subject: "forget The Flumes" Say Park Guests Who Stay But Don't Play [print this page] Short breaks in apartment-style accommodation from around 20.00 a night will prove a money-saving hit this year, it's claimed.
The prediction comes from major parks group Park Holidays UK which says that a growing number of its guests are now couples who book breaks but shun the fun on offer.
Instead, says company director Tony Clish, they use their caravan holiday home or lodge as an inexpensive alternative to a hotel, without having to sacrifice space or comfort.
"Some even pay for a standard three or four night break on one of our holiday parks, but only stay for a couple of days - and still save money," said Tony.
"You could say they treat the place like an hotel, and we're perfectly relaxed about that. It means more room in the swimming pools and clubs for everyone else!" he added.
Tony points out that the French for holiday parks - hotels de plein air - translates as "fresh air hotels", and that is increasingly how his company's 25 parks in Southern England are being used.
Even in high season, he comments, the per-night cost undercuts budget chain hotels - and provides accommodation which is more on par with a luxury hotel suite.
In addition to separate bedrooms, a sitting room, bathroom and dining area there is also a modern fully-equipped kitchen if the occupants want to save even more by eating in.
The typical "stay but don't play" park guests, says Tony, are more mature couples taking a city, countryside or coastal break - or perhaps visiting family in the area.
Although most park holiday homes sleep up to six people, he comments, couples appreciate being able to use a spare bedroom for luggage to avoid the feeling of "living out of a suitcase".
Holiday park accommodation can be booked simply and quickly, just like an hotel, either on the internet (www.ParkHolidaysUK.com) or on the telephone (0845 815 9797).
And as with hotels, it's worth checking on-line to see if there are any special deals available - especially if you are planning a short break and are flexible about where you stay.
Although most of Park Holiday UK's centres are in seaside locations from Devon and Dorset to Essex and Suffolk, many are also within easy reach of major towns and cities.
In fact, says Tony, some of the group's parks are just over an hour's train journey from London:
"Even on the fringes of the capital, hotels often have sky-high rates and a long battle into the centre. For canny couples, a park-based London break can save both cash and stress," he said.
