New Member

[Dennis David]

This is part of a two-year plan to drive from San Jose, CA to San Jose, CR. I am hoping to convince at least 2 other parties (vehicles) to join me. For now I have set this year to train and purchase the vehicle and next year to have it modified and do a couple of shakedown runs. I am getting my Ham license next week, will get CPR and Red Cross first-aid certification and WFR training later this summer. Next up will be some basic automotive training then vehicle recovery and some 4-wheel/overlanding training. My moto is to learn from other people's experience and this has served me well in the pass.

I've added a journal to my website here: http://www.alongdesire.com that will cover pre-trip planning which has some pics of previous trips and you can see where "my head's at".

[DaveK]

Hey Dennis:

Welcome to OAUSA.

That sounds like an incredible journey. You are tackling quite a list of chores, auto mechanic, ham radio, 4WD/Overland driving, and WFR/CPR training. This is the kind of training that we encourage for all of our trips.

Please feel free to keep us updated on your progress and especially keep us informed on what happens on the trip. Who knows, you might even find more participants here who would like to travel with your group.

Welcome aboard!!!

[OLLIE]

That sounds like quite a trek. Wish I could join you. Welcome aboard.

[Dennis David]

I look at the training as being a part of the journey and this website here an important partner. As far as being a part of the "group" all you need is 6 free weeks and the desire ... in this case A Long Desire.

[cruiserlarry]

Welcome to OAUSA, Dennis...

You have a mighty lofty goal to reach over the next 2 years - best of luck.

I have great admiration for anyone willing to transverse the roads down to Costa Rica, especially given the current political climate throughout the regions you'll be crossing.

Regarding 4WD / recovery training, check out Badlands Adventures, ( www.4x4training.com ), run by our own Tom Severin (TomS).

Do you have any ideas on the vehicle you plan to use ? (I'd be more than happy to assist outfitting it for the trip )

What is your motivation / reason for this adventure ? Sounds like a lot of fun mixed with a lot of preparation - wish I could make time for a trip like that...

[Dennis David]

I am planning on getting a Toyota FJ Cruiser as this will also be my daily driver. You laugh but actually I will need somebody to help me out fit my vehicle because that's not something i am capable of doing myself or even really want to.

My motivation? Richard Francis Burton, the great 19th century explorer embarking in a hollowed log of wood—some thousand miles up a river, with an infinitesimal prospect of returning! He asked himself "Why?" and the only echo is "damned fool! . . . the Devil drives!"

I've always travelled ... I cannot not travel.

[cruiserlarry]

I am planning on getting a Toyota FJ Cruiser as this will also be my daily driver. You laugh but actually I will need somebody to help me out fit my vehicle because that's not something i am capable of doing myself or even really want to.

Well, I think you've made a good choice - and I happen to know the FJ Cruiser inside and out. I've outfitted them for Toyota Corp, folks all across the country, and I'd be glad to work with you to set one up for your journey, too.

[Dennis David]

Thanks for the offer but the chances are I will have somebody do it who is a little more local so that I can be involved while it's being done even if I am only passing wrenches.