Living in a Van in TRINIDAD, CA!! PART 1 // It Reminds Me of My Childhood ❤️

[@simmpleenough]

Although I don't see myself living in this tiny town (because I want the homestead life with acres of land), Trinidad is the first place I've been that sorta felt like home. I love it here. Thanks for watching ❤

[@philonline247]

It is so beautiful Monique. One town I'll add to my list to travel to. Thanks

[@DebMer]

A homestead 10 to 15 minutes outside of such a lovely town would be ideal!

[@SarahQMalone]

Loved, loved, loved this beautiful, peaceful video!

[@nunyabiz6925]

Humboldt county is special. Welcome and i hope u stay.

[@EulipionOutpost]

Thanks 🙏 for sharing this. I love the music, too. I think there's a stronger indigenous presence in northern coastal California, and a closer community feeling. Northern CA is also great for foraging mushrooms in the Fall

[@marthaschilling2996]

I came across your channel and what caught my eye was you were in Eureka, Arcata, and Trinidad! I grew up in Arcata. So I am enjoying your time spent there. Not sure when you were there. I was there a week ago. Traveling from Oregon to a celebration of life. Spending time with childhood friends. I love that area. It is fun to see your perspective of the area. 👍😊

[@simmpleenough]

Arcata and Trinidad are truly special.

[@missjones8123]

I hope you foraged more berries and froze them for your smoothies. Love your background music so much!

[@simmpleenough]

I didn’t that time, but I will next time!

[@SweetTeeze]

The AMAZING photos you will have to hang on the walls of your homestead home! 💖 Thanks for sharing that beautiful gem at the end! JUST when you were about to turn around you stumbled upon all of that beautiful scenery!!! You had even just said, "This thing never ends!"which is how we so often feel when we're going through tough times. But you just have to keep going and eventually you get to the other side. 💖💖💖

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you for sharing your perspective! That’s definitely how I’ve felt for much of my adult life. Tough times seem never-ending, but I’m so glad I never turned back from my goals. I really appreciate the super thanks ❤️❤️❤️.

[@glennarussell4682]

I myself, appreciate that you truly value the beauty of nature. So many just take it for granted. Birds, dragonflies, ladybugs and butterflies are my favorite. I was a tomboy too, growing up. Thumbs up for your content and love to you, from S. California.

[@s.k.1091]

I appreciate you cooing over the trees. I do the same! Also, once someone has really shown a Redwood, you will be able to know them -- they have a pretty distinct bark and greenery too :-)

[@mythicalnomadadventure969]

After 5 years fulltime,I feel the only things sticks & bricks can provide beyond a vehicle, is room for others, flushing sounds, and no way to just drive away. 👍 Rock on 🙂.

[@simmpleenough]

Love this!

[@1968che]

I was in Trinidad Ca. not long ago. It's a lovely spot.

[@CalmSolitude]

Monique, I'm a vanlifer and I've been in Arcata all summer. Streets between 5th and 12th from H Street to N are filled with vans and even RVs and you never see police there. 10 min drive to lots of beaches where you don't see a lot of people. A beautiful redwood forest right in town. Good health food stores and lots of hippies 😊

[@simmpleenough]

Thanks for the tips!!

[@CalmSolitude]

Another tip: there's a nice place with outdoor hot tubs and a shower for $15 for 1/2 hour. The Finnish spa.​@@simmpleenough

[@Blue_Rose_in_Twilight]

Police in this area don't tend to care for parked vehicles as long as the car looks decent. No broken windows and your good.

[@WordNerd1971]

No, it really is that exciting - to me, at least 😃 - those trees, the light, so beautiful. Loved hearing the sounds of the birds as you opened the van door in the morning. What a fabulous camping spot - fantastic views - my kind of place. Fruit picking is the best too. The unexpected trail and those breathtaking views - WOW - so much to love there. Thanks for taking us along 😍. I love seals 🦭. I was wondering if, when thinking about buying land in the future, whether you're open to settling just about anywhere in the U.S. that you find suitable, or whether you'd want to stay within easy reach of your parent's place? Sorry for the super long comment - I got carried away! 😊

[@simmpleenough]

I’m glad you enjoyed the video! I’m open to the entire earth. I’ve already told my parents there’s a good chance I won’t settle down near them, so they can have a few years to prepare, lol.

[@kdfree9810]

Hi! Make your own ice-cream w/borough bananas and hemp milk and agave'!🥰🥰

[@d.robinson9177]

That's incredibly breathtaking, Monique. Thanks for capturing that on video and sharing.😊. The ocean views remind me of my country. You have no idea what effects being near the ocean like that can have on you until you experience it. It's def a blessing to be out there. I hope people continue to have access to places like these while they travel in their vehicles.

[@simmpleenough]

I’m so happy you could enjoy the views with me 😊

[@deidrekirkman5270]

Trinidad is a beautiful town. It really is the simple things that gives us the most joy. I loved the ocean view. 🥰

[@rodellwilliams871]

That's one of the special things about California they have nature and the City

[@simmpleenough]

Yes! I love it.

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

My plan is to start van life very soon, here in my city, work as much as possible, then hit Quartzsite in January and after that, finally make it to doing van life in cali. I hope to stay in places and work doing whatever I can for a bit and explore each area, but I think I will be ancy lol...I don't want to rush it. What a beautiful place, I hope I can find that same spot that you did, overlooking the ocean and hey, ain't nothing wrong w/trees! I think when you can look at the beauty like you showed while walking there near the forest is so in tune w/everything...and that's how I feel whenever I'm in nature (of course, almost losing your eyesight will do that to you as well! Our country used to be so much better, growing up I felt safe, I no longer feel that way thanks to people just letting it fall apart and now we are experiencing moral decay and betrayal by politicians...scary times...but this was a very beautiful video Monique!

[@simmpleenough]

I hope you get to make it out here, Laura! It’s stunning.

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

@@simmpleenough My van made a loud screeching noise this morning so...uh oh...it went away but man...this is no good, may have to take a job I hate again in order to fix it before it breaks down! I hope it lasts long enough to get to fixing it!

[@morena-galesa]

That was absolutely breathtaking! 🫶🏾

[@s.k.1091]

The part of northern CA where you are is Known for it’s foggy weather! The further south you go, the sunnier it will get. I live in the SF Bay Area and summer is the foggy season ….. but down here the morning fog generally “burns off” by noon’ish. Enjoy your road trip 🎉

[@Selahbrooke3]

Hey Monique, You're an inspiration. I'm traveling from Harvey, LA to York, PA. I'm a bit nervous about traveling alone, but I see how courageous you are living & traveling in your vehicle & it encourages me to just go for it. I appreciate your example.

[@simmpleenough]

Hey, Selahbrooke!! Thank you for this comment. I never thought making vlogs about my life would be helpful to people. I think you’ll be just fine. Even as much as I’ve traveled in my life, I still feel a little nervous right before I leave on a road trip. Just say a prayer, driver cautiously, be aware of your surroundings when you make stops (try not to get gas at night, if possible), and hopefully you’ll be just fine ❤️❤️. If you have to sleep at rest stops or parking lots, check out the iOverlander app to help find safe places. Most Walmart parking lots are chill about overnight stays, as well. You got this 😊💪🏾.

[@Selahbrooke3]

@@simmpleenough Thank you so much for the advice.

[@nancyloftus6872]

Yay! You got there! It is breathtaking...

[@demetrispatterson3469]

Monique that view is Breath taking, hope you get a lot of 16:48 great pictures from sunrise 🌅 to sunset 🌇. ❤🎉😊. You are so BLESSED to be able to just stop and smell the roses along this journey that your on fro a better life. You make me want to just stop the ride and get off , and join this life. You make it sound and look so good. Enjoy your life Monique to the fullest you only get one to enjoy.😊

[@simmpleenough]

Most mornings were foggy, but I filmed an amazing sunset that I’ll share in next week’s video!

[@demetrispatterson3469]

​@@simmpleenoughpl 30:57 ease do im watching the scene that you wonder upon that was BEAUTIFUL. 😊

[@demetrispatterson3469]

The people are so friendly what a plus.

[@hotelhonda3308]

This is sooooo beautiful thank you for sharing!!!

[@simmpleenough]

You’re very welcome ❤️

[@JanetJesuit]

Thank you for taking me to places I would never would see thank you for the adventure

[@simmpleenough]

You are so welcome 🤗

[@Inglewood_Addition]

Hello Monique 👋🏿 Good morning and thanks for another amazing video. The scenery out there is absolutely stunning. I may have to check out Trinidad when I make my way back to California in a few months. The place looks so beautiful. I love how excited you are. Seeing you enjoy your time while reminiscing on your days growing up is awesome. I really hope your time out there keeps getting better and better. As always, I love watching your channel and look forward to seeing where the next adventure takes you. Be safe, have fun and keep on smiling because it looks really good on you. Have a fantastic upcoming week. 🖤

[@simmpleenough]

Trinidad is definitely a place I think one should visit when traveling through California! It’s a super tiny town, but the beauty is never-ending. I hope you have a wonderful week!

[@s.k.1091]

I just looked at the map and realized that you’re actually traveling north along the coast. Thought you were heading south towards the SF Bay Area. Last year I did that road trip in reverse , traveling back from Ashland to SF after visiting friends who moved to sweet Ashland. Beware: the coldest, foggiest, darkest summer day I’ve ever spent was in Crescent City ! And that’s saying a lot because I generally Love the Fog ❤

[@simmpleenough]

I’m actually trying to fit in a visit to the Bay Area before I have to leave Cali! I wasn’t planning to, at first, but I kinda want to visit a bigger city for a few days. We’ll see.

[@lashaladavis713]

I am a veteran and you are correct, living on a military base is different...I am noting all your journey, so that I can visit some of the places you recommend when I start my journey...my set date is February 15th, 2024, if all goes well....Have fun young lady!!!

[@simmpleenough]

Woohoo! I hope you have fun, as well 😊.

[@Aprilsjeepjourneys]

Trinidad, Ca is absolutely beautiful! I have been there... It's the only place I have ever seen where the mountains and forest run right into the ocean! Enjoy and welcome to my state... #Cali!!!❤

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you! I’m definitely enjoying your state 😊

[@adventurousspirit6628]

Monique I'm so glad that you're having mostly good experiences and enjoying my beautiful State. Northern and the Central coast are vastly different than southern Cali, however I enjoy the diversity of both. Take care and stay safe. ❤

[@annc6306]

The Darker The Berry The Sweeter The Juice✊🏿

[@simmpleenough]

lol ✊🏾

[@dwainsledge6479]

Wow same thing same thing 😭😂

[@myevolvingwellness]

I can feel how much you enjoyed Trinidad through the screen. Thank you for sharing. It’s good to see through the eyes of others as I can sometimes take these views for granted. ❤

[@tonyajohnson3450]

Yes, it really is beautiful and relaxing.

[@user.ogungunsuns]

💪🏾You're INSPIRING ✊🏿💥

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you ❤️

[@txLALA]

Beautiful place. Glad you found it.

[@bevharrison3094]

You should drive on north to Crescent City. At low tide you can walk out to the lighthouse. And traveling north along the Oregon coast all the way to Washington will give you lots of special moments!

[@heylove8643]

Oh my goodness! What an amazing find! Thank you for sharing! 🏝️

[@simpletings511]

This video is lovely, makes me want to get a van and live like you...u should practice watercolor I feel the views are breathtaking and I would love to paint them... thank you for sharing ❤

[@simmpleenough]

I want to learn, one day!

[@deewilliams2350]

This is the most beautiful video you've posted and the song "GROW" went with it beautifully.. good find😊

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊

[@shess1640]

the music and images are perfectly matched. Thank you for sharing this beautiful place with us.

[@simmpleenough]

You’re very welcome 😊❤️

[@violetatcontentboutique7188]

just Lovely!! Trinidad/Arcata felt like home to me too when I went there for my grandson's graduation. I'd move there if it wasn't so far from my family in LA. ... maybe someday ...? ...

[@1anita1m]

What a beautiful view of the ocean. Thank you for sharing all your beautiful travels. I didn't know this place existed. Blessings always 😊

[@calvinmarshall1610]

Hi monique great video fantastic scenery you really enjoyed yourself I'm sure hope to see more of your travels

[@s.k.1091]

Rule of thumb for those roadside bushes. If the berries don’t come off easily, they’re not ready!!! And they need to be dark color to be sweet. Washing not needed …. We eat them right off the bush when we hike

[@simmpleenough]

Thanks for the tip!

[@darlenenelson5678]

That was beautiful ❤

[@selenarobinson1493]

That's a very nice view of the Beach.

[@demetrispatterson3469]

Happy Sunday everyone .

[@simmpleenough]

Happy Sunday!

[@practicalpracticewithgeekw9400]

Can’t wait to see more, that was breathtaking!

[@workyourdreammd]

Love the music. Thanks for introducing me to a new sound!

[@dizzyk54]

Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!!😍

[@nrandall1971]

Wow… I’m from the actual country of Trinidad and I can see why that area is called by the same name. There is a beach called Maracus in Trinidad and that place reminds me of it. ❤ Beautiful!

[@simmpleenough]

I hope to visit your country one day!

[@sumayaaden1078]

I’m not much of a commentor, but I did want to say that I appreciate you not using music in your videos. It’s hard to watch amazing content while muting it every few minutes or so. May God award you for your effort!

[@simmpleenough]

Hi! I actually do use music in my videos. It's all acapella. I put the songs in an editing program, slow them down, and listen to ensure the sounds that seem like they are coming from an instrument (other than a drum) are actually being made with a mouth or hands.

[@soinspired5421]

Absolutely beautiful the whole video. I ran across some places there in 1999. with a friend who lives in the Bay Area. She took me to so many places that were beautiful. I haven't been back there in many years. Monique, I see you like cartoons.Here's one my cat watch All The Time. I love this cartoon. Katuri. My cat is a ipad cat😁. I put this on for him when I work or run errands..Stay blessed and stay safe.🤗

[@simmpleenough]

I’m happy you enjoyed the video 😊. Thanks for the cartoon suggestion!

[@traceethompson3772]

Trinidad California looks G❤RGEOUS !! Thanks for sharing ❤...

[@catc6188]

Very nice! Never heard of this place. Makes me want to go😎 as always, thank you very much for sharing😊

[@kristinssocool]

I got recommended your channel probably because I watch van lifers and I live in Arcata. Arcata is special. The hippy chill vibes are abundant. Your camping spot in Trinidad is my favorite parking spot to take pics. I grew up here in Humboldt and it was a pretty safe community. I grew up playing in the redwood forest. My girl friends were tomboyish and we had a wonderful childhood that sounds a lot like yours. Safe travels.

[@simmpleenough]

I’m loving my time here! Thanks for checking out my channel 😊.

[@KaiExploresLife]

Your videos are always so pleasant. That location was nice. Hopefully, people won’t turn that place into a mess now that you spoke of it and showed some street signs. I hope it stays safe.

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊. In the next video, I talk about this. I mention that I was hesitant to show certain places in this quaint town for fear that it would get overrun by tourists. But Trinidad is so small and boring (I love boring) that most people wouldn’t be able to stay here long enough to trash it. The population is 300-something, there’s one grocery store, and not much to do if you don’t enjoy going to the same beaches and redwoods everyday. A local ended up showing me around and, trust me, I don’t even show the best places 😊. Hopefully, Trinidad will stay just as it is.

[@s.k.1091]

Yup. Sadly that’s what can happen when local, hidden places get publicized online. Especially with specific location info.

[@KaiExploresLife]

@@simmpleenough I hope so too. 😊

[@ColinAdventures]

I remember when I was a kid, we would walk up and down the road every fall picking blackberries until we had a giant bowl full of them. My mom would wash them and turn them into pie or freeze them. I used to see people going blackberry picking all the time but not so much these days.

[@simmpleenough]

That’s awesome! Next time, I hope to forage a little more and freeze them.

[@MEASURETWICE]

omg those views are insane!

[@simmpleenough]

😍😍😫

[@musbnyce2435]

This was a soothing video. ❤😊

[@robertjessie571]

I do miss the ocean. If I was in it everyday I'd probably feel lots better.

[@danieldhardman5388]

At the intersection you approached at the :34 mark, there used to a striking little red and white lighthouse. Some years ago it was relocated to the beach at he end of that street to the right. For me it was the most iconic marker in Trinidad. Also, if you're patient, you may see whales breaching a short distance off the shore.

[@dream2be611]

Hi Mary, I really love watching hing van adventures of all kinds. New to your channel. I love that you would like to homestead eventually. I faith in you. Thanks for taking me al9ng.

[@jeanettechampagne825]

Good morning thanks again stay blessed ❤️❤️❤️

[@simmpleenough]

Good morning!

[@kemilove9050]

Thanks for sharing those beautiful sites ❤️ ❤

[@simmpleenough]

You’re very welcome!

[@rodellwilliams871]

Awesome location enjoy!

[@shallomjay8302]

I watched this 10 times 😢❤❤❤❤

[@simmpleenough]

I’m glad you enjoyed it ❤️❤️

[@3phaser]

You found a beautiful place perfect for you, make it happen ❤

[@mslidiaalvarez]

Okay its official, im adding trinadad california to my Must-See List.

[@IrisRoque-xv6mj]

So beutiful enjoyed the views.

[@michelelove]

When I’m in California I spend most of my time in the LA area, but after visiting the northern and central coast quite a few times, it’s my absolute favorite. The vibe up north is so different, in a good way and the beauty is unmatched. I hope you continue to enjoy it, thanks for sharing 😁. Check out the Carmel and Monterey Bay areas if you get a chance.

[@simmpleenough]

Thanks you! And I appreciate the travel suggestions. I’ll look into them 😊.

[@BoswelliaLuna8]

So beautiful! We’re going to the Oregon coast and Redwood Park next year!

[@simmpleenough]

I think you’ll love it!

[@DD-xt9vq]

Your videos are kewl nice to see you navigate your way through life. Buy that land one day soon! 😊

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊

[@PatbroBro-sn8yo]

Sticking together can go either way whether it's good or bad. I've seen folks that ban together just to do a person dirty and make it look acceptable because of the numbers, which is more often than not. I know this may look negative but it seem to be the norm among historical studies and truthful observations. Overall, i'm happy to see you in such joy. i can't wait for your journey as a Homesteading as well.

[@simmpleenough]

I can’t wait, either! I’m so ready for homestead life.

[@sloneygrl4550]

If you drive south the town of Mendocino will also give you great parking with views

[@simmpleenough]

I’m headed there!

[@raquelseed4]

I'm so happy that you were so happy to find Trinidad.. yes very beautiful place and friendly people.. I moved to Arcata from LA in 92 and never left.. Trinidad was a second home for me... my son's Godfather lived in Trinidad and we would house sit several times in through out the year. This is the best place you found to chill 😁😉 Not sure if you still around but if you are check out the Farmers Market on Saturdays downtown at the Arcata plaza👍🏼🎉also check out Redwood park in Arcata🎉

[@rodellwilliams871]

It's normal culture in Japan and the Netherlands for kids really young to go to school by themselves and walk around by themselves however in the US you have to choose your battle with that

[@offwaikikibeach]

The larger rock looks a little like Shaq’s size 23 shoe. No Rabbit Island here.

[@BRIGHTANDBOLDNY]

🤣

[@simmpleenough]

😂

[@FeMiNem-Poet]

Wow!

[@BRIGHTANDBOLDNY]

liked the video before watching. I always look forward to your videos. ❤

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you so much 😊❤️

[@NylasOpenRoad]

Nothing that beautiful is by accident lol 😊 Such a beautiful small town enjoy your trip

[@simmpleenough]

Thanks!

[@aishabstjohn6512]

Welcome to Cali ❤

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊

[@sandramatthews3382]

Thanks for sharing.

[@user-ii3vn8tn3q]

Hidden gem.

[@mariaelkhyari9682]

What a beautiful location. I am sure the cost of housing is through the roof. Pardon the pun. 😆I understand what you are saying about the military lifestyle. The camaraderie is part of the culture especially when you are stationed overseas. The community feels safe at least when I was part of the community. My father was in the army and I served myself in the Air Force. Lived in Germany both times. It was a great experience. However, the transition to the civilian life was weird in the beginning. Did not know what I was missing, till I figured out it was the lifestyle. Well, thank you for sharing. Have a super day!

[@simmpleenough]

Salaam! Yea, we didn’t know how good we had it as kids living on base.

[@mariaelkhyari9682]

@@simmpleenough as life goes we learn from hindsight most times. 🥹

[@MHLnL]

Hi Monique. I've been a fan of your channel for a few months and am grateful to follow your journeys. I rarely give suggestions, but in this case thought it might be of benefit to you and others. To keep little towns safer for van lifers, maybe not post the location in the title of your videos. It may begin to put these towns on higher alert and make it more difficult for future people to experience the safety you felt during your stay. Glad you found a beautiful spot and wish you more experiences like this in your future. ❤

[@simmpleenough]

👌🏾❤️

[@lesiaeljudah7869]

Greetings ! You are Blessed and Highly Favored . I also Love the vegan style you have me going back. Thanks for your great information may God see you through your positive journey . Peace ! P. S Your angels protect you.

[@simmpleenough]

❤️❤️

[@COASTIEMOM27]

Hi Monique, I’ve been loving your videos but not a fan of filming in the small screen (vertical) with the iPhone. It’s very difficult to really see everything and it’s to dark. Just my observation. Glad you found this lovely place to spend some quality time with yourself.

[@nialone1084]

Please could you tell me the name of the song playing when you were removing your shoes. Beautiful, peaceful vlog.

[@simmpleenough]

It was either Grow or Medicine by FACESOUL

[@nialone1084]

@@simmpleenough Thank you!

[@dwainsledge6479]

Wow .

[@simmpleenough]

lol, I said ‘wow’ so many times in this video. I couldn’t help myself. Everywhere I looked was stunning.

[@sophiemarcaurele]

On the internet: "Trinidad is in Humboldt County and is one of the best places to live in California. Living in Trinidad offers residents a suburban rural mix feel and most residents own their homes. In Trinidad there are a lot of restaurants and parks. Residents of Trinidad tend to be liberal." 🤔

[@thelifeofeli1]

Where do you get your music

[@simmpleenough]

Artlist

[@mariaelkhyari9682]

Hello. I have a random question: The machine you used to wash your face and batteries ran out - What is that called? Brand you use? 😉

[@simmpleenough]

This is what I have www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0B247W7VM?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

[@mariaelkhyari9682]

@@simmpleenough Thank you!! 😊 Be well! Bracing for a hurricane in the next 24 hours! (Louisiana) 🌀😵‍💫

[@jeannetteembry2216]

Do you see others parked there?

[@simmpleenough]

Sometimes

[@TheGoodNews-t8l]

❤

[@dizzyk54]

🥰🥰

[@dorased8838]

Hie lady lovely views 😘

[@bambihargrove6499]

❤❤😊

[@bessycorrales6405]

It saddens and angers me that this beautiful land was stolen from the indigenous peoples and now they’re relegated to reservations.

[@beautifuldreamer3991]

Noone is the original people of anywhere in the world. There are countries in Europe that have been conquered and taken over by so many different people of different countries and taces that the naturally have several different colors in their eyes and hair. It was inevitable this would happen sooner or later. Evidence is showing through archeology that others were here before indigenous people, and who did they displace? You can't put modern day morals on to the things of the past. And considering the size of this continent, you can only bet that sooner or later someone was coming to conquer. It's just the human way. Even You are not original.

[@simmpleenough]

Agreed

[@myriampierre7315]

Oh hi😃👋🏾 subscriber 🙋🏾‍♀️you tube has video on deep underwater animals.

[@honeycharles8576]

That is interesting to know that you were raised on military bases! What school did you go to on O’ahu? I am from Kauai.

[@simmpleenough]

I went to Wahiawa Intermediate and Leilehua High School.

[@honeycharles8576]

@@simmpleenough I was a military kid back in the late 60’s and went to Washington Intermediate! You are a local girl!