Tips and suggestions for a Normandy 2009 trip.

[sapper740]

Originally posted by horsa
There are very nice campgrounds in Ranville which is between Pegasus Bridge and one of the main DZ/LZs used during D-Day in the British sector if you plan to camp.

Overall plans for camping and cars would depend on what you are really wanting to do but I'd say a car is essential to easily see everything in the Normandy region. You can use public transportation in the UK for that part of your trip. Catch the ferry at Portsmouth and cross to Sword Beach (Ouistreham) which has many affordable hotels within half a kilometer of the ferry landing. Do the crossing at night and get sleeper rooms so you don't waste a day and can save on a hotel at the same time. Bus in Ouistreham can get you to Caen where you can rent a car for the rest of the trip and turn it in when you plan to fly out.

You'll also want to read everything about the area that you can find so the little stuff will make more sense while there. You already know about Juno and Caen, read up on Pegasus Bridge, the Grand Bunker, Merville Battery, etc.

Lots will depend on whether my wife wants to experience D Day or use that time to go to Scotland. I don't mind roughing it, she on the other hand is a total princess and a lot less than a pea will disturb her sleep! If she comes to Normandy, it will be hotels, if it's just me, the first tent with cold? beer will suffice. Looking forward to discussing this further with you Dave this weekend. Thanks, Derek.