Home - Mobility Extra

As someone who uses a wheelchair, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find accessible holiday destinations. However, the good news is that there are now more options than ever before for wheelchair accessible holidays. From adapted accommodation to accessible tours, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a holiday without any accessibility barriers. Accessible holidays are not just for wheelchair users, but also for anyone with a disability. This includes people with visual impairments, hearing impairments, and mobility impairments, among others. Accessible holidays are designed to cater to the unique needs of people with disabilities, with features such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and wider doorways. Some accessible holidays also offer equipment hire, such as mobility scooters and hoists, to make your holiday as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Accessible Accommodation As a disabled traveller, finding suitable accommodation can be a challenge. However, with the increasing demand for accessible holidays, more properties are becoming wheelchair accessible, making it easier for people with disabilities to travel. In this section, I will explore some of the accessible accommodation options available, including hotels and holiday cottages. Hotels Many hotels now offer accessible rooms, with features such as wider doorways, grab rails, and adapted bathrooms. However, it's important to check with the hotel before booking to ensure that the room meets your specific accessibility needs. Some hotels may have steps or narrow corridors that make it difficult to navigate with a wheelchair. When searching for accessible hotels, it's worth considering the location. Some areas, such as Shropshire and Northumberland, have a higher concentration of wheelchair accessible hotels than others. It's also worth checking if the hotel has any additional facilities, such as a swimming pool with a hoist or a restaurant with a Braille menu. Holiday Cottages Holiday cottages can be a great option for disabled travellers who prefer self-catering accommodation. Many holiday cottages have been adapted to be wheelchair accessible, with features such as level access, wet rooms, and adjustable beds. Some cottages may also have additional facilities, such as a hoist or a ramp. When searching for accessible holiday cottages, it's important to check the location. Some areas, such as Cornwall and the Isle of Wight, have a higher concentration of wheelchair accessible holiday cottages than others. It's also worth checking if the cottage has any additional facilities, such as a garden with a level access path or a parking space close to the entrance. In conclusion, accessible accommodation options are becoming more widely available, making it easier for disabled travellers to enjoy a holiday. When searching for accessible accommodation, it's important to check the location and facilities, and to ensure that the property meets your specific accessibility needs. Accessible Transport When planning an accessible holiday, it is important to consider the transport options available. As a wheelchair user with limited mobility, I understand the challenges that can arise when travelling. However, with the right information and preparation, accessible transport can be a stress-free experience. Flights When booking a flight, it is important to check the airline's accessibility policy. Many airlines offer special assistance for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. This may include priority boarding, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and the use of an aisle chair. It is also important to inform the airline of any specific requirements, such as the need for an accessible seat or the use of a ventilator. Some airlines require medical clearance before allowing passengers to fly, so it is important to check the airline's policy in advance. Ramps Ramps are an essential feature of accessible transport, providing wheelchair users with the ability to board and disembark from vehicles. It is important to check that the transport provider has suitable ramps in place, and that they are in good condition. When travelling by taxi or private transfer, it is important to check that the vehicle has a ramp and suitable restraints for wheelchair users. Some transport providers may also offer accessible vehicles with lowered floors and wheelchair tie-downs. Assistance Assistance is an important aspect of accessible transport, providing wheelchair users and those with limited mobility with the support they need to travel safely and comfortably. Many transport providers offer assistance with boarding and disembarking, as well as help with luggage and navigating the airport or station. It is important to inform the transport provider of any specific requirements in advance, such as the need for assistance with transferring from a wheelchair to a seat. Some providers may also offer a personal assistant to accompany passengers throughout their journey. In summary, accessible transport is an essential aspect of any accessible holiday. By checking the accessibility policies of airlines and transport providers, and informing them of any specific requirements, wheelchair users and those with limited mobility can enjoy a stress-free travel experience. Accessible Attractions As someone who loves to travel, I know how important it is to have access to attractions that cater to people with disabilities. Here are some of the best accessible attractions that I've come across: Wildlife If you love animals, there are plenty of accessible wildlife attractions that you can visit. One of my favourites is the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, which is located in Doncaster, England. The park has a range of accessible facilities, including accessible toilets and changing places, as well as wheelchair-friendly paths and viewing platforms. You can see a range of animals, including lions, tigers, and polar bears. Family Attractions If you're travelling with kids, you'll want to find accessible family attractions that everyone can enjoy. One of my top picks is Legoland Windsor, which has a range of accessible facilities, including accessible parking, toilets, and changing places. The park has a range of rides and attractions that are suitable for people with disabilities, including the Duplo Valley, which is perfect for younger kids. Another great family attraction is Chessington World of Adventures, which is located in Surrey, England. The park has a range of accessible facilities, including accessible toilets and changing places, as well as wheelchair-friendly paths and viewing platforms. There are plenty of rides and attractions that are suitable for people with disabilities, including the Gruffalo River Ride Adventure. Whether you're looking for a wildlife adventure or a family holiday, there are plenty of accessible attractions that you can visit. Just be sure to do your research ahead of time to ensure that the attractions you want to visit have the facilities and services that you need. Accessible Restaurants and Bars As someone who enjoys dining out, I understand the importance of finding accessible restaurants and bars. Fortunately, many establishments are now taking steps to ensure that their facilities are accessible to all customers, regardless of their mobility needs. When it comes to accessibility, some of the key factors to consider include the layout of the restaurant or bar, the availability of accessible seating, and the presence of accessible restrooms. Many restaurants and bars now have ramped entrances, wide doorways, and accessible parking spaces to make it easier for customers with mobility impairments to enter the premises. Inside the restaurant or bar, it's important to look for accessible seating options, such as tables that are at an appropriate height for wheelchair users. Many establishments also have accessible restrooms that are equipped with grab bars and other features to make them easier to use. In addition to physical accessibility, many restaurants and bars are also taking steps to make their menus more inclusive. This might include offering braille menus or large-print menus for customers with visual impairments, or providing allergen information for customers with food allergies. Overall, I have found that many restaurants and bars are committed to making their establishments as accessible as possible. By taking the time to research and plan ahead, it's possible to find great dining options that are welcoming and accommodating to all customers.

Recent Posts