going to france

[johanna]

I am new to having a California. I would like to pluck up courage to go to France. I will be alone apart from a small dog . I live in south London. What is the best way to cross the channel. How much is it. Is there a difference if I have a bike rack? Any other tips . Many thanks. Johanna

 

[TwoDogs]

Channel Tunnel is the easiest way....price very variable, depending on when you travel. No extra for a bike rack. France is great for touring in your Cali...so many good, clean, safe campsites. In my opinion, I'd avoid the French holidays if possible (from July 14th or so), as everyone in France goes on holiday, in France.

 

[bigmac77]

Have a read of my report of our trip to France last summer.

https://vwcaliforniaclub.com/threads/summer-hols-road-trip.15115/#post-162972

I have added a few hints and tips at the end.

 

[Jabberwocky]

We are about to embark on a trip from the Belgium boarder to Noirmoutier (West Coast) to the French Alps for the TdF mountains stages. We have no sites booked from the 17th July and will take pot luck. I am sure we will be fine across central France but the Alps? we will see.
The 14th July is Bastille Day and French holidays really start then and build to max busyness in August when all of France that is not involved in the tourist industry is on holiday.
Three weeks ago we tried to book some sites on the west coast and they were already heavily booked up.
Depends on what you want but inland sites generally will tend to be quieter (no beach = less children) but not guaranteed as most large sites have swimming pools.
Aires are an option but you can't book these as they are a first come first served.
Lots of tips in bigmac77's report that I am sure will help.
Have a great summer!

 

[Velma's Dad]

Don't forget you must allow 21 clear days after your dog has had its rabies jab before you can travel (under the Pet Passport scheme). So if you're thinking of going to France soon, I'd book a vet visit ASAP.

Gov.uk website is the authoritative source for all on that.

 

[calimera]

Also need to have dog treated by vet in France before return. Our 2 westies have their own passport

https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/pet-passport

 

[WelshGas]

I am new to having a California. I would like to pluck up courage to go to France. I will be alone apart from a small dog . I live in south London. What is the best way to cross the channel. How much is it. Is there a difference if I have a bike rack? Any other tips . Many thanks. Johanna

Is this the 1st time travelling/camping on the Continent?
I'll probably be shouted down, but have you considered for your 1st trip getting someone to lessen the stress.
Eurocamp Independent can book the ferry/euroshuttle and pitches on campsites. Their Holiday Insurance for you + vehicle is very good and you get detailed information and maps etc: so all you have to do is concentrate on driving. Next time you can then go it alone knowing what to expect. As far as the dog is concerned - never took ours he had his own holiday out of the heat in a local Kennels, so cannot advise on that side of things.

 

[Julie and Archie]

me and Archie use euro tunnel. We love it as he's with me and no stress. On advice from Granny Jen post I have the frequent traveller discount. we're booked to stay just outside Paris on pitch next to seine, booked with caravan club so nice and easy. French passion on way back is the plan. Intend to build confidence and use aires in villages.

 

[briwy]

Also consider the Newhaven to Dieppe ferry.
Lot smaller and less confusing for the first time and saves any possible nastiness going on around Calais.

 

[Vantastic2]

We have not long returned from Brittany! just be careful filling up with fuel,some French don't like GB plates and have a habit of sounding there horn's at you if you take too long at the pumps!

 

[jts46]

We have not long returned from Brittany! just be careful filling up with fuel,some French don't like GB plates and have a habit of sounding there horn's at you if you take too long at the pumps!

That is a very bold statement and rubbish

 

[Fryers!]

Wonder if they were wearing a string of onions round their necks

 

[jts46]

Or a beret on a bike?

 

[Velma's Dad]

We have not long returned from Brittany! just be careful filling up with fuel,some French don't like GB plates and have a habit of sounding there horn's at you if you take too long at the pumps!

I think that would incline me to take a bit longer longer still.

That is a very bold statement and rubbish

A very bold statement? Yes. Rubbish? Well, we've no way of knowing whether the French drivers who sounded horns disliked GB plates (they might do). However I suspect Vantastic has no way of knowing that either.

But on the other hand, the French do have some form in the area of taunting of Brits: