Hey Guys! We want to explain a few things we learned AFTER dropping our van off at the port. First, this was not our Shipping Agents fault! Martin is a great agent and we are learning that things in the shipping industry are never certain. Martin prepares you for lots of unknowns... and we were in contact with him and Daniel while the 'incident' was happening. Second, the shipping industry, as a whole, is currently updating their safety polocies to deal with the threat of fire from Lithium Ion Batteries.... the kind of batteries that most overlanders (like us) use in their campers. There have been a few fires at sea and the new "key" policy is a safety measure to help deal with fires that may happen on the ship. We completly understand this... we just really wish we would have known about the brand new rules before we got the van secure, we could have prepared! Anyway, we have our fingers crossed that all of our belongings will be safe and sound inside the van when it arrives in Europe! In the meantime, we will try to have some fun here in the city while we get the cats ready to fly to Europe with us in a couple of weeks! FYI.... we are learning that there are several shipping companies that are just not going to allow campers with the lithium batteries and maybe even propane tanks anymore... the industry is changing guys! Making it more difficult to ship our vans around the world. We will still get it done, but there will likely be more hoops to jump thru for future ships.

@fatmonet

9 ай бұрын

Wonder if you could've put a GPS tracker on your van?

@JohnS-zq8ks

9 ай бұрын

If you're referring to Martin McGowan, he's a professional. I don't think another shipper could have done better. I'm sure Martin was misinformed. It's simply unfortunate. Setting cost and inconvenience aside for a moment, have you heard about those shipping overland vehicles using a second (separate) small container for their contents, most especially lithium batteries? I was thinking about doing this anyway just for a more secure shipment of my rig's contents, but now I wonder if a second, lockable/sealed container might also help with the lithium issue.

@patv997

9 ай бұрын

Thank you for explaining the reason for them getting the keys to you home. That does sound logical due to the battery's. Better safe than sorry any day. Hope you kids can have some fun and not worry to much about your home. Take care n stay safe. 💕🤗🙏🐦🐈‍⬛🐈

@jenh9252

9 ай бұрын

I am glad that you now have an explanation that makes you relax a little. I am sure it will all be OK, just relax....nothing you can do now except don't get stressed with your heart issues❤ I made me tearful to see you so upset at the port.

@MerrilyVan

9 ай бұрын

Thanks for explaining the upset. It makes sense from the shipping company POV . They should be warned that any shenanigans with the van during shipping will be filmed and reported on.👍🏼

we'll all be praying and hoping that everything goes well with the van! Let's hope whoever has the keys is responsible and takes good care of the van

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @rodrigogcoritiba!

@barbaraburke1676

9 ай бұрын

Same here for you both, in my prayers daily...sending lots of love hugs and prayers to yall ❤️🤗🙏

@jkok456

9 ай бұрын

Can not wait to follow your next adventure

@nancytrump1912

9 ай бұрын

Have fun with the adorable and snuggling traveling cats. All 4 of you are in my prayers. Both big and small❤

In my opinion the barrier wall was still a good idea for those moments when the van is being driven on and off the ship. I understand your apprehension in leaving all the keys behind, but in the end of the day I believe chances are everything will be safe. I've had good experiences in sketchier ports around the world. I once shipped my car from Laos to Bangladesh and everything else I owned. Amazingly everything was fine. Wishing you the best of luck.

Não permitam que a preocupação com a van tire o prazer ao continuar sua viagem. Vocês têm um ao outro e os gatinhos também. Vai dar tudo certo!!!🙏❤️🇧🇷

@allanfifield8256

8 ай бұрын

"Don't let worrying about the van take away the pleasure of continuing your journey. You have each other and so do the kittens. It's going to be all right!!"

I'm so sorry for the added stress and drama. It makes an absolutely no sense to have a barrier wall and then they required the keys. Godspeed and good luck!

Sending prayers to you. I have been in your shoes twice. Once nothing was stolen, the second time, they stole kitchen stuff and tools we had! Praying all goes well! Hugs!

@davisholman8149

9 ай бұрын

Very, very little integrity to be had in today's world. The USA must implement a zero tolerance for any sort of thievery - or we will end up like all those other places.

@davisholman8149

9 ай бұрын

Very, very little integrity to be had in today's world. The USA must implement a zero tolerance for any sort of thievery - or we will end up like all those other places.

That’s really scary, to have everything changed on you at the last minute. You have what’s most important- each other, the kitties, and your health. Prayers up for good outcomes, and peace of mind in the meantime. ✌️❤️🙏

Surely it is, as Snow well showed in her face, a bittersweet moment. Hopefully you'll find your home well and complete in Europe. Best wishes from Brazil!

Holy cow! I felt a little emotional watching this. First because you had to say goodbye to your home and second because your travels through South America have been so enjoyable. Thank you for sharing the incredible experiences you had in South America. I can’t wait for Europe. Saying a prayer for you guys and your van. Safe travels!!❤️

It will be alright. Very secure port were you left it. And, I understand they will want to inspect the whole vehicle upon entry to new port. It will be alright.

A hidden battey powered motion activated security camera could help to log all entry into the house and also help record any theft.

It's not just your van, it's your home. Praying everything goes awesome for you guys.

This is so exciting!! I loved South America but I have butterflies thinking about touring Europe with you guys. What an adventure!!

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @MerrilyVan!

Very sad this agent has not followed through with what he said they will do. I am hoping this video is way behind so we get an update quickly that the van arrived fully intact. Prayers for you.

I think we're all crying along with you, Snow! Safe travels for your home. You've done an amazing job at preparing her for this trip. Here's to new adventures!

@RippSnortin

9 ай бұрын

I'm not crying

Estamos esperando vocês novamente de braços abertos, e quando voltar vem conhecer o litoral nordestino, as praias paraibanas são lindas, a culinária não deixa a desejar, é tudo de bom família!

Everything must be accessible for inspection, just incase you’re trying to smuggling something in.

Where’s the kitties guys? Bless you both and let’s all pray your van get to where it needs to be with no problems. Bless you both.

Everything will be fine!! This (feeling) too will pass. It is out of your hands, so take a deep breath and try to believe in the good of humanity. When you get to Belgium, please visit Bruges. We knew nothing of the place before our cruise in September; however, our world traveller son told us we had to visit, and sure glad we did. The city is spectacular!! Remember too that if necessary, material things can be replaced, that you have the most important things (kitties) with you. Crossing my fingers never hurts either.......Lots of Love from London, ON 🇨🇦

I'll be praying for a safe trip for your van. And that everything will go well with your home and it will be safe.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

THANK you! It is much apprecaited!

So very sorry for this troubling time. I bet you have hundreds of people praying for the safe travels of your van. You did everything you possibly could. I praying you find peace and confidence that in four weeks you can pick up your van and have it perfectly secured with ALL your belongings inside.

I am so sad for you that things didn’t go the way you were told they would. I pray that everything goes smoothly now and that nothing is disturbed or missing when you get to Belgium. I am still very excited though for your next chapter of new adventures in Europe. You two are such an inspiration to so many of us. Thank you! Oh and I love your spare tire cover with your logo. Not sure why I never noticed that before but it looks great! 👍🏻

Dear ones, I am sure we are all holding our breaths, and keeping you, the kitties AND your beautiful van in our thoughts and prayers every day - untill you reconnect in Belgium 🙏❤ Thanks to the many comments, we can all read that it is possible to ship without any problems - even from scary ports. Everything is gonna be allright. Love and heart felt thoughts from Camilla in Denmark ☀️

Hugs guys I'll be keeping you and your van in my prayers. That was a beautiful tribute to Brazil, enjoyed following along. I never got to travel like that and loved seeing the different countries from your eyes.......totally was not what I had thought........was really beautiful along with the people thank you so much for sharing your journey ❤ 🙏😎

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @constancegarcia7834!

So sorry things didn't go as planned, and all the stress 😢 On a lighter note so happy, and excited about your new adventures to come! Have a safe trip! Love you guys ❤❤😊

Sending you all ❤️🤗🙏. Take a deep breath and continue on. Take care of the babies! 😸

I'm sure you have planned as well as possible. Hopefully it is fine. I am interested in how you will travel with the kitties. Best of luck.

Beautiful montages to close out this chapter. Thank you for taking us along.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Glad you like them!

Prayers and best wishes for a safe and event free trip. It’s a big thing when you ship a simple vehicle over seas and I can’t imagine shipping your house and the trepidation involved. Hugs ❤

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Yes! Thank you!

Curt and Snow. If you never travel you never have to take any risks like these. You are strong, kind, good people. Trusting that other king and good people will look after your van and belongings for you. This will be very good preparation for travelling to Asia where your idea of planning and theirs may be in other realities. You have so many wonderful experiences yet to look forward to. Stay positive and well. See you in Europe.xx

Positive thoughts for a safe trip for the van! I'm envisioning you reuniting with the van jn Belgium just like you left it.

Looking forward to the next chapter of your travels in Europe

I add that prayer not worry is the best plan. Do not bring negative energy into your life. You have many praying with you for safe transport and a easy transport. Bless both of you.

🥰 I cried some tears also when the Mercedes drove off😢❤ and the medley did not help ! 🥰 Now that was plot twist 🫨🫨🫨🫨 that would really fudge me up! I can understand the nerves and the emotions 😬 I cross my fingers and toes for a successful reunion with the Benz❤

Hi Curt and Snow, please try to take some solis in the fact that it is just stuff. Yes, it cost money to replace and there is a feeling of being violated, but the most important thing is that you are safe and healthy. Looking forward to exploring Europe with you! All the best from San Diego.

It’s so disappointing when things don’t go as expected, and coupled with feeling sad about leaving places you’ve loved is hard. I’m sure you’ve taken lots of photos and videos of all your gear in the van, which is you’re home and this makes it more emotional. Not sure if you installed a camera or cameras in your van that’s linked to your phones. It may offer more peace of mind for next time. It’ll be a tough month and you’ll need to look after one another. Here’s to Europe ❤❤

I hope you maxed out insurance to the limits. The only safety net you have is insurance for every nut, bolt, screw and the whole enchilada! Can’t wait for the European adventure!

Don't worry you guys, everything is going to work out great. I will keep you all in my prayers.🙏❤️🙏❤️

I feel your anxiety through the camera! How frustrating to have the plans change, last minute personell changes, and turning over all the keys?! What the hell!

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

is what it is.... but, it was tough! Now, we hope all is ok... and if not, we deal with it in europe. Taking deep breaths over here.

@jphanks

9 ай бұрын

@@SnowAndCurt great artitude from you both! How far ahead of us are you? I signed up for Patreon again and didn't see any updates!

I said a small prayer when you guys said they needed the keys . Prayers for you guys also. I can't wait to see Europe. When do you guys leave to meet the van. Love you guys

It makes no sense to me that they need those keys. But I understand the predicament that put you in, so I guess it is what it is. Will be praying that all goes well with the shipping and you get your lovely van/home back without any problems.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Exactly... I hve had time to 'let it go' and we will just see what happens on the other side!

❤❤❤❤❤ You guys just try to accept that you've given your Van and it's gone now and you have to have faith that it will come back to you in one piece. It's like you get on airplane once you buy that ticket and get in the seat you're at the mercy of that pilot right? You know, don't worry as much as you think. I'll give you prayers and lots of lots of special thoughts and hope you'll have some peace.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @annetteanderson1933!

Hard to let your home “go away”. I hope everything is just fine for all your stuff! Good luck!

Good morning, hope your day goes well, thanks for the video.

It's hard not to worry about something out of your control. Hope all goes well with the van. Now you need to get ready for your trip overseas. I know you have a lot of things that need your attention for that. Your medical health, meds and papers, the kitties and their papers, Pass Ports up to date, all licences and ID's up to date. So much to think about and have ready. Can't wait till you get settled in over there and start your new journey.

We will be praying that everything is protected and nothing will go missing God is good always love prayers and blessings 🙏xxxx

Beautiful music and scenery as always! I hope your van stays secure.

Wishing you lots of luck and prayers for your van to arrive safely. 🙏 🍀 🤍

Praying for safe return of the van and your belongings

I have butterflies over the cats on a plane. Definitely praying over all four of you and your van.

It’s not a suitcase It’s a big van with all those compartments and storages. If they don’t have the access to them in case of an inspection the van can get stuck and your plans will be screwed up.

Oh no. What a unhappy turn. Hopefully all is well with the van when you get it back. 🤞

I’m a South American woman living in the East of England, Norfolk for 21 years. If you two come this way I would love to meet up and help you in what I can.

We pray that Jesus keep everything for you safe and that you will get your van exactly like you have it all the best stay save blessings xxx❤❤❤

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

THANK YOU

Praying everything will be like it was when you shipped her. I thank God I can travel along with you through the videos. You are a wonderful couple.

Hope you put a Apple airtag on the Van so you can follow it and see what's its location. Love your videos.. All the best !! Ramos - TORONTO, CANADA

I just cannot imagine your level of anxiety being away from your beautiful van for so long. That’s quite a sturdy looking wall you got fabricated there. Very nice! And how exciting to be in Europe for the holidays!

Praying you can rest and trust that God is watching over your plan, your home, and you both physically.

I'm sorry things didn't go as you expected. On September 12, 2023, a family friend in a similar situation as you shipped their SUV (2018 Ford Explorer) from Santos (Sao Paulo, Brazil) to Marseilles (France). Somewhat the same situation as yours. He paid US $2,450 but they had to do the actual shipping. As in they were responsible for the preparation of the vehicle for the long trip. Their paperwork was not too bad. They had to show when the car went into Brazil and get it stamped that it was leaving. They drove the van in to a container and had a horrible time coming out of it. The container was way too narrow for them to open the side doors, so they had to leave via the rear door. it took 12 days for the Atlantic crossing. The very same day they put their SUV in the boat they flew out to Paris. It took them 3 days to get all the paperwork done in France but when their boat arrived in France, they were able to just drive it off the container and go in their way. They are watching your videos too.

My goodness, your van looks like a new one all spruced up. I'll be thinking good thoughts that the van is safe until you see it again. I hate the idea that you had to hand the keys over for the main body of your home, especially after being assured that that wouldn't happen. Not good. Looking forward to seeing you on the next vid. Try to keep your spirits up.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

It was so shiny and pretty!

I feel the stress and anxiety you are experiencing. After all the hard work to lock up the van so nobody could have access to the living quarters, is quite a disappointment for you guys. I pray that everything goes well and your van arrives in one piece. I am sending you lots of prayers and wishing you a safe journey through Europe.

wow - that is so disappointing. You put your trust on someone, and he lets you down this much. Let's keep our fingers, legs and eyes crossed that all goes well - and of course prayers will definitely help. Stay positive, stay strong. Hugs.

Hola👋from New Mexico🌵🌶️.....Prayers 🙏sent and angels around you and your fur babies and around you home while you are gone from it. Keep your faith and happy thoughts. Lots of love sent.

I’m sure everything will work out OK! I’ll be praying for ya!

People generally think they'll find trouble in Brazil but mostly they are quite fine when they come here and find a lot of trouble in the neighbouring countries.

On the van, just put it out of your mind. Worrying about it won't change anything. I'd be unhappy with the shipping agent, but my guess would be he's likely either the only shipping agent, or one of only a few. If anything is missing, just remember it's only stuff. I'm looking forward to Europe

Ahhh. It’s hard to see you in tears. 😞💞. Feel everything. Speak what is true and keep moving. 🦋

Sounds like Martin puts more effort into its website than ensuring a smooth transfer at the working end. There are times in life when you just have to let go and have faith.

❤❤❤❤ Cannot wait to see Belgium. I worked for the doctor many years ago from Belgium. He was very charming.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @annetteanderson1933! I cannot wait to try a belgium waffle!

I remember those times when we had to prep for our car to be shipped overseas with the military. We had so much paperwork, cleaning the car, we weren't allowed to leave anything in our cars. Every country is different with regulations too. We took photos of every inch of our cars, even underneath and the interiors as well.

No doubt in my mind all will go well. Worrying doesnt help at all. Take care of your health Snow. Enjoy this time to the max as you will have a lot of great adventures in a month. Stay calm.

Awww sweethearts. I will be praying daily that your van remains safe and in the same condition you sent her off in. Try to not dwell on it as worrying over it won't change a thing, it will only impact the time you have left in Argentina. So take a deep breath, hope for the best, and try to enjoy this new adventure. You know that as long as you and the kitties are safe and together everything else is secondary. Sending tight hugs and prayers to you both.

That's definitely a hard situation they put you in. That's awful you don't get to deal with who you thought you would. Praying all goes well and things are exactly as you left them. I have a raised roof full size conversion van and the car wash deal is about impossible here too. The car lot will wash it but they are in a different county, so not like it's up the road.

Beautiful! Love this video. It made me emotional especially the song was perfect.

Safe journey and good luck to you all.

We reap what we sow. Curt and Snow, you have sowed an amazing harvest. I send to you, Curt and Snow, my confidence that your home will arrive safely and unmolested in Belgium within the agreed-upon timeframe. SMIB 👏

So sorry how stressful for you praying all your belongings will be safe❤🙏

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @BobbieD!

Positive thoughts and prayers that everything goes well and in 30 days you will be on your way to new beautiful adventures in your van. Cheers guys!

Don't stress too much. Everything will be ok. Pray about your situation.

Snow I know you are a worrier, but remember where we put our thoughts is where we put our energy. May I suggest focusing on the outcome you want to see, and not what you don’t want to see. You are both getting a lesson on trusting yourselves and others whom you meet to have your best interest in there hearts and minds. Worry is never helpful in our lives. Trust in your self, other and their better natures. Love you both and I see only peace and joy and interesting fun times in Europe for you and Curt. ❤

Hopefully everything will work out well with the van and the adventure in Europe. Things sure are crazy in this world right now.

Prayers for camper = /home stays safe

Best of luck to you and the safety of your van. Will be holding the good thought for you both.

Everything works out. ❤

Hey, that was emotional for me! Hope all goes well. Looking forward to following you around Europe. Safe travels!

Totally hate last minute curve balls. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 that your home will be safeguarded throughout it's voyage and your upcoming adventures.

@SnowAndCurt

9 ай бұрын

Thanks, @naomiaki2962!

I wanted to cry when I saw the tears in Snow's eyes. How frustrating for you after all you've done to secure your home. I still think it's a good thing you did all you did because hopefully the keys will be kept in a secure office area where only certain port employees have access. It will lessen the chance that a random person can just open the cab and if they want to get into the house area they'll have to work extra hard to get back there if the keys are in an office once it sits in Belgium. I know your really worried, but I have a good feeling that all will be well. Looking forward to seeing the windmills and tulips in Belgium.

Keep safe and God bless you on your travels. Here’s to a safe and quick recovery of your van in Belgium!

As always your soundtrack is awesome. So sorry you had to turn over the keys to the back. Keep the faith in fellow humans not stealing from the van!

Oh Snow, you made me cry, so understand how you must be feeling, your home has given so many such joy, your home will be safe, A new experience always teaches us for future. Thank you so very much, you two make our weekends, Belgium-Netherlands is my family heritage and I will never be able in my life to afford to go there, but you will make this happen in your home, as your travels make our days. No more tears 😢, hugs from us in Australia 🇦🇺

My thoughts and prayers are with you both.. hugs!🙏🏾🕊❤

Oh no😮😮. Gosh I was getting a panic attack.

@user-ph2ck7cw2j

9 ай бұрын

Me too , phew !

I’ve shipped several vehicles from Europe to the US, it’s always unnerving, but everything went smoothly in the long run. Vehicles I shipped were packed with parts, which had some value but no problems whatsoever.

Theft of property and using people’s vehicles for drug smuggling are major concerns. I love the solution you came up with that temporary wall. Concerning that they took the keys, especially after you were told they wouldn’t need to. But I was surprised because wouldn’t European customs want to search what’s coming in? I don’t know, but that was a change I wish there’d been a way around. Was surprised that you were shipping to Belgium instead of Portugal. Your lives together on this journey are incredible. Honestly, I’d love to do all that, but have some circumstances preventing it. Thanks for letting me fulfill my dream by sharing yours. God bless you.

@vickenator

9 ай бұрын

Precisely this -- no reputable port would allow a vehicle into their port without being able to completely search it inside and out for contraband, explosives, whatever, especially in this day and age. No matter what the shipping company told you. It's just common sense and it's not surprising at all that they'd want keys to everything. I wouldn't allow a vehicle to be shipped on my liner without knowing it was clear of anything that could compromise my ship in any way.

Wow, I did not expect that to happen as I’m sure it was maddening for you. Keeping my fingers crossed for you and hopefully everything will work out, totally understand the stress level. 😮

Unexpected surprises are not always good, for all that you did to prepare for your house to be secure!! But you have a lot of followers that will be sending prayers for you & the safety of your home on wheels!! 🙏😇🙏😇🙏

Hi Snow and Curt Keep praying that everything go well with your van hope be missing when you pick up van in 30days stay safe on your travels journey

I missed a lot it seems. I watched you guys talking and planning for Europe and going through South America and I got side tracked with life and I return and yuou guys are putting your home on the boat to Europe. This is getting exciting. I am glad I am catching up. Thank you for sharing so much of your lives and adventures. I understand the shipping as I bought a car from Canada in the summer and had to go through this process for shipping and getting it imported to the United States. It is a lot involved in the process. I saw what you guys went through. It can be stressful. I am sorry about what happened at the port and the situation you were placed into. I will be watching and hoping for the best for you as well. I hope you two are doing well.

My heart ❤️ goes out to you that’s crap they need in back your van I’m not believing that but I will be praying it arrives safe sound as you left Goodluck guys

Sending love and best wishes for a successful shipping and that your home is waiting for you safe and sound at the other side ❤️