Accessable Travel - A trip to Bristol Airport

A holiday – a chance to get away from reality and take time to relax. We book a holiday, jump in the car, the plane, the cruise ship and we’re immersed into a different world. What if it’s not as easy as that? What if you’ve got some accessibility requirements?

We believe that traveling around the world shouldn’t be hard: it’s something everyone should be able to do at least once in their lives. As part of Travel Counsellors, I have been specially trained to book travel to be completely without limits for everyone. What does ‘accessible travel’ mean? It’s not just for those people who need a wheelchair – that’s only 5% of the disabled population. You might have problems walking long distances so getting to the airport gate might be too much, you might be partially sighted, deaf or you might have learning difficulties.

We need push the boundaries and get more options easily available for those with access needs. A hotel might advertise as wheelchair friendly but often, you cannot guarantee the room until you get there and once you get to your room you might find that you can’t obtain access to the shower easily. If you’re deaf, you’ll need a room that has measures in place to make you aware that there is a fire alarm.

Airports and airlines are making things easier. Did you know that Bristol Airport has been named an Autism Friendly airport by the National Autistic Society? They are also able to provide special assistance to those with hidden disabilities. A card or lanyard can be given to the passenger which will flag to staff that passenger may need more time to process information, help in avoiding crowded places or extra assistance in reading departure boards or flight information.

Did you know cruise ships are often a very good suggestion for easily accessible travel? All newer cruise ships are very accessible and amenable to every traveller’s needs.

Whether you need a hoist for the pool, oxygen onboard a flight, access to medication in another country, a mobility scooter to help you get around or know that there is a quieter place for you at the airport, we’ve got you covered.

Travel Counsellors have access to a variety of hotels and chauffeurs that can guarantee these options for you.

Whatever your situation, we can find a solution for you and help you make more fantastic holiday memories.