwich in a practical empty car park. Once a local Woman threatened to call the police on me as she believed I wasn’t allowed in her Town😂 You done the right thing 👍

[@Omegaman1969]

I parked in a car park in Dorset to make a cup of tea in my Van, within 20 mins I had the Gypsy liaison officer pay me a visit.....I just laughed at her and said I'm on my way to the coast, I just stopped to make a cup of tea.

[@suecharnock9369]

I turn 60 in about two months. My mind says I am 37. I am about to have a new hip - so you are not alone!!

[@AJ-qn6gd]

Don’t forget to ask if they’ll let you take the bone home for the dog 😜🇬🇧

[@TravelAbventuresUnbound]

Glad I left Scotland and have spent 15 years in Tokyo. Went I saw the title not welcome here I automatically new it was going to be about Scotland.

[@tonykirk1966]

Mandy, you hit the nail on the head. It was only 15.30pm and I would have told him. You were doing nothing wrong! The guy was a knob!! Glad you've recovered John 😊 boy at heart like myself 😂

[@DownTheRoadWithDiane]

Good to hear your leg is getting better. Lovely video with stunning views.

[@timwright5466]

Once parked up in a small car park on the Isle of bute just having a cuppa ..lady pulls up to walk her dog ..you can't stay here as its just for dog walkers and my freind will be here in a moment and will need that space ..!..

[@jodemulder7416]

Whatever your age is, you remain 31 in your mind....I'am 62 and believe me sometimes it's hard to assume that you're getting older....All the best...

[@Dan_druft]

23 and I'm 64

[@thevanthatrocked]

Sometimes I have odd days when it's harder to climb down the ladder in my mobile home, like every bone in my body wants to stay in bed. Unfortunately, my bladder never agrees with my bones but it's only temporary anyway until a warm latte is in my hand.

[@fraserm803]

just remember you dont look 31 anymore......

[@fraserm803]

and im 64 too.

[@Chris-Smith227]

I have stopped at the Isle of Whithorn numerous times. As you said the pub has a free overnight stop over in the field behind the pub with facilities. I made the the mistake of stopping over on the car park in front of the field. Lucky for me one of the campervan owners who was stopping in the field explained that the locals want to keep the car park free of overnight vans. And if they want to continue to use the field for free then it would be best not to upset the locals. Its a great set up with a slightly sloping field, toilets, water and elsan point. the pub does great food and the craft beers are spot on. The car park is used by fishermen and jetty users so its probably not to much to ask vans to only stop in the field and keep the car park for other visitors and jetty users.

[@johnmandy]

As we said in the video we couldn’t enter the field due to the active plant machinery who were working in the field. I did say I’d stayed there before too & I knew the setup, just as I pointed out it was only 3.30 in the afternoon when we were harassed in a parking space which we are legally allowed to park in during the daytime.

[@ramblingrosevanlife]

Could you elaborate on the pipe insulate for sliding door. Do you push it in gap, sit it on top or shut door against it. I too have a big draft coming from gap

[@packingourtrunks]

Lovely video guys. We're with you, we just drive away, Nicky calls it 'keeping our side of the street clean' then we never regret getting into an argument. Anyway, hope you're both ok and John's found someone to sort his van. Wishing you both a happy and peaceful festive time, Kevin & Nicky

[@juniorhollywood2372]

Hi John and Mandy , hope your safe and sound , can I just add to your video that the man that was blowing his horn also came up to my van told me to move after speaking to a local they told me the man is a fisherman and doesn’t like strangers , they told me we can park on the crass behind that car park for free , take care and stay safe

[@johnmandy]

Silly man eh! There were so many plant machine digging up the field that he could see we couldn’t go into the field, let alone just park in a car park at 3.30 too. That man isn’t going to meet someone soon that doesn’t like his attitude and he’s not going to like it.

[@helenmacgregor6452]

I am a newbee to van life so it is really helpful to understand how to react when faced with things like this. Your experience is maybe second nature to you as John said when he thought about it, it was a few times it had happened. You could do a camping car survival vidéo. Situation/advice. Best advice I have had so far is if you don't feel it move.This keeps the adventure as nice as possible for you be not getting into conflect.I have to say I have Scottish in me so not certain I would have let this guy with the blue van live 😂

[@robertcanning1888]

Was it the Wanlock inn you got hassle ?. A good spot for xmas and new year under the stars is Aberfoyle and the Dukes Pass for the Gps. Merry xmas

[@johnmandy]

No, the wanlock inn was a lovely place we stayed at in the previous video.

[@nutsandy7183]

Whenever i have a confrontation, i remain calm, dont get intimidated and apply logic to everything. It never ends "well" but its always a bloomin good laugh! People either dig themselves into a corner so they have no leg to stand on, or get so angry at me that they stomp off wittering to themselves. Never faced this kind of person though... yet!

[@leemillington7164]

Great video. Glad you’re on the mend. Hope the silly man hasn’t spoilt it for you.

[@sandrapearson728]

Need some Arnica cream on those bruises 😊. Why is it we always think of what we should have said afterwards?

[@mandybreen4395]

I was thinking about travelling around Scotland in our van but have heard a lot of stories about people being troubled by locals. We spend money in local shops and eat out. Don’t think I am going to bother and will go to Europe instead where you are made welcome.

[@kevinmulligan9055]

No issues in scotland. Infact generally very safe and peacefull. The odd daftie don't matter.

[@gordon0918]

Go to Europe. I heard similar stories about Scotland then one day I experienced it for myself.

[@johnmandy]

Scotland is full of lovely people who want to share their amazing country, we won’t let the minority spoil our travels.

[@deborahwade9545]

I'm totally disgusted that you both have been treated they way you have. I have been at that place and there was overnight parking 😢these kind of people piss me off. Please don't let it stop you from coming further around Scotland. We are not far from Ayr and you wouldn't get that kind of treatment here x

[@danhadfield6275]

Give tape to police they behave like that till they are stopped you owe it to others to report these people harrisment is a crime enjoying our country is not

[@lainey3946]

Its happened to us a few times. We do exactly the same we pack up and move. We always feel if somebody is that bothered about you being somewhere you never know what they will do and we would be waking up at every little noise. One day these people will be rude to the wrong person 🙄

[@russellnewton6660]

I’d be interested in what the pub landlord’s perspective was on the situation.

[@tommo9757]

The guy was probably a regular. The landlord would probably think that it's better to lose an irregular customer than a regular. 🙁

[@russellnewton6660]

@@tommo9757makes sense 👍

[@kay-waterandwander5601]

Sorry to hear you had the numpty experience. Especially as it seemed the pub owner was welcoming by arranging the set-up? As a matter of interest did you make the pub aware that you moved on due to ignorant individuals? Hope the leg continues to mend and loving Mandy’s channel too!

[@johnmandy]

We called the pub the next day, explained that due to the plant machinery digging up his field we couldn’t park there and he said he was aware of the guy in the blue van already as he’s known for it!

[@ydorri2460]

Glad it just seems to be one known person and everyone else seems friendly and welcoming x

[@baggiecamper]

John consider yourself lucky with your argument - not the car park man, but the one with the tree. I worked with someone who sledged into a tree and now has a plate in his head which replaced part of his skull. He's pretty much OK but has a few problems resulting from the trauma. Stay safe and good luck.

[@daveskinner1973]

From the Top Gun movie… “Son, your ego is writing cheques your body can’t cash!” Take it easy out there John!

[@Grayson-x9b]

He was an introvert that extroverts seemed to love.

[@johnnewnes2739]

you both seem so much happier when your together

[@DaisyDreamer72]

I spent two weeks in that area this year and had no problems at all. At that spot though I thought the overnighting bit was through the gate in the field rather than down the front ? Having said that though , at that time of day you're allowed to park anywhere so the twat can bugger off! 😂

[@kkgoof123]

Yep… I faceplanted myself onto a pavement from a high kerb and bashed my knee and face with force.. seems to take longer to heal as we get older ( I’m probably ten years older than you two!) 😅 gutted as scraped my new specs and have a massive knee with swelling ! 😜

[@johnmandy]

Tell everyone you fought off a shark 😁

[@skyblue-df2od]

Yipes!

[@RobertSmith-cv1cu]

Interesting situation. One theory. It may have been nothing to do with you as such. What if the guy had an issue with the landlord and was driving his custom away ? Also take special care of that leg in the rain and cold. Joint issues are not good.

[@christophermccann117]

Nice to see you both enjoying the vans and in Scotland. Personally I think you handled that situation better than me. From one scot to another I would have shared a nice glasgow kiss to this gent 🤣🤣 shame that in this day and age that you still get people who think it is acceptable to act in this manner and basically to try and intimidate yous both. Please don't let that foolish man spoil your travels in our beautiful Scotland. Enjoy it and keep smiling ❤

[@Rich-n-Cooper]

Stunning part of the country, as you say oftern overlooked, but glad your on the mend John. So sad to see such a reaction to visitors! Unfortunatly leaving is likely the best approach for your safety as clearly someone not in their right state of mind! It will unfortunaly reinforce their behaviour as working though for the next visitor to receive the same! Feels like society in the UK as a whole harbours a growing resentment to those that choose to live or exist diffrently, shocking way to treat people and needs to change before someones seriously hurt. Enjoy your onward travels North and hopefully a warmer welcome awaits ahead. Safe travels and Happy Holidays from Rich and Cooper

[@craighowells3462]

We used that stop John but on the grass where you can stay overnight. The tarmac car park was used a lot by locals and I understand the frustration there but not his actions. People like him are not normal. 😂 another reason to go to Europe. Take care

[@johnmandy]

We couldn’t access the field due to active plant machinery in there working away, but the main issue I had with the idiot was it was 3.30 in the afternoon and any vehicle can park in a parking space, we were not camping or sleeping.

[@craighowells3462]

You are of course correct in parking at that time of day👍​@@johnmandy

[@captaindave47]

I have parked at Isle of whitorn a few times and never had a problem, but I always park in the grassed area behind the toilets. I like it there.

[@johnmandy]

Sadly the area was not accessible as they had plant machinery working in the field.

[@captaindave47]

@@johnmandy oh that's a bummer, maybe they are leveling it.

[@yaminthegrey]

Hari OM My but that's a fine colour you've got going on there, John, lad!!! Yeah, my head keeps telling me to walk munros... but the arthritic, rollator-using body has other ideas...sigh... As for that beeping nonsense, I'd've been asking what authority he had for asking such questions (and agree with Mandy that the assumption is beyond nonsense...) If someone persisted and made a nuisance of themselves (not yet experienced but am prepared) then dialling 101 for local police assistance would be a good backup. Bear in mind that unless signage has the Council logo ( like the one you showed), nothing is enforceable (though one should definitely be considerate). That sign pertains to the 'picnic area' and not the carpark. I will say that I still believe the majority of folk are very reasonable and even interested and welcoming... but it only takes one to sour the whole, doesn't it? YAM xx

[@johnmandy]

The inner vs outer age problem is a real struggle 🤣 The signs were very precise about prevent overnight camping, this numpty wanted us to move at 3.30 in the afternoon and could see we couldn’t use the field behind because they were digging it up! Hopefully the field will be open soon so this guy will be happy

[@thevanthatrocked]

I was in a car park in Wales. There were no signs on view. A machine came to cut the grass and I moved forward a bit and the worker thanked me for moving. The next day, there was a knock on the door and an irate welshman asked if I'd seen the sign saying no overnight parking and that I'd already stayed there for two nights. I appologised and decided to take him at his word and move on, not before looking for the sign. Sure enough there was a small sign but it had been hiding inside the grass. Bad timing or what? 😅😅😅

[@ArianneAvalon]

And there is the problem! You had already stayed two nights. People notice.

[@thevanthatrocked]

@@ArianneAvalon It was remote too.

[@wastefulungratfuls]

I heard on another channel that scotland is bringing in a tourist tax ... I wonder if it is to put off vanlife visitors ?

[@johnmandy]

The UK really loves taxing people. Tourism is a huge part of Scotland’s income so I can only imagine a negative impact if they imposed additional costs on tourists.

[@wastefulungratfuls]

@@johnmandy this is just Scotland... "In May 2023, the Scottish Government introduced the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Bill to the Scottish Parliament. If passed as legislation, this will permit local councils to add tax to overnight accommodation. Commonly known as a "tourist tax", this concept operates in countries such as France, Germany and Italy."

[@p24hrsmith]

I've stayed at St Ninian's and your supposed to park in the car park not on the harbour but the car park isn't very flat and mainly grass so this time of year it could be tricky but still doable if its not busy

[@unadventurousmandy]

The field behind the pub had lots of plant machinery in it so was inaccessible, we were advised to park by the harbour

[@lindajames7759]

You need to come back to Spain, in Andalusia we are very welcoming, lots of campers 🇬🇧🇬🇧❤️❤️

[@chrismartin5772]

Great tip on how to to stop the draft from happening on the sliding door I would never travel to see Scotland you hear so many issues there I find it better to just go to belgium or France you can sometimes get some great deals plus it can feel a lot safer anyway great blog

[@caravaningincarathevan467]

When I went up too Scotland this summer there were even caravans in those forest stop overs. If that pub has facilities use them. Shame some people have ruined it for others. Merry Christmas xx

[@steveprice1014]

Blimey that bruise has every colour of a rainbow.. ouch. The chap that’s using his horn all the time might one day confront someone that will give him a similar bruise around his eyes

[@tofftheboss6954]

An older friend of mine said, "His mind used to make appointments that his body couldn't keep". 😂

[@jackiestokes6502]

I’m shocked that people act like this… I find that the most people who complain about visitors to there place of sanctuary were once visitors themselves before moving there.. our little island is such a beautiful place and is here to be enjoyed by all ❤❤

[@Kimberley-Z]

Glad your better John!!! Your both young and fit !!! Crush you 2. Life is bright !!! San Diego fan 🇬🇧🇺🇸🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🎅🎄

[@boggiesworld990]

we parked there in march we read it as no overnight on slipway. Did move onto field carpark directly behind you. 3 vans for 3 days same guy tooting horn everyday lots of people had no problems asked in pub all good.

[@johnmandy]

As I’d visited before I knew about the field but that was full of machinery working away on construction. Bedside that we were legally parked in a parking space at 3.30 in the afternoon so no one should have a problem with that.

[@marywalker2896]

I am 73 and enjoyed your blog immensely. In my mind I am 30 but my body reminds me everyday that i am 73 lol.

[@jseaschippychorley]

Near Newton Stewart is a nice little farm with 5 cheap £ pitches and a shower / loo hut, the family who run it are lovely. Matchermore farm

[@123gazs]

Few years ago in summer time i visited that location, The person banging on the door clearly has no respect and fact he came back clearly shows how sad he really is , as more tourist that come to that village would spend money there and you dont need to be camping to park there. its nice to see the Pub landlord has put stuff in for people.

[@bigmonkey999888]

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

[@kevinmulligan9055]

Get a wyze camera. I had a blink one trouble was they wanted money to save it to the cloud, it only offers motion recording... a wyze one you can save weeks to a sdcard which you can then access from a hone app, no need to re.ove the sdcard. No cost after initial purchase and it records 24/7 non stop.

[@johnmandy]

My blink cameras record to a local usb memory stick so no ongoing costs.

[@Jarv263]

I must have f*ck off written on my forehead 😆 because I’ve never had an issue and I live full time in my van. Great video guys!! ❤

[@Bulkabulkkis]

Guys you are great! Love your videos. Stay safe and dont minä the crazy people. 😊

[@davep1499]

Yes mandy you was correct first time they are pants NOT trousers, thats why we have UNDER PANTS and NOT under trousers 🙌👍👍😁

[@deborahhewitt8688]

I definitely worry about these things. We're an 8m motorhome so reality is we use campsites / aires most of the time as I worry about being a blot on the landscape or just even being considered an entitled, thoughtless idiot. We do park up at lots of places but the worry never leaves really. I also worry in case our grown teens have to deal with this when we park up somewhere leaving them in the van. Standard issue meno overthinking, I suppose! Great area. One to consider :-)

[@pamchurcher8833]

Hi John and Mandy sorry you had trouble but watch several other van and tent people and a lot said having trouble mostly in Scotland what’s the problem with people these days it is so sad . Look forward to next video.❤❤❤❤

[@jackiemitchell6518]

We’ve stayed there a few times and parked at the designated pub area with no problems! Why not move to that area which was right behind you where other vans and motorhomes were parked ? Or had you only planned a day visit? It wd of been nice if you could have had the chance to explain that to him as you said. Hey ho that can be van life take care

[@johnmandy]

We couldn’t get onto the field as there were machinery digging up the field. However, it’s legal to park in a parking space during the day, and as this was 3.30 in the afternoon I’m going to assume no one should be prevent from just parking in a car park space just because they drive a van.

[@jackiemitchell6518]

I totally agree we should not be made to feel unwelcome during daytime hours in vans and his actions were not justified at all and it does say no overnight camping 🤷‍♀️

[@johnshaw4140]

Some people are just small minded and basically stupid . I gave - up truck driving because of people being idiots when I used to park overnight in lay-bys . so many camper owners and vanlifers telling me to park at motorway services where I was ' supposed to be parked ' . It costs 30 pounds per night at motorway services , so 150 to 180 per week , out of MY pocket , 600 to 1000 pounds per month , to park in a smelly motorway service station surrounded by screaming kids ??? So I've stopped trucking in the UK , and I've left the country

[@tanyamccann1504]

D&G have lots of toilet and waste disposal with no overnight stays. Stairheaven for example. Where you guys were patked AT whithorn the overnight bit is the rough uneven carpark just behind you. It's not pleasant and the locals complain when your there too xx Happy travels xx T x

[@simongreen2510]

Sadly every village has one!. Having said that some people have zero respect when they park overnight and this leads to problems. I have lived in the highlands for over 30 years and yes it is becoming a problem, in some areas.

[@johnmandy]

I do see that, however, this wasn’t overnight parking, this was at 3.30 in the afternoon as we said in the video.

[@simongreen2510]

Yes I know, hence my comment every village has one. Safe travels.@@johnmandy

[@russho67]

Got pipe lagging in that draft from the sliding door covered in long pair of old socks! Like to find something that fixes to sliding door maybe and closes on the gap or seals it.

[@dobbiessock1050]

I see you drove through the little village of Moniaive, filmed in B/W , that was my childhood home. Loved it there :)

[@pauljackson1419]

Incidents like that can ruin a trip. We first stayed there a few years ago when parking on the harbour was still allowed. We stayed again this May, on the sloping grass area just behind. Even in dry weather it was quite slippy. It's a shame as the pub was friendly with lovely food, and also a micro-brewery. Hopefully you'll have better experiences at other park ups. We liked our stopover at the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse, but we were blessed with unusually warm and sunny weather with no wind! I hope the leg improves soon so you can get out cycling again.

[@PUTDEVICE]

the pub can lose guests if visitors are chased away. and it's a bit of a shame for the pub owner. would be a good idea for the pub owner to get some land for like 10 mobile homes to park on. he gets guests who may eat there several times a day,

[@johnmandy]

Sadly the field was an active construction site with moving plant machinery so there was no way to park there. But at 3.30 in the afternoon anyone should be able to park in the car park.

[@sallydacre438]

Sorry you encountered pond life! Looking a tad damp up there. BTW i pretend I'm deaf , wear mirror glasses and smile.. Along with my 2 dogs barking they seem to go away. Glad your leg is on the mend.

[@nigeldavey1043]

I tend to look at it this way. When I was a young man every now and then you'd come Into contact with a really nasty individual who just went out of their way to be bloody minded. Well that's a long time ago because I'm in my seventies now but seldom a week goes by when I don't come into contact with that sort of person. They're absolutely bloody everywhere. My theory is for the past 55 to 60 years they've been breeding like Rabbits, well what else do they have to do with their time. They can't be upbraiding decent law abiding citizens 24/7 can they. Even in the supermarket I have been accosted whilst shopping on a Mall scooter ( I can't walk around a supermarket anymore and the Tesco and Sainsburys one are kind enough to have them available for wobbly old Bruins like me) I've had shoppers get really nasty with me and tell me I should have left it outside and walked round, presumably believing that this Blue or Orange thing I'm sat on is mine. In towns and cities I've had both men and women tell me to watch what I'm doing with "that stick" and even been pushed off the pavement in Edinburgh and Leith for no reason. I have a white beard and no hair and am proud to say that I've done Father Christmas for nearly twentyfive years including the county hospital on christmas morning, in case you might be thinking I'm some kind of old hooligan or tramp. I really love kids and Animals and that seems to be reciprocated. But adults ? Well I know we live in beleaguered times and we all have our problems but there is a lot more aggression and sheer pig headedness out there these days with apologies to my porcine friends (yes I do mean you , the cuni cuni pigs at the garden centre 😬) but in Bristol there is a saying. Basically this "you can't educate Pork". As the saying goes, keep calm and carry on. At the end of the day I tend to think that they're taking it out on the likes of us because they've been threatened by folk they didn't have the courage to stand up to. People can stay wound up for a long time and if we've been the source of their unburdening the aerosols to them. 🤣 But seriously, it's not worth the hassle is it ?

[@swleek]

Glad your back with the old name and in the right place xx

[@geoffcampbell7846]

It's a shame you met the local idiot, there's one in every town, but most aren't allowed out without their carers. This one obviously got loose. It would never have happened in the earlier years when the local bobby would have taken him to one side and offered him a night in prison for his efforts. So much for progress eh? That's a nasty bruise John, but at least it's improving. Maybe you should have driven to Barnard Castle to properly test your brake pressure 😉. Seriously though, a great video showing both the ups and downs of van life, and the little gems like the forest stops that are a great idea. I hope nobody spoils it causing the project to be withdrawn. I'm loving the duel videos, its something different and you both look like you're having fun, and I'm very pleased it's working well. The forecast isn't good for the week ahead up north, so maybe a quick dive to the east coast may be in order. Anyway, take care and keep working on the leg so that it doesn't seize up. 👋

[@johnmandy]

It’s odd the laws that are ignored these days, I’m pretty sure blasting your horn in anger contravenes the Public order act, maybe seen as Road Rage too. But we won’t let one silly sausage spoil an otherwise lovely country.

[@sallydavis1345]

Sad that the weather has been so crummy for you. And I know how that can dampen your spirit and morale. And being in a van must feel so crowded after awhile even though it is the most comfortable at other times. Then when you are hurting and not able to do the normal things that you do, doesn’t help. But this too shall pass and hopefully the a**hole with the horn is well on his way to find something else to be bothered about. I hope you have a nice holiday and find some better weather to hang out in.

[@-Jay-001]

What was the pub park up you guys visited in Dumfries? I was down there recently.

[@markwhitehead64]

Hi John and Mandy great video shame about the rain 🌧️ what are people like nothing better to do but drive up and sound the horn John hope your leg start feeling more better soon looking forward to seeing your next video keep safe 😊👍🏻

[@nealeburgess6756]

Interesting to see the Murray headquarters on yours and Mandy's videos. Just one thing confusing me. I can't see the tennis court.

[@NigelShepherd-z7k]

What a lovely video! I'm new to your channel but glad you are ok ... You really were flying past on that sledge! 😳🇬🇧

[@josephdaly3327]

The best way to deal with such negativity is to grit your teeth and smile. Eventually you'll find your smile becoming real enough to have a calming effect. This'll probably be intimidating to your opponent, (who may or may not react even more negatively), but your conscious mind will be unaware of any threat because of your consistent serenity. At this point you'll probably feel an absolutely overwhelming compulsion to burst into laughter, which should if executed, frustrate your enemy into submissive behaviour. By now your indifference will have negated his argument so forcefully that he'll have forgotten his name and whereabouts....... Basically just laugh, it makes you happier and them angry!

[@Sue-mh6wi]

Hi, lovely scenery especially with how wild it got with the rain. You both looked drenched 😢. Sorry you had trouble with that numpty, honestly some sad people about. Glad your leg is getting better 👍 safe travels❤❤

[@bobss3704]

We're spoiled here in Australia, have camped all over the country and never been bothered by anyone, do a trip over here you won't wanna go back.

[@patriciastyles1761]

I always keep my camera running and video on my phone including the vehicle then if necessary I would report to the nearest police. It's harassment/intimidation.

[@plove523]

1. So thankful it was your thigh and not your head that whacked that tree. 2. I don’t often boondock, but when I’m traveling from point A to point B, I do sometimes. If bothered during the night, I will move on. If they are really threatening, I’ll call the police. As for some idiot that’s bugging you during the day, I’d definitely report it to the local law enforcement. I don’t mess with crazy, I let someone else do it. 3. Maybe the rain was natures way of making you slow down and heal. Travel safe.

[@vansforthememories]

Really enjoyed your video 😎 We had a boy racer incident in a remote park up near Kyle of Lochalsh. We moved on. I think you did the right thing, although I wonder how many times he’d have made the effort to come out in his car to check if you were still there 🤷‍♀️ He needs a better hobby 😊 Em 🎅 All the best x

[@charlestaylor8566]

Take a trip up glen Trool to see Bruce’s stone , best part of Scotland down in that corner 😊

[@constructioneerful]

I would absolutely speak to the bar owner. Try to identify who the troublesome blue van owner was. You’re doing everyone a favour if the whole community know the man is a a silly chap and he is less likely to do anything daft. I think after that his next appearance will just make you laugh.

[@BellasBigAdventures]

I’m the same as you think of some cracking come backs after the grump has left but generally stay quiet while they rant! A calm ‘but it’s not night yet! Might have just made them more angry I suppose. It’s sad that they have nothing better to do than drive around complaining though eh. Boy that bruise is huge 😮 take it easy.