Deciding between driving yourself to Club Med Kiroro or opting for the resort’s airport transfer service can feel like choosing between sushi or sashimi – both are good, but which one suits your taste (or in this case, needs) better?
Let's break down each option, looking at convenience, cost, safety, and the overall experience to help you make an informed decision for your family's trip to Hokkaido.
Airport Transfer to Club Med Kiroro
Price
Adults
S$194
Kids
S$156
Pros:
Convenience: There’s a high level of comfort in being met at the airport and whisked directly to your destination without the hassle of maps and directions.
Safety: The drivers are professionals familiar with the seasonal conditions, ensuring a safe journey on Hokkaido’s winter roads.
Start Relaxing Sooner: From the moment you land, your holiday starts. There’s no worry about navigating or driving – just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
Cons:
Less Flexibility: With pre-scheduled departure times, you’ll need to align your flight with the transfer service, which might mean waiting at the airport.
Cost for Small Groups or Solo Travelers: For smaller parties, the per-person cost of an airport transfer can be higher compared to sharing a rental car.
No Pit Stops: The direct service means you’ll miss out on spontaneously exploring Hokkaido’s scenic spots along the way.
Driving to Club Med Kiroro
Pros:
Flexibility: Driving yourself means you can make pit stops as you like, exploring the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido at your own pace.
Adventure: For some, navigating the snowy roads is part of the adventure, offering a sense of achievement upon arrival.
Cost-Effective for Larger Groups: If traveling with a larger party, renting a vehicle and splitting the cost can be more economical than individual transfer fees.
Cons:
Navigational Challenges: For those not used to driving in snow, the roads to Kiroro can be daunting, posing safety concerns.
Additional Costs: Beyond just the rental fee, you have to consider parking, fuel, and potentially snow chains or winter tires.
Stress Factor: After a long flight, navigating unfamiliar roads can add stress to what should be the start of a relaxing holiday.
Cost Calculation for Driving to Club Med Kiroro:
Rental Car Fees:
For a family-sized car suitable for snowy conditions, the cost remains approximately SGD 100 per day. Over a 6-day trip, this totals around SGD 360 to SGD 600.
Car Insurance:
Comprehensive car insurance is highly recommended, especially considering the winter driving conditions. Insurance costs can vary, but let's estimate an additional SGD 25 per day for a more comprehensive coverage plan. For 6 days, this would amount to SGD 150.
Fuel Costs:
Given a round trip distance of about 300 kilometers and additional local travel, the fuel cost estimate stays at SGD 50.
Regular Petrol cost like SGD 1.70 per Litre
Parking Fees at Club Med Kiroro:
Parking Outdoors are free at Club Med Kiroro. Hence you may want to park outdoors.
Otherwise, Assuming a daily parking rate at the resort, the total for 6 days is estimated at SGD 90.
Hokkaido Expressway Pass (HEP):
The Hokkaido Expressway Pass (HEP) is a cost-saving option for tourists planning to use Hokkaido's toll roads extensively. It offers unlimited use of expressways at a fixed price for a set number of days, which can be a great deal depending on your travel itinerary.
For a 6-day pass, the cost is approximately SGD 70. This pass not only helps in budgeting your travel expenses but also simplifies the journey, allowing you to enjoy Hokkaido's scenic routes without worrying about toll fees at each booth.
International Driving Permit:
Applying for an IDP in Singapore is a straightforward process. You can apply through the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS), either in person at one of their offices or online through their website. The process is quick, usually requiring just a valid Singapore driving license, a passport-sized photo, and the application fee.
Cost of an IDP:
The cost for applying for an IDP in Singapore is S$20. This fee is relatively modest, especially when considered as part of the overall budget for an international holiday. However, it's an essential cost that ensures you stay on the right side of the law while driving in Hokkaido.
Total Estimated Cost for Driving with Insurance Included:
Rental Car Fees: SGD 600
Car Insurance: SGD 150
Fuel Costs: SGD 50
Toll Roads: SGD 70
International Driving Permit: SGD 20
Total: SGD 890
Impact on Your Club Med Kiroro Experience
Choosing the right mode of transport can set the tone for your entire holiday.
Families prioritizing ease and safety might find the airport transfer service the best way to start their snowy adventure stress-free.
On the flip side, those seeking a bit more adventure and flexibility, or traveling in a larger group, might opt for the freedom that comes with driving themselves.
Conclusion: Tailoring Your Journey to Your Preferences
In summary, both driving and opting for the airport transfer to Club Med Kiroro have their unique sets of advantages and disadvantages.
Your choice ultimately depends on what aspects you value more for your holiday – convenience and safety with the airport transfer, or flexibility and potentially lower costs with driving.
Consider your family’s specific needs, your comfort with winter driving, and how you envision starting your holiday.
Either way, the snowy wonderland of Club Med Kiroro awaits with experiences that are sure to make your family holiday memorable.
