Accessible Travel In The UK For Wheelchair Users

As an able-bodied traveller, I am lucky, I don't have to worry about accessibility when I am out and about on my travels but some people aren't so lucky. If you do have a disability which means you are wheelchair bound you do have to consider how easy it is to get to the tourist destination, including the parking facilities for wheelchair accessible vehicles, whether the destination has places to eat and shop with aisles wide enough for a wheelchair to get through and whether toilet facilities have handrails and wide enough doors to get,

The UK leads the way in equal opportunities and diversity and tourism businesses have obligations under the Equality Act 2010. This means that service providers must think ahead and take “reasonable” steps to address barriers that impede disabled people. When you think that 12billion is spent every year in England on a trip where a member of the party has an impairment, according to Visit Britain, you can see what an important issue this is.


Historic buildings do have restrictions though, and making sympathetic alterations can be a challenge, within the listed building status, but as you can see from the infographic below, places that you wouldn't think would be accessible really are. Did you know for example that St Paul's cathedral has a new lift enabling wheelchair users to access the upper crypt and that Edinburgh castle has it's own mobility vehicle to show those with accessibility difficulties around the fortress? You can even scale Schiehallion mountain in Scotland

Local to me, St Fagan's, the museum of Welsh life,  has ramps almost everywhere, dedicated disabled car parking, and a motorised Disabled Tour Vehicle (DTV) to transport visitors around the site. Whilst the Science Museum in London is fully wheelchair accessible and disabled visitors receive concessionary prices for the IMAX 3D cinema – with support workers admitted for free.

Are there any places you go to, or visit regularly that are particularly accessible for those with mobility problems? Let me know.

MOBILITY NATIONWIDE FINAL INFOGRAPHIC

*PR collaboration
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Surprise... I'm Going On An Adventure

I have to admit, I'm not one for surprises, so when I won a holiday with Surprise Trips, at the Traverse blogging conference in Cardiff it took me by...well surprise!

 Surprise Trips is a company run by Expedia. The premise being you pick a date, an airport and 3 places you don't want to go as well as the length of time and a maximum price and they book it for you. Sounds scary? It is, but fun all the same.

Your surprise destination is revealed via a message when you get to the airport two hours before. If you are wondering what to pack, they also send you a weather update approximately 72 hours prior to your departure time. All packages include flights and a minimum 3-star hotel, and luggage is just hand luggage. Now that's a scary proposition for me on its own.

 As I was going with my husband, we decided to embrace the adventure and go with the flow. Mr W said to me, don't try to work it out, it ruins the fun.
So we promptly put the holiday in the back of our mind until a few days before.

 72 hours before the phones pings, and an email saying our destination weather has been updated. Yikes! We look, it says it will be hot and humid but wet. Queue frantic Googling of weather forecasts, flights that leave from Birmingham two hours after our arrival time there and an overall feeling of slight panic. Mr W was worse than me!

 We thought we narrowed it down to Athens or Bucharest. Exactly two hours after we arrive at the airport there are two flights leaving, Milan or Lyon. Milan would be amazing but it doesn't correspond to the weather forecast. 

So on the morning of the trip, we arrived at the airport, excited but nervous, we sat down and waited for the email. Almost exactly on time, it arrived,  we clicked on the message and a little video played out. Here is a video of the experience leading up to the trip




We were going to Milan! The fashion, shopping and food mecca.




Yay! I do a little happy dance and then get Mr W to check the rest of the details. We are flying with FlyBe and we are staying in a converted monastery not far from the train station. The hotel on TripAdvisor has a mixed review but it looks ok, and the stay includes a buffet breakfast, which is a huge plus point so we don't have to pay for that.

 We go over to the FlyBe check-in and use our passports to scan in the machines to print our boarding pass, which works perfectly. We only have hand luggage so no need for bag drop. We then go through security, stopping off in Pret-A-Manger for a coffee and a snack. Before long it's time to board the plane. The plane journey goes smoothly and after a short flight we touch down in Milan. 

 Mr W researched how to get from the airport to the hotel while we were in the Uk and it was straight forward as the train station is attached to Milan airport. That is what is great about Surprise Trips, although no transfers are included they make it easy for you to get to your destination hotel. As we got off the train in Milan north a short 5-10 min walk later we arrive at the hotel. 

 The hotel is beautiful from the outside, a bit quirky inside. It's an old monastery, now a conference centre. The room is a bit dated but clean. Wi-fi is free but spotty and there is a small flat-screen TV in the room with an English channel and a fridge. Breakfast was included and was actually a very good buffet breakfast with hot and cold options, a definite plus point to the short break.

 Milan is an interesting compact place, and the hotel was placed perfectly to walk to the major attractions. The museum housing Leonardo Da Vinci's'  The Last Supper was very close to the hotel but we couldn't manage to get tickets in time, although we did some of the other attractions like the Duomo Cathedral which was beautiful

 My Thoughts On Milan


 All the locals are dressed very smartly.
It appears a wealthy city, certainly in the centre.
Waiters are either very friendly or abrupt.
You can eat fairly reasonably although there are lots of pricey cafes too.
You will get bitten by mosquitos so bring some repellant. 

What To Do In Milan

 Visit the stunning Duomo cathedral
Window shop At Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for designer goods
See The Last Supper, Leonardo Da Vinci's masterpiece
Take a day trip to Lake Como or Lake Maggiore

My Top Tips For Booking A Holiday with Surprise Trips

 Try and let go of that inner control freak. I normally plan a holiday to an inch of its life but I couldn't here. Enjoy being liberated of the planning.

 As you can only take hand luggage think of clothing in layers. I took dresses that I could wear with leggings and cardigans and left the many handbags and shoes I normally take at home. Think simplicity. 

Pack for most weather conditions. The only slight disappointment was that our weather forecast was simply wrong, however, most of Europe is hot in August so we decided to pack the heat. It was hot in Milan but not humid and clear and with no rain. I wonder if this aspect could be improved.

 Most of Europe is in Euros so we decided to chance it and buy some before we go, we were right to buy but if it was a country that doesn't take Euros (like Switzerland or Budapest) you would have to buy currency at the airport or at your destination. 

 Check your data plan on your phone before you go and use free wi-fi and apps such as Tu-Go from O2 to make texts and phone calls.

One thing I learnt from the experience is that life is liberating with only hand luggage, no waiting for your suitcase on the carousel, no having packed too much that you don't wear and much easier to carry your small case to the destination. Check out this post on what to pack in a carry-on bag.

Milan probably isn't a place I would have visited but I am glad I did.

Here is Mr W's video of Milan, from the travel blog we write together, FlyDriveExplore.

 

So if you decide to book a trip with Surprise Trips I would say embrace your new adventure. So what if it's somewhere you wouldn't have gone normally, you are there now so enjoy!
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Escape On A Romantic Norfolk Cottage Holiday

There is a reason we are given annual holiday leave from our demanding jobs, it gives us time to catch up on our rest, recuperate from the strains and pressures of everyday life and, most importantly, it gives us the opportunity to spend quality time with those we care about.

On the whole, Brits are hard, determined workers, and a remarkable one-third of all British employees fail to utilise their full holiday entitlement. If you are one of these ambitious but overworked employees, consider the effect that your dedication to your office life is having on your romantic life. When was the last time you and your partner went on holiday? When was the last time you had a stress-free, uninterrupted day to enjoy together? As clinical psychologist Lisa Blum points out, the most enduring and strongest relationships take hard work. It's important to make the time for romantic getaways with your spouse. They don’t have to be expensive, but every relationship requires time and commitment to thrive.

Can your relationship survive a holiday?
Beautiful Norfolk

Before we over-romanticise holidays and their benefits, it is important to remember that holidays can often be the cause of break-ups. In fact, according to The Telegraph, a remarkable 22% of couples dread spending time with their partner during the summer holidays. Psychologist Ann Thomas, a specialist in relationship issues, claims that this is often down to unhealthy pressures and expectations. We tend to invest a lot of money in our holidays as a means of treating ourselves, but along with this exchange of money comes an innate expectation that we will have a great time. When troubles present themselves and we realise that a perfect holiday isn’t possible, the stress amplifies and it takes its psychological toll.

Though you should certainly look forward to your romantic holiday, try your best to temper your expectations. If you are a new couple, rather than escaping on a two-week getaway, it might be wiser to pick a weekend cottage break. This will provide the perfect intimate setting, and the limited time means that the pressures and expectations are less likely to boil over and cause anxiety.

How a holiday can bring you together

We should all remember that quality holiday time with our partners has the potential to provide amazing benefits. Of course, the details need to be given careful consideration, but experiencing something new can bring two people together, give them common and shared memories that they can carry with them forever and provide fresh, new things to talk about on the quiet nights back home.

In fact, research has shown that new shared experiences can increase the flow of endorphins to the brain, which can help to bring two people together and reduce stress. Remember to leave the work pressures at the office where they belong; turn on your out-of-office reply and leave your work phone at home. Devote all your time and attention to your partner and show how much you really care about nurturing the relationship. This will help to boost intimacy and authentic communication.

Why Norfolk is a perfect romantic getaway


Norfolk cottages

Once you decide to press ahead with a holiday, you are faced with the decision of where to go and what to do. Try to jolt yourself out of your regular holiday rut. Go somewhere new and try something completely out of the ordinary. Remember that this doesn’t necessarily come with a hefty price tag. Take your holiday into your own hands and personalise it to suit you.

More and more people are seeing the value of a home-based UK staycation, which also boosts our economy and causes us to explore all our national treasures. Interest in Norfolk is up by 25%, and it is clear to see why. Norfolk offers beautiful stately homes, gorgeous views and incredible beaches. On top of this, there are a number of remarkable last minute Norfolk cottages to book. Remember to keep your money in mind; you want to be happy with the price you pay, so negotiate and never go over what you want to pay.

Your limited time away from your demanding job should be as relaxing and pressure-free as possible. If you’ve got a furry friend you’d like to take along for the trip, there are a number of pet friendly holiday cottages in Norfolk. Leave your passport at home, forget about organising visas and dealing with vaccinations. Surprise your partner with an impromptu last-minute holiday and remember to enjoy every single second.

* Guest post by Bimblebox
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Fun But Educational Days Out

A day out with the kids should be a fun treat for the whole family. A chance to go somewhere new, see something unexpected, and learn something interesting. 

So how do you decide where to go and how do you make a fun trip educational, and, indeed, an educational trip fun? 

Rossall School explain how to go about planning a day trip that is educational, without sacrificing the all-important fun.

Choosing where to visit

 Carew Castle

Britain is filled with interesting places to visit. Whatever interests your children have, from animals to aeroplanes, there is often somewhere to visit that provides a fun environment that can at the same time be educational. These places can also teach your children more about their preferred interests, as well as focus on those topics they’ve been learning and enjoying at school.  

Destinations could range from theme parks and museums to places of historical significance, like castles and Victorian manors to farms, nature reserves, and zoos. 

Because of the sheer variety of potential trips, it’s a good idea to narrow down your choices to categories that match your child’s particular interests. Science, wild animals, and trains, for instance. Not only does this mean your child will be excited about going on the trip, but they should almost certainly be more engaged with the attractions and exhibits during the visit.

Try using websites like TripAdvisor or tourism board sites to identify the best places to take the kids for the day. It’s worth looking for the rating of the destination. It’s also a good idea to research what’s around it, such as restaurants, shops, picnic sites, and play areas to help you can plan your day.

Also, check the busiest visiting times. It might be worth planning your trip to avoid these times, so you can see everything without the hustle and bustle of big crowds.

How is the trip educational?



Cadbury's World

Some day trips, like to the beach, or a chocolate factory for example, might not sound particularly educational. However, any trip can be educational if you really put your mind to it. For instance, during a day trip to the beach, kids with a love of marine life could spend hours searching through rock pools and identifying different sea creatures. Or a child with an interest in dinosaurs could visit beaches at Whitby or Ilfracombe to spend the day hunting for fossils and using the resources in the area to find out more about their discoveries. You can find out about the history of chocolate at Cadbury's World too.

The National Trust website has a fantastic section on fossil hunting, as well as information about other places to visit where parents and kids can enjoy the great outdoors and explore.

Tying a day trip to such an interest is a great way for your children to engage in their favourite subjects, but it can also introduce them to new ones or topics they’re learning at school. In the case of a trip to the beach or a nature reserve, this could be an interest in nature and biology.

Making sure the trip’s fun

Margam Park

For a child, a trip to a museum or country estate might not sound particularly fun or interesting. So, when looking at potential destinations to visit, as part of your planning, it’s a good idea to look at similar options to see which attraction will be more entertaining for the kids.

A castle, for instance, with grounds and gardens open to the public, provides a nice walk and the chance to see some interesting insects, birds and wildlife. Whereas a castle that presents displays of medieval life, with knights and jousting events, which visitors can watch and take part in, provides children a with a fun way to build their knowledge of history.

Activities like this, which allow children to get involved, do something tactile and hands-on is a great way for them to learn. It can also help them understand a particular topic better and make it more memorable.

Back-up plans

The British weather can be temperamental and hinder some day trips, especially those outdoor. So it’s wise to look at other options nearby, should the weather take a turn for the worse.

If you’re planning a trip and you’re worrying that the weather might be an issue, consider looking at visits with mainly indoor activities. Aquariums and science museums, for instance, are indoor attractions that are both fun and educational and ideal for a rainy day.

When it comes to thinking about fun and educational places to take the kids, it’s a good idea to plan ahead too. So the next time your child comes home talking about what they’ve learned at school, or proudly announces some new knowledge about their latest interest, keep a note of it and think about using that to inspire where you can go for your next family day out.

* Collaborative post
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Saving Money With My Favourite Voucher Codes

I don't like to waste money so If I am doing any form of online shopping I always look out for a voucher code like The White Company promo codes you can get from My Favourite Voucher Codes.

 My Favourite Voucher Codes have over 10,000 live codes and coupons to use to save you money. From food and drink voucher codes to toys and games coupons, from jewellery and accessories codes to cinema, tours and events coupons. Something for everyone really. 

 The White Company promo codes range from 15% off online orders and free standard delivery to 20% off online orders when you spend £100. The codes change as and when there are good deals on and it's always worth checking out the site when you are about to make a purchase.

 These are my favourite items from The White Company at the moment.
Beaumont Bed from £ 795.00

This Beaumont statement bed with contemporary lines is beautifully made and would make a stunning centrepiece to a bedroom. I really love the simplicity of the metal work canopy, and the neutral colours of the room decoration.


Cashmere Rib Front Cardigan - Cloud Marl £159

For some everyday luxury why not treat yourself to this cashmere rib cardigan? I really adore the waterfall design of this cashmere cardigan which flows beautifully and can be easily layered over almost anything. Cashmere is warm and super soft too. A great investment for Autumn/Winter.


Petersham Sofa Velvet - Stone Velvet From £ 2,100.00

This Petersham made to order sofa in a velvet fabric, looks so comfy and soft I had to include it in my choices. With low scatter back cushions and a choice of 8 colours this sofa in a classic design is also understated so that it can blend in with every lounge.

So these are my top picks with The White Company at the moment, and if you use the 20% off voucher with My Favourite Voucher Codes you can save a considerable amount of money.

 If you are a traveller like me, I've also noticed some great deals on hotels with Hotels Combined, Hilton and Expedia amongst others. My Favourite Voucher Codes is certainly worth checking out, and as they donate 20% of their profits to charity too you are even helping  those in need as you shop!

 Tell me, do you use coupons and codes to save money?

* A collaborative post
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Can You Escape Reality?

There is a new craze going around the world, escape rooms. I first noticed this a couple of years ago, this fun activity involves being 'trapped' in a themed room with a group of people. With a combination of skill, logic, and teamwork you focus on getting out of the room in the required time, usually an hour.

So when I was invited to try Escape Reality Cardiff, I was really looking forward to it.

The rooms are themed, from the family friendly Jungala, based on the film Jumanji to Enigmista, based on the horror film Saw. All rooms are designed for between 2 and 6 players and there is no minimum age but I would say it isn't really suitable for the very young, because of the complex nature of the game and obviously some themes are more adult in nature.

This is the explanation "You have discovered an old board game in your attic and once opened you are engulfed by a vortex and transported into an alternative realm. After only seeing a glimpse of the terrible world inside you are thrown back into reality. Vowing never to approach the game again you attempt to leave but the door has been locked trapping you in. Glancing over to the game you see the words “The dice have been rolled.” You have no choice but to complete the game or be trapped inside the other realm for eternity. You only have sixty minutes to complete the game!"

The location right in the centre of Cardiff, not far from the castle was easy to find, and when we arrived at the reception we were given a locker for our valuables. Then we were shown to the room.

We were told that if there were any problems and we wanted to leave we could do but otherwise the challenge was to get out of the room in under an hour.

We were given a tablet that counted down the time and also acted as a scanner - certain numbers on the wall could be scanned, like a QR code and these could either give you a hint or a solution to a problem. Very useful!

When we were let into the Jungala room the room was themed, with animal paintings of the wall, a sofa, bookshelf, fireplace, cabinet, a puzzle on the wall and a board game laid on a small table.

Without giving too much away you need to look at everything in the room, be aware of anything that looks out of place, look behind things, figure out puzzles and work out codes.

The important thing is to keep your eye on the clock, although the puzzles will slowly unravel the further you progress. Don't spend all your manpower working out one thing, if one of your team seems to be working well on one task, split up and look for other puzzles and problems. One hour is not very long I can tell you, especially when there may be other challenges hidden away beyond the confines of the lounge (hint hint). I spent a long time looking at the books in the bookcase. thinking there was a puzzle to solve when I could have been doing other things.

If you are well and truly stuck you can tap on the door and get help at any time.

So did we get out? No, but we did well considering there was three of us and many groups are bigger, we were told. Would we do it again? Most definitely. We worked well as a team and it was loads of fun and something totally different.

Escape Reality is priced at £22 per person, which isn't cheap but when you look at the detail in the rooms, the theming and the fun you can have it is certainly worth doing. In fact, we are thinking of doing the Alcatraz room next. Oh and if you do the Jungala room beware of the monkeys....
Recommended!
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