‘Make sure you are distinctive’
Having a coffee with Djoerd
from Campsite De Lakens
Why did you start glamping? We put this question to four different campsite owners, all with different types of rental accommodation. From small, cosy atmosphere tents, to large luxury glamping tents for the whole family, four campsite owners do their story explaining their motivation for glamping and how they have experienced it so far.
In this story, we get an answer from Djoerd Vulto, camping De Lakens in Overveen, Noord-Holland:
How did you get started with rental properties?
We started the first accommodations in 2007. These were wooden huts with a tent roof, very primitive, really. We noticed a lot of demand for that, and it only increased. We then started our own safari tents. That was a lot of fun but not really a success. Then that has continued to expand, including 18 Tulip Tree’s from De Waard.
And why does staying in such a tent appeal to people, do you think?
It shows that there is a large group of people who really do want to camp but just don’t feel like bringing all the gear every time. The added value of such rental accommodation is that people do not have to carry everything with them, the tent offers enough luxury, and people still have the camping feeling.
Subtitles (Dutch and English) available in the menu!
So, what are the challenges in such a lead-up process?
Surely, the challenge we face today is the permit processes. Before you are allowed to post anything, you have to meet all kinds of requirements, and the necessary examinations must take place. We found it quite a challenge to arrange all the permits. In the end, it’s just start, call and see where the ship lands. That’s a lot of work, but once it’s up, it’s hearty fun. Then, you do have a lot of credit for your work.
How do you experience tent rentals?
We once started with the traditional tents of De Waard. Consider the Enlarged Seagull tents that De Waard also grew up with and made its name with. That’s why we chose De Waard, that piece of quality. We also have luxury tents with private bathrooms and kitchens, all the trimmings.
But with these tents, we also went back a bit to the basic feeling of camping without plumbing and equipped kitchen. Guests can truly experience camping. I think the tents fit this environment very well, with their natural tones. Yes, the guests generally experience this as heartily enjoyable.
Do you have any tips for other campground owners to consider?
Absolutely. ‘Make sure you are distinctive, and avoid doing the exact same thing as the other person.’ This can be done, for example, with furnishings. Or the placement of the tents, for example, don’t put them all in a row next to each other. Install an outdoor barbecue, or put in a hot tub. There are so many possibilities, so make sure it is unique and distinctive. We did that by the placement of the tents in the natural location. And by putting them on a wooden decking, which provides just a little more comfort. Or also the furnishings, which makes it a little more luxurious again.
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The Having a coffe with series is part of Expedition Glamp: our new magazine packed with interesting stories from campsite owners and other articles to learn all about glamping.
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