Planning a holiday at Center Parcs involves a myriad of decisions, one of the key ones being whether to take advantage of early arrival. Early arrival generally allows guests to access the village facilities before their accommodation is officially ready ie you can access the lodge from 2pm rather than 4pm. But is it worth the extra cost? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
What Does Early Arrival Include?
Before diving into whether early arrival is worth it, it’s essential to understand what it entails. Typically, early arrival means you can get access to your lodge well before the standard check-in time. While you will still need to move your car to the main car park after unloading, arriving early allows you to bypass the bustling main check-in rush and start your holiday more smoothly.
Benefits of Early Arrival
Firstly, one of the most significant advantages of early arrival is that it allows you to maximise your holiday time. By getting there earlier and unpacked before the rush, you can squeeze in additional activities - imagine starting your break with a refreshing swim, an invigorating bike ride, or simply wandering around the beautiful grounds of Center Parcs.
Early arrival also means less stress. Avoiding the peak crowds and long queues during the regular check-in hours means a much smoother start to your holiday. You can begin your vacation without the hassle of waiting in line or navigating through a throng of other guests.
In addition, early arrival allows you to relax and unwind immediately. Whether you decide to indulge in a coffee at one of the cafés, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or simply explore the natural surroundings, starting your holiday early sets a peaceful and relaxing tone for the rest of your stay.
Tips for Making the Most of Early Arrival
To make the most of an early arrival, it’s helpful to come prepared. Packing a separate day bag with essentials like swimwear, a change of clothes, and other necessary items ensures that you don’t have to dig through your main luggage right away. This way, you can head straight to the pool or other activities without any delays.
It’s also wise to book activities in advance wherever possible. Many popular activities at Center Parcs can be reserved ahead of time, giving you peace of mind and more time to enjoy your holiday. Additionally, checking the facility opening times can help you plan your day more effectively, ensuring that you make the most of the early access period.
Don’t forget to plan for meals as well. Whether you bring snacks with you or plan to dine soon after arrival, it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy the village eateries before they get too crowded around lunchtime.
Is It Right for You?
Deciding whether early arrival is worth it depends largely on your personal preferences, family circumstance and holiday priorities. For families with young children, early arrival can be particularly beneficial as it allows the kids to expend some energy in the pool or play areas, which can make the rest of the day more manageable. Or it maybe helps line up your checkin and unloading with a much needed afternoon nap.
For couples or solo travelers, an early start means a peaceful and relaxed beginning to the holiday. You can take your time settling in, perhaps starting with a visit to the spa or a quiet walk through the woods.
For budget-conscious travelers, it’s important to weigh the cost of early arrival against the benefits. Consider if the additional half-day of activities and relaxation is worth the extra expense. Often, the chance to make the most of all that Center Parcs has to offer can make the additional cost worthwhile.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether early arrival at Center Parcs is worth it depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking to make the most of every moment, enjoy reduced crowds, and start your holiday stress-free, then early arrival can be a great investment.
Remember, with the Come Back Soon Tracker, you can monitor price changes for your booked holiday and save money, potentially offsetting the cost of early arrival and making your decision even easier. Start tracking the price of your booking now.
Happy holiday planning!
