Allstar Coaches at 2421 Southwest 41st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

As with many new retirees, we heard about the adventures our friends with RVs were having. As "newbies" we were naturally skeptical about what is involved with renting, driving and setting up one of these seemingly metal monsters. But we were determined to see what the experience was like and decided to go for it.

We began our search for a rental coach company last summer (2017) and after much review, contacted Jon with Allstar Coaches (ASC) in the fall. Unfortunately, hurricanes Irma & Maria had other plans for us.

After some delay, we contacted Jon again in April and began the rental process. After competing the necessary paperwork, Jon gave us the green light!

When we arrived at ASC on our pickup date, Jon had our coach ready to go. He walked us through operating every device, mechanism and connection (water, power, waste and TV). Nothing seemed impossible but pay close attention - after all, once you drive off you're responsible for the coach and all her "goodies". (ASC includes a YouTube link in their correspondence that helps understand the basics and driving tips)

DRIVING! Here comes the elephant in the living room! Jon ensured our mirrors were correct and all systems GO and had us take the RV (now nicknamed Betsy) out of ASC and onto the side streets. Keeping your "pivot points" in mind (newbies - watch the YouTube video) will make all the difference. After a few blocks, Jon had us go out on the nearby highway. I'm not gonna lie - for a "newbie" this is a "wish I was wearing DEPENDS" moment. After your 1st major turn onto the highway is successful, you're more confident and hopefully ready.

After the trial ride, Jon gave us the thumbs up and we loaded Betsy. The storage was great for 2 people with lots of room to spare. While driving keep in mind passing trucks on the highway can affect you (read the ASC provided info for tips) and after a few surprises, you'll learn quickly how to handle the "push". Being a gas coach Betsy is a little noisier than a diesel but you learn the noises quickly. Wind gusts are also fun but again, you'll learn to negotiate those too. As mentioned, we had a few surprises but never lost our sense of adventure and silly grins.

We checked into the RV Park and began our hookups. This is where our info from Jon and notes paid off. Just make sure the waste line (handles black and gray waste) is secure before doing ANYTHING! (a loose waste hose is a Newbies worst nightmare). All hookups went smoothly.

During our 5 day stay, we experienced 90 degree heat during the day, low 70s at night and heavy rain for 8 hours straight. Betsy kept us cool, warm and dry. We never had an issue with running out of hot water (a common small RV complaint) and the TV reception on all 3 was great. Betsy had linens and dishes/plates for 8 and every kitchen device we needed. There was also an outdoor kitchen and exterior gas grill - sweet options!

We broke camp on our 5th day and prep'd for the return to ASC. Dumping the tanks was no issue and reversing the setup process covered all the connections. Be sure to take a long walk around the coach to ensure you're set to go.

Lee at ASC checked us back in with no issues found and our RV adventure came to an end. (Our smiles are still with us)

As a newbie, you may encounter an issue that is odd to you. We had several! Reviewing all the info that ASC provides you is a great start. YouTube has great videos that can be previewed before your trip. And don't hesitate to contact the appropriate ASC Team members for help. We spoke to Von a couple of times and he was quick to diagnose the issue and provide a solution.

Many THANKS to Jon, Gail, Von and Lee for all their assistance, advice, hand-holding and patience with 2 newbies. We can't use that excuse again!

When selecting a rental company, make the best decision possible as it will make a difference in your RV adventure. And to anyone not sure about using ASC - we're so happy with them that we're already working on another trip for June!

Lee & Jim
Miami Beach FL