The Two-Year Plan: Van Life, Vlogging, and Financial Freedom

For years, the idea of a nomadic life has captivated me. The freedom of the open road, the chance to see the entire country, and the opportunity to live life on my own terms it's a dream I'm turning into a reality. My two-year plan is a strategic blend of work, travel, and personal growth, all while prioritizing financial independence and keeping a low profile. It's about working smarter, not harder, and using every resource at my disposal to make this adventure possible.

Phase 1: The Setup (Months 1-3)

The first step is a major one: getting my van ready. My current home is my most valuable asset for this journey. To fund the van conversion and build a robust savings account, I will be renting out my house. This decision is the cornerstone of my entire financial plan. The rental income will cover the mortgage and utilities, and the surplus will go directly into my travel fund.

My dad and stepmom are a crucial part of this. Their willingness to manage the property and keep a watchful eye on things gives me the peace of mind I need to hit the road. They will be my trusted boots on the ground, handling any issues that arise and ensuring the property is well-maintained. This support system is the single most important factor that allows me to embark on this journey without a worry.

While the house is being prepared for tenants, I'll be working on my van. My goal is a simple, functional, and well-insulated build—no frills, just what's necessary for comfortable, long-term living. A good heating system is non-negotiable for the colder states. By doing the work myself, I'm not only saving a significant amount of money but also learning the ins and outs of my new home on wheels.

Phase 2: The Open Road & A-la-carte Work (Years 1-2)

With the van ready and the house rented, it's time to go. My primary income stream will come from a unique opportunity: working for Amazon in different states. Amazon's Camperforce program and Amazon Flex allow for a flexible, location-independent work schedule. I can pick up shifts at fulfillment centers or deliver packages in different cities, giving me the freedom to travel while still earning a steady income.

This model is ideal for a few reasons:

• Flexibility: I'm not tied to one location. When I'm ready to move, I can simply search for Amazon opportunities in the next city on my route.

• Saving Money: By living in my van, my largest expenses—housing and utilities—are virtually eliminated. My main costs will be gas, food, and maintenance. I will be cooking most of my meals to keep food costs low and utilizing free campsites and public land whenever possible.

• Low-Key Lifestyle: This plan allows me to live a relatively private life. I'll be focused on work and travel, and with my core expenses managed, I won't have the financial stress that comes with a traditional lifestyle.

Phase 3: Documenting the Journey

While my life will be low-key in many respects, my passion for storytelling will be front and center. I plan to document the entire journey by vlogging. These videos will be a raw and honest look at van life—the beautiful landscapes, the challenges of living in a small space, the people I meet, and the lessons I learn along the way.

The vlogging aspect isn't about chasing fame; it's about sharing my experience and creating a legacy for myself. The channel will focus on:

• Budget Van Life: Tips and tricks for saving money on the road, from finding free campsites to cooking on a budget.

• Life as an Amazon Nomad: A behind-the-scenes look at what it's really like to work for Amazon while living in a van.

• The Unseen America: Highlighting the hidden gems and unique local cultures I discover in my travels.

My goal is to show that a life of adventure and financial stability are not mutually exclusive. With a solid plan, a little bit of help, and a lot of determination, it’s possible to break free from the conventional path and design a life that is truly your own.

Van Life and Hustle - the American dream life hack

 Transforming a van into a living space is a popular and rewarding project, but the cost and effort can vary dramatically depending on your budget, skills, and desired features. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you'll need and the estimated costs.

The Van Itself

First, you need the base vehicle. The cost of the van itself is a major factor, and it can range widely based on its make, model, age, and condition.

• Used Van: A reliable used van (like a Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, or Mercedes Sprinter) can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000+.

• New Van: A brand-new van can start at $40,000 to $65,000+.

The choice between a new and used van depends on your budget and mechanical expertise. An older van may require more maintenance, while a new one offers peace of mind.

What's Needed for a Heated Living Area

To make your van a comfortable living space, especially in colder climates, you need to focus on three key areas: insulation, ventilation, and a heating system.

1. Insulation: This is the most critical step to keep heat in and cold out.

• Materials: You'll need sound deadening material (like Kilmat), insulation (like Thinsulate, sheep's wool, or rigid foam boards), and a vapor barrier.

• Cost: The cost for insulation can range from $300 to $1,500 depending on the van size and material quality.

2. Ventilation: A good fan is essential for circulating air and preventing condensation.

• Item: A roof fan, such as a Maxxair Fan, is a standard and highly recommended piece of equipment.

• Cost: A quality roof fan can cost $300 to $550.

3. Heating System: Electrical heaters are not efficient for continuous use in a van due to the massive battery power they require. The most common and effective heating options are:

• Diesel/Gas Heaters: These are the most popular choice for van conversions. They are very efficient, safe, and use a small amount of fuel from your van's main tank. Brands like Espar and Webasto are common, but there are also more budget-friendly Chinese diesel heaters.

• Propane Heaters: Another option, but they require you to carry separate propane tanks, which can be a safety and space concern for some.

• Cost: A high-quality diesel heater can cost $500 to $2,300. A budget-friendly Chinese heater can be as low as $150-$400, but they may not be as reliable or have a long a lifespan as a top-tier brand.

The Best "Tent for the Room of the Van"

What you're likely referring to is a van awning with an enclosed tent attachment or a drive-away awning. This accessory extends your living space outside the van.

• Types: There are simple awnings that provide shade and more complex "drive-away" tents that create a full, bug-proof room. Drive-away awnings allow you to leave the tent set up at your campsite and drive the van away for the day.

• Cost: The price varies greatly. A basic awning can be as little as $150, while a full, enclosed drive-away awning tent can range from $500 to over $1,500, depending on the size and quality.

Estimated Cost for the Whole Transformation

The total cost of a van conversion is highly variable. Here is a general breakdown based on whether you do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional. These costs do not include the price of the van itself.

DIY Van Conversion:

• Low-end (Basic Build): $5,000 - $15,000. This includes basic framing, minimal electrical (lights, a fan), simple insulation, and a basic water system. You'll be using reclaimed materials and doing all the work yourself.

• Mid-range (Comfortable Build): $15,000 - $30,000. This includes a more robust electrical system (solar panels, battery bank), a quality heating system, a small kitchen with a fridge, a sink, and custom built-ins.

• High-end (Luxury Build): $30,000 - $60,000+. This budget allows for high-end appliances, advanced electrical systems (large battery banks, complex wiring), a hot water system, custom cabinetry, and premium finishes.

Professional Van Conversion: Hiring a professional company will significantly increase the cost. They provide expertise and save you a lot of time and effort, but you pay for their labor.

• Basic Professional Build: $10,000 - $20,000 on top of the van price. This is for a simple, standardized design.

• Mid-range Professional Build: $30,000 - $50,000 on top of the van price.

• Luxury Professional Build: $75,000 to over $150,000 on top of the van price.

Important Note: These are just estimates. The final cost will depend on your specific choices for materials, appliances, and systems. It is highly recommended to create a detailed budget spreadsheet before you start.

Kafe lakay - First logo

 

🌄 LaMontagne De Jacmel – Brand Identity

Name Meaning:

• “LaMontagne De Jacmel” (The Mountain of Jacmel) reflects Haiti’s lush coffee-growing highlands and the cultural heartbeat of Jacmel—famed for its art, carnival, and resilience.

• Evokes both the physical terroir and the cultural spirit of community.

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✨ Core Pillars

1. Artisan Craft – Hand-picked, sun-dried, and roasted in small batches. Coffee as art.

2. Community – Fair trade, reinvestment in Jacmel’s farmers, schools, and sustainability.

3. Resilience – Symbol of Haiti’s strength and hope, with each bean carrying the story of survival and pride.

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🏷️ Slogan

• Short: “Taste the Art of Haiti.”

• Long: “LaMontagne De Jacmel: Crafted in the Mountains, Inspired by the Soul of Haiti.”

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☕ Coffee Lineup

• Classic “Montagne” – Signature medium roast, smooth and balanced.

• “Carnevale” Blend – Dark roast, bold and spicy, honoring Jacmel Carnival.

• “Kòd Lavi” (Thread of Life) Espresso – Rich, creamy espresso with chocolate and sugarcane notes.

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🌺 Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Earthy, floral, tropical fruit hints.

• Flavor: Dark chocolate, cane sugar, subtle spice, clean finish.

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🎨 Logo Concept

• Icon: A mountain peak shaped with flowing artistic lines → resembling both a papier-mâché mask (Jacmel Carnival) and a coffee bean/leaf.

• Font:

  • LaMontagne – strong, serif (premium, timeless).

  • De Jacmel – fluid, script-like (artistic, cultural).

• Colors:

  • Earth tones: Deep coffee brown, charcoal.

  • Accents: Vibrant blue (Caribbean sea), turquoise, golden yellow (sun + art).

Kafe lakay 1.8 History

 The history of coffee in Haiti is a dramatic story of colonial power, revolution, and a long struggle against a variety of challenges. It's a tale of a once-dominant global industry that fell into decline but is now experiencing a hopeful resurgence.

The Rise: From Colonial Import to Global Powerhouse

• Introduction: Coffee was introduced to the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti) in the early 18th century, around 1725. The mountainous terrain and fertile soil proved to be an ideal environment for cultivating the Arabica variety.

• A "Black Gold" Era: By the late 1700s, Saint-Domingue's coffee industry had become an economic powerhouse.The colony was the world's leading coffee producer, supplying up to half of the world's total coffee. This prosperity, however, was built on the brutal and inhumane system of forced labor and slavery, which made coffee and sugar the pillars of the colonial economy.

The Fall: Revolution, Instability, and Decline

• The Haitian Revolution: The inhumane conditions on the plantations were a primary cause of the Haitian Revolution (1791–1804). During the fight for independence, most of the coffee and sugar plantations were burned to the ground as a symbol of the slaves' rebellion against the system. Production plummeted by over 50%.

• Post-Revolution Challenges: After gaining independence in 1804, the new nation of Haiti struggled to revive its agricultural sector. Lacking the forced labor of the past, coffee production shifted from large plantations to small, family-owned farms. However, decades of political instability, trade embargos, and a lack of investment in infrastructure and technology made it difficult for Haiti to compete on the global stage.

• Natural Disasters and Environmental Strain: Haiti's vulnerability to natural disasters—including hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes—has repeatedly devastated coffee farms. In addition, decades of deforestation and soil erosion have further degraded the land, making cultivation increasingly difficult. By the 21st century, Haiti's coffee production had fallen to less than 1% of its historical peak.

The Revival: A Focus on Quality and Community

Despite the decline, Haitian coffee never disappeared. The old, semi-wild heirloom Arabica trees, particularly in regions like La Montagne, continued to produce beans with a unique, high-quality flavor profile. In recent years, there has been a significant movement to revitalize the industry, driven by small-scale farmers and international organizations.

• Fair Trade and Specialty Coffee: Modern efforts are centered on the growing global demand for specialty, single-origin coffee. Organizations and brands are working directly with Haitian farmers to bypass middlemen, ensuring fair prices for their crops.

• Replanting and Education: Initiatives are focused on providing farmers with resources to replant aging coffee trees, combat diseases, and adopt more sustainable practices.

• Empowering Communities: The new focus is not just on economic output but on using coffee as a vehicle for community development. The aim is to create sustainable livelihoods, build schools, and invest directly in the well-being of the farmers and their families.

Today, while Haiti's coffee production volume is a fraction of its past, the industry is a symbol of resilience. The coffee bean, once a source of suffering, is now being cultivated as a source of hope, a pathway to empowerment, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Haitian people.

Kafe lakay Origin

 

From Hillside History to Hopeful Harvest: Reawakening La Montagne's Coffee Legacy

By Guy Francois/La Montagne Coffee

Since my childhood, going on vacation in the countryside my heart and mind have been deeply engaged in the fertile slopes of La Montagne de Jacmel, my birthplace in Haiti. Today's research has been a journey through history and a potent reminder of the potential that lies dormant within our community. It’s a story intrinsically linked to the rich aroma and vibrant lifeblood of coffee – a crop that once defined Jacmel and can once again empower its future.

Jacmel, a town etched with the elegance of 19th-century architecture, owes much of its historical grandeur to the flourishing coffee trade. The mountainous terrain of La Montagne, with its deep, well-drained soil and high altitudes, provided the ideal conditions for cultivating the prized Arabica Typica bean. For generations, coffee farming was not just an occupation; it was a way of life, weaving itself into the social and economic fabric of the region. The fruits of this labor funded the very beauty we still see in Jacmel's streets today.

However, time and circumstance have seen Haiti’s overall coffee production dwindle. Yet, the legacy in La Montagne persists, a whisper of the golden age waiting to be reignited. My vision, fueled by a deep connection to this land and its people, is to bring back coffee farming to its former glory in La Montagne, not just as a means of economic revival, but as a catalyst for profound community development.

The heart of this vision lies in La Montagne Coffee, a brand born from the desire to empower our birthplace. Our approach is rooted in the traditional, sustainable practices that have always characterized Haitian coffee cultivation. We will nurture the land with organic compost, cultivate coffee under the vital shade of diverse fruit trees in the cherished "jaden lakou" system, and rely on the natural bounty of our mountain springs.

But this is more than just about growing exceptional coffee. It's about sowing the seeds of opportunity and nurturing the potential of the next generation. Our primary focus is on building free schools within La Montagne de Jacmel. Education is the bedrock of progress, and by providing accessible, quality schooling, we can unlock the brilliant minds within our community. These schools will not only offer academic instruction but also practical knowledge related to sustainable agriculture, business management, and environmental stewardship.

The revitalization of coffee farming will naturally lead to job creation. From cultivating and harvesting the cherries to processing, sorting, and eventually packaging the beans under the La Montagne Coffee brand, we aim to provide meaningful employment opportunities for the people of La Montagne. This economic empowerment will create a more stable and thriving community, offering an alternative to migration and fostering local pride.

Furthermore, La Montagne Coffee is committed to developing the young minds of our community. Through educational initiatives linked to the coffee cultivation and business, we will equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to become future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. They will learn about the history of coffee in their region, the science behind its cultivation, the intricacies of the global market, and the principles of sustainable development.

The path ahead will undoubtedly have its challenges. Revitalizing an agricultural sector requires dedication, investment, and community collaboration. However, the historical precedent is there. Jacmel once thrived on its coffee, and the inherent quality of the beans grown in La Montagne remains exceptional. By combining this legacy with a clear vision for empowerment, education, and sustainable practices, we can cultivate not just coffee, but a brighter future for La Montagne de Jacmel.

The aroma of freshly brewed La Montagne Coffee will be more than just a delightful sensory experience; it will be the scent of progress, the flavor of opportunity, and the testament to the enduring spirit of a community rising to reclaim its heritage and forge a better tomorrow. The journey starts now, from the slopes of La Montagne to the world, one bean, one child, one dream at a time.

Kafe lakay 1.7

Which country produces more coffee? 

Based on recent data, Brazil is, by a significant margin, the world's largest producer of coffee.

Brazil has held the top spot for many years, often producing about a third of the world's total coffee supply.

The next largest producers, though they produce far less than Brazil, are:

Vietnam

Colombia

Indonesia

Haiti🇭🇹is next 

 Which country consume more coffee? 

Total Volume

The United States consumes the most coffee in terms of total volume. Due to its large population, the U.S. imports and consumes the largest amount of coffee overall, far more than any other country.

Per Capita (Per Person)

When you look at per-person consumption, the picture changes dramatically. The countries with the highest coffee consumption per capita are in Northern Europe.

Finland: This country consistently holds the top spot for per-capita consumption. On average, Finns consume about 12 kilograms (26.5 pounds) of coffee per person each year.

Norway: Often ranked just behind Finland, with a very high rate of consumption.

Iceland: Another Nordic country with a very strong coffee culture.

Denmark: A high-consuming nation as well.

So, while the U.S. buys the most coffee in the world, people in countries like Finland and Norway drink far more of it on an individual basis.

Kafe Lakay 1.6 [Coffee Beans Pulper Machine]

 Fresh Coffee Beans Pulper Machine

Price Insights

Typically $208–$209

Kafe lakay 1.5 [Tools: Materials needed]

 Based on the traditional, small-scale farming methods used throughout Haiti's coffee-growing regions, here are the primary materials you would need to cultivate coffee:

1. Coffee Seeds or Seedlings

The most important material is the coffee plant itself. You would need to acquire high-quality seeds or young seedlings, most commonly of the Arabica Typica variety, which is the prized species grown in the Haitian highlands.

2. Rich Soil and Organic Fertilizer

Coffee plants need nutrient-rich soil. Most Haitian farmers use natural, organic methods to maintain soil health. The primary materials for this are:

• Compost: Made from coffee pulp (the waste from processed coffee cherries), animal manure, and other organic matter.

• Agroforestry: The cultivation of coffee under the shade of other trees helps to naturally fertilize the soil with falling leaves and prevents erosion.

3. Shade Trees and Companion Plants

This is a defining characteristic of Haitian coffee cultivation. Coffee thrives in a biodiverse environment. You would need to plant a variety of fruit and shade trees, such as bananas, mangoes, and other local species. These plants provide vital shade for the coffee, stabilize the soil, and offer additional crops for food or sale.

4. Water Source

A reliable water supply is crucial, especially for young seedlings. While coffee regions in Haiti are often in areas with consistent rainfall, access to a stream, well, or a system for collecting rainwater is essential to ensure the plants thrive.

5. Basic Manual Tools

Unlike industrial farming, coffee cultivation in Haiti is done almost entirely by hand. You would need:

• Shovels and Hoes: For planting and managing the plants.

• Harvesting Baskets: For collecting the ripe coffee cherries.

• Manual Processing Tools: Simple tools like a mortar and pestle or a small, hand-cranked machine to remove the pulp from the coffee beans.

• Drying Area: A clean, flat surface, often a concrete patio or a simple mat, to spread the coffee beans out to dry in the sun.

Kafe lakay 1.4 [Pounds]

How many coffee plants per pounds?

This is an excellent question, and the answer can vary quite a bit based on the type of coffee plant, its age, and the growing conditions.

The best way to think about it is to start with the yield of a single, mature coffee plant.

On average, a single, mature Arabica coffee plant produces about 1 to 1.5 pounds of green coffee beans per year.

Therefore, it takes approximately one coffee plant to produce about a pound of coffee.

The Breakdown

• Coffee Cherry to Green Bean: A coffee plant first produces coffee cherries, which are the small, red fruits. It takes about 5 pounds of coffee cherries to produce 1 pound of green coffee beans (the roasted beans you buy in the store are even lighter).

• Yield per Plant: A single coffee plant yields about 2 to 3 pounds of coffee cherries per year.

This is a general guideline. Many factors can influence the final number:

• Variety: Some varieties, like the high-yielding Robusta, can produce more than the standard Arabica plant.

• Climate & Soil: Ideal conditions (like those in La Montagne, Haiti) with fertile soil, consistent rainfall, and proper shade will lead to a higher yield.

• Age of the Plant: A coffee plant takes about 3-4 years to produce its first harvest. It reaches its peak production between 6-8 years and can continue producing for decades.

Kafe lakay 1.3 [The Two Major Species: Arabica and Robusta]

 The idea of a single "best" variety of coffee bean is a matter of personal taste. What one person loves, another might find too bitter or too acidic. However, in the world of coffee, certain varieties and their sub-types are highly regarded for their complex flavor profiles, rarity, and unique characteristics.

Here is a breakdown of the most common and celebrated coffee bean varieties:

The Two Major Species: Arabica and Robusta

Almost all coffee in the world comes from one of these two species.

• Arabica: This is widely considered the superior bean for its flavor. It accounts for about 60-70% of the world's coffee production.

  • Flavor: Arabica beans are known for their sweet, complex, and nuanced flavors, often with notes of fruit, flowers, chocolate, and nuts. They have a pleasant, bright acidity.

  • Growing Conditions: They are delicate plants that require high altitudes (typically over 2,000 feet), specific temperatures, and consistent rainfall.

  • Caffeine: They have a lower caffeine content than Robusta beans.

• Robusta: This bean is known for its hardiness and high caffeine content. It makes up the remaining 30-40% of the market.

  • Flavor: Robusta beans have a much stronger, bolder, and more bitter flavor, often described as having earthy, woody, or nutty notes. They lack the complexity of Arabica.

  • Growing Conditions: They are much more resilient and can grow at lower altitudes and in hotter climates, making them easier and cheaper to cultivate.

  • Caffeine: Robusta beans contain nearly twice the caffeine of Arabica beans. They are often used in espresso blends to produce a thick, rich crema.

The Most Highly Regarded Arabica Sub-Varieties

Within the Arabica family, there are several sub-varieties prized by connoisseurs:

• Geisha (Gesha): This is one of the most celebrated and expensive coffee varieties in the world. Originally from Ethiopia, it is now famously grown in Panama. It is known for its incredibly delicate, complex, and aromatic flavor profile with notes of jasmine, bergamot, and tropical fruits.

• Typica & Bourbon: These are two of the oldest and most genetically important varieties. Many other Arabica varieties are mutations or crosses of these two.

  • Typica is known for its clean, sweet, and balanced flavor.

  • Bourbon is often described as having a rich sweetness with notes of chocolate and fruit.

• Kona: Grown exclusively on the slopes of volcanoes in the Kona district of Hawaii, this is a premium Arabica coffee with a smooth, mild flavor and a buttery, nutty aroma.

• Jamaican Blue Mountain: Another highly sought-after and expensive variety. It's known for its incredibly smooth, mild, and well-balanced flavor with no bitterness, making it a favorite for many.

Ultimately, the "best" coffee bean is the one you enjoy most. Exploring single-origin coffees from different countries and varieties is the best way to find your perfect cup.

Kafe lakay 1.2 [Season]

 No, a coffee farmer in La Montagne, Jacmel, Haiti, cannot harvest coffee all year round. The harvest is seasonal, with specific periods for the main crop and sometimes a smaller, secondary one.

The coffee plant's fruiting cycle is dependent on the climate, specifically the wet and dry seasons. In Haiti and most of the Caribbean, this means there are distinct harvest periods.

• Main Harvest: The primary coffee harvest in Haiti generally runs from September to March, with the peak months typically falling in December and January. During this period, the majority of the coffee cherries ripen and are hand-picked.

• "Fly Crop": Some regions of Haiti may have a smaller, secondary harvest, often referred to as a "fly crop." This less consistent harvest usually occurs around the months of April to June. The yield from this secondary crop is significantly smaller than the main harvest.

Since the coffee is of the Arabica variety, which is known for its high quality, a farmer would practice selective hand-picking. This involves going through the coffee grove multiple times during the harvest season to pick only the perfectly ripe, red cherries, leaving the green ones to ripen for a later picking. This process extends the harvest period for a single farmer, but it is not a year-round activity.