One of my favourite websites, Daytripper.net has this week been sending out information about whether it's still worth crossing the Channel for bargains. It's a subject close to my heart and it's great to see confirmation of what I know is true. It's not nearly as attractive as it used because of the strong euro / weak pound but if you make a day of it - and it can be a long day - it can be a fun trip and there are bargains - especially this time of year when the spirit of Christmas a mixture of goodwill and booze.
According the site's editor, David Ash, the effort is worth the hassle if you are buying:
1) Wines.
France is the place to go for wine and champagne. Wine imported to the UK is taxed at more than £1.50 a bottle so you're saving around that much before you've started.
2) Tobacco.
Savings of up to a third can be had in France on cigarettes and other tobacco products. In Belgium this rises to 45%. The Belgium border is only a few miles from Calais. Bruges is only about an hour away if always wanted see just how unlike Venice this 'Venice of the north' really is.
3) Spirits.
On average, these are 20% cheaper in France. Look out for brands that you may not have heard of over here and own-brand rums and brandy that are great value.
4) Chocolates.
Belgium is chocolates. And Tin Tin, Plastic Bertrand, Magritte (pictured), beer, the internal combustion engine and Audrey Hepburn. Posh chocolates such as Leonidas can be found for as little as £15.20/KG compared to £34/KG in London.
5) Meats.
The French are big on locally farmed meat. The choice is much more extensive than in England. Pates, dried and cold meats are good buys. Fois gras is cheaper and the range is better than what is sent over here.
6) Beer.
Belgium is the place to go for fabulous beer selections ranging from white beer to fruit beers and stupid strength beers. French beer tends to be less alcoholic. Look out for discounts and offers in supermarkets and on the ferries.
7) Fish and other seafood.
Take a freezer bag. Raw frozen prawns, for instance, can be more than half the price of UK supermarkets and in general there is a huge range of seafood on offer in the freezer cabinets.
8) Cheese.
Can be 20-50% cheaper than the UK and a massive selection is available.
9) Restaurant meals.
You can easily save 20% to 25% on eating out in style compared with our equivalent diners. The French are obsessed with cuisine. You would be foolish not stop off for a relaxing meal somewhere - and make the most of it with a decent bottle of wine.
10) PS...
P&O is offering unique offers only available to www.day-tripper.net, including a £20 day return for early bookers.
Related
Travel insurance deals / European breakdown cover
Richard Browning
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