Paul and Caroline Lacitinola have turned their love for vintage camper trailers into more than just preserving American history. For them, these trailers serve as carriers of memories, fostering connections among families and friends.
The Lacitinolas, publishers of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine for 15 years, are deeply involved in the vintage trailer community. Their endeavor extends to a cookbook featuring over 120 recipes, reflecting the communal meals shared at campsites across the nation.
A Collection of Beloved Recipes
According to Paul Lacitinola, the inspiration behind the cookbook stems from their shared passion for good food. Combining vintage elements with their love for cooking seemed like a natural progression. The cookbook is not only about the recipes; it’s about preserving experiences embedded in the tradition of camping.
“A lot of times it was something people were raised doing. Walk into these vintage trailers, and they remember their childhood and parents.” – Caroline Lacitinola
Caroline Lacitinola emphasizes that these trailers harbor emotional connections, reminding people of their past. For many, it’s about rediscovering cherished family moments.
Generational Appeal
Younger generations appear to be gravitating toward vintage camping as an alternative lifestyle. Caroline notes that today’s American dream is shifting from conventional employment to seeking meaningful life experiences.
The cookbook embodies this shift by incorporating recipes from various sources, including family, fellow campers, and favorites from Paul’s former restaurants. A standout among these recipes is the “Grandma Mandy” sandwich, a nostalgic dish for Paul, made with white bread, cheese, and jelly, toasted over a campfire.
“It sounds crazy, but believe me, they’re delicious.” – Paul Lacitinola
Caroline reflects on her initial skepticism about the sandwich, humorously noting her surprise at its delightful taste.
Community Tradition
The couple’s trailer rallies are renowned for their pancake breakfasts. Whether serving traditional recipes or creative variants with toppings like peanut butter and bacon or tres leches sauce, the breakfasts are a cherished community ritual.
“The essence of vintage camping is really community and connecting.” – Caroline Lacitinola
Caroline highlights how connecting as a group is central to the vintage camping experience and the couple’s hobby.
Encouragement to Explore
Paul and Caroline encourage enthusiasts to visit a trailer rally and explore vintage camping. It’s an inviting lifestyle that fosters community and companionship.
Paul advises newcomers to start with any camper that suits them, saying, “Go out and get one, even if it’s a cheap one, if it’ll work for you for a while.”
Peter Burke, the lifestyle editor at Fox News Digital, reports on food and drink topics along with various lifestyle aspects.
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