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venturer

I have been hesitant to pen any reply in respect of this subject. We have spent the past 4 months touring France except for one week return to the UK and during this entire period have not spent one night in a 'formal' campsite. The French system of Aires almost everywhere almost no cost at all provide the most satisfying touring holiday. Aires are more than often situated in or near towns of interest.
On the other hand, the CL's are more often on farms or situated far from any place of real interest, OK for those using touring caravans or towing some other means of transport to visit places.
The charging for electricity is outrageous, how much electricity can one use in 24 hours?
I too wrote to the Club to put my points of view and likewise was not afforded the courtesy of a reply.
On balance, we will remain members for the time being as we use Eurotunnel and the savings on two crossings a year pay our suscription.
We dont like the magazine - almost totally ignores the existance of motorhomes. We wont be using CL's as they are grossly overpriced and facilities are generally poor.
Sorry if I have trodden on a couple of toes, but so what!!!
Have a Happy and safe 2007 to all.
Brian.

Telbell

Brian-have you checked whether it's worth staying in the CC just for the sake of the Channel Crossing fares? There seems to be so much competition in the "Eastern" crossings that I'd be surprised if you couldn't get somewhere near it.

venturer

hi, Telbell, Our situation may be a little different from others, in that, firstly we travel with a cat on board and Calais is a convenient entry/exit port for us using the Eurotunnel. The 'check in' for pets is right next to the toll gates and we usually spend the night before departure at the 'paws' sheck in car park. We have a friendly vet in Le Treport where there is a nice Aire with free electric at certain hours.
We understand the CC get a 20% discount from Eurotunnel and pass half of this on to their members. We have done a few freey crossings elsewhere and we prefer the fact that we can stay with our van during the crossing - a lot less hassle despite the increase in cost.
If it was not for this saving on Eurotunnel we would cancel our membership.
Hope you celebrated the New Year, best wishes for 2007.
Brian.

theboadacea

venturer

Hi wurz, Good thinking, We have large Tesco nearby. Will have to persuade Pippa to switch her habit!! I must visit Tesco to find out what is on offer.
Thanks for that thought, Brian.

rowley

Venturer said-We wont be using CL's as they are grossly overpriced

I do think that is a bit rash. I have recently stayed on two CLs, the charge was £6 per night including electrics and hardstanding. I do not think that is unreasonable.

Telbell

For those who shop at Tesco's & use vouchers for travel: Aren't they reputed to be the most expensive store for food and other shopping? So- are you actually gaining anything by shopping here-especially if you have to use extra fuel for those who have to travel to find the Store??

venturer

Rowley, My experience of CL's is based upon the past 2 years of using them, approx 150 in all, and I would say less than 10 of these were worth the money for a variety of reasons. Have to admit most of our touring was in the off season and a hardstanding was essential for our rig. For anything that provided what we considered was necessary, £10 was the norm. I am surprised the standards are so diverse as are the facilities provided for a whole range of charges, there appears to be no standard.
All this is based upon my experience, others may choose to disagree though.
Brian.