Chances are that if you have rented a luxury motorcoach through LiTRV (Luxury in Travel) or if you retain LiTRV for owner services, you’ve met or talked with LiTRV Founder and Co-owner, Mike Bloomquist. We recently sat down with him for a Q&A:
How and when did you become interested in working with luxury motorcoaches?
Mike: In 2010, I acquired a 40’ luxury RV after an in-law became ill and could no longer afford to own the “coach.” The plan was to buy it, use it for a year, then sell it for the same price since I got it at wholesale value. I was approached to “rent” my RV for Super Bowl XLVI at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. I hosted a full tailgate hospitality for 15 people using the RV as base camp for my clients. It was an amazing experience for both me and the clients. I was all-in.
What is the biggest misconception people have about renting a luxury motorcoach?
Mike: There’s a need to better educate the public about their travel options. Many people don’t realize they can rent a luxury motorcoach, so actually there are not a lot of misconceptions, but rather appreciation that we are here to assist.
What is something that surprised you about luxury motorcoaches and/or the luxury travel industry?
Mike: Luxury motorcoaches are very different from standard RVs. There are many more amenities, and at first, there was a bit of a learning curve regarding all the bells and whistles. As for our clients, I think people are often pleasantly surprised at how comfortable road travel is, and they are often excited to learn that they can bring their pets.
If a friend or family member was thinking of purchasing a luxury motorcoach, what would you advise them?
Mike: First, don’t rush to make a purchasing decision. Set a budget and shop around. And call LiTRV – we have the industry knowledge and expertise to help you assess your options and avoid any common mistakes.
How would you describe your leadership style?
Mike: We are a small company, and for the most part I was a sole-proprietor since starting this business. So my company leadership has been focused on surrounding myself with trustworthy, passionate, and qualified people to build a sustainable network and build a successful business. I’m a passive leader with my parters, our contractors, and service providers so I can understand others’ perspectives and make informed decisions. This also helps me build deep meaningful relationships which is the cornerstone for business longevity.
You have a great team assembled, including private drivers, maintenance crew, and other motorcoach specialists. What traits do you look for when bringing someone on to the LiTRV team?
Mike: Honesty, good communication, the ability to provide constructive feedback and show up every day.
Do you take time off to travel yourself, and if so, where do you like to go?
Mike: Yes, I try to take 7-10 days away from direct contact with work and spend time with my wife, son, daughter, and our dog, Wrigley. Our favorite destinations include Hawaii, exploring West of the Mississippi, family reunions in the Midwest, and road trips in a LiTRV motorcoach.
You’re often working against the clock to book reservations and take care of other logistics. How early do you start your day and what type of breakfast do you have to get your day started?
Mike: We work with the clock, never against it! Time is extremely precious and valuable so we actively plan and take into account obstacles that could slow the process. As for breakfast…small coffee, then some fruit and/or a protein bar.
If you could plan a trip on a luxury motorcoach with a famous person (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
Mike: You can really get to know someone on a luxury RV road trip, and I’m fascinated with global environmental issues, so to plan a trip with Boyan Slat from The Ocean Cleanup or the late Jacque Cousteau would be amazing.
Where do you see LiTRV in 5 years? And/or are there any exciting plans on the horizon?
Mike: In 5 years, LiTRV will have evolved to become a more dynamic company providing new services for RV owners, buyers, sellers, and renters. The unique coach experiences will become more sophisticated and a younger audience will find new ways to incorporate luxury motorcoaches into their lives for both personal travel and event needs.
Whether you’re seeking to rent a luxury motorcoach for a fun vacation or you’re an owner who needs help with maintenance, storage and other owner services, Mike and the LiTRV team would welcome the chance to connect with you. Feel free to contact them at info@litrv.com or call them at 1-800-369-8153.
When summer temperatures are sizzling, it’s the perfect time to plan a trip to see the fall foliage. And there’s no better way to experience this colorful, magical phenomenon than by traveling country roads in a luxury motorcoach. LiTRV can help you assess your luxury RV rental options, arrange for a professional driver, and assist with other travel needs, such as reservations at fine dining restaurants, local tourist excursions, and other memorable experiences.
“Leaf peeping” tourism is particularly popular in New England, Appalachia, the upper Midwest, the Pacific Northwest, the Smoky Mountains, the Rocky Mountains, and many areas of Canada. Weather plays a pivotal role in how vibrant the leaves are during this seasonal change, but typically the best time to see fall foliage is between mid-September and early November.
Here are some ideas to consider:
The Finger Lakes Region of New York
The Finger Lakes region consists of a group of 11 long, narrow north-south lakes located south of Lake Ontario. Known for its breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, gorges and rolling hills, the region also features many festivals, wineries, and craft breweries. There are so many beautiful places to explore, including Seneca Lake, Watkins Glen State Park, Finger Lakes National Forest, Buttermilk Falls, Taughannock Falls. Reservations for luxury RV resorts tend to book up quickly, so now is a good time to confirm plans.
Vermont
Fall is a great time to visit Vermont. The cool, crisp autumn air and spectacular fall foliage provide the perfect setting for harvest festivals, Octoberfest events, hiking, apple picking and other fun activities. The maple trees not only produce colorful fall foliage, but they also produce the sap that forms Vermont’s famous maple syrup. There are several luxury RV resorts throughout the state and near Vermont’s largest city, Burlington, with beautiful views of Lake Champlain and the surrounding Adirondack mountains.
Colorado
The Rocky Mountains provide a different fall foliage experience. While you won’t see the rich, deep red, cranberry, purple and variety of other colors that are on display in the Northeast, the large aspen and cottonwood trees turn bright yellow, deep orange and gold. Set against the rugged, rocky mountain peaks, along with tall pine trees, the views are stunning, especially on a clear day. Consider visiting Durango, an old western railroad town that was established in 1880. Or if you’re seeking a more modern area with high-end restaurants and boutiques, consider visiting Aspen, and be sure to visit Maroon Bells. As one of the most photographed alpine scenes in the country, the Maroon Bells are two peaks in the Elk Mountains that reflect off of Maroon Lake.
Washington
Known as the Evergreen State, the state of Washington is full of maples, aspens, and larches that explode in color when autumn arrives. There are several luxury RV resorts near Mt. Rainer National Park, which was described by John Muir as “the most luxuriant and the most extravagantly beautiful of all the alpine gardens I ever beheld in all my mountain-top wanderings.” Central Washington is home to the state’s wine country, and this region also provides for good “leaf peeping.” The Olympic Peninsula lies across Puget Sound from Seattle and is another great place to visit in the fall. With access to the Pacific coast, the Hoh rainforest, and the Olympic mountains, the area features tribal cultural centers, fishing, hiking, mountain climbing and whale watching.
The good news is that there are many choices to see fall foliage throughout the United States and Canada. Reservations at luxury RV resorts and hotels do book up quickly, so it’s not too early to begin planning your trip. Our LiTRV team is ready to assist you.
Mary and her husband, Maynard, were ready to travel. They had stayed close to home since the onset of the pandemic, and it was time to go on a fun adventure. But there was one challenge – Maynard’s mobility challenges prevented him from flying.
Even before the pandemic, Mary and Maynard were trying to find a better way to travel.
“When Maynard started having health issues, including a bad back, I had to change my style of packing. So, even a car trip to a hotel was difficult as I had to pack everything in smaller bags and go back and forth from the car to the hotel room,” Mary said.
Determined to find an alternative, Mary started talking with friends who owned a motorcoach. She was intrigued by how spacious it was and began to research her options.
When she connected with LiTRV, she was very particular about their needs. Together, they reviewed options regarding amenities and specific details relating to the staircase into the luxury motorcoach, the height of the bed and the height of the toilet. It was also important to have a shower with a seat that came down.
The couple decided on visiting Hilton Head Island National RV Resort in South Carolina. LiTRV arranged for one of their professional drivers, Mark, to pick them up, drive them to the RV resort, and then drive them home. Mark stayed in a trailer in the same park in case they needed any assistance.
“Mark was an excellent driver,” Mary said. “He met all of our needs, and we appreciated that he stayed close by, especially since it was our first experience in a luxury motorcoach.”
Mary chose Hilton Head for several reasons. First, Maynard loves golf…he started playing when he was 12 years old. Secondly, the RV resort had a country club casual restaurant on its property that was easily accessible.
They stayed in an adult-only section of the RV Resort called Water’s Edge.
“It was really wonderful,” Mary said. “We could sit outside and watch people playing golf across the pond. We rented a golf cart and roamed around the resort, and even took it to dinner,” she said, adding that the restaurant food was delicious. Maynard was also able to take his rollator on the back of the golf cart.
They also liked the camaraderie among other RV resort guests.
“We were the new kids on the block, and everyone was so nice,” she said. “Our coach was clean with up-to-date amenities. The property was also well-kept, and they picked up our trash each morning.”
The trip was especially memorable because their granddaughter visited and stayed with them for a few nights.
Overall, it was a positive experience, and Mary and Maynard hope to travel again soon.
Mary also has some tips for other mobility-challenged travelers who are considering renting a luxury motorcoach.
“Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions,” she said. “Think about everything you may need, whether that’s a firm mattress or a shower bar. If you or your loved one need a walker or rollator, make sure the floor path is wide enough to get through.”
LiTRV’s concierge specialists take the time to create a customized luxury motorcoach trip for each client. Don’t let a mobility challenge keep you from traveling. Let us help you plan a trip that best suits your travel needs.
You and your family want to take a memorable vacation in an RV, but you’re confused about your rental options. You see the term “luxury motorcoach,” but you don’t know what that means. How does that differ from a standard RV?
The Definition of an RV
An RV, or “recreational vehicle,” is a motor vehicle or a trailer that includes living quarters designed for accommodation.
Within the RV family, there are many different types of vehicles, including luxury motorcoaches, or as some people call them, motorhomes. There are also fifth wheels, travel trailers, campers, popup campers and more.
Why Travel in a Motorcoach?
Primarily, motorcoaches are larger and more spacious. Class A motorcoaches are often similar in size to regular intercity coaches, offering maximum floor space and numerous amenities you won’t find in smaller campers and vans.
Think of a luxury yacht…it’s a type of boat that provides a lavish experience at sea. A luxury motorcoach is a type of RV that provides a similar experience, only on the road. In fact, some people call luxury motorcoaches “land yachts.”
What is a Class A Motorcoach, and How does it Differ from Class B and C?
So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What are the technical differences between Class A motorcoaches and other RV types?
Again, the definitions are a little vague.
Class A
Class A motorcoaches are essentially a “box on wheels.” They look like a big rectangle when viewed from the side.
The Robin Williams movie RV featured a Class A motorcoach. There was also one in About Schmidt, starring Jack Nicholson.
These motor coaches are enormous. The Winnebago adventurer in About Schmidt was more than 35 feet long. Most are between 25 and 45 feet.
Motorcoaches prioritize space over aerodynamics and luxury over practicality. Class A coaches from LiTRV are available to rent with private drivers, meaning you don’t have to worry about driving, parking them or wrestling with the steering wheel.
You also get access to an enormous variety of amenities. Most Class A motorcoaches have king beds, two bathrooms, some with two full baths, a washer/dryer, a dishwasher, a residential size refrigerator, smart TVs and sound systems, a fireplace and more. (We haven’t seen one with a swimming pool yet, but we will let you know). As such, they are often the priciest of the three coach classes, with some selling for more than $2 million.
As a renter through LiTRV, though, you get to experience luxury travel in a motorcoach for a fraction of the price. Rental of a motorcoach for a weekend or week could cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
Class B
Class B motorhomes are much smaller than Class A and usually built on a van chassis. Most range from 19 to 27 feet and look like converted RAM, Sprinter, or Ford Transit Vans.
Class B+ vans are a little different. They are still made from the chassis of a commercial van, but owners cut away the rear cargo section first, minus the cabin at the front. This approach provides more flexibility and customization options.
Amenities are sparser on these RVs than on Class As. Vehicles usually come with a refrigerator, bunk beds, a sink, and perhaps a stove. Some offer a toilet and a shower, but they tend to be small.
As such, Class B vehicles aren’t exactly a “home away from home.” While you can travel across the country in them, you wouldn’t call them luxurious. After a couple of nights, you’ll be happy to be back in your regular bed.
Class C
Class C RVs are between Class A and Class B in size. (There’s no logic here). Most have a storage area or sleeping compartment over the driver’s cab.
However, that’s not what makes them a Class C vehicle. Their defining feature is their “raw” van chassis. Manufacturers cut away at all the paneling behind the driver’s cabin, leaving only the supporting struts, wheel axles, and exhaust. They then construct the accommodation and living quarters on top of these.
Large families choose this RV style because they are less expensive, and they provide enough space for their children.
Rent a Luxury Motorcoach through LiTRV
You don’t have to buy a motorcoach to benefit from the luxuries they offer. At LiTRV, we offer Class A motorhome rentals that allow you to experience life on the road in these fantastic vehicles. And we can arrange for a professional driver to transport you wherever you want to go.
Imagine touring the country, stopping off whenever you want to explore local sights and landmarks. You could visit luxury RV resorts or simply pull up by the side of the road for a night under the stars. It’s a dream come true.
Enjoying luxury on the road couldn’t be easier. Call LiTRV today to book your Class A motorcoach and start experiencing this lifestyle for yourself!
It’s human nature to get excited about making a big purchase, especially when it’s a luxury motorcoach with all the bells and whistles. And if you’re considering purchasing an RV, you’re in good company. Between 2001 and 2021, RV ownership rose by more than 62%. In fact, a recent survey by the RV Industry Association recorded that 31% of their respondents are first-time owners, which emphasizes the rapid growth of the industry in recent years.
But how many of those new RV owners have buyer’s remorse? How many of them rushed into a purchasing decision, sometimes paying $400,000 to over $1 million for a luxury motorcoach, only to realize it didn’t have enough beds, or it was too difficult to drive, or it simply wasn’t a good fit for them?
You’d be surprised at how often we see this, and it’s a key reason why we always suggest renting a luxury motorcoach before buying one. By renting a motorcoach, you get hands-on experience that will help you make an informed decision. You’ll have a chance to live in an RV for a week or more, drive it on local streets and freeways, set it up at a campsite, and really determine if it’s something you’d like to invest in. It’s the ultimate test drive.
Here are some questions to consider:
- How do you intend to use the luxury RV? Do you want to live and work in it, like a digital nomad, or will it be used for leisure travel?
- Who will travel in it and what do they need to be comfortable? Will your immediate family be sleeping in it, and if you have children, do you need bunk beds? Do you need special accommodations for older travelers, like a bar in the shower and other features?
- Who will drive the motorcoach and do they need to be trained? When you get behind the wheel of a 45-foot, 30,000-pound vehicle, you better feel confident that you can handle it. We like to recommend a private driver, not just for our renters, but for our owners too. Not only are they professionally trained, our drivers also know how to navigate the best route to your destination.
- Where will you park your new motorcoach? If there’s no room on your driveway or on your street, are you prepared to find a storage facility for it?
- What’s your budget? At minimum, you should plan on spending $400,000 for a Class A luxury motorcoach. The price goes up depending on the year, model, design, and amenities. It’s not uncommon for some luxury RV brands to cost between $1 million and $3 million.
- What amenities do you need? This goes back to how you will use your motorcoach. Do you need a washing machine? How many TVs do you need, and do you need high-speed internet service? The list of questions relating to amenities can be lengthy, and sometimes you don’t know what you need until you’re traveling in your RV.
- What level of service do you need after you take ownership of the luxury RV? It’s important to assess your service needs before you sign on the dotted line. There are some dealers who will hand you the keys and send you on your merry way. At LiTRV, we help renters and owners alike with driver training, maintenance, and other services.
Rental of a coach for a weekend or week could cost between $10,000 and $20,000 which may seem like a lot; however, this cost pales in comparison to the loss you might experience if you purchase a new luxury RV and it is not the right fit. Much like new automobiles, luxury motorhomes can lose up to 40% in value within the first few years. The cost of rental far outweighs the depreciation. And the experience you will gain during the rental is priceless.
Traveling in a luxury motorcoach is an incredible experience, and we share in the joy that our clients feel when we help them purchase one. If you’re thinking about buying a luxury RV, consider talking with one of our motorcoach experts first. We can share rental options with you so you can determine whether this lifestyle appeals to you. And then, if you are serious about making a purchase, we can help guide you through the process.
LiTRV is a luxury motorcoach rental company that offers personalized and customized vacation experiences. They provide not only the motorcoach but also a driver and on-site support to handle logistics, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable trip for their clients. Whether you’re interested in exploring national parks, playing golf with friends, or spending time at a luxury RV resort by the beach, LiTRV can help plan and execute your vacation.
Heather N. and her girlfriends had a memorable experience with LiTRV during their summer retreat in northern Idaho. They met in Coeur d’Alene and boarded a spacious 45′ luxury motorcoach with a private driver. The motorcoach had ample room for the group to relax and enjoy the ride to their lodge on Priest Lake.
The friends found the motorcoach ride to be comfortable and convenient. They could nap while traveling and appreciated the smooth journey on both small country roads and highways. Although they didn’t sleep in the motorcoach, having it nearby at the lodge provided additional convenience.
During their stay at Priest Lake, the group enjoyed various activities such as fishing, hiking, swimming, and gathering around the bonfire in the evenings. Heather described the experience as precious time spent together, creating lasting memories. The presence of the luxury motorcoach and the attentive services provided by the LiTRV driver enhanced their overall vacation experience.
Heather and her friends were particularly impressed with the unique nature of traveling in a luxury motorcoach. They felt like rock stars and appreciated the driver not only for safely transporting them but also for acting as a bodyguard and tour guide. The driver went above and beyond by assisting with luggage and providing exceptional service throughout the trip.
If you’re considering a vacation, LiTRV offers a distinctive way to travel and explore various destinations. They can customize your trip based on your preferences and handle all the logistical aspects. Whether you’re interested in visiting national parks, planning a golf getaway, or enjoying a luxurious RV resort by the beach, LiTRV can assist you every step of the way.
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