FOR INFORMATION, advice and chat about VW camper vans, www.type2ireland.orgis the Irish web community devoted to this particular hobby.
Although firmly rejecting the trappings of a club such as committees and agms, the members of the site organise drivers and camp-outs all year long. Eircooled ( www.eircooled.com) is Ireland's club for classic air-cooled cars and vans but has a distinct VW feel. For events north of the Border try the Northern Beetle Owner's Club ( www.nboc.org.uk).
The days of finding a bargain buy in a free ads newspaper are a thing of the past. For an imported bay window camper (1968-1979) in decent condition expect to pay about €10,000. If you are offered something that seems too good to be true, it most probably is. You'll be amazed how much rust can be hidden by filler and paint.