How to Plan a Winter Holiday That Meets Your Accessibility Needs
If you’re looking to beat the winter blues, booking a holiday and heading on an adventure is one of the best ways to go about it. However, for those of us with accessibility concerns, it takes a little more planning to make sure your trip away fits the bill. Ensuring that your holiday is accommodating can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a stress-free, enjoyable trip. So, in this article, we’ll show you how to plan a winter holiday that meets your accessibility needs.
Understand Your Specific Needs
The first step in planning an accessible holiday is to clearly understand your specific needs and how to best accommodate them. This could range from wheelchair access and guide dog facilities to auditory support and easy accessibility to medical services. Knowing exactly what you will require can help you filter, accommodations, and activities that can cater to these needs without any hassle.
Choosing the Right Destination
Not all destinations are created equal when it comes to accessibility. Look for destinations known for their accessibility standards. Many cities in Europe and North America, for example, offer advanced accessibility features like wheelchair-friendly public transport and attractions.
At World Accessible Holidays, we have carefully curated a list of destinations to choose from that are all accessible. So, whether you’re looking for an accessible beach holiday or a short flight, we’ve got you covered.
Check Weather Conditions
Winter holidays often mean cold weather and potentially snow, which can present challenges for accessibility. Check the typical weather conditions of your intended destination during your travel period. Some locations might offer snow-clearing services and heated pathways to ease mobility in snowy conditions. If applicable, snow adapters or mountain bike tyres might be a consideration.
Alternatively, you can choose to travel to somewhere that has stunning weather all year long. Destinations like Tenerife and Gran Canaria enjoy sunshine throughout the year, so you’ll not have to worry about dangerous cold weather conditions in these locales.
Selecting Accessible Accommodation
Many countries have certification standards for accessible accommodations. Look for hotels or rentals that specifically state they meet accessibility standards. These accommodations often include necessary modifications such as wheelchair-accessible rooms, grab bars in the bathrooms and emergency alert systems.
Verify Facilities Directly
Before booking, make sure that you contact the accommodation directly to verify their facilities. Ask specific questions about door widths, elevator access, bathroom layouts, and whether they have any assistive devices available on site. Most accessible hotels will be more than happy to assist and provide the relevant information to make sure they can meet your needs.
Planning Your Travel
When planning how to get to and from your holiday destination, consider all aspects of the journey. If you’re flying, most airlines can provide assistance services such as wheelchair access and help with boarding and deplaning. Trains and buses often have designated seats for those with disabilities and can accommodate wheelchairs if notified in advance.
Consider Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is very important, especially for those with specific health and accessibility needs. Ensure that your travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions and any potential incidents related to your accessibility needs, such as damage to mobility aids.
Engage with Accessible Activities
Research attractions and activities that specifically cater to visitors with accessibility needs. Many modern cities offer accessible public transportation options to scenic spots and have attractions that are wheelchair friendly or offer special tours for those with sensory impairments.
Use Accessibility Apps
Several apps can help find accessible restaurants, attractions, and even public restrooms. These apps often feature reviews and ratings by other travellers with accessibility needs, providing real-time insight into the feasibility and accessibility of specific locations. Snowball is a good example of an app that shares information on accessibility. Download the app here: Snowball App
Pack Smart
Packing for a winter holiday with accessibility needs means preparing for the weather and potential mobility challenges. Ensure to pack any necessary medication, spare parts for mobility aids, and perhaps even a portable ramp if needed. Appropriate clothing is really important to stay warm or cool.
Enjoy an Accessible Winter Getaway With Our Help
Planning an accessible winter holiday requires attention to detail and thorough preparation, but the rewards of a well-planned holiday are immense. The key to a successful accessible winter getaway lies in proactive planning and communication. Ensure you ask questions, double-check all arrangements, and stay informed about your rights and resources available. With these steps, your winter getaway will not only meet but exceed your accessibility needs.
If you would like some help or guidance in planning your accessible winter holiday, then our team at World Accessible Holidays would love to help. Please contact us today to discuss your requirements.
