Looking at first holiday in 15 years, maybe euro camp

[WingingItMam48]

Hi, we are couple and a 14 year old with autism. Looking to take first proper holiday in 15 years. We have gone as a family on short hotel breaks in this country and took son on a cheap UK seaside break 10 years ago, but wondering about going somewhere abroad. We have some savings but they are more of a fall back safely net and although I want us to go away, I am worried about committing thousands on a holiday and then being disappointed. In the past before son l, me and partner went all inclusive but that seems so expensive now! In school hols (August) could be 5 grand for very average looking week in Spain. Gob smacked how expensive it is. Is eurocamp in Spain any good l? They seem quite cheap but aware there seems to be a lot of add on costs when you look into them. Does anyone have any recommendations, would you go there? Perhaps being so out of touch with going abroad it all seems so daunting. Will probably be able to go abroad once with son, so don't want to waste money. Thanks.

I would just book a nice apartment somewhere.
2 bedroom apartment so you have separate bedrooms ( a lot of hotels 14 year old will have to be on sofa bed still unless you pay premium).
Self cater
Some apartments are on a site with pool
Others independent
What kind of things does your son like? Is he actually going to sit by a pool, or if it better to be near a beach or lake and you just go down sometimes for a few hours max, and then other activities and sightseeing?

I suggest a mountain lake holiday. Book apartment somewhere. And most have pools, lakes, things like go ape or mountain cable cars for exploring. Caves. Etc. If you stay in the south, it’s also really easy to take day trips into northern Italy or Slovenia.
You could easily get a 2 bedroom nice place in Austria for €1200-1500 a week for all of you. Add flights and car hire

Something different - Have you considered a coach holiday?
I know it has the reputation of being for older retired, but they do actually take children. For a large family it can be pricey, but with three of you it might be very affordable compared to other options.

It may well suit your son. It's usually a calm, well-planned and organised route. There is a set itinerary and you stick with the familiar coach and drivers. Plus there is the advantage of neither of the adults needing to drive. Pre-planned comfort stops on the way, no hotels or catering to organise, trips arranged for you whilst you are at the destination included in the price. Nothing daunting to worry about.

Another advantage is you can test it out beforehand by taking day excursions or weekend breaks with the coach company to see how you like it, how your son takes to it, and suss out the level of service. Build up to 5 -day holidays then more if it suits. This will give you the chance to see how you all cope with longer coach journeys.

I used to work for Eurocamp. They paid us about £100 a 70 hour week. My "cleaning bucket" on a good day comprised of washing up liquid and kitchen roll. So, Eurocampers, please wash all your kitchen utensils, glasses etc when you arrive!

I’d recommend having a look at rental apartments or cottages in Europe. A bit more space and quiet than Eurocamp. We have rented through Novasol a few times d never been disappointed. From mid August onwards it’s lower cost in Sweden or Denmark as their school holidays end in early August. Less guaranteed sunshine than Spain or France but lovely beaches/lakes and easy driving. Whatever you do I hope that you have a lovely time!