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Key factors affecting the cost of your French trip

— 17 Oct 2023 14:18:18 by Kate Moore


Ferry from Portsmouth to Calais

If you've had the chance to journey abroad during the summer holidays, you're likely aware that travel costs have surged recently. Regrettably, our trips are not immune to the same market forces that impact your holiday plans.

While we always strive to keep our language programmes as affordable as possible, there are external factors at play, including fuel prices and inflation, which inevitably influence the pricing of your French trip to Normandy. In this article for school leaders, students, and parents we explain the factors behind our price changes:

  1. Inflation: It's hard to miss the fact that your weekly shopping bill is on the rise, and travel-related services are not exempt from inflation's grip. The expenses associated with maintaining our centres have increased, encompassing everything from fuel and heating to staff wages, food, and laundry. As a result, rates have been adjusted to keep pace with rising costs.

  2. Availability and Supply of Channel Crossings: Due to longer processing times for coach parties at the border, Eurotunnel has limited the number of coaches it conveys on cross-channel shuttle services. Prices for those coach spaces that are available have also increased. This puts pressure on stretched ferry operators who have inadequate capacity to meet increased demand. Consequently, we have seen the price of ferry and Eurotunnel fares surge by 24% to 52% in the past year, significantly outstripping inflation.

  3. Fuel Prices: Fluctuations in oil prices directly impact transport and centre running costs, influencing the overall cost of your trip. The cost of oil has notably increased since 2019, partly due to events like the Ukraine conflict. In September 2019, the cost of a barrel of oil averaged $54, by September 2023 it had surpassed $90.

  4. Coach Driver Shortages: There is a nationwide scarcity of professional drivers which restricts coach availability and drives up hire costs. In response, coach firms have increased wages to retain and attract skilled drivers, leading to higher coach rates across the industry. Consequently, we've witnessed coach costs increase by 42% in the last year.

  5. Supply and Demand for Popular Dates: When demand is high and supply is limited, prices tend to rise. Intense demand for accommodation and visits in Normandy between May and July inevitably affects school trip prices.

Our commitment

We understand the challenges faced by parents who are ultimately funding these residentials and we are dedicated to minimizing any cost increases and securing the best possible deals for our groups. In some cases, we've even absorbed additional costs to keep the burden off parents and carers.

Strategies to get the best value from your French trip

It's still feasible to organise a stay within your budget and flexibility is the key. Scheduling your school trip during quieter months allows for a broader selection of accommodations and transportation options. Our experts can guide you on the best value months for your stay.

While many expenses are beyond our control, we strive to enrich our language residentials with more learning opportunities and enhanced educational value for money compared to a typical French trip.

In conclusion

While cost is undoubtedly a critical factor, it's equally vital to assess it in the context of the overall quality, safety, and educational content offered by your French residential. Investing in a trusted and experienced company can lead to a more enriching and stress-free educational experience for your students.

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