This is a slow start to the tourist season in Pays Basque. While traditionally, from the second week of July, campsites are taken by storm, this year, tourists have fallen behind. “It is true that normally, we are already in high season. This year, it is clear that this is not the case.” notice Loic Perondirector of the Oyam campsite in Bidart, and president of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques open-air hotel trade union.
An unclear school calendar
At the campsite reception, Julia and her family have just picked up their keys. “_At least, we don’t have to queue” laughs the mother of Seine et Marne. Arrived earlier than the others, the family is among the first customers. “The main reason for this delay is the school calendarexplains Loïc Peron. For schools, the last day was the Thursday before the first weekend in July. Many families told us on the phone that it was more convenient to leave the following weeks.“Tourists should therefore arrive in droves as early as next week:”there should be a catch-up of this first half-hearted week“confirms Loïc Peron.
Lack of staff
Only problem, the campsite lacks the manpower to accommodate holidaymakers. “We had managed to hire up to 90/95% of what we needed, but following several withdrawals, we found ourselves understaffed” confirms Loïc Peron. A situation common to all campsites according to the president of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques open-air hotel trade union. “Even through temp agencies, it’s hard to find employees. And it’s not just us: the hotel industry, construction, … everyone is looking for.” All services will still be provided at the Oyam campsite. “The problem is that it adds pressure to the team, which will have to multiply“ grimaced Loïc Peron. Knowing that in the event of a sick employee, it will be even more difficult to find a replacement.