Driving forth to Disney: A short guide to all things driving

Note: This guide is designed for people who live in the united Kingdom. This information may be different/not apply for other countries. 

There are currently 3 ways to get to Disneyland Paris from the United Kingdom. These are:

1. A Eurostar from London
2. A plane to Charles De Gaulle airport follow by either a Disney Shuttle or train to Disneyland Paris. 
3. Driving.

Today we are looking at option number 3. Disneyland Paris is approximately 3 hours away from Calais. This is where your tires will first touch French soil regardless of whether you're taking the ferry or the Eurotunnel. However, before you leave for the tunnel/ferry it is important you bare in the mind the following pieces of information...

1. The French drive on the right-hand side of the road:

Picture Source: AA

The French, like most of their european siblings, like to drive on the right-hand side of the road. This is important because we brits think we're special and like to drive on the left. Don't ask me who decided this, I personally don't drive. Just remember this when you arrive in France.

2. The EU requirements

France is in the EU. A large majority of EU countries have certain rules when it comes to what one must have in their car. These items include:

• A large GB sticker, stuck on the vehicle that you are traveling in.
• Warning triangle (this is for any vehicle with a minimum of 4 wheels. Bike, trikes and Motorbikes, you guys don't need this). 
• Breathalysers
• Reflective Jacket
• Emergency Bulb 
• Headlight Beam deflectors.
• First Aid Kit

Picture Source: Amazon

Whilst this looks like a pretty big list for any European driving virgins, you will be please to know that many autotraders such as Halfords and online retailers like Amazon offer full kits with pricing being between £20 and £40 according to supplier. Much cheaper than the 100+ euro fine that you may be charged if you don't have these things on your person. 

3. Don't forget your toll money

I briefly discussed on my DOs and DON'Ts article how it was super important to have 45-60 (depending on vehicle size) put aside for the tolls. This point still stands in my driving guide. It's super important that you have this put aside in a safe place that is easily accessible in the car. Glove boxes are normally a good and safe bet. 

 4. Speed Limits

The current speed limit, as of July this year, is 80 km/h or in British terms 50mph. Whilst this can be slower than our motorways and duel carriageways, one does find that the roads tend to be quieter than their British Counterparts due to the tolls. 

So there you have it. A basic guide to making sure you are prepare, legal and happy on the French Roads. Oh and there's one more thing...

5. The Mickey Mouse signs

Picture Source: Disneyland Paris News

When you get very close to Disneyland Paris (the 30-40km mark), you may see some unique signs dotted along the roads. These signs are really adorable and attempting to spot them all is a great boredom buster for everybody in the car. Feel free to take a photo of them and share them via #MickeyMouseHunt

Thank you all for reading this guide and I hope it was useful. If you liked what I wrote, tell your family/friends about it, like the official Facebook Page, subscribe to the blog and follow the blog on Bloglovin for updates on the latest content. 

Until next time readers, make a wish and lick your lips.

Kelly