As they say:  Been-there-done-that (BTDT).  Check the archives for
http://gerry.vanagon.com/cgi-
bin/wa.exe?A2=ind0009B&L=vanagon&P=R6423  for most of what I
have to say on this topic.

If you want other trip reports of our wanderings through the Middle
East search for everything written by stebbins@aucegypt.edu from
August 2000 AND mstebbins@hotmail.com from July 2000.

Back to your questions:  I used Wallenius Wilhelmsen,  Halifax office
Ph # 1-902-425-2873  http://www.2wglobal.com/  This is a RORO
service (roll-on-roll-off) your only other option is a container.

You will also have to get Insurance for Europe, I used
MotorcycleExpress
http://www.motorcycleexpress.com/express/home.asp
don't be put off by the motor-cycle stuff, they do cars/vans too.

but MotoEuropa
http://www.ideamerge.com/motoeuropa/buying/chapter/

or AAA  can set you up.  Insurance is NOT cheap.

I do believe (I live in Halifax) that if a car is 15 years or older, then
you can bring the car back to Canada - no questions asked.  For
newer cars there ARE questions asked, but check with CDN
customs.

The idea of buying a van overseas (not just europe) etc. is partly a
simple matter of economics, but the real PITA is finding a reliable
van and how much of your vacation will be chewed up looking for a
van or getting the van into shape for your trip.  At least you know
YOUR current van.  Depending on how much travel you plan to do,
I'd suggest a K&N filter, and the Pertronix ignition.  These will cut
down on your need to halt your vacation for tune-ups.  I put CDN$
3,500 into my van prior to departure.

If you give me your Phone #, I'll call you on my (free) web-phone
and we can chat about it.   Good luck,  Malcolm

On 3 Jan 2002 at 7:35, 80 Westy Pokey wrote:

> I am only in the idea phase now, but I am wondering if
> anyone has ever shipped their westy over and then brought it
> back? Am I better off buying whenI get there and then trying
> to get the van into Canada? Are there bargains to be had?
> Thanks, Chris Gronski