From the breathtaking Causeway Coast, the tranquil Fermanagh lakes to the majestic Mourne Mountains, we are spoiled for choice as to where to spend your 2022 holidays. But if you have a disability, there are other factors to bear in mind and that is where the Bann Mobility team can help you out.
Planning your Holidays
We can’t help with finding you somewhere to stay but here are some useful websites to help you plan your holidays:
- AccessAble – information on wheelchair friendly venues in the UK and Ireland
- Discover NI – information on places to visit and stay in Northern Ireland
- Tripability – information on places to stay, visit and eat around the world (including Northern Ireland)
- Euans Guide – disabled access reviews of a range of hospitality and tourism venues in the UK including Northern Ireland
- The Rough Guide to Accessible Britain – ideas for accessible and inspiring days out in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Disability friendly accommodation
Once you have decided where you would like to stay, check that your accommodation will be truly accessible for you. If it is a self-catering property, call the accommodation provider in advance to make sure that you will be able to access all areas including the kitchen, bathroom, living room and bedroom. A portable ramp (such as the ones pictured below) may make things easier for you just in case there are any unexpected steps for you to access.
Folding Suitcase Ramps
Roll up Aluminium Ramp
Telescopic Channel Ramp
Getting out and about on your holidays
Visiting local tourism attractions is likely to be part of your holidays as well as enjoying a leisurely coffee with friends and family. As you will be out and about a little more than usual, it may be a good idea to have a lightweight rollator, wheelchair or power chair with you.
- The deluxe 4 wheeled rollator has an integral canvas seat, padded backrest and a handy detachable shopping bag which would be great for storing your book and sunglasses. It folds flat so it is very easy to put in the boot of a car.
- The Aidapt aluminium transit wheelchair has a folding backrest and weighs only 10kg so it is very easy to lift in and out of a car boot.
- The Pride Mobility iGO+ power chair is lightweight and compact so ideal for holidays. With front suspension, a padded seat and pneumatic rear wheels, comfort is guaranteed while you travel on bumpy paths. The arm rests even flip up which allows you to get close to a table for your latte and scone. It folds up and can be easily transported in a car boot.
- Hiring a mobility scooter is another option too. We have some mobility scooters available to hire for a two week period. Call us on 028 3833 5771 to find out more about this.
Deluxe Ultra Lightweight Folding 4 Wheeled Rollator
Aidapt Aluminium Compact Transit Chair
Pride Mobility iGO+ Power Chair
Be prepared for the weather too
As the weather in Northern Ireland can be a little unpredictable, you need to think about keeping yourself dry if it rains. A wheelchair poncho is lightweight and can completely cover the wheelchair whereas the wheelchair mac allows you to have your hands free. If you have a mobility scooter, the tiller cover will protect the important controls when there is an unexpected shower of rain.