Hotel transfers

[k8k8]

Just wondering when you usually find out information about the transfers from the airport/hotel. We're going in two weeks, and Thomas Cook have now sent us everything we need, apart from any details about the transfers. I know when you get there you must just look for a Thomas Cook rep or something, but how do you know what time you get picked up from the hotel on the way back?

Sorry if this is really obvious, it's just the first major holiday without the parents- so many things to think about!!

 

[Boo Boo Too]

Assuming you have booked a package holiday with transfers included...

There should be a Thomas Cook rep as soon as you have entered the public zone of the airport terminal (you go through immigration, collect your bags, through customs, then out into the public bit of the terminal). The rep will then tell you where to find your transfer bus and which bus to get onto.

The rep will also arrange a pick-up time for your return transfer to the airport. Package tour operators like to get you to the airport REALLY early... so will probably be about 4/5 hours before your flight is scheduled to leave.

Boo

 

[Goofyish]

As you say, your Thomas Cook rep. will meet you at the airport and direct you to your tranfer bus/van. I would imagine that they will also let you know when your return pick up time is as well - or they may contact you at your hotel a few days before the end of your holiday to confirm the time.
I'm sure your rep. will answer all your questions and give you a local contact number so they can be contacted.

We have always organised our own transfers with a local Towncar company, but that is how I would expect things to work

The biggest downside of using the included transfers is that your transport will probably be dropping folks off at a number of hotels and resorts, so although it may be nice to see the other hotels, it may take a while to reach your hotel unless your lucky enough to be dropped off first
This also may mean that you are picked up quite early for your return trip in order to get have enough time to pick up at the other hotels and get to the airport in plenty of time.

If you fancy organising your own transfers check out the following for information:

FL Tours

Tiffant Towncar

It is a more relaxed way to start your holiday. Your personal Towncar driver meets you in baggage reclaim, helps you with your cases and then takes you direct to your hotel (via a grocery store if required to stock up on those vital in-room snacks).
I know it's an added expence when your already have a 'free' transfer, but well worth it in my opinion
You could also really splash out and have a limo transfer

 

[Boo Boo Too]

Personally I would stick to the "organised transfers" for your first trip - less expense, hassle and things to worry about.

Don't get me wrong, we would always hire our own car or organise private transfers (but then we don't do package holidays these days...), BUT for your first trip... I think it is useful to stick with Thomas Cook (also, they will be expecting you... they have a list of people that they are meeting).

Doing the organised transfers will also give you an opportunity to meet your rep, they will probably give you some leaflets and try to sell you trips/dinners/excursions etc (some may be of interest, others not). I find reps annoying, but on a first trip it will probably help you "find your feet" a bit...

That's my advice, anyway. I agree with Goofyish in principle, but not for a VERY first trip.

Boo