I wonder if anyone has noticed that I have not mentioned the cost of our overnight stays yet, or the facilities provided.
The answer to both of these is nothing.
I researched the experiences of others who had toured in France. Particularly an Australian couple who did a long stay, boon docking.
With the campingcar we have all we need in the way of facilities, fresh water 100 ltrs. Gas. Electricity 12 volts 170 Amp hours stored in Leisure batteries, charged by a 4 Amp solar panel and a wind generator capable of 20 Amps in a gale but around 5 Amps in a decent breeze.
The shower is more efficient than many a hotel bathroom.
In England we use the CL's of the Caravan Club, there is a an unfortunate trend for these sites to provide electric hook up and charge whether you use it or not. The story goes that EU law dictates that electricity cannot be resold so the price must be inclusive. Electricity is thereby not being sold at a profit. Oh yes, so how come some sites now increase prices in the winter when more electricity gets used.
The French have a wonderful attitude, enjoying life is the most important factor and facilities will be provided. It seems that a French Campingcariste will stay the night somewhere as long as it does not say its forbidden.
Aires de Camping Car are provided, by communities to attract trade to the region, water and waste facilities are provided, sometimes free, if they want to provide electricity they provide a coin in the slot system and sell as much as they want at what ever price they wish. Some times they provide electricity FREE, yep that is my favourite word.
We discovered a brand new Aire in Normandy last year. It had neat stone walls with a window like opening to provide a river view, tarmac hardstanidng, grassed areas, tree plantings and flower beds. This provided by the locals for me, a stranger to use for free.
Not many days prior to this, before leaving home in the UK the road outside my home was re tarmac'd.
A previous burst pipe repair had left a chasm full of rubble which swam arround on top of clay. The contractors considered it needed re concreting, the council inspector confirmed, but each party also agreed that it could not be done properly as no one will want to pay.
Many Farms, Vineyards and other concerns are members of organisations that encourage camping and in particular CampingCars, that, being self contained need nothing other than a quiet,safe, secure place to stay the night.
Sheer numbers have caused problems in some places, hence hight barriers are being fitted to keep larger 'vans out of some parking places. In 2003 barriers were being fitted to some beachside parking places whilst we were there.
I decided to see how much free we could make use of, by so doing you meet the real people of France.
(c) All material is copyright of the Author.
