Amid the global trend of Van-dwelling, where people convert small vans into self-made campers and travel across the country, living in a converted vehicle has become a dream lifestyle for many. However, living in a camper van converted from a minivan like the Ford Transit can sometimes be less than ideal. So, what about a model like the Thor Motor Coach Riviera 38RB, an American RV brand known for its luxurious interiors and amenities that surpass even those of a typical home?
This model is less of a vehicle and more of a luxury mobile home. With an impressive length of 11.6 meters (about 38 feet) and a weight of 14.5 tons (approximately 32,000 pounds), this motorhome has a large diesel engine mounted on a bus chassis, providing living comforts that could rival high-end homes. Calling it a luxury apartment on wheels wouldn’t be an exaggeration.
Two Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms, and Even a Fireplace — A Mobile Home Fit for Royalty
The 2024 Riviera 38RB is designed for a 6-person capacity and features three expandable slide-out sections to maximize living space. You’ll find two large 68-inch sofas, a fold-out king-size bed, and a washer-dryer combo. The kitchen is equipped with high-end built-in appliances and marble finishes, creating an interior so luxurious it’s hard to believe you’re in a motorhome.
Perhaps the most surprising feature is the inclusion of two full bathrooms. In an RV world where a single bathroom is often considered a luxury, adding two ensures that large families can enjoy a comfortable camping experience without compromising convenience. Additionally, the RV comes equipped with indoor and outdoor TVs, central heating, surround-sound audio, and even a fireplace—transforming wherever it’s parked into a true home away from home.
A Price Tag Over $260,000 — But Is It Worth Every Penny?
The official starting price of the Riviera 38RB is $367,500, but a dealer in Maryland is currently offering it at a discounted price of $260,000. While this price tag rivals or exceeds that of many homes, some argue that it represents a reasonable luxury considering the space, mobility, and comfort it provides.
A journalist who experienced a similar RV praised it: “Despite its massive size, it was the perfect space for family trips. It was not just a static hotel, but more like a dynamic private resort.” However, in narrow European city streets, the large size of the vehicle could prove to be a significant limitation.
Looking for a Mobile Living Space? The Riviera 38RB Is the Answer
The Riviera 38RB transcends the typical luxury camper. It’s a perfect blend of mobility and residence, camping and opulence, and independence and convenience — truly a moving luxury home. Palace on wheels might be a more fitting description. This explains why many consider it a justifiable indulgence despite its steep price tag. And frankly, it’s hard to argue otherwise.
If traditional SUV camping feels mundane or van life seems too spartan, this ultra-luxury camper could be your ticket to a whole new lifestyle. While the initial investment is substantial, for those eager to redefine travel and living, the Riviera 38RB isn’t just a camper — it’s a mobile revolution in luxury living.
