Most of us look forward to our holidays. They break up the daily routine and give us something to look forward to. Better still, they give us the opportunity to see different places, meet new people and form long-lasting memories.
Even a short holiday – perhaps a weekend away in a nearby city or seaside resort – gives us the opportunity to enjoy fresh experiences, or simply rest and recharge our batteries.
Travel for all
It wasn’t always easy to go on holiday if you were disabled – with the result that many disabled people simply didn’t bother – however, equalities legislation means that disabled people should no longer face discrimination when travelling within the UK or the European Union.
Public transport, holiday accommodation and tourist attractions are now more accessible than ever (though if you are travelling outside the UK, it’s still worth checking the arrangements at airports and hotels before you book).
Find out more about travelling with a disability at www.gov.uk.
Specialist travel companies
There are also plenty of specialist travel organisations which can offer advice on a whole range of specific needs, from accessibility to special diets, travelling outside Europe and cruising, so that you can plan your holiday with confidence.
There’s no need to feel anxious about travelling alone either. Many holiday companies now cater for solo travellers and you’ll soon make new friends.
Travelling with a specific disability
Many charities now offer advice about travelling with a specific disability or condition – the Stroke Association, RNIB and Alzheimer’s Society are among them.
Taking your assistance dog
It is now illegal for anyone to refuse you accommodation because you are travelling with an assistance dog. The same level of hospitality must be extended to you as to other guests and any necessary reasonable adjustments made for your dog, for example, giving you a room near an exit to make it easier for you to take your dog outside.
For more information about travelling with an assistance dog, visit gov.uk.
Deciding where to go
Visit Wales, Visit England and Visit Scotland all have information about accessible accommodation on their websites.
The Rough Guide to Accessible Travel has lots of ideas for accessible tourism sites across the UK.
AccessAble also helps you to work out if a place is going to be accessible to you by providing detailed online access guides to hotels, tourist attractions, historic landmarks, parks, shops and restaurants.
Tourism for All is a charity dedicated to making tourism welcoming to everyone, whether it’s a hotel or self-catering holiday you’re after. All accommodation has been inspected under the National Accessible Scheme.
Euan's Guide shares information about accessible places to go across the UK.
The Silver Travel Advisor is a holiday website for the over 50s.
If it’s the high seas you’re after, the Disabled Cruise Club can recommend the best cruises for your specific needs, e.g. which cruise ships have wheelchair accessible cabins, etc. Excursions, transfers and assistance at ports can also be arranged.
Parking
If you have specific parking needs, always check (and book) well in advance.
The blue badge map will show you where disabled parking is available.