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  • INTERVIEW: LIVING MINIMAL - AUDREY'S TINY HOME BUS CONVERSION
  • Aug 13, 2020
INTERVIEW: LIVING MINIMAL - AUDREY'S TINY HOME BUS CONVERSION
WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO LIVE IN A BUS?
In France I lived in a camper for 6 years. I always loved the freedom of this life style, traveling Europe easily. I would open the lateral door and see different landscapes from by bed! Ha!
When I moved to Costa Rica, I had to sell it. Since then, I always wanted to get another one! As a single mom, it was also the cheapest way to have my own home! My friend Kurt helped me build it and realize my dream! I’m so grateful and my son Neo loves it as well.
WHAT WAS THE PROCESS LIKE TO TRANSFORM IT INTO YOUR HOME? 
I found this old school bus online for pretty cheap. The guy drove it to me without the seats ;) so it was empty space to work in and begin! Kurt helped with the wood box construction, plumbing, roof, stairs, welding. My dad did all the electrical stuff. My mom and I cleaned, painted, sanded. We all worked like crazy for 2 ½ months!
HOW HAS THE CORONA VIRUS AFFECTED YOU AND YOUR LIFESTYLE, IF AT ALL?
The pandemic affected so much my lifestyle! I’ve gone from so buzzy and stressed over work to the complete opposite! I finally have TIME for my son and myself! I am doing things I have never done before – cooking new stuff, reading, climbing, running, biking, seeing new places, new people, new trails, having time to enjoy time, which is the most precious gift in Life!
HAVE YOUR VALUES CHANGED SINCE THE PANDEMIC BEGAN, OR DO YOU THINK IT'S MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER TO LIVE A LIFE OF SIMPLICITY AND FREEDOM?
I do keep thinking that it’s more important than ever to live a life of simplicity and freedom. Especially now during this world crisis and pandemic! I feel it as a strong confirmation from the Universe!
DO YOU ACTIVELY SEEK TO LIVE IN AN ECO-FRIENDLY MANNER, OR DO YOU THINK IT IS A BYPRODUCT OF YOUR LIFESTYLE, AND WHY?
I try my best to be eco-friendly of course! I have a septic tank, and all of my compost goes back to the jungle! Right now I am plugged in to public water and electricity, but very soon I’ll become even more alternative!
I’ve recently been asked to move my bus from my friends’ property, and have been actively looking for a piece of land to buy (even though I’m completely out of income for the past 2 months). It has been a pretty challenging test! I decided to take a risk and invest my savings in a piece of paradise I found in Delicias, CR, and finally be rooted at home growing veggies, herbs, and becoming more and more self-sufficient with a water well and solar panels. I am actively seeking and building this life.
DO YOU THINK MANY PEOPLE WOULD BE ABLE TO LIVE LIKE YOU? 
Right now the human consciousness is rising up strongly, and many people are already awakened to this lifestyle – in closer contact with nature. I’m really happy about this, and we can inspire each other, working together to protect ourselves and Mother Earth. I do think that many people would LOVE this lifestyle, but they are trapped in society amid fear of losing their comforts – job, position, material things. This life requires a certain awareness and willingness to just be who you really are.
WHAT'S YOUR JOB? 
I own www.costaricasurfandsup.com  (+50684340444) where I’m a surf and stand-up paddleboard instructor for 10 years in Costa Rica.
THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The best thing about my job is meeting different people every day from all over the world and sharing my passion for the waves and the ocean! Not being in an office but in the best playground ever!!
WHAT'S YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
My personal style is about simplicity, freedom, revolutionary!
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO SURF IN THE FIRST PLACE? WHAT DID IT FEEL LIKE?
Even growing up in a city I always had a strong calling for the ocean. Looking at the surfers, I always wanted to be part of that tribe, surfing the waves of life. I constantly find metaphors about it! It’s just crazy. I was a natural – could pop up quickly and learned the basics fast. I will always remember in the deepest of my heart, my beautiful guides Herve and Garrett, and the deep sensation and emotions that come with surfing.  
ADVICE FOR WOMEN SURFERS JUST GETTING STARTED? 
You are strong. Never give up. If you want it, you can do it!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A DAY?
Starting with an early surf, then drink a coconut. Do yoga or stretch at home while listening good music. Have a light healthy lunch. Take a nap. Cruise in the jungle by ATV or walking. Play with my son after school and enjoy the sunset with him and friends and a cold beer. 
WHAT ARE 5 THINGS YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT?
My son
My parents
The ocean
Mother Nature
My surfboard 
  • Jennifer Silbert
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