This is why we went for our Consort Motorhome.

Join us, Carol & Ken, on our latest adventure in France in our little red Nissan NV200 campervan. In this video, we head towards Bourges as a torrential rain storm passes through. The heat and humidity return the next day as we drive on to the Château de Chambord where things take a turn for the worse and the trip comes to an unexpected and unwelcome end.
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🔶 About us 🔶
Welcome to our channel! We're Carol and Ken, retired professionals turned van life enthusiasts. We share our adventures across the UK and Europe in our trusty camper van, soon to be upgraded to a slightly larger model.
Our goal is to provide a relaxing, honest account of van life, with no scripted drama - just the real, day-to-day experiences of our travels. Many of our viewers find our content calming, and we hope you will too.
We're passionate about wild camping and love to share our knowledge and tips, from staying cool in the van to choosing the right toilet. We're always learning and look forward to sharing more insights when our new van arrives in January.
While we love the freedom of wild camping, we also enjoy supporting local businesses by indulging in delicious local food. Expect to see plenty of one-pan meals and restaurant visits in our videos.
We like historical sites, country homes, towns, villages, and the occasional city. We aim to share interesting facts and stories about the places we visit.
We post new videos every Friday at 6pm UK time, sometimes more often.
Our channel is perfect for armchair travelers, those considering a caravan or motorhome, or anyone looking to unwind after a stressful day. If this sounds like you, hit that subscribe button and join us on our journey. Your support, whether through watching our videos, subscribing, or contributing to our 'Buy Me a Coffee' fund, helps to keep our adventures going. We appreciate every bit of it. ❤️
🔴 Contact us @ [e-mail]
This episode was filmed 19th & 20th June 2023.
Video Links:
Dealing with illness in a van • Our strategies to cope...
Why do you not want a toilet in your van? • Can you really manage ...
#vanlife #lifeistooshort #littleredcamper#relaxing #vanlifefrance

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Hi folks, this is the event that led to us buying our Consort Motorhome. I won’t spoil the story but a sequence of events taught us a big lesson and it made us feel that someone up there put us through the experience to keep us on track as we get older. We don’t show anything unpleasant but the experience certainly was, so best not to watch this one whilst having your lunch, dinner or whatever.

[@geoffreylowe9082]

Being a full-time vanlifer I always carry charcoal powder which I mix with a glass of water great for upset stomach. Will turn your stools black for a day or two. Cheers

[@cherylpage7415]

Sorry about your food poison experience but thank you for sharing

[@irenedonohue1406]

Poor Ken,hope you're feeling better,lucky for you that Carol was able to get you home!

[@andypugh2000]

I would hope so considering it was last June 😂😂

[@denisepeters8551]

My son had food poisoning in France. His wife drove across France to get him home. He said he was never happier than to see the white cliffs of Dover.Maybe home represents safety in our minds. Back in the eighties I got caught in rain like that,in fact worse. It was on spaghetti junction and suddenly I couldn't see a thing except water. Just had to keep following my nose and pray. Most frightening driving experience of my life. Yep,always have a repository for whatever may come along.❤

[@LifeistooshortCK]

I always like seeing those cliffs👍

[@mattkinsella9856]

You both did so well through that incident. I've travelled alone quite a bit in my life and no matter how hardened and capable one becomes, in times of difficulty or illness, it's never more obvious how alone and vulnerable you are, unless you have someone capable with you. Having grown up in a village by the sea, my diet at one time consisted of a lot of seafood and I know from experience exactly what Ken went through. It's no surprise that you tasted aomething off and my advice is ALWAYS stop eating the second you taste something off and spit out what's in your mouth. No matter how rude or wastful you feel, it is never ever worth eating more because the resulting illness is inevitable 9 times out of 10 if you continue eating. On an entirely different note: your eye for photography and how you capture scenes in your videos are fantastic, even just what you film from the van. It's probably a combination of your editing too but always a joy to watch.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Good advice re the seafood. We will definitely do that in future. Thanks for the lovely comment 🙂

[@lindao1327]

Food poisoning is just awful. I have had it a couple of times in my life and also while working as a nurse in an Infectious Diseases Unit, nursed patients who were very poorly with it. Glad you were ok. I’ve loved your French vlogs. Thank you Carol and Ken.

[@joyharding6052]

Just stumbled across your channel. Sorry you were poorly. We too love our Consort Oslo we picked up early June and then straight off to France. Can't recommend them highly enough!

[@LifeistooshortCK]

@@joyharding6052 welcome to the channel. Glad you are enjoying your Consort Oslo. Happy travels ❤️

[@tiddlywinks456]

I’m so sorry you were so ill Ken, what a nightmare. I was thinking it may have been the crab, it was the only food Carol didn’t eat that day and the heat wouldn’t have helped. I’m so thrilled that you got your new van and hopefully all will be well with your travels in her/him. Carol, you are amazing, helping Ken through his ordeal and doing all that driving on the wrong side while he was sick beside you. You both make a fantastic couple and compliment each other so well. I’m looking forward to your new adventures ahead. X

[@LifeistooshortCK]

My money is on the crab. 😁👍

[@sheilahowse6880]

Fully agree with you as we get older our bodies need care and comfort you now have a lovely van enjoy every minute

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thank you 🙏

[@Sue_T]

What a dreadful experience for you both! On the bright side you now have a beautiful new van to continue your amazing adventures. We’ve also learnt Carol has a remarkable constitution to have still needed her lunch. Thanks for sharing both the ups and downs of van life, in your usual genuine and gentle style.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@chrisdaniel338]

We watched it last night, so sorry you were taken ill Ken, but Carols attempt at not laughing at your predicament made us laugh, we love watching your videos, keep it up.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thank you 😀

[@LifeistooshortCK]

😁👍

[@sallyhumphreys2714]

Hmmm. Making me rethink….food for thought. Thank you

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We were so happy we were able to change our choice of van. It has all worked out so well.

[@vansforthememories]

Ahh noo! You broke the golden van rule, no seafood while in the campervan! 😊 Ohh Ken, you poor thing, there’s literally nothing worse. Carol what a trooper, driving on & getting you both to the comfort of home safely. 🥰 Well sometimes these lessons are sent to us for a reason & I hope you never have to go through the unpleasant experience again, but at least if you do, you’ll can comfortably sit on your own loo! There’s really nothing quite like having an emergency 🆘 toilet use 🚽 at the side of the road in your own van, G can vouch for that 🤭 🙈 I hope you’re having a fabulous time in your lovely shiny new van 🚐 Great, honest video as always! Em & G 💜 x

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes, we feel so much happier having a fixed loo and shower. Loving the new van 🙂

[@karennevin7101]

Yikes! I will be adding that golden rule to our van camping!!

[@vansforthememories]

@@karennevin7101 haha 😂 yes, it’s definitely a rule in our van 🚐 while on our travels 🤭 Em 💜

[@julielee6144]

After working for 24 years in the restaurant profession l will respectfully advise that you were extremely fortunate to avoid hosptalisation.The seafood that you consumed was obviously harbouring a very high level of contamination and the initial distaste you detected was a definite red flag.With any food that requires refrigeration in your van please don't ever turn off your cooling.l'm very glad you're ok and looking forward to some wonderful experiences in your new vehicle.Take care 🌅

[@sweetlorraine6982]

I’ll second that what a trooper Carol, don’t know if i could do that driving in a foreign land, at my age i already will not drive at night unless it’s a short journey and even then it’s usually for one of the family not myself.

[@Zak_How]

Thank God Carol felt ok to drive! Gosh I have to admit I laughed quite hard at the part where you stopped to have lunch while Ken was being sick. Gosh what great story. Thank you for sharing.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

😁👍

[@katewebber1131]

Only started watching after you got the new van. It gave you lots of fun, but the new van must be like paradise, own loo and shower. Traveling around Italy was a shocker re bathrooms , finding public toilets a pain and you pay as well. Heat is worse when it's humid. Live in the subtropics, so used to it.Could not manage without a loo.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

@@katewebber1131 the new van is certainly more comfortable and the onboard toilet is very welcome. We’re not used to high temperatures and humidity so would struggle 🙂

[@lindsaygedling4979]

We am so looking forward to your adventure in your new van. I actually got emotional when watching your video when you collected it ❤

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Glad you liked it ❤️

[@lorigill-hj2ni]

I've been that poorly but then my husband was alive and with me and in a caravan with loo and shower. Now I'm a widow and 68, and it's made me think about the next van after my NIssan NV200. Thank you for your excellent vlogs. I couldn't have coped with the heat either but the Loire looked lovely.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Cheers 👍

[@lynnej7219]

It was so lucky you were not both unwell. That has only happened to me once in my life. Fortunately at home but I spent the whole night in the bathroom. I could not leave! I cannot imagine being in a van without facilities.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

If we had both had it it would have been dire.

[@fionawoolard2169]

It is likely that the crab sandwich was the culprit, not the fish, most food poisoning needs an incubation period so is rarely due to the last meal eaten. Definitely agree it’s great having a toilet in the van, I’m sure you will enjoy your new van. Excellent vlogs of France, thank you.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes, it could have been the crab as Carol was OK. Enjoying the new van. Thanks for watching 🙂

[@paulineclarke5388]

There is nothing worse than food poisoning, I had it once when we returned from Spain I caught Campylobacter from chicken so I feel your pain Ken

[@crawfordg]

Hi Carol and Ken Great video. I can fully sympathise with your predicament. When we lived in Mid Devon we went on a 5 day coach tour of Scotland based in Argyll which I know very well, we had done a few previously. Last day woke up poorly not able to take breakfast. Now facing at 0700hrs departure, a 14 hour return journey. Had no meds with me..relying on the planned stops we were going to make, South Scotland, 2 other stops and all times just about making to the facilities coupled with unruly geriatric mouthy passengers we had enough of them throughout the trip, a diversion around the midlands as the M6 was closed. Finally getting back to the South Molton drop off. The only way I managed to get back without a hospital visit was some meds picked up at a Motorway services.Coach trips never again! Hope that you are now enjoying that fabulous new van. Regards Crawford

[@LifeistooshortCK]

That sounds like an ordeal. Bet you were so glad when that trip was over!

[@plove523]

I am sorry to hear you were so ill and bravo to Carol for making the whole drive back. Having to get up in the night to go to the bathroom was a deciding factor on the rv I purchased. No more tent camping or campers without facilities for me these days. I saw the new video of the new campervan, it’s beautiful.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thank you 🙂

[@anniemac3075]

I've always said that people insisting on no toilet facilities haven't considered illness or just the non availability of a convenient wc somewhere near. Life likes to throw curve balls & I'm glad you survived the horrible experience & even more glad you have your own facilities now.

[@josephdaly3327]

Beautifully melodic tinkling from Francoise. I wonder if he tunes his own engine acarries spare keys Wrecking Ball, Start All Over, We Can't Stop and Flow-ers. All hits for someone called Mile-y. The last one spoken in a Lancashire accent kind of makes sense, I hope that plate doesn't register an achy breaky down!

[@janetbowen7854]

I had guessed what might have happened , but nevertheless it was a shock to hear the full story. Carol is amazing how she handled the challenge, and the expense of the flexi CT ticket was money well spent. Ironically I have just bought a bivvy loo for the new campervanning season, not happy with how much space the PortaPotti takes up and all the faff with chemicals and water (only ever taken it once on a trip, but never primed it for use). Sorry, I forgot to click the Amazon link from your video. I'm amazed at how little space it takes. We also have an external cold water shower fitted to our Bilbo. I can appreciate the distress that you suffered, Ken. I had food poisoning from a shop bought egg sandwich on holiday in the Scottish Highlands. I can still remember the pain from the stomach ache. I can also remember driving (Chris was actually driving) a hire car through the Tuscan hills years ago when a storm began rapidly. The hail stones were the size of golf balls, fortunately we could pull over and sit it out, and even the Italian drivers did the same. We were worried that the hire car would be damaged, but fortunately it was ok. So glad you were able to cancel the VW base vehicle and that you followed the recommendation for Consort. Your new campervan looks amazing, I expect Consort will attract a lot of interest from people considering changing their campervan or from those seeking to join our wonderful world of camping in a leisure vehicle. At least we're vegetarian so reduced risk of food poisoning, but I'm still wary with 🥚 s😄 Have fun in Yorkshire 🚐❤️🍾 xx

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks. The Bivvy loos are great. We will probably still use the bag it and bin it principal in our new van toilet ☺️

[@sallya5158]

Like you say heat and fridge fluctuations a lesson you wont ever do again. Enjoyed the series, carry on Jack as they say.x❤

[@jackiestokes6502]

We’ve been loving your adventures and we’re so glad you got home safely. I think you made the right decision to make your way back home. Our first trip to Scotland and then a trip down to the lakes ended so abruptly because of the same reason, we were supposed to head to wales after the lakes before heading back home to Kent but I became so ill that all I wanted was to get back home.. my husband was marvellous and just drove all the way back home.. I’m looking forward to seeing your many adventures together in your new van xx

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sorry you had that experience ☺️

[@richardcope3850]

Oh Ken (& Carol) it has always amazed me who you got by without the toilet and so much wildcamping. Staying on sites I guess is a different story. Little red is a great van but one of the reasons we went for the Nugget Plus is the fixed toilet. It has a shower but external (in an emergency at least it’s there). Unfortunately, I was taken ill (similar to you) sometime back and we were able to carry on. Had to really as I’m the only driver but we reduced the pace and everything worked out. Take care, fantastic new van in the Consort and look forward to your feedback on it. Enjoy everyday as ‘Life is too short’!

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes that toilet allows the trip to continue.

[@robertgolding7152]

Wow. High ambient temperature, turning fridge off overnight, fish and prawns in the fridge….. a learning point here. We adjust fridge temperature upwards in these circumstances not turn it off. Best thing I bought was a cheap temperature gauge for the fridge to make sure we keep it at 5 degrees or below. And ice packs in freezer that can be redeployed to the fridge in an emergency. At least you got home…but another high risk to drive 7 hours like that to your heart, dehydration etc. Thank goodness you made it. Agree with you about the value of a proper toilet on board. Sure the Consort will be a game changer for you

[@LifeistooshortCK]

That’s a good tip. We should have taken some ice packs in the freezer to help keep the fridge cool when needed 👍

[@annamric6597]

With it being early summer, I'm surprised you don't get any solar power in the shade. I'd thought you got a trickle charge. Can you not turn the engine on to give you a boost. Or it it worth using a camp site for a good power up.

[@mkeizer8134]

Hello you two, I am sorry but I had to laugh. Trip in memory lane, like more people in the comments. I am a solo traveller all my live, camping in a small tent and mostly by public transport. Almost 50 years ago I got sick like Ken, in a very very hot Dordogne. People wanted to help, but I only wanted my mum🤭. She came from Rotterdam for the rescue next day! Nowadays I have a microcamper and indeed a nice loo in it. The storm reminded me of very nasty weather in Croatia on the coast. Nice Germans gave me a shelter in their California VW, I felt more safe on the rubber wheels during the lightnings. I wish you very nice new memories in that lovely home from home on wheels.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Good old mum. It’s fine to laugh at these situations 😁👍

[@pattyk8594]

You two had me laughing when you talked about how amazing it was she still had an appetite for lunch. LOL 😆

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes Carol is a real trooper. I would have been just the same had it been her who was ill 😁👍

[@atakd]

I hope this doesn't sound overly critical but I can't see why this mishap led to an abandoned holiday. There are plenty of cheap, automatic check-in hotels in France such as Formule 1 and equally many laundry facilities, often outdoor in supermarket car parks. I've had a similar experience myself and whilst it's certainly unpleasant, once the damage is done it's not to difficult to recover. Maybe I'm trying to convince myself as I've just bought a California after coachbuit ownership. Hopefully a dodgy moule won't put my thinking to the test too quickly. Good luck with your new van.

[@judyl5260]

The dreadful shellfish…on a cruise ship had noro virus go thru…it’s a land based virus…counted 22 isolation carts in our hallway…the sick were confined to their rooms.My roommate and I both escaped becoming ill…my hands were washed raw, but no illness

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Glad you managed to avoid catching it 🙂

[@willar7179]

I’m sitting in my campervan watching this episode and thinking that I need to throw out everything in my little freezer since i just checked it and it isn’t frozen solid. Better to restock from scratch than risk being that ill. I learn so much from you and other favorite vanlife KZbinrs.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sounds like a good idea. Better to be safe , especially when living in a campervan ☺️

[@willar7179]

@@LifeistooshortCK yes, as my mom used to say “when in doubt, throw it out. “

[@thomasraden3793]

Wetherspoons in the UK does have pretty good english breakfast meals. They do also have descent prices for a pint of beer. I usually like a pint of bitter. That is not heard of in Scandinavia.

[@angidudley3707]

Wow, what a chateau! Amongst other things, you will definitely appreciate a van loo on your travels. No more dodgy prawns for Ken, hopefully. We’re looking forward to your new van adventures 😊

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thank you 🙂

[@Kermit-Si]

Poor old you Ken, well done you, Carol for doing all the driving. This is one thing that is always at the back of my mind, as I travel alone, especially last year when I did Poland and Slovakia. But there you are, you can't let it worry you or you wouldn't go anywhere 👍🐸

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We were just unlucky. You are right, you can’t let things like that stop you from travelling 🙂

[@cantstandlazyskanks]

Food poisoning...... Wow...... Iv just got over it after two weeks..... Completely wipes you out..... Pleased your in better health.... Stay healthy...

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes it floored me. Hope you feel better now 👍

[@Wizardinthewild]

Really felt for you both on that trip. Not a situation anyone wants to be in. I recently fell sick in Merlin and it was great having the loo close by to be sick into! These things do happen and it’s a lot less stressful if you have the facilities to deal with it.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sorry to hear you were ill. Hate being sick. 👍

[@valeriebishop561]

Oh my.... What a horrible time you both had. So glad to see you better Ken and so glad to hear about a flexi ticket!

[@adogaday]

Thank you so much for the graphic detail. Just the thing we needed while tucking into the weekend takeaway lol. I think we’ve said before that we’re not convinced by the utility of a shower but definitely think the loo will be liberating. Another lovely series though thank you. Take care x

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sorry about that 😅 We’ve tried the shower in the new van and it works well but we won’t be using it every day ☺️

[@suebt8794]

Our potapotti is worth it's weight in gold! Got us out of lots of shifty situations 😂😅😊

[@stevezodiac491]

When we are in the campervan and need shade for an extended time and thus negating the roof mounted solar panel. We get our Amazon bought Dokio portable solar panel out, place it in the sun nearby, charging our ecoflow delta 2. From the delta 2, I plug in the normal 3 pin plug to hook up adapter into my hook up lead and then hook up the van at the other end. We have an extra long solar panel lead , so that the ecoflow can be placed in the van with the leads coming into and out of the front window, to stop it being stolen. Worth it I believe, never had to shut the fridge off. You can also charge the Ecoflow as you travel to keep it topped up. It may have saved you your double burner episode with spoiled fish or prawns ? When you first got into your new van, the excitement on Carol's face was palpable, take care and many wonderful and new adventures.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Great setup. We have a Jackery with it’s own roof mounted solar on the new one for emergencies 👍

[@treffy100]

Carol and Ken,Good luck with the new camper!!Enjoy and stay healthy!!!

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thank you 🙏

[@roaminginraymond]

Hello both. Been watching your last few videos but not commenting as we've been watching on the telly. The new van looks amazing. So sorry to hear that you were ill, although it did make me laugh too when you said it was both ends as I've been there when we all got Norovirus in a static caravan. It really is the worst thing ever and can only imagine how bad it was in the little red van. Glad you're well now and happy travels in the Consort.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Hello Helen & Karl, lovely to hear from you. Thanks for watching. Take care and safe travels 🙂

[@LeeUK2]

Awful situation. I think I'd have looked for an F1 (formule1) hotel, self check in, some are motel like, circa 30€pn Seems mad to drive all that way, but home is home. Am enjoying your video style. Well put together.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We just couldn’t even bear the thought of looking for a hotel. Just wanted to get home and cleaned up ☺️

[@theoldhobbit3640]

So so sorry to hear about your bad experience, we had guessed it might have been a medical thing that finally pushed you to a bigger van. Fingers crossed you will get everything from your new van that you wish for, and good luck passing "Little Red" onto a loving home. We are looking forward to your new adventures and how you marry up the comparisons between the two vans. Good luck and happy adventures.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks for your support ❤️👍

[@philswain9259]

A campsite with good facilities might have been an option. We always carry a small portaloo and have a 12v shower system and a curtain on the tailgate of the van for emergency showering

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Certainly worth a try 👍

[@georgebuscay8511]

We had an RV in the US after retiring and selling our house, with a restroom, since we just wandered the country and never knew where we would be and if there would be facilities. We lived full-time in the RV for 3 years and were glad for the restroom. There are times on the road you just need the facilities in a hurry. Our smaller trailer (since we bought a house in another area of the US) is great, too, with a bathroom. We saw vans without them and knew that wasn't for us. Just found your youtube and enjoy it. Kathleen

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Hi Kathleen welcome ❤️

[@Stchristopherofatlantis]

That was an explosive ending to your tour. What a nightmare situation but it did help you get your awesome new van. Fingers crossed you’ll never be in that situation again but the peace of mind has to be worth it. Great video as always.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Yes I can see why a toilet is sometimes referred to as ‘the thunder box’ now 😁. I am glad it happened now otherwise we would of been sat in a van we didn’t really want 👍

[@kiaorable]

Oh no, what a terrible predicament to be in with no toilet, I love my portable toilet, it’s so easy aNd convenient, no smell at all and lasts 5 days before needing a dump point, this is in Australia. Glad your ok now. Cheers Judy

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We had a toilet but to use it the other person needs to leave the van. Totally unworkable when you need it every 15 minutes 😁👍

[@kiaorable]

@@LifeistooshortCK absolutely. The new van is going to solve that. You’re going to enjoy the new van.

[@dave633]

Well done Carol for getting the old man home safely! What a horror story. I am thankful for the, as yet unused, Boxio composting loo That I picked up for a whopping 93% discount a couple of months back. It will be resevred for precisely those types of emergency. Now I just have to rebuild the bed in my E-NV200 to make room.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We hope you never have to use it 😅

[@minniecc8904]

Aww Ken you poor thing (and poor Carol having to witness all that was going on!) What a crappy way to end your trip - no pun intended 😂 Wishing you both the happiest of maiden voyages and hope you're both enjoying getting to know your new van. Thanks for the content, we love watching! xx

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks for watching. All is going well and we are loving the new van 🙂

[@leenewcome85]

Oh ken hopefully you are much better now thanks for sharing 😊

[@LifeistooshortCK]

I am!

[@gwynethglas-brown9171]

Oh No so sorry to hear how ill you became Ken 😮😢 Food poison or Norovirus are the worse conditions to get while traveling 😮🫣 Carol you did so well driving home and luckily you didn’t become So Sick too . Hope your Fully Recovered Ken take care 🥰

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Fine now thanks 👍

[@danie2300]

Hi you two! I can certainly relate to your bad experience. The same thing happened to my partner the last two days of our vacation in Nova Scotia, CA last summer. I was glad I had the 80’s soft rock music the keep me company all the way back home while he was sleeping is way back to health. So sorry to see the little red van go but I envy the luxury you will have in your new van. Be safe! Danielle, the little white van in Qc, Canada.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks Danielle. Sorry to hear you had a similar experience.

[@salspace1957]

Really enjoyed following your trips everywhere. Poor Ken that brought back memories of a trip in our small caravan to Kent many years ago now but unforgettable. I’d packed a vacuum pack of mussels in garlic in the little fridge but there was so much in the fridge the door wasn’t shut properly. I cooked the mussels which tasted ok because they were in a garlic sauce. A few hours after eating them I felt so ill thought I was dying. It was pouring with rain and the last place you want to be feeling like that is in a little van! Long story short I was ill for weeks, went off mussels for a few years. I always wince when I see you’re eating prawns I would never eat seafood in a van away from home! Looking forward to following your future trips x

[@LifeistooshortCK]

It has taught us a lesson too. Carol can relate to your mussels tale, they do not agree with her 🤮

[@powderpuff1964]

i saw wild boar in the grounds of that chateau sleep there a few nights great

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We would have loved to have seen some wild boar 🐗 🙂

[@davelee-00]

An excellent lesson in being prepared and asking yourself "What if........?". Looking forward to seeing your travels in the new camper.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

👍

[@vivienogden9916]

Oh no! Personally I would never travel without loo and shower, means far less hunting for these facilities or going to campsites.

[@elisabethseeger5837]

Ooh I am so sorry you were that sick Ken! I have had a similar but not so severe episode so I really felt sorry for you!!

[@karennevin7101]

Oh my, so sorry for that experience with you guys. And can you imagine if Carol got that sick as well??!? Yeowsa

[@riverbankannie9034]

We had a similar situation whilst camping (in a tent) in Tenby. Husband started being sick, wanted to come home. However, earlier that day, whilst climbing a stile on the coast path, I had stumbled and put my hands out to save myself but grabbed a gorse bush. I had gorse thorns stuck in both my palms. I had to get down the tent and pack the car and drive all the way home, husband with the washing up bowl on his lap. I can feel the pain now thinking about it. ☹️ We now have an IH so similar to your new one, as one gets older and especially with IBS, it is unthinkable to be any distance from a loo. Looking forward to seeing it in your next travels, we are off to Spain!

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We will be off to Spain at some point 😁. I bet that was a painful drive home with those thorns. 😁👍

[@1northcountrygirl]

Oh no! Poor Ken! That situation is the stuff of nightmares. I can see why you changed your mind about the type of van to buy.

[@user-td9sy4co6p]

Loved France. So bright and lovely sky. Glad Ken got better . Looking forward to your next trip.

[@MrSteve1412]

Great to know you are both well now and have your lovely new van to keep us entertained Looking forward to what you get up to this coming year 👍

[@elzabethmorgan8020]

So sorry this happened; grateful you were able to get home safely - well done Carol. Seems like a lot of things worked out for the best in the end.

[@davidjames1817]

We've followed you for ages, simillar ages to yourselves, but could never live in a van such as Little Red. It's a good job you can both drive and equally a good job you weren't both afflicted! We have a 6mtr IH camper van with a loo and shower and wouldn't change anything. Your new van must feel palatial. Enjoy 😁.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We have discovered that its a long walk from one end of the van to the other to get your specs 😁👍

[@mrsc8044]

You’re quite right about the problems of being in a hotel in such circumstances. Years ago we were staying in a small, upmarket gastro hotel in the Lot area of France. I suffered food poisoning from a prawn starter. The symptoms were identical to those described by you. The hotel owners were mortified and couldn’t do enough to care for me as well as look after my husband and (then) young son . Even so it was a truly awful experience and I can still remember the embarrassment of not being able to deal with the laundry and cleaning up the beautiful room privately. I can’t imagine a hotel wanting to take on such a responsibility if it wasn’t their fault.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sorry to hear about your experience. Good of the hotel to take care of you and your family at such a time.

[@alannorman1773]

Oh merde!! Poor you Ken. Been there after a dodgy fish supper in Portree so I can definitely empathise. No fun but you coped amazingly ❤.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Sorry to hear that!

[@junerobinson8169]

Hi, oh Ken I felt so sorry about you being poorly, and being away from home, it must of been horrible for you. There’s nothing like being at home when you feel like that. Anyway I’m glad you are feeling better now. Loved the video, Carol the chateaux looked lovely you go to some lovely places so thank you for sharing it all with us. I have really enjoyed all the France trip lovely place. Take care see you soon 😊😊

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks ❤️

[@LeeLeesAdventures]

What a dilemma we have always said camper vans need a shower toilet room. You never know what life will trow at you. We now have an outside shower as well as an inside one. Same as the kitchen. Glad you got back safe.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Absolutely!! Thank you 🙂

[@ROUTEPLANNERPAUL]

Carol&ken such a joy to watch you both ,, very pleasant easy listening,,,,, oh mmmm french ham ,,, france is a beautiful country to explore,, love your editing ❤️

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@lindahiggins7744]

So glad you’re feeling better 👍❤️❤️👍

[@uptowndisco2]

happy you survived Ken , this is the exact reason I have a Porta Potti tucked away for an emergency , like you never used it in the last 5 years but there could come the day it might be needed as you found out , still don't have a shower though lol

[@triciabuckling3385]

Glad you got home ok, I got food poisoning on holiday in Devon years ago,think it was a prawn sandwich i,d eaten earlier that day,was staying at a B ad B had an awful night and I was completely drained for 3 days.Glad you've got your new camper van it looks great and I wish you many happy travels in it,hope Little Red 's new owners will have happy journeys too.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Starting to think it may have been the prawns at lunchtime! Thanks 🙂

[@the-other-windsors]

So sorry Ken. Unpleasant at the best of times, let alone in the van and well done Carol to continue driving with all that going on beside 🤢🐕🚙

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We were certainly glad to get home ☺️

[@Nordkapp65]

Nasty event, It puts things into perspective, little red van had its limitations, wishing you all the best in the new van.

[@grapesodatravels]

Firstly, Chateau Chambord looks amazing! More importantly, that's a brilliant use of the word 'delightful'! What a horrible experience. How dreadful... 🤢 I feel your pain. I teach small people so, yeah... bugs are a joy...!

[@LifeistooshortCK]

😁👍

[@Mikescamperadventures]

Great episode guys 😊

[@sylviapage8572]

Oh dear. I know exactly how that feels after suffering something similar myself! I’m so sorry it brought your travels to a halt but I think earlier that day you really looked like you were suffering with the heat. Thankfully you have your new van with full facilities but hopefully this won’t happen again. I usually say thanks for sharing but on this occasion I’ll just send my best regards. 😊

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks for watching 🙂

[@dianabelcher39]

So sorry your holiday ended the way it did, but the final result was well worth it!!!! Ken what you went through was food poisoning, it has happened to me while camping in a tent and it was dreadful!!! so I made it home the next day and my own bed... stopping many times of course.....Love your new van it is fabulous....

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks Diana 🙂

[@judiw2892]

You guys are a great team!

[@tommyroche9142]

Only came across your channel last night (the pick up of the Consort video) and really liked the relaxed style. This one though reminded me of the one and only time in my 56 years that I've suffered food poisoning whilst attending a wedding in N. Ireland. I really feel for you as it's a horrible experience, especially so when you're away from home. Nothing like the comfort and privacy of your own home when unwell. 😊 Looking forward to following along on your future travels. 👍

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Embarrassing for it to happen at the wedding. Being with others just makes it worse 😁👍

[@TUGMASTERUK1]

Glad you are both ok. Look forward to your adventures in the Consort. Cheers guys.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Thanks 🙂

[@morfuddkeidel4996]

So sorry you were so poorly Ken but out of such a difficult time came the decision to get the new van with shower and toilet now you are equipped for any emergency and will have peace of mind.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

It was meant to be 👍

[@jamiecleeves7921]

lovely video and some great driving to thanks

[@stellaswancounselling]

Oh wow what a nightmare 😮. I hear you. I think you were brave to ever do it without a loo. I need that peace of mind as I have a shy bladder/bowel lol ❤😂. Thanks for sharing ❤

[@LifeistooshortCK]

we had a loo but one of us would have to go outside. Doesn’t work when you have to sit on it all day 😁👍

[@stellaswancounselling]

@@LifeistooshortCK for sure. The only time I experienced food poisoning was after eating a prawn 🍤.

[@karenchapman2561]

Hello Carol & Ken great vid loved the Horses 😁 Allwsys best to head home when not feeling well might of been the prawn glad your feeling better .Look forward to your Adventures 😁

[@williehannon9306]

Making it up as you go along. Taking a chance. Not sure what to do. Reacting. As ex military that qualifies as being brave doing your best. That's good enough for me.What a team

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Cheers Willie 😁👍

[@davypeugeot]

Wow you really were poorly in the van. It would certainly change my mind also about shower and toilet. I can't imagine how bad you felt and away from home ...... Glad your ok. Thanks for sharing and making us all aware..... Hope you have a great weekend I'm sure out an about in the new van ..... Enjoy it both of you.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We are having a great time thanks 👍

[@christinemarchant4678]

What an amazing chateaux

[@richardgiles2484]

Glad your both OK 👍

[@pageant1fd]

Top of our list to buy our new motorhome was a decent size shower/loo room. Then fixed bed. The rest can be of lesser importance I feel. Glad to hear you got over it Ken and well done Charlie Brown the ( smelly) ambulance driver !!!

[@danielchance2217]

Good morning from lovely Syracuse, New York.😂❤

[@LifeistooshortCK]

Morning!

[@Mad-Coo]

Wow, what a rapid onset of food poisoning!, i suspect prawns,crab or Mayonnaise? Takes a wee while for it to brew up. Well done Carol driving and looking after the patient. Great logic though and well worth having the toilet and shower luxury on the new Van. Things happen for a reason. Glad you are both safe and well. Enjoyed viewing thanks ❤😂

[@LifeistooshortCK]

I never realised it takes time for it to brew. I always thought it was a few hours. Yes we are both glad it happened now. 👍

[@christinehopkins7561]

Oh goodness.. sounds an horrific journey for you both… We have always taken a toilet in our van (we are much older than you two)…not a shower though (or just a pump one in a bucket) can understand why your needs changed… the new motor home looks fabulous… looking forward to your new adventures!

[@tinasavage674]

Oh ken that sounds lousy ! Glad your feeling better 😊

[@eamonnobrien1410]

Hope you're feeling better

[@PaulGatfotd-sx8pb]

I hope it’s your new van you would be more happier because you have everything you need don’t make the same mistake in the little red

[@petermccall6880]

Glad to see you fit & well. We’re just wondering if it was all a plot by Carol to escape to a new van with facilities - it was a set up! My conspiracy theory & am sticking with it 😊 Good luck with the new van & looking forward to seeing how you adapt.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

It could have been but I think she knows that all she has to do is ask 😁👍