GiGiS

The Keys for SurThrival

2011-12-29T14:47:00.000-05:00

December 29, 2011

The Keys for SurThrival

Guest post by Gigi Stetler
You don’t have to look far to see that these are tough times all over the world for just about everybody. Whether it is a personal financial crisis due to unemployment or the need to secure financing to get a business off the ground or keep it operational, the current economic environment calls for what I like to call “SurThrival” mode. What do I mean by that? Let me use my story as an example.
Not Just Surviving, but Thriving
I can tell you that my life story is perseverance personified and illustrates that, whatever strife you are facing in your life (sans a life threatening illness or similar) not only will you survive it, but you can thrive and live a happy, satisfying life. But, it’s all about your attitude.

Here’s just some of the drama that I have survived:

I’ve gone from a $4 million dollar debt courtesy of an industry that conspired against me to a successful and thriving multimillion dollar RV business in a male-dominated industry.
I started as a high school dropout, but now I’m a successful entrepreneur with a business grossing in the multi-millions despite a male dominated industry that literally conspired against me.
I went from being stabbed 21 times and left for dead to alive and vibrant.

I consider myself a modern-day phoenix that has risen from the ashes every time I have had a crisis. That’s because I have maintained a positive attitude, fortitude, and resilience to keep going no matter who or what has tried to break me down and stop me in my tracks.
SurThriver Snapshot
I knew early on that I had an entrepreneurial spirit. I struck out on my own as an RV industry entrepreneur in 1986 and ended up with four dealerships of my very own. But, in 2008, my business, and, let’s face it the RV industry at large and the economy for that matter, completely collapsed amid the recession. Banks tightened their lending practices and the trickle down effect that had on the RV trade and the baby boomer target market it largely served was nothing short of devastating. Suddenly, I went from grossing $18 million per year to ZERO.
Having been financially pronounced dead, my inventory and all assets – both business and personal - were seized and distributed my competitor who had conspired to destroy my company and take over my territories. Rather than succumbing to these hardships, I regarded it as just a new chapter to be dealt with head-on.
Rather than declaring bankruptcy to clear the $4+ million debt I owed at that time, I put my nose to the grindstone and re-established a successful RV dealership business by reinventing it and expanding into new profit centers. Today, despite the economic recession’s enduring impact on the RV industry, my company is growing yet again thanks to my tenacity…and sheer refusal to give up. After all, these are the quintessential character traits of an entrepreneur, are they not?
I realized that being an unstoppable entrepreneur was about doing things differently and finding those untapped areas of opportunity. This has enabled me to not just sustain, but also grow my business while competitors are shutting their doors amid the recession. Instead of solely relying on RV sales, I started to examine ancillary revenue sources. This included pursuing an RV rental business, creating an in-house interior design team, and offering customized RVs for every industry, including mobile hair salons and spas, boutiques, and even chiropractor’s offices. These corporate clients have kept her business thriving in a depressed economy.
Your Entrepreneurial Attitude
As a female entrepreneur reading this blog and thinking about what you can do to SurThrive, just remember that you have to be a warrior, not a victim, no matter how bad things get. It also means having a steadfast, forward-looking belief that, no matter how bad today is, tomorrow is a chance to start anew – and with that new day comes promise. It is looking at how those challenges can actually be turned into opportunities to make something better, bigger, and more profitable than you previously thought.
Survival is about having the will to live and courage to succeed despite the odds, which requires a fierce determination. With steel resolve, I’m nearly done digging my way out of a $4 million debt, am the sole female CEO of a promising RV enterprise in a male dominated industry, and I overcame a litany of unrelenting character attacks by others in my field hell bent on hurting me. The bottom line is to never, ever give up or give in.
Post comments below to let me know what odds you are facing and how you intend to SurThrive.
About: Gigi Stetler’s story reads like a best-seller, replete with plot twists, shady characters, and a heroine with many layers. In every instance Stetler was knocked down throughout life, she stood up, brushed herself off, and came back stronger than ever. But there are many sides to this tough-as-nails businesswoman: This SurThriver is also a single mom, an accomplished equestrian, and a woman of such immeasurable grace that she made daily visits to the deathbed of the mentor who had tried to destroy her. Through her motivational speeches, coaching programs and her book UNSTOPPABLE, Stetler is helping to motivate and inspire others to persevere…no matter what challenges present! Learn more about Gigi Stetler at www.gigistetler.com.

RV Sales of Broward is pleased to support Calvary Chapel Sawgrass The Big Road Trip Giveaway!

2010-05-16T21:38:00.001-04:00

Summer is almost here!

What better way to kick it off than with a dream getaway valued at $1500?

RV Sales of Broward is pleased to support Calvary Chapel Sawgrass in extending an opportunity to win a Weekend Getaway. Simply come to any of our five weekend services on the weekend of May 22nd and 23rd for your chance to win.

No purchase necessary.

Contest begins on Saturday, May 22, 2010 and ends on Sunday, May 23, 2010.

Only one entry per person.

Those who attend the 1pm service or the Welcome Class on Sunday, May 23rd, may enter the contest twice and double their chances to win!

Don't forget to bring a friend for their chance to win, too!

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Florida declares June to be RV and Camping Month

2010-05-12T22:14:00.001-04:00

Florida declares June to be RV and Camping Month

Greg Gerber posted on May 12, 2010 09:50

RIVERVIEW, Fla. -- A resolution claiming June as Recreational Vehicle and Camping Month was recently signed by Governor Charlie Crist and the cabinet of the State of Florida.

The proclamation is in conjunction with the national RV Centennial Celebration taking place in Elkhart, Ind., and was initiated by both the Florida RV Trade Association and the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds.

“It was great to be able to speak to the Florida cabinet and thank them for the resolution,” said FRVTA Executive Director Lance Wilson. “We thought the resolution was a great way to kick off our promotion of the 100 year anniversary of the industry.” FRVTA will have displays at the three interstate Welcome Centers the week of June 7th to correspond with the national celebration in Elkhart. The Tin Can Tourists will have “antique” RVs on display and there will be free drinks and popcorn for all travelers.

The resolution reads:

WHEREAS, the recreation vehicle industry is celebrating 100 years of American enjoyment of recreation vehicles, and

WHEREAS, 1 in 12 American homes own a recreation vehicle, and

WHEREAS, recreational vehicles allow families to build stronger relationships and explore the great outdoors, and

WHEREAS, travel in an recreational vehicle offers freedom, comfort and flexibility to see all of the United States, from historic landmarks to national and state parks, and

WHEREAS, Florida ranks third in the number of recreational vehicles shipments and is home to the largest recreational vehicle show in the nation, the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa, and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida has more than 900 licensed recreational vehicle parks and campgrounds, with more than 120,000 licensed recreational vehicle sites, and

WHEREAS, the State of Florida constantly ranks as the nation’s best and most popular recreational vehicle and camping destination, and

WHEREAS, more than 5 million people camp in Florida each year, generating more than $5 billion for the state’s economy, and

WHEREAS, 20 percent of all auto visitors to Florida either camp or travel in a recreational vehicle, and

WHEREAS, the 100th Anniversary of the introduction of the RV into the American marketplace will be celebrated June 7, 2010 at the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Indiana,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the governor and cabinet of the State of Florida do hereby proclaim June, 2010 as

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE AND CAMPING MONTH

In the State of Florida and encourage Floridians and visitors to take advantage of our great State’s array of sun, surf, soft breezes and fresh air where the temperate climate allows for year-round camping and endless outdoor activities.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF the governor and cabinet of the State of Florida have hereunto subscribed their names and have caused the Official Seal of the State of Florida to be hereunto affixed in the City of Tallahassee this 11th day of May, 2010.

For more information about the 100th Anniversary of the RV Industry and other events, contact Dave Kelly, FRVTA marketing director, at 800.330.7882 or e-maildavekelly@frvta.org.

SOURCE: Florida RV Trade Association press release

Posted in: RV Owners

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Best Parks in America surpasses 60 resorts

2010-05-12T22:12:00.001-04:00

Best Parks in America surpasses 60 resorts

Greg Gerber posted on May 12, 2010 14:51

MCLEAN, Va. -- Best Parks in America’s affiliate park network has grown significantly during the first five months of 2010 and now numbers more than 60 of the highest-rated, independent RV resorts and campgrounds throughout America.

Each of the Best Parks meet stringent standards and are among the select top nine percent of RV resorts, parks and campgrounds in the US and Canada, said David Gorin, president of Best Parks in America.

“We are thrilled to see so much interest in the Best Parks in America brand as a high-end RV resort and campground marketing group," said Gorin. "With this phenomenal growth we are able to offer discriminating camping consumers an exclusive resource to locate the very best RV and camping options in some of the most desired resort locations in the United States.

“We’re also very pleased to announce the first Best Parks affiliate in Canada," he added. "Camping Du Village Bromont in Quebec is pioneering the Best Parks concept in Canada and we hope to see further growth of the brand throughout Canada.”

Best Parks in America provides a national branding presence and marketing home for independent highly-rated RV parks and campgrounds. As Best Parks continues to grow, consumers are increasingly recognizing the Best Parks brand and actively seeking out Best Parks as the places they can count on for outstanding RV and camping experiences, said Gorin.

In addition to each affiliated park’s comprehensive online listing, Best Parks in America will offer a complimentary Best Parks in America directory available at each Best Park resort location, at major RVing and camping shows and by camper request. The first edition of the new print directory – RVing & Camping @ the Best Parks in America – will be released late May.

Best Parks in America and their 61 affiliates in 24 states and Quebec welcome the newest Best Parks:

Arizona -- Desert Valley RV Resort, Eloy
Centrally located between Phoenix and Tucson, Desert Valley RV Resort offers a multitude of resort activities and enjoyment for “young at heart” 55-plus guests.
Arizona -- Hidden Shores Village, Yuma
The ideal vacation home resort community for winter snowbird visitors and summertime family fun right on the Colorado River and surrounding desert, Hidden Shores welcomes you to Yuma.
California -- Anaheim Resort RV Park, Anaheim
What is the best way to see the sights in Orange County? Camping in Mickey's Backyard! Anaheim RV Park is located less than a mile from Disneyland's front gates and offers great accommodations, friendly staff, and a very convenient location.
Florida -- Cross Creek RV Resort, Arcadia
Cross Creek RV Resort is a centrally located "Five Star Resort" in the heart of South Central Florida, just north of the old historical Florida town of Arcadia, offers tranquility and peace, numerous resort facilities and amenities, as well as the south Florida sunshine.
Florida -- Belle Parc RV Resorts, Brooksville
Experience "belle parc" RV Resort on west central Florida's Nature Coast and you’ll discover more than just another campground…you’ll discover one of the best parks in America.
FlorEmerald Beach RV Park, Navarre
Located on Santa Rosa Sound on the Florida panhandle – the closest park to the Gulf, Emerald Beach RV Park invites you to enjoy white sandy beaches, beach chairs, tiki umbrellas and deck and spacious sites.
Vacation Inn Resort of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach
Vacation Inn Resort is a Five-Star luxury ownership park with beautifully landscaped grounds and lots. Rental sites are available and the resort is close to beaches, night life, great restaurants, and more.
Kansas -- High Plains Camping, Oakley
High Plains Camping offers friendly resort-like treatment as you make your way to your vacation destination. While there guests may enjoy a unique U-Pick Organic Garden (seasonal) and complimentary Kansas-roasted coffee.
Maine -- Red Apple Campground, Kennebunkport
Visit Red Apple Camping and you’ll understand why their motto is “clean, quiet and relaxing - the way camping should be.” You’ll be treated like family…maybe even better!
Massachusetts -- Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, Oakham
Celebrating 50 years of family camping in 2010, this award winning full service camping resort is centrally located amidst restful New England towns. Pine Acres offers Massachusetts' finest in year round camping.
North Carolina -- Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, Asheville
Asheville's finest invites you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the "Land of the Sky" and sensational sunsets. Asheville Bear Creek is close to popular area attractions and easy access from I-40 and I-26, you’ll be glad you came.
Ohio -- Cross Creek Camping Resort, Delaware
Cross Creek Camping offers family oriented camping amidst beautiful surroundings, a wide variety of activities and themed weekends as well as the Alum Creek Marina providing boating discounts to our campers.
Ohio -- Lock 30 Woodlands RV Resort Campground, Lisbon
Ohio’s best value and the highest-rated family campground in the tri-state area of Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, Lock 30 Woodlands offers scheduled children’s activities, lake and river fishing, biking, and more.
Oregon -- Portland-Woodburn RV Park, Woodburn
The Portland-Woodburn RV Park offers 150 well kept sites and can accommodate even the largest of recreational vehicles with up to 60-foot pull-thrus. With local activities and events happening year-round visitors will never be at a loss for something to do.
Pennsylvania -- Mountain Creek Campground, Gardners
100 acres in the heart of Pennsylvania’s South Mountains, Mountain Creek Campground is centrally located for easy access to Carlisle, Pennsylvania and their world famous car shows, Gettysburg, Hershey, York and Lancaster.
Pennyslvania -- Keen Lake Camping & Cottage Resort, Waymart
Keen Lake Camping and Cottage Resort is situated on a privately owned 90-acre spring fed mountain lake, located in the scenic northern Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania offering everything from tent camping to year-round cottage rentals.
Tennessee -- Great Smoky Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, Cosby
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers stream side camping at its finest! Kids of all ages will enjoy numerous planned activities. The park is nestled right next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Dollywood.
Tennessee -- Misty River Cabins & RV Resort, Walland
Misty River Cabins & RV Resort is surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, near the Appalachian Trail and on the Little River which is excellent for swimming, tubing and great trout fishing.
Texas -- Mill Creek Ranch RV & Cottage, Canton
Mill Creek Ranch in Canton TX is a first-class resort getaway nestled in a peaceful setting on 200 acres of East Texas woodlands offering lodging options from the well-designed and appointed RV sites to luxury cottages.
Wisconsin -- Stoney Creek RV Resort, Osseo
Conveniently located just off I-94 and Highway 10 Stoney Creek RV Resort has something for everyone – from activities to amenities.
Quebec -- Camping Du Village Bromont, Bromont
Camping Du Village Bromont is surrounded by mountains in a country style village, is clean and quiet and offers location, amenities, and facilities for the most discriminating campers.

Gorin and Best Parks in America invites the nation’s top rated parks to take advantage of this exclusive marketing group to build their brand and their business. For more information call Gorin at 703.448.6863 or e-mail david@BestParksinAmerica.com.

SOURCE: Best Parks in America press release

Posted in: RV Parks

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MY RV LIFE - RR TV Network adds Rollin' On TV to its programming options

2010-05-12T22:05:00.001-04:00

RR TV Network adds Rollin' On TV to its programming options

Greg Gerber posted on May 12, 2010 11:27

MATTAPOISETT, Mass. -- Rollin’ On TV has added the RR TV network to its list of program carriers. RRTV airs in more than 20 million homes nationwide and can be watched on Direct TV channel 354 and on various Comcast, Verizon and Capital cable systems across the country.

"We feel that RR TV is a great match for Rollin’ On TV and the RV lifestyle as the network’s program format centers around recreation, vacation and real estate programming," said Jose Moniz, with Rollin' On TV. "We are also proud to announce the addition of SkyMed and Jayco to our family of sponsors and advertisers."

For more information on Rollin’ On TV including stations and show times, visit www.rollinontv.com.

SOURCE: Rollin' On TV press release

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Camping restyled: Campgrounds, RV parks add extras

2010-05-10T20:04:00.001-04:00

Click photo to enlarge
A willow bed with duvet sits inside a raised canvas tent at El Capitan Canyon's luxury campgrounds near Santa Barbara. (El Capitan Canyon)
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When I was a child, camping in style meant sleeping in a trailer and not having to use a flashlight to find the bathroom.
Camping was a no-frills family vacation, but also all about outdoor family time: paddling a canoe in the Russian River, roasting marshmallows and mountain pies around the campfire and telling ghost stories in our sleeping bags.
Today, the great outdoors is filled not only with pools, game rooms and horseshoe pits but giant movie screens, inflatable bounce pillows, cappuccino carts and, of course, Wi-Fi. Tent sites and recreational vehicle parks sharing space with cabins and fully appointed lodges.
Campers need look no farther than the California coastline to find campgrounds such as Manchester Beach, Petaluma and Santa Cruz.
"They're like department stores," explained Jim Rogers, chief executive officer of KOA, a leading private campground company in North America. "If you want to set off by yourself and pitch a tent, we have it. Parties of five or six can go in together and park their rigs in the group area. We have cabins overlooking the ocean for wedding parties. We want to be a place for everyone."
Camping has become an outdoor hospitality industry, but without the $200- or $300-a-night resort price tag.
In 2008, the travel industry slapped the word "glamping" onto this trend of luxury camping. Since then, some of those "glamping" perks have burrowed into even mainstream
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camping.
KOA offers free Wi-Fi at all its locations and has added more cottagelike trailers, complete with kitchens, bathrooms and lofts. One state park now even includes cabins with kitchenettes and televisions with DVD players. Cable hookups and satellite television are available, often free of charge.
Sacred Rocks Reserve near San Diego has gone a step further, allotting 36 sites for eco-friendly, solar-powered park models that are on sale as year-round vacation homes. "It's for people who want to escape the noise of the city and hear the owls at night," said owner Sharon Courmousis.
I'll be the first to admit — I prefer camping with four walls, a real bed and a private bathroom. But laptops propped up on picnic tables? RVs with outdoor televisions? Texting around the campfire? Has our inability to disconnect from the outside world and our favorite tech toys gone too far?
Courmousis sees it this way: "At least they're getting some of what nature has to offer."
Rogers sees an even more valuable upshot: "We're getting our youth outdoors. If we don't find some way to do it, we will not have future land stewards."
The trick, says Pauline Wood, co-owner of Petaluma KOA Camping, is to provide entertainment that will draw campers away from their televisions, laptops and cell phones. To that end, her campground offers a full schedule of events from May to October, including hay rides, pool parties, rock wall climbing and wine tastings.
"We're like the Disney of camping," she said. "We offer the full spectrum."
Here's a closer look at a few California sites that have redefined camping in style (all rates are nightly):
El Capitan Canyon: About 20 miles north of Santa Barbara, this luxury campground offers fully appointed cedar cabins — some of which look bigger and nicer than my house — and raised canvas safari tents with willow beds and linens. There's a restaurant and deli selling barbecue kits. During the summer, guests can enjoy free concerts on Saturday nights. Beach cruise bikes are also complimentary.
Details: www.elcapitan canyon.com; 866-352-2729; cabins from $185 a night offseason and $225 peak; safari tents from $135 offseason and $155 peak.
Petaluma KOA Camping: The 70-acre campground has tent and RV sites, cabins and Wine Country lodges with a private bedroom, bunk bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, television and DVD, fire pit and deck. The campground has a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, pool, arcade, movie theater, dog park and themed weeks during the summer. San Francisco and Wine Country tours also are available.
Details: www.petaluma koa.com; 800-992-2267; tent sites from $39.50, RV sites with hookups from $59, cabins from $73 and lodges from $185.
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages: Located in Crystal Cove State Park Historic District, these restored cottages were built as part of a seaside colony in the 1930s and '40s. Available for rent are 11 individual cottages with different floor plans and designs and three dorm-style cottages. Most have kitchens and views of the ocean in Newport Beach.
Details: www.crystal covebeachcottages.com; 800-444-7275; individual cottages from $125; dorms from $65 for two people.
Sacred Rocks Reserve: The tent and RV park in San Diego County's Boulevard has a mile-long labyrinth for meditation, a pool, clubhouse with movie nights and a dog run. Also available for rent are a bunkhouse that sleeps 14, and two show models of its eco-friendly vacation homes. Home to an artists' colony, the reserve hosts workshops in writing, poetry, photography and crafts and holds occasional geocaching events.
Details: www.sacredrocks reserve.com; 619-766-4480; tent sites from $18 offseason and $22 peak, RVs from $36/$45 and vacation homes from $78.
Emerald Desert RV Park: This gem in Palm Springs for RVs only is a resort in disguise. There's a driving range and two-hole putting green, tennis courts, two pools, a fitness center, indoor and outdoor spas, a video library and event catering. Golf and tennis clinics are offered seasonally. Two-bedroom condos with luxury furnishings are available to rent.
Details: www.emerald desert.com; 877-624-4140; standard RV sites from $47.50; condos from $125.
Manhattan Beach: The biggest draw here is direct access to a five-mile stretch of beach. Like other KOA sites, Manhattan Beach offers tent and RV sites, cabins and cottages, but it also rents stationary trailers for guests who want a more traditional camping experience (without the tent). Amenities include an 18-hole disc golf course, two bocce ball courts, food court, pool, arcade, volleyball court, two playgrounds, dog park and peddle carts for rent. Television and DVD rentals also are available.
Details: www.manhattan beachkoa.com; 707-882-2375; tent sites from $28 offseason and $35 peak; full RV sites from $48/$56; cabins from $62/$70; cottages from $152/$168; stationary trailers from $109/$129.
Santa Cruz KOA: There's little chance of being bored at this park at La Selva Beach. Intriguing attractions include a mechanical bull, mechanical surfboard, fun train and agility course for pets. There are outdoor movies, a game room, pool, espresso cafe, volleyball and basketball courts, climbing wall, bounce pillow and playground, as well as golf carts, bike rentals and mini golf for an extra charge. The campground also has a pizza parlor with campsite deliveries, Saturday barbecue lunches and Sunday pancake breakfasts. And in addition to cabins and lodges, guests can rent classic Airstream trailers.
Details: www.santacruz koa.com; 800-562-7701; tent sites from $57 offseason and $64 peak; RVs with full hookups from $78/$84; cabins from $89/$115; lodges from $180 and Airstreams from $165; plus a $2 a night resort fee.
The Springs at Borrego RV Resort and Golf Course: The 90-site RV resort located just outside Anza Borrego State Park capitalized on its hot mineral baths by opening a wellness center last month. Services include massages, acupuncture and acupressure. It was named small RV park of the year last year by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. The reason: a 9-hole golf course, dog park, saltwater swimming pool, fitness center, tennis courts, pond with catch-and-release fishing and an astronomy park with an 11-inch telescope. The Springs also rents RVs.
Details: www.spring satborrego.com; 866-330-0003; RV sites from $35.
Campland on the Bay: The park in San Diego offers a private getaway called the Super Site — private patio, grill and hot tub, all tucked away from the other campsites. For everyone, there's a pool, marina with 124 slips, watercraft and bike rentals, game room, restaurant, new skate park and activities that include sand castle building contests, concerts with live bands and scavenger hunts.
Details: www.campland.com; 800-422-9386; RV sites from $36 offseason and $46 peak season; Super Site from $166/$268; primitive sites available in the summer from $41.
More Info
FREE NIGHT: KOA campgrounds are offering a free night special as part of its "Come Kamp & Care With Us Weekend." Pay for May 14 and get May 15 free at the same campground. Visit www.koa.com or call 406-248-7444 for availability.
CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF RV PARKS AND CAMPGROUNDS: For information about private RV parks and campgrounds in California, visit www.Camp-California.com or call 888-782-9287.
CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS: For information about camping at state parks, including fees, visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1029 or call 800-444-7275.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: For information about other U.S. campgrounds and RV parks, visit www.reserveamerica.com; www.camping.com; or www.gocampingamerica.com.

via insidebayarea.com

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RV Rundown http://bit.ly/RVRundown

2010-05-06T19:12:00.001-04:00

BY SHAWN HOULT, FOR THE CALGARY HERALD MAY 5, 2010

The term recreational vehicle is an incredibly broad one that includes everything from $10,000 tent trailers to $700,000 motorhomes. There are trailers and fifth-wheels targeted for every price range, lifestyle, towing capacity and family size, coming in every shape, size and options package imaginable.

The one thing they all have in common is they provide people with a chance to get away, have an adventure and enjoy the great outdoors.

Whether you're the president of a company and you're out there in your big motorhome or you've got a regular travel trailer and you have a young family, it's an adventure. It's an investment in your family for some; it's a way of life for others.

---

Tent Trailers

A popular choice for young families and first-time RVers, tent trailers are fairly inexpensive, easy to tow and can comfortably fit a small family.

Standard sizes for tent-trailer boxes are eight, 10 and 12 feet, with eight-footers reaching 17 or 18 feet when extended and 12-foot models extending up to 22 feet. These trailers can usually sleep six to eight people comfortably, and many come equipped with fridges, forced-air furnaces and stoves.

A well-equipped eight-foot tent trailer will cost around $9,000, which along with a tow weight of roughly 1,000 to 2,000 pounds (450 to 900 kilograms), makes them a very affordable choice.

Lightweight Trailers

Higher fuel prices over the last couple years have sparked a resurgence in the popularity of lightweight trailers, with more and more being built for smaller vehicles.

Lightweight trailers tend to range from 13 to 18 feet in length, and weigh around 3,500 to 4,000 pounds (1,590 to 1,815 kilograms). They range from couple's trailers to family-oriented styles that can comfortably sleep up to six.

By having a hard wall instead of tent ends, these lightweight trailers can expand the RV season as they can more easily handle the early spring or late fall snow.

They are also fairly inexpensive, starting around $15,000.

Hybrid Trailers

Hybrid trailers combine the hard walls of conventional trailers with tent ends to create more space and provide more options. They're popular because they give RVers the convenience of a conventional trailer, and are longer and larger than the lightweights.

The big advantage of hybrid trailers is that while they are small enough to easily tow at 18 to 20 feet and under 5,000 pounds (2,270 kilograms), they can expand to 27 feet or more. They are usually priced somewhere in the low $20,000 range.

Deluxe Fifth-Wheels

RVers looking for a top-of-the-line fifth-wheel can spend anywhere from $90,000 to $150,000. These trailers have the best and the latest in entertainment, with large bathrooms, full kitchens and bedrooms that would feel at home in a luxury hotel.

While there isn't quite the selection that there used to be in these top-end models, a number of high-end manufacturers still offer plenty of good choices.

Conventional Travel Trailers

These are the trailers that most people think of when they think of trailers. It's one of the largest subsections of RVs, and includes models that run anywhere from 18 to 39 feet in length. At the 20-foot-and-over range, there is also a wide array of fifth-wheels available, opening even more options.

Conventional travel trailers can be very well-appointed with sizable kitchens, living and bedroom areas, and offer a range of options in building materials, accessories and dimensions. Well-appointed conventional travel trailers start at about $20,000 and go up from there, while a fifthwheel with comparable size and features will usually cost $4,000 to $5,000 more.

Mid-range Fifth-Wheels

Mid-range fifth wheels are designed more for the long-term traveller than the weekend camper. These RVs are usually in the 30-foot range, and cost anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000. They have multiple televisions, premium stereo systems, large beds and everything someone needs for four-season living.

These are also the trailers of choice for many snowbirds, or for people looking to take their time exploring the country. These larger fifth-wheels often contain multiple slides to provide increased space. While they are a standard eight-and-a-half-feet in width for travel, sliders on either side of the trailer can be extended to provide a surprising amount of floor space, turning a 35-foot trailer into a roomy travelling apartment.

Motorhomes

There are three classes of motorhomes: Class C motorhomes look a bit like a small home attached to the back of a truck or van. They generally have a sleeping compartment above the cab, and a living area located right behind the cab. Class B motorhomes are van conversions -- they look like a van but have modified sleeping and living quarters inside.

Class B motorhomes are between $80,000 and $100,000, while a Class C ranges from $65,000 to $100,000.

Class A motorhomes are the larger bus-like vehicles. These can start as low as $85,000 and go well into the $700,000 range and beyond. They can stretch to as long as 45 feet and include multiple slides to provide a huge living space.

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RENTING AN RV FOR 2010 ALLTECH FEI WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES? CONTACT http://www.rvsalesofbroward.com

2010-05-06T12:58:00.001-04:00

Planners have approved temporary RV Park for equestrian games – 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

Hotels are booked full; DON’T WAIT TO RESERVE AN RV RENTAL!!!

CALL US FOR AVAILABILITY

Toll-Free: 888-587-3337 Local: 954-583-3382

VISIT OUR WEBSITE at HTTP://WWW.RVSALESOFBROWARD.COM

CLASS C, SUPER C & A RV RENTALS – GAS & DIESEL

IN BUSINESS SINCE 1986, SERVING MIAMI DADE, BROWARD & WEST PALM

1955 SOUTH STATE ROAD 7

FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33317

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GiGi Stetler's - Riding in Style - Equestrian Summer Camp Taking Sign Ups

2010-05-04T17:00:00.003-04:00

Horse Back Riding Lessons

Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation & Dressage

Beginner to Grand Prix

Join Our Winning Team Now!!!

Our Summer Camp starts soon

Call us now to sign up!

GiGi Stetler 954.850.4702

Posted via web from gigistetler's posterous

GiGi Stetler - Unstoppable Author, Entrepreneur and CEO, Business and Life Coach

2010-04-14T15:25:00.000-04:00

On and

2009-10-12T14:15:00.003-04:00

Bubble and Bones fundraiser was a huge success.

Bubbles and Bones fundraiser was amazing. The great event raised money for Here's Help, a non profit organization founded in 1968 that helps teens and young adults get off drugs and become productive members of society. Everyone was there.......Dan Marino, other various Dolphin players, and many more. I am so grateful that I could contribute to such an amazing cause. My company RV Sales of Broward really stepped up to the plate.

2009-09-01T14:34:00.001-04:00

I will be part of an amazing panel of speakers at NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY on SEPT. 29th 2009. Check it out www.mitforumfl.org

I am speaking.....

2009-09-01T14:30:00.001-04:00

I will be part of an amazing panel at NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY. It is an awesome event. When: Sept 29th.

Check it out
www.mitfourumfl.org

2009-08-13T10:36:00.004-04:00

Gigi and her company RV Sales of Broward donated a top of the line RV yesterday to POWER96 for their fundraising drive. They raise almost $200,000 dollares for Radio Lollipop. It is for children in hospita. What a great day.

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T22:57:00.002-04:00

After a long and relaxing weekend I am finally getting to wishing all the Mothers a very HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!! I hope everyone was able to spend time with their family (or at least very wonderful friends!)

Well another week begins tomorrow and I'm ready to power forward! I am excited about speaking in Orlando on Tuesday and I'm hoping to see a lot of strong, powerful, and UNSTOPPABLE women there!!

I'm hoping to meet some new friends to network with, will anyone be in the area?

Let me know!

Happy Mothers Day & goodnight!
Gigi

TGIF!

2009-05-08T16:11:00.002-04:00

Well another week bites the dust! I am one week closer to the release of my new book "UNSTOPPABLE" and only a few days away from the Women's Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Even though I work most weekend I do try to take the time to enjoy my friends and family! I'm also hoping to spend time with my horses! Thankfully they live in my backyard so if I am every feeling defeated I can always look to them for a encouragement! (Mostly they are looking for carrots but I know they love me!) I am also thankful that I have wonderful humans in my life that encourage me to work hard and never give up!

Just wanted to give a quick update before everyone heads out for the weekend! What is everyone doing? Big plans?

Have a great weekend!
Gigi

Determination

2009-05-06T22:36:00.002-04:00

After another long day at the office I realize that now more than ever I MUST be determined to persevere through this tough economy. I see my staff working harder than ever to rent more RVs, offer better customer service, and more importantly make the cut backs where we can without sacrificing the safety and happiness of our customers. I know the harder I work the more it will pay off in the future. Although I feel as if I carry this company on my shoulders, I know that I have a great team surrounding me including my friends, family, and my RV Sales of Broward team!

I hope that everyone will stay updated with what I am doing not only personally but professionally. I invite everyone to leave comments because I always love hearing from my friends!

Remember that if you never fail in life you will never truly appreciate success!

Have a great night!
Gigi

Betting On You, The Only Sure Bet!!!

2009-04-09T15:11:00.000-04:00

As I look around me, I see a sea of uncertainty. The economy, the housing market, the unemployment rate, and the banking industry continue to affect the RV industry. As stressful as life can be right now, the only way I find myself dealing with it is to face it head on. Stress motivates me to action and challenges me to a fight. As I understand it, I share this quality with the most successful CEOs in the business world today. This is the quality, which I can bet on each and every time to allow me to claim victory over the day’s challenges.I begin my day reflecting on my past and being grateful for the air that I breathe and my staff, who despite the challenges, faces yet another day filled with challenges and uncertainty.After arriving at my office, the first objective is coffee with my staff to boost their moral so we can deal with today’s challenges and turn problems into solutions. As is our daily routine, we begin with a staff meeting. Using a wipe off board, we post the problems on one side and immediately the solution on the other. As the day goes on, we remove each problem as it is tackled, with a blank board signifying a job well done.Working closely with your team in these challenging times should be handled in the same way as a marriage, where at the end of the day no matter how good or bad it was you take 5 minuets together and turn the day into a comedy of some sort. It’s like kissing your spouse goodnight after a fight always end on a good note.A good leader reminds herself everyday that there is light at the end of the tunnel even thou you might need a telescope to see it. As challenging as life can be right now, remember one thing; to always bet on yourself. If you do just that, you will be able to lead your team out of the perfect storm and back to safety.

"Allow to Introduce myself..............."

2009-04-09T15:08:00.001-04:00

Over the past 22 years I found myself working twice as hard to obtain half as much, being the only woman among the fat cat good ole boys industry who told me to go home and bake cookies. Could I have fallen off the horse again? Something I ask myself when things are not going well. How could I be so successful one minute and not the next? For the next few days I start to remind myself that surviving after being stabbed 21 times is successful and if I can survive that; the rest of what life has in store for me is a breeze.Throughout my tumultuous journey that it’s not how you act that counts it’s how you react; despite my best intentions life often happens to us unfairly and the only way to succeed is to happen right back. I have been knocked off my horse more times than I can remember and the only thing separating success from failure, as I see it, it’s the ability to get back up and start all over again. So every morning before I start my day I look at myself in the mirror thank god I can still see myself standing and breathing I put my best outfit on and go after life’s ultimate goals.Having always been a leader in my life which began in my early years with my first kindergarten play while performing the other players forgot there lines I quickly came to the rescue and quietly recited there lines to them. From that day forward I knew people would always depend on me so I had better stay strong no matter what. By no surprise the increasing gas prices, the lending crisis; and the general economic downturn, the RV industry has been hit hard, but quite frankly the entire country has been clobbered. Now is the time to take this country’s rotten lemons and make some lemonade, think of these times as opportunity to prosper.