panoramic sea views

DIGITAL DESTINATIONS

Posted on August 7, 2024

In an era where the digital landscape continually reshapes our everyday experiences, the realm of holiday bookings for parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping sites are no exception. As the tourism and hospitality industries continually adapts to technological advancements, online booking systems and apps have become indispensable tools, revolutionising how holidaymakers plan and secure their outdoor escapes.

Traditionally, booking a holiday involved a series of phone calls, emails, or even in-person visits. This method, while effective in its time, was often cumbersome and time-consuming. The advent of the internet and the expansion of smartphones have dramatically transformed this process, offering seamless and efficient booking solutions that cater to both operators and customers.

Modern online booking systems and apps streamline the reservation process, providing a host of benefits that enhance the overall holiday experience. These digital platforms offer real-time availability, instant confirmations, secure payment gateways, and personalized services, ensuring that both the holidaymaker and the operator can manage bookings with ease and confidence.

Today’s leisure guests have higher expectations than ever of the hospitality venues they visit – and there’s no doubt this extends to their stays at holiday parks too. Guests are looking for convenient, completely stress-free experiences, and technology that can help facilitate seamless experiences, including booking tools and apps, will be key to meeting these expectations. By digitalising booking processes across the site, holiday park operators will be able to improve the guest experience, leverage these tools to help boost revenue, and free up valuable staff time, allowing them to focus their attention on guests.

BOOSTING ON-PARK SPEND
A user-friendly booking system makes it effortless for guests to explore and reserve on-site experiences. Making it easy for guests to book activities, dine at restaurants, and enjoy other amenities will maximise their enjoyment, as well as generate revenue.

By streamlining the booking process, guests are also less likely to seek alternative entertainment off-site. Online booking systems also offer avenues for strategic upselling. The booking journey can be designed to naturally nudge guests towards additional items during a reservation process. For instance, the system might suggest pairing dinner with pre-arrival cocktails or a celebratory bottle of sparkling wine on arrival at the on-site restaurant.

This strategic approach can increase revenue and can enhance the overall dining experience According to our research, nearly half of holidaymakers are interested in loyalty programmes which presents a clear opportunity to incentivise additional spending and encourage longer stays.

By having a digital booking system in place, operators can leverage their booking system data to craft targeted promotions and packages based on guest preferences or past booking history. This can be anything from offering discounts on activities enjoyed during a previous stay to enticing deals on extended getaways. Having all this tech fully integrated – from bookings to loyalty schemes – also makes it easier for staff to manage and for guests to use.

THIS STRAIGHTFORWARD usability not only streamlines daily tasks but also reduces training time.

BEYOND REVENUE
The right technology can go beyond just boosting revenue, it can also contribute to creating a truly exceptional guest experience. Table reservation technology, for example, empowers guests by putting control at their fingertips. With the right platform in place, guests can not only reserve a table at their favourite on-site restaurants but also browse and book exciting activities, amenities and events.

This level of control over the customer journey caters to individual needs and saves precious holiday time. Such systems also eliminate guest frustrations such as having to queue for a table and ensures a smooth dining experience. With digital booking systems, both staff and guests are also able to view live table availability – this helps manage guest expectation whilst helping teams better manage busy periods.

Meanwhile ordering technology, such as click-and-collect or order-and-pay apps, can help boost revenues by enabling guests to pre-order meals for convenient pick-up or in-accommodation delivery. In fact, research shows a strong preference for services like breakfast delivery and on-site takeaway, highlighting areas where holiday parks can cater to guest convenience.

At Zonal, we worked with Shorefield Holidays to develop a branded, feature-rich customer app, fully- integrated with their EPoS, to give guests more control over their dining experience during their stay, complete with deliver-to-location functionality to enable meals to be delivered straight to their accommodation. Not only does the guest experience improve, but booking technology integrated with other park systems can significantly reduce pressure on staff.

For example, an integrated booking and table management system eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving staff time and minimising errors. This allows staff to focus on providing exceptional guest service and creating a welcoming atmosphere. By implementing such strategies, you can create a win-win situation for your holiday park – happier guests and boosted profits.

ROBERTS GROUP has once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence by incorporating GemaPark.

SUCCESS STORY
Nestled along the serene banks of the River Glaslyn in the heart of Snowdonia, Cae Du Caravan and Camping Park has beautiful panoramic sea views. Known for their family-run charm and numerous scenic sites across North Wales, the Roberts Group has once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence by incorporating GemaPark as the park management and booking system for Cae Du.

We spoke with Rachel, the new manager at Cae Du, to uncover the reasons behind this strategic choice and its impact on their operations. Rachel, brimming with enthusiasm about the new system, shared her insights. “Other sites within the group were using GemaPark and had nothing but good things to say about it. Coming from a completely different system myself, I wanted a system that was easy to use, would save time when making bookings, and provide easy access to make changes.

I also wanted check-in to be as easy as possible and by using GemaPark, this has definitely been a big upgrade.” Her emphasis on user-friendliness and efficiency underscores the critical needs of a busy holiday park like Cae Du, where smooth and quick operations are essential for both staff and guests. Transitioning to a new system can be a daunting task, especially for a site as large as Cae Du.

Rachel highlighted how GemaPark met their specific needs. “Due to us being such a big site, GemaPark makes us feel in control of our park at all times, which is exactly what we need. Especially with it being our first year at the park, we are learning so much about it.” GemaPark’s ability to provide control and adaptability has clearly been a success for the new management team, ensuring a strong operational foundation from day one.

WITH GEMAPARK you benefit from updates as they happen so the system you are using is never outdated.

A significant advantage of GemaPark is its ease of use, a factor that Rachel greatly appreciates. “GemaPark is a very efficient system which I have found very simple to train office staff on. The help guide is a brilliant addition and always there as a reminder. I like the process of making bookings as it is easy to explain how to use, and everything is very clear on the screen.”

This straightforward usability not only streamlines daily tasks but also reduces training time, allowing new staff members to quickly get up to speed. Rachel also praised the support network provided by GemaPark. “GemaPark are certainly there when you need them and it’s a great relief to know they are when you have a problem. Every ticket I have raised has been dealt with quickly and efficiently.

As everything was brand new to us there were a lot of questions so I raised a lot of tickets. Really happy with everything, it’s a great support network.” The prompt and effective support from GemaPark ensures that any issues are swiftly resolved, enabling the Cae Du team to maintain high standards of service. GemaPark is an internet-based park management and booking system designed to cater to a variety of needs, from self-catering and glamping to touring, camping, holiday homes, storage, and long-term lets.

Its comprehensive features and user-centric design make it an ideal solution for managing diverse holiday park requirements. With the adoption of GemaPark, Cae Du Caravan and Camping Park is well-equipped to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience for all its visitors, reinforcing the Roberts Group’s reputation for excellence in hospitality across North Wales.

With a growing Cloud booking system such as GemaPark you benefit from updates as they happen so the system you are using is never out of date. Making the most of the new features can also require your input. At the end of each season it is important to check out what new features have been added and seeing if you want to work them into your system.

GEMAPARK IS A VERY EFFICIENT system which I have found very simple to train office staff on.

For example for 2024/25 GemaPark has added Dynamic pricing, Group bookings, Gift Vouchers, Additional accounting features, Full two way Hoseasons integration, ePitch integration, TXGB to name but a few. GemaPark offer a free online review meeting to all our clients whenever they want it to ensure they are getting the most out of the system.

The digital revolution has undoubtedly transformed the way holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites manage bookings and engage with customers. Online booking systems and apps offer a plethora of benefits, from increased efficiency and customer satisfaction to valuable data insights and enhanced marketing capabilities.

While challenges exist, the ongoing advancements in technology and the increasing demand for convenient, personalized experiences ensure that these platforms will continue to play a pivotal role in the tourism and hospitality industries. For operators, embracing this digital transformation is not just an option but a necessity.

By investing in robust online booking systems and staying abreast of emerging trends, they can remain competitive, attract a global audience, and deliver exceptional holiday experiences. As we look to the future, the possibilities for innovation and growth in this sector are limitless, promising exciting times ahead for both operators and holidaymakers alike.

Cae Du Farm
01654 711234
www.caeducampsite.co.uk

GemaPark
01983 282 420
www.gemapark.co.uk

Roberts Group
01758 719417
www.robertsgroup.wales

Zonal
0800 131 3400
www.zonal.co.uk/holidayparks

PICTURE PERFECT

Posted on May 16, 2024

Landal GreenParks offer an impressive 18 locations across the UK and Europe with new destinations being steadily added. I was immediately struck by the immaculate grounds and welcoming atmosphere as I arrived at Landal Gwel an Mor holiday resort at Portreath, near Redruth in Cornwall.

Set against the backdrop of rolling hills and overlooking the turquoise shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean, Landal Gwel an Mor presents a postcard-perfect scene that promises relaxation and adventure in equal measure. Boasting 140 lodges, accommodation options at the resort are varied and cater to every taste and preference.

From cozy Scandinavian lodges nestled in woodland settings to contemporary luxury eco-friendly lodges boasting panoramic sea views, there’s something to suit families, couples, and solo travellers alike. The Scandinavian-style lodges with stylish decor feature kitchens, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, as well as furnished sundecks.

THERE ARE 18 STYLES of accommodation offered with the 140 lodges on site.

Some have hot tubs and barbecue grills.There’s a Mediterranean restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Other amenities include an indoor pool and a spa, as well as a sauna, a steam room and a gym. Walking paths, tennis courts and rental bikes are also available.

During my stay, I opted for one of the eco-friendly lodges, which seamlessly blended modern amenities with sustainable design, providing a comfortable and guilt-free stay. One of the highlights of Landal Gwel an Mor is its commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship.

The on-site nature reserve, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, offers guests the opportunity to reconnect with nature through guided walks and wildlife encounters. Whether observing the wide variety of birds between trees or spotting seals basking by nearby cliffs, the resort’s dedication to preserving Cornwall’s natural beauty is truly commendable.

LANDAL GWEL AN MOR presents a postcard-perfect setting including its fishing lake.

GREAT ESCAPE
For those seeking relaxation, the resort’s leisure facilities are second to none. The luxurious spa, with its range of indulgent treatments and serene ambiance, provided the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Meanwhile, the heated swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre catered to guests looking to maintain their wellness routines while on vacation.

Adventure awaits around every corner at Landal Gwel an Mor, with a plethora of outdoor activities to suit all interests. From surfing and kayaking along the rugged coastline to exploring nearby hiking trails and picturesque fishing villages, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse oneself in Cornwall’s rich natural heritage.

The resort’s dedicated activity centre offers expert guidance and equipment rental, ensuring that guests can make the most of their time outdoors. No visit to Landal Gwel an Mor would be complete without sampling the culinary delights on offer. The on-site restaurant, The Terrace, serves up an array of locally sourced dishes, showcasing the best of Cornwall’s culinary heritage.

From freshly caught seafood to hearty traditional fare, each meal was a culinary journey that delighted the senses and left me eager for more. Landal Gwel an Mor holiday resort offers a truly unforgettable holiday experience in the heart of Cornwall. With its breathtaking surroundings, top-notch amenities, and commitment to sustainability, it’s a destination that caters to the discerning traveller seeking both relaxation and adventure.

ON SITE FACILITIES include an indoor soft play area.

LANDAL LABEL
Landal GreenParks is a market leader in the field of holiday resort management, operation, and rentals. Landal GreenParks has more than 100 resorts in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Great Britain, Austria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and Hungary, offering a total of almost 14.000 holiday accommodation units and campsite pitches.

Taking the portfolio to 18 destinations, Landal GreenParks UK announced the addition of two new resorts into its UK portfolio earlier this year. The new sites, which will benefit from a multimillion-pound investment, will showcase the Landal experience and build on the strong demand for UK holidays in 2024. Landal Whalesborough Resort & Spa in Bude, Cornwall and Landal Twin Lakes in The Lake District.

Each year, more than 3.2 million guests opt for Landal GreenParks, resulting in a total of 15.6 million overnight stays. The resorts and the company’s various offices employ a staff of 3.500 people. A proactive approach to sustainability has resulted in all Landal GreenParks’ resorts obtaining Green Key certification. Landal say they have witnessed a surge in last minute bookings that is driving an increase in summer holiday sales.

ATTENTION TO décor detail makes an immediate impact.

The self-catering holiday specialist has seen summer bookings up 20% YoY, with 30% of its breaks being taken within a month and 10% going within a week of being booked. The south-west continues to be the best-performing region for Landal GreenParks UK, with new and additional accommodation offering at its resorts, helping contribute to a 30% increase in summer bookings compared to last year.

There is also demand in the Midlands, Yorkshire and Scotland due to pet friendly staycations – with bookings up 25% compared to 2022. The company has also noticed a trend for shorter summer breaks, with almost a third of all summer bookings being for four nights. Landal GreenParks UK launched their summer campaign with up to 40% off summer breaks starting from £479.

Landal Resorts
Landal Gwel an Mor
Tel. 01209 842354
www.landal.co.uk/gwel-an-mor

HIGH RISE VIEW

Posted on April 27, 2022

HIGH RISE VIEW

We visit an idyllic Devon seascape…

PARK LIFE RESORTS near Ilfracombe enjoys stunning panoramic sea views.

From its elevated position above Watermouth Harbour in North Devon, Park Life Resorts is a coastal destination, that enjoys stunning panoramic sea views. Park Life Resorts is under the ownership and operation of Life Cafés & Resorts - a British Company with a local economic focus.

Park Life Resorts offers a range of stylish and comfortable self-contained Lodges to suit individual guests’ needs, catering for families, couples and friend groups, with the largest Lodge sleeping up to eight people. Its self-catering wood-clad Lodges, new Sea Terrace Restaurant & Bar, heated outdoor pool and sea view mini golf course are nestled within mature woodland.

ALL MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY are welcome to visit at the dog-friendly Park Life Resorts.


DOG-FRIENDLY

Open all year round, it’s an idyllic Devon coastal escape – perfect for a summer getaway or a weekend break. The resort is dog friendly too, so all the family are welcome. Located on the shores of Watermouth Harbour, it’s situated just a stone’s throw away from the South West Coast Path with miles of coastline to explore. There’s so much to see and do, from rock pooling with the kids, to riding the surf on a board, sea kayak or enjoying the unrivalled sea views and local history.

With regular live music in the evening during the summer months, the Sea Terrace is the perfect place to relax and soak up the holiday ambience. The restaurant is situated alongside a range of on-site facilities that guests can make full use of, including the sea to visit at the dog-friendly view mini-golf course and children’s outdoor play area, overlooking the outdoor heated pool, and stunning sea views. Elsewhere on the resort, guests can enjoy a multi-sports court and indoor play areas and games facilities. An indoor pool house is also planned for launch later in the year. Park Life Resorts also boasts its own on-site shop, selling a range of essentials as well as local Devon produce and holiday luxuries.

Park Life Resorts is an intimate retreat, home to a collection of 42, self-catered modern wood-clad Lodges, discreetly nestled in a beautiful woodland setting of 12 acres of privately owned grounds. The Lodges range in size from one bedroom Lodges for two, with open plan living room and kitchen. The two and three-bedroom Lodges are ideal for families and groups. There’s also a collection of executive three and four bedroom Lodges, with some featuring private hot tubs and decking for al fresco dining. All Lodges are complete with fluffy towels, crisp linen and a North Devon produce welcome pack. Designed for use all year round, the Lodges make for the perfect setting in colder months, with their warm and cosy interior.

ALFRESCO DINING

The new Park Life Resorts’ aptly named Sea Terrace Restaurant and Bar, serves a variety of fresh dishes curated by Life Cafés and Resorts Group Development Chef, Chris Holland - an award-winning chef and ex-contestant of the BBC show, Great British Menu. Influenced by the local area, the dishes complement the resort’s coastal location, offering casual, laid-back dining with hearty and indulgent meals to light bites and sharing plates.

Resort guests and locals can dine alfresco and watch the sun set over the Harbour, from the atmospheric wrap-around sea terrace - or enjoy restaurant-style dining indoors. The restaurant has a light and airy interior that compliments the sea view location, creating a vibrant but comfortable dining space, complete with a cosy log burning stove in the heart of the restaurant.

Park Life Resorts
www.parkliferesorts.com