Sun, Haven Holiday

Trollydolly_2

Well ive got my confirmation for the Sun holiday promotion.

We are going to Hafan Y Mor at the end of June.

Now my problems begin........

Im going with my partner, his little girl (6) and my nephew (7). The have met before and get on really well.

Ive never been on a holiday like this before so please can somebody tell me what goes on at these campsites, things ill need to take (we dont have linen included) and games etc that i should take for the journey (will be about 3 1/2 - 4 hrs), also ideas for food for the kids as there isnt a microwave and id rather not have to spend too much money on food there.

All moneysaving hints welcomed

This is my first attempt at playing parent so please help me!!!

TD xx

scottishnellie

First of all don't panic too much about entertaining the kids. We do the sun hols to Haven all the time and kids that age LOVE it! I'll list some stuff that immediately comes to mind but can probably give some more once I've given it some thought. You'll get given a list of whats on when you check in and you can plan from there but the basics are that daytime they have sporty activities organised, the pool, the play areas etc and evening there is always teatime kiddie entertainment to start with Bradley Bear or Rory The Tiger (Haven mascots) then family cabaret and disco in between the acts.

If you have single sleeping bags available you could take these for the kids instead of bedding. No making beds and it adds to the adventure for them. You'd still need a pillowcase each and whatever one they use at home is a good idea as then its familiar.

Pack your swim stuff separately as you won't get your caravan until late afternoon so if you've travelled 4hrs the kids can burn off some energy in the pool. Then we usually get the keys to the caravan, and while I unpack and settle in, Hubby goes off to the nearest supermarket (pre-decided by a google search) with a list I've written to do a grocery shop which saves the pennies. I include bags of crisps and snacks and take a fair sized handbag out at night so I can take a supply for the kids. The supermarket on site is ok for newspapers and emergencies but too expensive to do a whole shop there. Remember that as well as food you'll need loo roll, kitchen cloths/scourers and toilettries. I always give the kitchen and bathroom a bit of a clean before I start. I've never really NEEDED to - but it makes me feel better!

I use wee tupperwares and freezerbags to take a small supply of stuff from home that you might usually take for granted in your storecupboard (teabags, sugar, salt, washing up liquid, matches, teatowels) If you're a tea-jenny take a couple of mugs. It's usually tiny cups that are in the caravan.

The cooking facilities are fine as you'll still have gas rings and an oven with adequate pots/trays. Loads of easy and cheap dinners you can make without a microwave - it's probably just habit that makes you think you'll need one. Pasta bolied in a pot, add a jar of tomato/pesto sauce and a tin of tuna thrown in for example. Anything you can stick in the oven!

I'd also split the kids spending money into a daily allowance as it's easy for them to go mad the first day or two in the gift and gizmo shops that are inside the entertainment places (face-painting, light-up toys and suchlike).

Probably loads more I can help with but must get to bed....
:rotfl: