Community Forums

ZenOnWheels · 06-02-2013, 01:04 PM

My name is Michael and I've been lurking for a few weeks and decided to register and jump in. I'm at the very beginning of trying to figure all this stuff out. No RV yet...one of the things I've noticed as a common thread in a lot of discussions is the recommendation to do a lot of research before committing to a vehicle and a lifestyle change.

I'm looking to do both. Hoping to retire early and full time with my partner. That is still a year or three away, but I figured I'd use this time to get as up to speed as possible on the ins and outs of full time RVing.

So far we've been to a bunch of RV shows and have also read tons of postings by full timers to get a sense of what it's like. It's been fun!

RVing seems like a very natural fit for us. We like traveling around, exploring and meeting new people. I'm not into collecting "stuff" and can easily fit my life into an RV. Most of all, I would so much rather be outdoors than indoors (this is the most compelling part of the RV lifestyle to me).

Newbie Question:
I keep hearing about how welcoming the RV community is, which is great. One thing I've been wondering about is how welcoming the community will be of a same-sex couple. I have not seen much posted about this online so it's hard to get a sense of what our experience will be when we get out there. If anyone has any observations on this point, I'd love to hear them. My gut says it won't be a big deal, but wonder if there are other perspectives on this I should consider.

Thanks!

Medico · 06-02-2013, 01:08 PM

Welcome and glad to meet you!

Can't help with the second part of your post as we have recently started ourselves, not same sex. I have found other RVers in the resort we are staying in for the season seem very friendly. Good luck and don't let these things prevent the RV lifestyle!

bdpreece · 06-02-2013, 01:25 PM

Welcome!!

Have met a few same sex couples in RV parks over the years. In most cases they make more over it than the rest of the people do (too worried). Don't think I have ever heard any disparaging remarks. Go, Relax, Enjoy!!

mcbrian · 06-02-2013, 01:29 PM

I have seen other same sex couples in my travels. I haven't seen a difference in the way they have been treated. I think that it is up to you how your treated. If your friendly and outgoing then you will meet and make friends. If you like to stay to yourself then you will be left alone. I can't think of anyone I know who doesn't have someone who is gay/lesbian in their life. If someone has a problem with same sex couples then I would say it is their problem, not yours. Good luck in your RV search and welcome.

ZenOnWheels · 06-02-2013, 03:29 PM

Thank you all for the insights. That's what I was hoping to hear, actually.

Yeah, I figured I was putting more worry into this than was necessary, but it's good to hear the "you get out of the experience what you put into it" message.

So the message coming through loud and clear is: be friendly, approachable and a good neighbor and these are the experiences & attitudes I am likely to have reflected back. That's exactly what I was hoping for!

--Michael

flaggship1 · 06-02-2013, 03:44 PM

Say what? Is there a problem with this somewhere? 2013 folks - move along - nothing to see here.

Now I know there are folks who aren't welcoming (in the world - not necessarily here) - but I doubt your question will flush em out into the light - and forum rules would probably be prohibitive. My guess is that the RV community is probably as much, if not more welcoming as any group of people you'll find. And - the great thing about RVing - if you don't like the weather - you move along anyway. I wouldn't give it another thought.

As for going full time, Annie and I are slated for sometime next year. Takes planning, research, money and timing. We here can help with all of it except the money. You're on your own there.

:

Good Luck and may the journey be your destination.
RVM2 -- Steve and Annie

EngineerMike · 06-02-2013, 03:50 PM

We used to belong to a club that had a gay couple that was very active. One of the guys always did great BBQ. They were welcome anytime. We were all foodies.
As a general rule you will find roving RV'ers are more adventurous and outgoing than the population as a whole.

336muffin · 06-02-2013, 04:08 PM

I consider it's your life and business. We have friends that are in our club and they are same sex. I was brought up to treat others as they treat me. I'm open minded enough to understand. I respect you for being concerned for my opinions.........as I am for yours. Welcome to the Forum!

bdwillie · 06-02-2013, 04:12 PM

You and your partner would be welcome to come join the DW and I around the campfire anytime! Bring snacks!

Lol.

I think ya might be worrying for no reason. There is always going to be someone who will throw a hissie fit, RVers or non RVers, but to heck with them, life's too short! Enjoy Camping!!

bdickson · 06-02-2013, 04:21 PM

Welcome to the community! I think the old motto applies to your concern: Those that matter don't mind, those that mind don't matter.

nakerr · 06-02-2013, 04:43 PM

Welcome.

SarahW · 06-02-2013, 04:55 PM

Howdy and welcome to iRV2!

RickO · 06-02-2013, 05:11 PM

Hi and welcome to the forum.

Keep doing your homework to better understand the various types of RVs available and which might best fit your needs.

As for acceptance, there's always a cold beer in our fridge for you guys but keep in mind that you might be traveling to many "diverse" parts of the country where views aren't always as "evolved" as they are in California. Added to that is the fact that the RV community as a whole is a bit older than the general population and that in itself could reveal a person or two along the way who's just not going to change their views.

It's a great question and after years of being active here on this forum, I can't recall it ever being asked before. I think you're wise to be asking but IMHO there is nothing about RVing community that would keep me from jumping in with both feet if I were you.

Bigotry occasionally raises its ugly head from time to time everywhere.

Best of luck. We're glad you found us.

Rick

Norm Mac · 06-02-2013, 05:13 PM

Okay, so now you know you don't need to worry about the same sex stuff. Let's get on to what's real important....

Quick! go out and rent an RV and have yourself a 1 or 2 week adventure. You can rent anything from a popup tent trailer to a Class A motorhome. Go out, have some fun. I think you'll enjoy it. You'll learn a lot more about RVing by using one than you will by walking through them at the show.

Shows are a whole bunch of fun but they don't compare to a sunset campfire.