Several trends indicate that UK families are increasingly seeking cost-effective travel options, including driving to nearby destinations such as France.
Flight prices over the May half-term dates are eye-wateringly expensive and are continuing to soar: since April 1, the UK government has adjusted Air Passenger Duty rates to align with inflation, contributing to higher airfare costs. The rising cost of labour, high demand combined with a shortage of flights and a shortage of aircraft and engine construction difficulties are also contributing to record flight prices.
Driving to France is cheaper and scenic. Affordable hotels brands such as Mama Shelter welcome families with exceptional service at an affordable price. This French hotel brand has a portfolio of hotels in cherished family-friendly locations including three in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Lille, Rennes, Dijon and Nice.
Below is an example journey from London to Marseille and the costs incurred.
Travel to Marseille during May half term
The average fuel cost of driving from London to Marseille:
Total Estimated Costs: Channel Crossing (Eurotunnel): £120
French Motorway Tolls: £79 from Calais to Marseille
Fuel: Approximately £197 (About 30.8 gallons (116.4 litres) for a vehicle averaging 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km)
Total: Approximately £396 one-way
Average flight cost from London Heathrow to Marseille:
Outbound Saturday 24th May – inbound Saturday 31st May at child-friendly times
Total: From £490 per person, including small hand luggage + cabin bag with Ryanair
- Families at Mama can enjoy the cool Mediterranean atmosphere at this coastal getaway with easy access to Prado beaches, located right in the buzzing city centre, near the Cours Julien district .
- Families traveling by car will appreciate the availability of private parking (cheaper than public parking)
- The hotel offers rooms tailored for families, such as the “Large Mama Family” rooms featuring a lounge area that converts into a sofa bed, and the “XXL Mama Family” suites with interconnecting rooms, providing flexibility and comfort for families of various sizes
- Children and parents alike can enjoy the hotel’s lively atmosphere, which includes a giant table football setup accommodating up to 16 players, live music sessions, and a selection of nearly 100 free movies available in-room
- Rates start from £272 for a Large Mama Family (4 pax) from Saturday 24 to Saturday 31 May
- Just a short 30 minute drive away is Calanques National Park, one of France’s newest national parks. The park covers an area of about 520 square kilometres, encompassing both land and sea. One of the most distinctive features of the Calanques National Park is its rugged limestone cliffs and deep valleys, which form a series of narrow inlets known as “calanques” in French. Visitors to the Calanques National Park can explore its natural wonders through a network of hiking trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the Calanques, secluded beaches, and hidden coves. There are also opportunities for rock climbing, sailing, kayaking, and snorkelling, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the park’s pristine coastal environment.
