I have been watching this channel for a few years. I love living vicariously through your travels, but this video has really lifted my spirits. I moved to live full-time on a narrowboat on the UK Canal system in August this year. Seeing how much you loved being in the Welsh Countryside. Scenery that I have taken for granted, I saw anew through your eyes. The fact that you, who have seen some of the most awe inspiring scenery and places in the world, and think the canals gave you some of the most memorable scenery really blows my mind. Thank you for this video. I really loved it. And it’s the first one of yours, shows a trip that I can experience in reality myself.

@Yesica1993

Жыл бұрын

Wow! Living all the time on a boat? I didn't know that was even possible!

@katief7047

Жыл бұрын

I would give anything to see the sights you see everyday …

@mikec2969

Жыл бұрын

Great job! This has been on my bucket list. Need to just do it.

@depressedchungas

Жыл бұрын

Glad your enjoying Wales, I'm Welsh but the only memories I have of canals is DofE canyoning through brecon and my oar gets stuck on smt then a dead sheep floats up crawling with rats and my mate slides head first into it 🤢

@Elliegal

Жыл бұрын

@@depressedchungas What?! OMG!

This video took me from not knowing narrow boats existed to having a new bucket list dream. Fantastic stuff. Can't wait for the next episode.

@keylowjoe

Жыл бұрын

out of interest how old are you and where are you based?

@makinganarrowboatwithnannyandg

Жыл бұрын

You definitely fall in love with the lifestyle as well as the boat. Hope one day you get to tick it off your bucket list 👍

@Skittl1321

Жыл бұрын

@@keylowjoe I'm 40 in the US, and I've never heard of these. They look amazing!

@brookeg5979

Жыл бұрын

Same! I can't wait to do this myself. I didn't know you could drive them yourself just like renting a car, which is so cool. I'm definitely adding to my bucket list.

@georgebennett715

Жыл бұрын

@@brookeg5979 My mum and dad's honeymoon was spent narrow boating around the midlands and my grandad now lives on one! I can do nothing else but give them my heartiest reccomendation.

I know she's camera shy, but we need more from Nicole!!! She did great and will be a welcome addition to the channel!

@benjaminc4717

Жыл бұрын

seeing someone else is nice, Mike is of course fantastic, but the comfortable back and forth adds so much and Nicole acts wonderfully as the "straight man" against the optimistic style of Michael. makes the video really cozy.

@korek8173

Жыл бұрын

@@benjaminc4717 yea, Nicole is great; love seeing them together. Is she a new girlfr? I thought Mike was single for some reason.

@ahnessa

Жыл бұрын

@@korek8173soon as the instructor hopped off the boat I thought 😯😏🫣 mikes comments like “[being out here] just the two of you”, “other COUPLEs staying here” made it apparent as well as the kissing shots obviously

@korek8173

Жыл бұрын

@@ahnessa Ha, ok, no - the confusion wasn't on the girlfriend part, it was on the new part. So when I asked "Is she a new girlfriend?" - the part in doubt was the word "new", not "girlfriend". Have they been a longtime couple or have they recently met?

@ahnessa

Жыл бұрын

@@korek8173 ohh I did some digging on instagram and they posted each other in June of 2015 (I believe) for the first time so longtime couple!! I’d love to see more videos with her; the style of edit was nice.

This is, by far, the most relaxing series you've made to date and is a balm for frazzled nerves. As others have said, you and Nicole are the definition of couple's goals.

@nicholasayers3326

Жыл бұрын

idk man, the journey to alaska by train did it for me

You know it's love when your significant other will remove a spider from your collar, even though it's freaking them out at the time. Nicely handled Nicole!

@patriciafuchs5970

Жыл бұрын

What beauty surrounds you! It is so lovely and serene! Meeting others is a bonus, how wonderful that you were able to participate in the Queens Jubilee. A truly historic event, memories will abound! Loved watching every minute!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

So true!

@mstrdiver

Жыл бұрын

Now, I don't know about that. My sister would probably find another one to put on me as a joke!

@valerieann8007

Жыл бұрын

@@DownieLive I've wondered if there is ever a moldy or bad smell from the water as it looks a bit dirty, or is it well circulated, and somehow cleaned? Ducks have often been seen swimming along in the canals. There is a certain narrow boat designer & manufacturer that has absolutely super excellent design. Far better than other companies. I'll look for it & post later. 😉

@valerieann8007

Жыл бұрын

What happened at 6:51? Nicole was looking at scenery?

CACKLING at the way you looked at the geese/ducks and said: “We’re Canadian too!” 😂

@jlions72

Жыл бұрын

....lol....Funny

@FaLO66traintravels

Жыл бұрын

Agreed 👍

I would love to do this. I'm 82, and know I would love the slow adventure of every day. Looking forward to see more.

@JohnBrinnand

Жыл бұрын

Jim: Go for it! I spent 10- days in October cruising the beautiful Mon and Brec Canal and the 20th was my 87th birthday. See studio.kzread.infoFoof_R3-SNw/edit.

I'm from Wales and I couldn't be more delighted you enjoyed my home. I wish I saw more of Wales on KZread. I really hope you'll come back and travel Wales more 😍 Diolch yn fawr

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

We will be back for episode 3!

@Srplaya3000

Жыл бұрын

I think that was a doable rain bow

@queent3343

11 ай бұрын

I spent a few days in the Brecon Beacons and loved every bit of it. Planning to go back and spend even more time.

@veronicaroach3667

10 ай бұрын

I'm a Londoner turned Welsh fanatic in my young days - North Wales camping for many summers at Dinas Dille beach on the North West peninsula south of Bangor - and I adore your countryside, altho now aged 83 & long living in the US my Welsh days are like this video - looking in from the outside ! Love you Wales, love your fascinating history & your great people, the actual real Britons ! A piece of my heart will always be there. What a lovely video - enjoyed every minute of it - thank you so much !

@58Kym

4 ай бұрын

I am Australian but my son, DIL and granddaughters live in Wales just north of Cardiff. I wanted to do a Canal boat trip one trip over to the UK and this certainly makes it even more attractive.

I grew up within a mile of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. As a child I used to fish in it, go wildlife spotting and canoe on it. I moved away many years ago and had forgotten just how beautiful it is. I’ve travelled by narrowboat on most of the British canal system and it really is an incredible way to spend a holiday. I’m really envious of you and Nicole. Maybe it’s time I hired a narrowboat once again.

@bjdefilippo447

Жыл бұрын

I haven't been on the canals since I was a child, but I'm remembering now how much I loved those trips.

As a Brit this was a joy to watch. Your enthusiasm is infectious! Looking forward to the rest.

@dinatravel168

Жыл бұрын

you're right.

You made me want to go on a train trip. Now you made me want to go on a narrow boat. Your enthusiasm is incredibly infectious! Thank you for your travels and taking me with you!

I knew narrow boats existed but had no idea that 1) you could rent (hire) them, and 2) you operated them, and 3) the environment of Wales was so peaceful and relaxing!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

I’m glad you know how, Wally!

@ItzJigz187

Жыл бұрын

Wales is possibly the most beautiful place in the world

I started following your channel because, as a railfan, I love your travels by train. Now you pop up touring Welsh canals, something I didn't even know existed. Can't wait for your next water adventure.

@assettatang7202

Жыл бұрын

This episode blew me away incredibly beautiful and amazing adventure

One of your best videos ever Mike. The story telling and editing is outstanding! This channel has come so far. This is better than any travel show on tv.

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks!

Thank you for visiting my home country; Americans know England, they know Scotland, they know Ireland, but you ask many about Wales they reply "Where is that?" or "Is that in England!" I'm so glad you bring my beautiful country to a wider audience.

My mom and her friend, both in their 70s, travelled from Canada to do a canal trip a few years ago. She ran the boat in the locks while her friend opened the locks. They both loved it. I will be sharing this series with her. Glad to see Nicole is comfortable being part of the adventure. She is a wonderful addition to the series combined with your infectious personality. The boat parade looked like a lot of fun too. Can’t wait for the next edition.

Let me say you are one unique person who appreciates and enjoys everything life has to offer. Nicole is adorable. Love watching your videos, they put me in a great mood, thanks! 😊

First time watching your channel and I love your attitude! I'm Welsh born and bread. I live in the North East of Wales and I'm really happy you're enjoying our country. It truly is beautiful. Thanks for reminding me of that.

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Glad to hear it, and welcome aboard!

As a Brit getting to see your reaction to glorious British countryside is marvellous. It's easy to take it for granted living and growing up here, but to see it through a stranger's eyes fresh was a great feeling! Very glad you enjoyed your trip to the UK - come back soon!

@ScenesThroughTravels

10 ай бұрын

Very Well said 👍👍

My uncle used to work on the canals as what was called a River Rat. So great to see the canals still being used and maintained.

Wales is beautiful! Can’t wait for the next three episodes. Mike and Nicole, thanks for bringing us along.

I lived in England when I was a kid, in the mid 70s. My family did the Norfolk Broads boating vacation but not the canals, looks absolutely gorgeous!

I think you & Nicole were a little surprised with the excitement of all the people that were equally excited to see you both. I loved this! It was beautiful. Just love how you both enjoyed lunch on a patio looking out over a field of sheep. The rainbow was beautiful! Looking forward to next week. Wales is a beautiful place.

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Isn't it incredible?!

As someone who has lived on a narrowboat for 17 years, I'm looking forward to seeing your version and thoughts!

@Kai-nw6ej

Жыл бұрын

that’s one of my dreams… one day

Mike, this is one of your best. I follow another Gentleman who does the narrow boats. Looks like a fun thing to do. The scenery is wonderful. Thanks for posting.

I live in Australia but am obsessed with the UK countryside. Visiting the UK and travelling on a canal boat would be up there on my holiday wishlist along with with seeing Canada, Alaska and Japan. So beautiful.

It's such a good feeling watching two people enjoy the UK, as much as I've enjoyed walking and cycling the canals through my home town Stoke on Trent. Watching you two enjoy it so much makes me feel even more lucky I can do it any day want.... Great video

Mike! Nicole! WOW! I had no idea the UK had so many canals. Wales looks absolutely gorgeous. I cannot wait to see the next three episodes. As always, thank you for bringing us along, on these adventures!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much!

@Player-jt2eq

Жыл бұрын

@@DownieLive You should go to the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland

"Hi guys, we're Canadian too!" while talking to the geese 😂They are feisty! It's like the reason Canadians are so friendly is because they shoved all their anger into their geese! Canada geese were first introduced to the UK back in the late 17th century when King James II had them as part of his collection of waterfowl in St James's Park. The Welsh landscape is great and all but the most epic part about Wales is their flag. I mean it has a frickin' *RED DRAGON* on it! Welsh kings of Aberffraw first adopted the dragon in the early fifth century in order to symbolize their power and authority after the Romans withdrew from Britain

Solid video. Looks like a great trip.

That was brilliant, thank you. I am a Welshman living in Japan and I have done for 22 years. It is our aim for my wife and kids to go to the UK next year and live on a narrow boat

I love their dynamic lol "Michael, bedtime!!" "Coming dear!" lmaooo

There are so many reasons to love your videos but this week's video really encapsulates ALL the reasons. I watch a lot of travel vlogs, its my alternative to actually being able to travel, but there is something incredibly special about yours....you have an innate ability to make me feel like Im there experiencing the journey with you. It is lovely to see that Nichole is travelling with you this trip and I literally cant wait for next week's video.

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Thank you Heather. That is so kind of you to say!

I really appreciate Nicole’s reviews - I too can get very hangry, and i would be mighty miffed if i got to our planned pub and they weren’t serving food anymore!! Lesson learned: go shopping before you even get to the boat so you have supplies from the start.😊 xoxo I can’t wait for next week.

I used to live along this canal in Cwmbran and walked it regularly towards Abergavenny. It really is a beautiful area. I even had a works night out at the Horseshoe Inn back in 2017! Brilliant video with so many recognisable areas that I will be walking again in the summer! I might have to look into renting a boat.

I love your enthusiasm. You're just like a little kid.. don't ever lose the wonder.

This is awesome, I live in wales and this just made me appreciate how close i am to this beautiful scenery.

I LOVE that you went on the canals! This is a goal for me myself to do some day. There is an entire side of the UK people do not get to see unless they take them, so glad you are sharing the experience. I kept smiling and laughing with you at all the joy the trip brought you. :)

The country was breath taking. This goes on my bucket list!!! Can not wait to experience it!!!

I live in a part of the UK much like this (Shropshire). It's great seeing it through someone else eyes.

The legend's back! I loved your Train across america series, I'm sure I'll love this just as much being from the UK

I have dreamt about a canal boat trip since I was about 20y old. For the last few years, I have followed a bunch of KZreadrs that have done what you do now and some that actually live on their boats. Maby I should level. up my dream in a few years. :-D Thanks for bringing us along!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Go for it!

Thanks Mike! I've wanted to see this for years.

I’m so happy you enjoyed Wales. I’m Canadian born but very proud to have a Welsh Mother. It is a beautiful country with the most amazing people. Sadly most Canadians never heard of Wales. You’d be shocked if you knew how many times I’ve been asked “your family was born in a whale?!”. So happy to see this gorgeous country getting featured on your channel.

I have to say, while I have loved all your other series I was totally captivated by this journey!! 😍 It was so different and so so interesting. I felt for you all when the food shops were closed, but it allowed for some lovely alternatives. And Nicole is a great trooper! 🌟Thanks for all you do! Safe travels! 🙏🏾

Michael, this trip is truly remarkable. Your words are how I would describe it; such a gorgeous landscape with beauty all around. However, the timing seems to be important when searching for a dinner house . . . or simply bring along enough groceries. Thx, Jimbo

My partner and I lived on the canal system for a year and for the most part it was fun. We did find it hard work, but it kept us fit we had a 50ft n/b .

Your enthusiasm is infectious. It is always interesting to see one's own country from an outsider's point of view. I'm lucky enough to live next to a canal and my garden runs down to it (great fishing!). The irony is that I don't appreciate it as much I should. We always forget how green our country is and you brought it home. For me, nothing, but nothing is quite as relaxing as walking a dog (anybody's dog will do) along a canal.

Welcome to Wales, Mike and Nicole. It is a beautiful country. As you can see, there is more to Britain than just London and I am sure that you will love the rest of your journey.

WOW! So beautiful. I have a friend in Wales. (Hi Veronica!) I never thought it was like this. I can't wait to see more.

Being a Welshman, it really warms my heart to see non-natives such as yourselves say the things we do, that we live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world❤️💯

I have walked that cannal so many times with my children, in the seventies, it is so beautiful, wish I still lived in South Wales.

I am usually disappointed when there is no train involved! Not this time! The boats look like a great way to see the real UK. So often trains run through industrial areas. This looks like pure countryside. Nicole looks like a keeper. She is the ying to your yang. If you haven't already, get a ring on her finger!

Downie, this is great!! Very picturesque, and I love how you can hop off the boat and you're just walking the beautiful countryside! 🙏🏽💙

All I can say is this was brilliant. The lush, richness of the countryside took my breath away. I’m so happy you are adding this series to your channel. Just delightful!❤❤❤❤

This is wonderful! Your childlike awe and wonder is so lovely and refreshing. You always have so much gratitude in your travels and It's a joy to watch. Can't wait to see what the rest of Wales holds!

You and Nicole are couple goals. I’ve always wanted to go on a big trip like this with my boyfriend ❤️ I love your videos!

So nice to see Wales featured on a travel channel - an amazing and magical place.

"Holy cow"! "No, horses". 😂😂

I really like a good canal boat video. Makes me want to live there.

I think this is the definition of serenity. I could watch this for hours on end. In France, there's a very famous canal, the Canal du Midi, if one day you want to navigate it :) Can't wait for the other episodes!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

I've heard of it and may try to fit it in for 2023.

@Nathyk3

Жыл бұрын

@@DownieLive That would be awesome!

Mike yelling at the sheep with his wool coat on had me just about spraying my coffee all over my computer! hahahah. Absolutely hysterical.

I live around canals and use them often - but i really appreciated watching it from your point of view! I obviously appreciate how beautiful they can be, but you tend to just take things for granted. But the fact you were amazed by how green it is makes me take a step back and appreciate how ace it actually is. The scenery, the history, british canals are ace. Great video mate.

@DownieLive

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

We lived near the Lake District in Cumbria for 2 1/2 years. The English countryside was just breathtaking. We have been back in the states for 3 years. We couldn’t wait to return to the UK . We went back for a month in August. We rented a narrow boat and toured part the Oxford Canal and Thames for 4 days. Your video is a true reflection of what a wonderful experience it is. We are going back in May to explore another area. Glad we found your channel.

It's so great to see you exploring Cymru! I'm glad you're enjoying the sights and it makes me proud of the people and place. Cymru am byth!

@jackmason7823

Жыл бұрын

For the non-Brits in this comment section, 'Cymru' is Welsh for 'Wales' and 'Cymru am byth' means 'Wales forever' ☺️ From your friendly English neighbour! ☺️

Wales is truly a beautiful part of the United Kingdom. It was wonderful traveling with you canal boat newbies. You two worked together great as a team. I can't wait for the next canal boat adventure.

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much!

Keeping a full larder and fridge are vital as you can't rely on places being open when in the deep countryside.

Canal boat holidays are the best and we always had them growing up as a family. 3 weeks a year on a narrow boat. If you are thinking of doing this you need to stock up your food, and take enough for cooking your main meals on the boat, you can’t rely on countryside pubs to either be open or serving food… even in 2023! You normally get enough pan etc to cook properly on board. Then you can also just eat when you get hungry.

Wow you really just made Wales look like paradise

I’m glad you enjoyed the British countryside, Britain gets a lot of stick for not being pretty, but there is truly nothing better than taking a stroll through rolling fields, walking along a canal, and ending the day at a local pub!

Missed opportunity to fly some Canadian Flags 🇨🇦 or garb from your lovely narrow boat @ the jubilee flotilla. What a fun few days on what looks to be a great new adventure.

This is such a amazing way to live I’d love this

You have done a great job for promoting our canals I hope more follow. Those people standing by just watching the boats are called "Gongoozlers" in canal language.

This was a relaxing episode to watch, unique method of travel with its own challenges but you guys made the most of it! Thanks for sharing this with us!

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure! More to come!

Brilliant lovely made video and a lovely nice couple to go with it makes a pleasure to watch 👍👍👍

So good to seeing you enjoy a canal that is local to us - that we have rarely considered boating on. A real joy to watch. Thank you.

@garygerard4290

Ай бұрын

yes

We love Monmouthshire. We spent our 10th wedding anniversary near Ross-on-Wye which is on the English side of the border but have visited Monmouth and Monnow Bridge. I’m excited to see if you do the Grand Union or go through Stoke Bruerne as those are more places I’ve visited.

Happy to see this content and narrowboating getting exposure outside the UK, I blame narrowboating on getting me hooked on subscribing to YT channels, The very first channel I subscribed to is Cruising The Cut. Sadly many of the OG narrowboat YT’ers have retired from continual cruising. Some great YT narrowboat channels are Cruising The Cut, Minimal List, Foxes Afloat, Cruising Alba, Narrowboat Experience and London Boat Girl.

@BrianMonroe

Жыл бұрын

Yep. They are all good YTber channels. Yes, Cruising The Cut is a great gateway channel to get in to BoatTubers. I agree that it sucks that so many channels have retired from continual cruising but I think that is to be expected as it looks like it is a lot of work and you can end up running out of new areas to cruise and explore. The good thing about YT is that there are so many interesting and good channels to check out so you will not ever be bored.

@jameshaddan8538

Жыл бұрын

Love the narrow boat channels - though Foxes Afloat are also no longer “afloat,” (though in the gorgeous Highlands now).

@underwriter53

Жыл бұрын

You forgot Holly the Cafe Boat! One of my faves!

For a long time, I have dreamed of this particular vacation, I will do so soon and of all the canal trips, you have convinced us that our first should rightly be this very canal to allow us the same wisdom of less traffic to hone some narrow boat skills first. Thank you for this video

Thanks, both. I was born and raised in South Wales, I still live here now. This has made me consider a canal boat as a home for me and my family (my fiance disagrees, but there's time yet!). Glad you had such a blast. Always lovely to see people reacting so kindly to this country that I take so for granted.

Hope this new series does well; some lighthearted information; 6/7 KZread channels have had dedicated channels (Foxes Alfort typical channel model) over the last 8 years that have covered this subject thoroughly. Background to viewership- hoping your international followers prop things up! Thanks for all your wonderful journeys and super family. Sending many Blessings from deepest southern England 🎉 🇬🇧

Michael you produce realy very nice video. Nice to see you started travel again in Europe. Enjoy the time in Great Britain.

Some of my favorite narrowboat vloggers have seemingly "retired" and this popped up in my feed. Must be the algorithm sensing my vibe hehe. Great to find your channel. Thoroughly enjoyable.

So fascinating to get not only a glimpse into the recreational side of narrowboating, but the homemaking side as well.

I follow Holly the Cafe Boat on KZread and have been so looking forward to your series! They were recently on the Trent and Mersey. Enjoy! 💕

Im so glad you loved my homeland the beauty of which is often underrated. It's a shame you didn't get to Brecon but you can't do it all! As always your enthusiasm is uplifting! Keep on going "Live" Mike Downie.

@fayesouthall6604

Жыл бұрын

Brecon is lovely 😊😊

About 15 years ago, my wife and I along with her sister and husband spent a week on a rented narrowboat on the Caldon Canal and thoroughly loved it. Thank you for helping me relive those memories and spreading the word about how great a narrowboat “holiday” (“vacation” for us Yanks in the USA).

@DownieLive

Ай бұрын

Oh wow! It was my pleasure!

@anotherneglectedhobby8386

Ай бұрын

@@DownieLive Our experience was a whole lot like yours: cottonpatch.wordpress.com/2009/10/04/yanks-on-the-cut-our-week-on-an-english-narrowboat/

Fantastic video Michael, I briefly spoke with you at Five Locks, when you were attempting to swing your boat around in the crowded basin due to the Queens Platinum Jubille Celebrations, which you were part off. Thank you for putting our Beautiful and Magical waterway in the Hearts and Minds of your followers. 👍

I've always to do a trip on the canal boats. This might be the incentive I need.

Mike has crossed the pond 🇬🇧! such an awesome premiere episode ! can’t wait for this season ⛴️ !

I've been watching your videos since you started your videos of Vancouver and am very surprised to see you come to Wales out of all places. This canal system in particular was one of my fond memories growing up. Thanks for visiting!

Ah Nicole is a delight isn't she! I've been watching Cruising the Cut for a long time and it's so fun to see narrowboating through fresh eyes, especially watching the two of you doing it together. Lovely stuff 👍

This is one of my favorite videos you’ve done so far! I think the UK is absolutely gorgeous, especially all those canals! I need to go back. 🎉🥰

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much 😊

I stumbled upon this video on my front page and I'm soooo glad I watched it. I love Wales already and this is an absolute pleasure to watch and reminds me why I love this country and its countryside! You two seem to be so nice and loveable and I can't wait to check the next episodes out :3

@DownieLive

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Anny, and welcome aboard!

I've known of the Narrow Boats, but.... I can't even with these canals & that countryside and the views and omg I am so in love with this! Wow. I mean, just wow. I had no idea & idk why is everyone not doing this??? This is a vacation I would have great difficulty leaving behind, if not for lack of a Garden space, I'd be All In on Immigration and buying one of these. 💖

My home county! This canal was a saviour during Covid lock downs. I can confirm it really is just as green and beautiful in real life! Glad you enjoyed it! 😍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

This series is gonna be good!

WOW, I just came across your channel. I felt quite emotional at times watching this. You have done a better job promoting Wales than the Wales tourist board has, so thank you. We do have a beautiful country, I honestly feel blessed to be Welsh sometimes.

Man I've been ejoying your channel like no other, you clearly deserve and probably will have millions of followers soon, your good attitude and details are making these videos spectacular.

I'd like to just live in one of those canal boats, it'd be so peaceful!