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Escape the Rat Race

Writer's picture: Louise JamiesonLouise Jamieson

Here I am writing this blog in the country. I love to sit somewhere peaceful with a view to write. It inspires me and gets all the creative juices flowing.


A picturesque countryside sunset with silhouettes of gum trees and a peaceful rural landscape, embodying the charm of escaping the rat race.

But to have the flexibility to escape the rat race replenishes my soul and gives me a chance to focus on what’s important in my life.


Three years ago, I finished renovating my house during Covid and split it into two units: a three-bedroom unit and a small two-bedroom unit for me. It seemed so silly to live in a big five-bedroom house by myself after my son left home, but I didn’t want to sell as I love my garden and where I live.


So, I rent out the back part of the house and have seriously downsized to live in the front unit. I suppose you could say that this is what people my age do, but it was a practical solution that also gives me a weekly passive income.


The cozy interior of a Jayco Expanda caravan, featuring a dining area, kitchen, and comfortable seating, perfect for countryside adventures.

To give me room to grow and adventures to go on, I bought myself a little second-hand caravan two years ago. It’s my home away from home and is packed, ready to go at a moment's notice. It’s not flash, but it has everything I need to enjoy a few days away at a time, taking my gorgeous labradoodle, Robbie, with me.


The first year, I did 27 small trips; last year, 21; and I’m writing this on my first trip away for 2025.


My Caravan Rules Are Simple:


  • I don’t drive for more than 2 hours. That’s all I can cope with.

  • No TV – I read a book instead.

  • I don’t camp – I glamp, so I need water and power to be comfortable.


A chocolate labradoodle named Robbie lounging on a portable bed near a caravan, basking in the sunlight during a countryside trip.

I’m not set up to be off-grid in the caravan, and to be honest, I prefer a caravan park as I feel safer than being out somewhere random by myself. Robbie is a meeter and greeter, not a guard dog. After spending years in the Northern Territory camping out with work, I don’t need that at this stage of my life.


There is a huge community out there of single women doing the same as me, and I come across some lovely ladies in my travels. My workdays have been changed so that if I want a short break, it is easy to do.


I’m also very fortunate to live in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales, where I have a large number of places to visit – all within two hours from my home.


Robbie is the best companion. He loves riding in the car and has quite a lot of instructions to tell me as we go. Of course, when we arrive, he loves exploring places just as much as I do.


A serene lakeside campsite with a caravan, outdoor setup, and Louise smiling, enjoying the peaceful countryside escape.

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​Accuracy of Information: This disclaimer states that the information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. This advice is based on personal experience. Users are encouraged to verify information independently and seek professional advice when needed.

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