We went Eurotunnel to France on 24 May this year, a journey which we have been doing, tunnel and ferry, for 30 years.
Having had the done the usual layby area gas check we normally have no trouble joing the queue (if any) to go through UK Passport Control. This time when leaving the the layby we were forced to do a "Z" turn over some kerb stones to join the UK Passport queue as there were at least 5/6 cars for each of the 4 UK controls that were open. Having been processed we went through to the French Passport booths, of which there only 2 controls open and no queue. The French stamped our passports and wished us a Happy Holiday in perfect english which took all of about 30 secs. There were no French customs checks or questions. In summary the French were at least twice as efficient as the UK and friendlier. Returning last week the queueing was for the UK booths, not the French.
Hi
Did you use the Le Shuttle?
May I ask a few questions:
You spoke about doing a layby area gas check? What does this include and where does it actually happen?
What other thiings are checked? For example did you have "high vis" jackets in your car?
In other words what are the key ponts to comply with and be aware of?
Did you use an overnight layover the night before and if so where?
Any interisting points will be of interest!
On the matter of "car and van" insurance what did you do? For breakdown cover the AA tell me they can arrange reciprocity in Europe?
Did you carry a van spare wheel on the trip?
What is this "green card" and did you carry one?
Cheers