- Видео 125
- Просмотров 157 713
The Importance of Being
Великобритания
Добавлен 2 фев 2020
Welcome to The Importance of Being (Imp of Be)....... Learning to take life at a slower, simpler pace. After decades getting stressed out in well paid but unfulfilling jobs, a health scare last year has allowed me to take time out, slow things down and appreciate life a lot more!
The perfect vehicle to enable me to do this is my 20 year old camper van - A Mazda Bongo!
Join me on my journey to this new way of living.... taking the slow roads, simple cooking and enjoying the views! No crowded places or tourist hot spots on this channel guaranteed!
To keep up with my weekly vlogs just hit subscribe and if you want to get notifications as soon as a new video is uploaded - click the bell notification
Thank you for watching and hope to see you on the road!
Julia x
The perfect vehicle to enable me to do this is my 20 year old camper van - A Mazda Bongo!
Join me on my journey to this new way of living.... taking the slow roads, simple cooking and enjoying the views! No crowded places or tourist hot spots on this channel guaranteed!
To keep up with my weekly vlogs just hit subscribe and if you want to get notifications as soon as a new video is uploaded - click the bell notification
Thank you for watching and hope to see you on the road!
Julia x
How Much Did I spend on my Bongo this year?
9 years ago this October I acquired my 1997 Mazda Bongo as a fresh import from Japan. In this video I go through all the running costs, including some welding and general maintenance that I have spent this year.
These are the links mentioned in the video:
The specialist insurance broker I have used for the past 9 years - 2gether insurance
The previous video I did on the major modifications with costs:
ruclips.net/video/a57qgu0tEU4/видео.html
I thought it may be useful if I listed the best purchases I have made for the Bongo. These are listed below ⬇️ including my Amazon Affiliate links. If you purchase using this link I may get a small commission at no cost to yourself. This helps support the ...
These are the links mentioned in the video:
The specialist insurance broker I have used for the past 9 years - 2gether insurance
The previous video I did on the major modifications with costs:
ruclips.net/video/a57qgu0tEU4/видео.html
I thought it may be useful if I listed the best purchases I have made for the Bongo. These are listed below ⬇️ including my Amazon Affiliate links. If you purchase using this link I may get a small commission at no cost to yourself. This helps support the ...
Просмотров: 1 336
Видео
Walking The Thames Path Part 4: Pangbourne to Henley. Bull Drama!
Просмотров 328Год назад
Our final leg of the Thames Path for this year. Pangbourne to Henley on Thames. One of the (in my humble opinion) most lovely sections of the Thames we have walked so far. If only it wasn't for the bulls! Oh and we spend the night in a horsebox I hope you enjoy watching - I will see you all soon on my next outdoor mini adventure Julia x Products Featured in this video (Amazon Affiliate Links) T...
Walking The Thames Path Part 3: Oxford to Pangbourne
Просмотров 509Год назад
2 years on from when we started walking The Thames Path, we are back in Oxford to complete the next leg. In this week's episode we get back in our stride and reconnect with the Old Thames, the sights ,the sounds and some old fashioned coaching inns. Products Featured in this video (Amazon Affiliate Links) The following are Amazon Affiliate links which means that I may get a small commission if ...
2 Night Bongo Trip - Walking from Tenby to Barafundle Bay on Wales Coast Path
Просмотров 532Год назад
It's official - I am back in love with my Bongo. This week I am spending 2 nights on a rural, farm campsite in Pembrokeshire and doing some great walks on the stunning coast path from Tenby to Barafundle Bay. I hope you enjoy Love Julia x Products Featured in this video (Amazon Affiliate Links) The following are Amazon Affiliate links which means that I may get a small commission if you purchas...
Walking the Taff Trail In Sections (Public Transport): Part 1
Просмотров 435Год назад
I have just started walking the Taff Trail, a 55-mile cycle/footpath between Cardiff Bay and Brecon. I will be dependent on public transport for part of the way so my routes are based on the availability of trains and buses. Join me for my first section, from Taff's Well back to Cardiff City.
Impromptu Look Around The Ol' Bongo
Просмотров 392Год назад
This is a super quick "hello" from me as I have missed you all. No major news but as I am in the van, getting it ready for "the Season" I thought I would invite you in for a chatter. Will be back soon with a day out video Love Always Julia xx
Things Have Been Rough: New Focus Needed
Просмотров 1 тыс.Год назад
It's me! Some explaining to do about why I haven't posted anything for so long. And what you will be seeing on this channel from now on. Thank you so much to all of you who remain with me on this channel. I'm feeling much more positive and fresh after my prolonged absence and I am really excited to share new videos with you very soon. Lots of Love Julia x
Ridgemonkey Scones
Просмотров 4342 года назад
I filmed this earlier this year but the Ridgemonkey cooking was buried in the video of my day out at Penallta Country Park. I have now extracted the bit where I make (and eat!) scones with jam and clotted cream. Enjoy :) Love Julia x This is the scone recipe I used: www.dovesfarm.co.uk/recipes/plain-white-scones Amazon Affiliate Links The following are Amazon Affiliate links which means that I ...
Mazda Bongo MOT, Rust and Camping Gaz Update
Просмотров 1 тыс.2 года назад
Just a "chat" video for those of you who wanted to know about the rust issues. I'm also talking about this year's MOT and the saga of the Camping Gaz supply problem. Thanks to all who commented on the last Rust video and gave me helpful advice on garages to try. The Bongo Gang are a very lovely crowd :) Love Julia x
Testing Testing Can I do ASMR?
Просмотров 2602 года назад
I have had a few very kind comments about my soothing voice so I am learning the technique for making ASMR videos. The first few I have tried have been simply me rambling while speaking softly / whispering. You lucky people can be the first to see my attempts. What do you think? Do I have a career as an ASMR artist??? I have set up a new channel and if you would like to you can reach it by foll...
Mazda Bongo: Rear Conversion & High Top - How I store everything for a road trip
Просмотров 6682 года назад
While we were away on our recent trip around East Anglia I recorded a video on storage. Have a peek inside all my cupboards! Amazon Affiliate Links The following are Amazon Affiliate links which means that I may get a small commission if you purchase these items through these links but at no cost to yourself. Kettle with folding handle amzn.to/3RZfnXy Litter Picker amzn.to/3SmHi4J Mazda Bongo T...
Mazda Bongo Roadtrip Part 4: Sussex to Wiltshire- Magical Trees.
Просмотров 2682 года назад
This is the final episode of our recent 2 week UK Roadtrip. And what a glorious few stops! My favourite stay of the trip in fact. I hope you enjoy watching it. This trip has given us renewed confidence to travel and stay overnight in gorgeous places without needing to stay on campsites. Let me know in the comments if you know any places we have been on this trip. Much Love Julia & Richard xx *T...
Mazda Bongo Roadtrip Part 3: Essex to Sussex
Просмотров 3882 года назад
The 2 week UK road trip continues. From Colchester to some seaside overnights in Essex including the fabulous Southend-on-Sea Pier. Also featuring a few Ridgemonkey cook ups! Hope you enjoy the video as much as I did putting it together Love Julia & Richard x *This video is NOT sponsored however some links may be affiliate links which means if you purchase the item through that link, I may make...
Mazda Bongo UK Road Trip Part 2- Norfolk to Suffolk Coasts
Просмотров 6832 года назад
We are on a 2-week road trip around Great Britain in our 25-year-old Mazda Bongo campervan. We are aiming to see as much of the East Anglian coast as we can. This week we indulge in some traditional British seaside nostalgia. Don't forget to subscribe! There will be 4 episodes on this trip Love Julia & Richard x *This video is NOT sponsored however some links may be affiliate links which means ...
Mazda Bongo 2 Weeks UK Roadtrip Part 1:Using Searchforsites & Park4nite
Просмотров 1,1 тыс.2 года назад
Mazda Bongo 2 Weeks UK Roadtrip Part 1:Using Searchforsites & Park4nite
Campervan Road Trip Continues :Essex to Sussex
Просмотров 1522 года назад
Campervan Road Trip Continues :Essex to Sussex
Suffolk to Essex Coast Road Trip - Where Are We Now?
Просмотров 1862 года назад
Suffolk to Essex Coast Road Trip - Where Are We Now?
5 Ways I'm Preparing My Bongo for the Cost of Living Crisis in 2022
Просмотров 7892 года назад
5 Ways I'm Preparing My Bongo for the Cost of Living Crisis in 2022
Late Summer Walk through British fields with ancient trees and a ruined farmhouse
Просмотров 1382 года назад
Late Summer Walk through British fields with ancient trees and a ruined farmhouse
Glastonbury Campervan Trip. Breathtaking Views from Tor
Просмотров 5142 года назад
Glastonbury Campervan Trip. Breathtaking Views from Tor
Cooking Over Fire Using Our Mini Fire Anchor. Beautiful Deserted Beach South Wales
Просмотров 3572 года назад
Cooking Over Fire Using Our Mini Fire Anchor. Beautiful Deserted Beach South Wales
A Day At The Beach - Cooking Burgers With The Ridgemonkey & Portable Gas Stove
Просмотров 1,3 тыс.2 года назад
A Day At The Beach - Cooking Burgers With The Ridgemonkey & Portable Gas Stove
Tiny Camper Van Stay at Tredegar Park Caravan & Motorhome Club Site
Просмотров 4402 года назад
Tiny Camper Van Stay at Tredegar Park Caravan & Motorhome Club Site
Cliff Farm Certificated Location Campsite - Perfect for fans of Severn Bridge!
Просмотров 2902 года назад
Cliff Farm Certificated Location Campsite - Perfect for fans of Severn Bridge!
Rust Part 2: I have Rust Issues & Trust Issues. Can you help?
Просмотров 3792 года назад
Rust Part 2: I have Rust Issues & Trust Issues. Can you help?
Port Talbot Street Art Guided Walk - Introducing my Grandson Albie
Просмотров 2282 года назад
Port Talbot Street Art Guided Walk - Introducing my Grandson Albie
I Have Rejoined The Caravan & Motorhome Club - Here's Why!
Просмотров 5302 года назад
I Have Rejoined The Caravan & Motorhome Club - Here's Why!
Hello Great video I’m looking to look at my mates sister Bongo this weekend she had it about 3 years now and only used it 4 times the van in her friends Garage last 2 years she asking £4000 and gave me first refusal the van is in very good condition inside and out with no problems and I know she paid £8500 of a dealer I will let you know if buy the van 👍🏻
hi have you still got the bongo and thoughts on high roofs it warmer than the pop top thanks sam
You used to be able to walk from the harbour area down to Port Talbot beach. Sadly the path is now closed alongside the river. They built a 6 foot wall across because the path is subsidng.
It’s an area I haven’t really explored before
Hi there,doing this Thursday, how long was this route in the one day please
Hi we did source to Cricklade on first day which was 12 miles then cricklade to Lechlade was another 12 miles. Hope you enjoy the walk as much as we did. Don’t expect to see too much water on day 1 😂
It was a relic form the steam age. It was a water tower for steam locos which were used on the Tetbury branch. On the other side of the station you would have seen the platform for the Cirencester branch. Both branches closed in the 1960s.
Oh this is fascinating info - thank you ☺️
I looked into one of these corroding death traps-the best tool for a Bongo is called Gov.UkMot history checker ... youl never spend a penny on one as youl end up buying something else..
Thanks for sharing! I enjoy the videos that I have just come across. I have a 2001 PopTop Bongo! I have not modified it yet because I am on-call as the deso driver for my daughter & friends. lol, I'm in Australia. Cheers, Deb :)
Such a versatile van isn’t it. We used it loads as an 8 seater before we did the conversion.
I've been using P4N for years. I'm curious to know what you think of SearchforSites and how it compares?
Watching from Sherwood in Nottingham. I’ve been watching your channel after buying a wreck of a bongo a year ago. As an early import 1997 on an N plate, It’s back on the road after 8 years in a shed, and just about finished converting it; we’re hoping to get a start using it in earnest this March/April hopefully. Love your calming videos, thanks for the tips on the way
Wow that sounds like a lot of work you have had to do. Reminds me of the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 😂 Wishing you lots of amazing adventures in it.
Hi can I ask you what garage you use in Worcester please as I am in redditch and need help with my BONGO x
Sorry for delay in my response I used Worcester Mobile mechanics in Worcester for mots and servicing and new Dawn conversions for the roof and extras
25 years as a hgv European driver, what ever you want to know about Europe then please ask.
I might take you up on that 😊 thank you
Thanks!!
Just found your channel Julia and I love it 😊. Going in the Bongo to pick up some ex battery hens tomorrow, to bring home ready to move into their new house and run my husband has built for them.
This is what I love about Bongos …. Sheer versatility 🚐 Welcome to the channel and very best wishes to your lovely hens 🐓
I have a great guy up here in Cumbria, but that's possibly too far away for you? He only does Bongo's, nothing else, and knows what he's talking about.
Well it’s good to know about that garage and I might just travel that far if I need to! And Cumbria is beautiful 🤩
Love my camper but with my total was as low as yours😂.T5 ownership can be expensive. AS U SAY SMILES PER MILES AND MEMORIES MADE.❤
As long as you are enjoying your van 🚐 long live the smiles 😬
I’m getting a new ( well used but new to me) Bongo at the start of December with my redundancy money. My currant one is on its last legs :( I plan to slowly work my way all the way around the coasts of the UK during the course of 2024 before going back into employment in 2025. I’ve worked full time since I left school at 16 in 1994 and see this as a good opportunity to do this tour. Would be lovely to bump into you and a Richard for a good old chin wag if out Bongo paths ever cross. It’s great to see another vid from you. It has lifted my day :)
I love this ⬆️ Good on you! Sounds a wonderful opportunity and it’s great that you are grabbing it. Similar to me. I’ve just retired early and want to do a Bongo challenge too. Use them or lose them I say 🚐
Good to see you! Those Bongo running costs are pretty similar to mine. I've just sold mine after 8 years of ownership, and smiles per mile!
You were a veteran Bongo owner too 😊 are you getting another van?
@@TheImportanceofBeing I am, a new import Toyota Alphard! It was a hard decision as I loved my Bongo.
Really interesting and useful thanks, I’m going to look into insurance again when I renew next year. I had my sills and arches done this year, I think you have that info? Also Autocraft, great garage in Cardiff that know bongos, unfortunately not for the bodywork though. Nice to see you back!
Thanks Amanda. Yes I’m so pleased your work was done. Autocraft is where I’ve been the last 2 years for MOT and servicing too
I've missed your vids! Have you got a particular destination in mind for your next Bongo adventure?
Lovely to know 😊 The next one is going to be UK and a solo mission. The question is will I make it to the continent ? ⁉️
Nice to see you again.
Interesting Videos .I had a Bongo for 10 years (P) Only one year I got through MOT without anything Rust every time but with all sorts of other things including front crossmember one year . You are right about finding the right people to do the welding .. I couldnt get the right people.. Mostly patch jobs with lots of paint to cover it... I did manage to fit new glow plugs and replace rocker gasket myself though. I loved my Bongo but gave her up last year and sold her without MOT as the welding bill was 2k. Love your hardtop.. and good th learn you had her undersealed way back then .. Happy days !!
I feel your pain 🙈 Oh to find a Bongo loving garage
Good to see you back. Interesting video. Be nice to get sills done and protected for many years
Thanks Martin. I shall keep you posted 😊
I got surrounded by a similar crowd about 15 years ago. The surrounded me in a crescent fashion with my back against the barbed wire and even more bullocks were on the other side of the wire. I ended up roaring at them while throwing my hands in the air while working my way to the end of the field. It was an awful experience. But the relief once out of harms way was so nice
You did well to react so well in that situation I’m sure if I had had the presence of mind to shout and wave my arms they would have backed off but I’m afraid I rather panicked 😱 I think they were curious more than hostile But you never know 😳
@@TheImportanceofBeing my bunch were more curious than anything when I look back, but it didn’t stop the fear at the time. I remember getting flash backs of newspaper headlines of “ hiker trampled to death by heard of cows” and “ hiker dies after 1 year in comma after cow trampling incident” etc since then, I have always entered fields with a pre planned escape plan just incase. Well done to you for getting out of your situation 👍 All the Best
So much more storage in a high top rather than a pop top
Totally agree 👍🏼
Hi Julia, just watching this for the first time and you were contemplating maybe selling your lovely Bongo and wondered whether that might be something you’re still thinking about? My wife and I have decided to take the plunge so I thought it might be worth gauging where you are on this?
Hi there- I was having a wobble when I recorded this. But for now I’m keeping the old girl. Thanks for showing the interest though 🤗
Sometimes it's worth the pain
Oh definitely. It’s that time of year again for another MOT *bites nails 😬
You have great ideas, keep on thinking about the big picture, august 2023 and due to others ( you know WHO they are ) wants to reduce your savings and money in money boxes, prices are higher still, and will get worse, the world is preparing why shouldn’t we? Thanks for your bongo lifestyle
Thank you. Sometimes I think I’m being negative thinking like this - other times it feels like common sense
Very informative. Thank you! I had no idea that you could do a swivel seat with these vans.
It’s made a great difference to the amount of space for us 😊
Love the hat! It’s a classic.
Thank you 🎩 😆
Lovely converstion....wish I had one it would be perfect for me and my 2 dogs 🙂
Thank you. It’s taken a few mistakes but I think I’ve got it perfect for mr now 😁
OMG! I can’t help but laugh because last Saturday (22nd July), four friends and I got chased out of a field by approx. 30 cows in the Vale of Glamorgan area. Two of us were wearing red, including me, but I think the red thing is a myth and only used for bullfighting. 🤷🏻♂️ Anyway, none of us are fond of our bovine buddies and we were glad to escape unharmed. 😂 Thankfully you were too, but in those situations you’ll do anything to get away. 😮
I think these guys were only young and being playful but at the time!! I probably would have attempted to climb over razor wire 😂 Glad you escaped unharmed as well
Hi from west wales Thank-you for sharing your tips. Happy camping 🤗🏴
👋🏼 and the same to you 😊
Hi, I've just bought a bongo and live in Worcester. Can you let me know where the best garage is please? 😊
Well I have used Worcester mobile mechanics who do a lot of Bongo work
@@TheImportanceofBeing thank you so much x
The room in the last Inn looked decidedly spooky! Maybe just as well you were both shattered. Probably slept through any ghostly apparitions! 👻
Oh if only those ancient walls could talk! Bet they’ve seen some stuff 😮
Thanks for posting very informative. Can't wait for your next video. Xx
Oh thanks so much x
I'm planning to get a Bongo and would want a bike rack. It's just me and my 5 year old so I won't have any help. Your hubby is super tall and seeing him put those bikes on it made me question how easy it is for someone whose 5ft 2. I guess a foot stool would be needed. So I just want to ask, are you, being 5'3, able to put bikes on and off the rack yourself?
Hi there I have tried to do it myself but to be honest my bike is really heavy and I found it difficult I guess there are some lighter bikes out there which would make it easier?
Very interesting. Thank you 😊
You’re very welcome ☺️
Welcome back buddy 😂😂
Great to have you back! I’m finally getting our van back tomorrow, I’ve missed her and being able to just have that freedom to explore in gorgeous places. Funnily enough, we’re going to Pembs day after we get her back! X
Oh yay I’m so happy for you. It must be such a relief!! Have a wonderful time 😆
Great to see video
Thanks Martin 😊
Great vlog 👏🏴👍
Thank you 😊 glad you enjoyed
😎👍
That Bongo is looking good. You can't possibly sell! 😀
I quite agree - it was a moment of madness 😊
@@TheImportanceofBeing 🤣
yeah! epic masterpiece. amigo.
I came here because of the Bongo content, but it’s important to remember that the Bongo is a part of Your life, not the other way around…! I’m looking forward to see what will happen in the future, with all the aspects of Your life You want to show us…! And it’s YOUR channel, if You don’t like what You’re doing then it’s not going to be worth it in the long run! Best of wishes to You 💜
Thanks Pelle. As it happens I’ve just come back from a few nights away in the Bongo - I’m back in love with it 😆😍 Will do a video on the trip for next week
Literally just picked up a Bongo and loved hearing you vociferate how I am feeling about actually going places! Long story but aren't they all anyway thank you for sharing.... oh and the bunting 😂😂
Glad you enjoyed 😊 I made this video so long ago I forget what I said haha but I still don’t have any bunting 😂 But I do still have my Bongo Happy travels in yours 🚐
Nice video in Cardiff where I was born and bred. I’ve also been walking the Taff Trail in chunks and there’s so much historical artefacts too.
Yeah I bet it looked vastly different a few hundred years ago
Hi, lovely to see you again - hope all ok with you. I’ve just caught up with your walk on the Taff Trail too, just at the right time to inspire me to get out and about again as our bongo comes back this weekend after some bodywork. I’m looking forward to getting her prepped too, have really missed the freedom of just jumping in and getting out there.
You’ll have to let me know where you got the bodywork done ☺️ STILL need mine doing
@@TheImportanceofBeing I will, finally got it in with Steve, we’re picking her up Sat!
Amazing! Good to know
On our doorstep and need to explore it more! thanks for sharing x
It’s a really lovely trail and pretty varied I think
😎👍