Tenerife is situated in the Canary Islands. Some might say it is a tiny bit of land off of West Africa. For me it is a lot more! I've visited this wonderful island many times and simply love it.
My first trip was with my family when I was aged eight years. We returned many times during my teens. Plus I've been lucky enough to visit for work in recent years too. The reasons for my love of Tenerife are far reaching.
To start with, my condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy has specific health implications. In the winter time I struggle with colds, chest infections and the risk of pneumonia. This is because I don't move my body around much, the cold temperatures of winter weaken my immune system, a common cold becomes a cough, and my cough muscles are very weak. So the warmth and vitamin D from the sun has always been hugely beneficial.
Another consequence of having my impairment is the certain access requirements. My 130kg wheelchair carries me everywhere and despite popular belief cannot be carried by people up stairs.
There are many global places to escape to and avoid the winter cold. Tenerife trumps most of these on access for me. It is known for its great wheelchair access at the airport, accommodation, transport, beaches and excursions. This is so vital for a happy holiday :-)
A couple of weeks ago my soul mate Kasia, my mum, step dad, and two family friends went to the south of the island for an autumn boost of fun in the sun.
Kasia and I made a video about the Mar y Sol hotel where we stayed. As you can see below I'm in shorts and it was almost November! The hotel is great for lifts and ramps. The restaurant, sports hall, spa and swimming pool are fully accessible. Ina Fischer, from sister company Lero, explains why her father had this great idea and how the amazing family business continues to support disabled people visiting the island. Plus you can see the accessible beach and me topping up on alcohol - We hope you like it!
The founder of Lero, Roland, and I have been friends for years. Recently he has passed the nursing care and mobility equipment services of Lero to Ina. However he still offers accessible transport with Orobus and excursions from the travel agency VRT.
Kasia and I really wanted to get out and see more of the island. As well as transferring us to and from the airport we took advantage of the accessible excursion up mount Teide. Here's our video of this:
The winding roads, steep slopes, and breathtaking views were so memorable. It was so smooth from an access perspective on the bus. Furthermore the other people on the trip were fantastic company.
Overall we had an amazing holiday. Of course I was working some days, but the warm sun and evening entertainment boosted me so much. I can't encourage you enough to get to Tenerife and I can't wait to return and maybe meet you there.
For more information on the Mar y Sol hotel click here. If you have any other questions feel free to contact me with the below details.
Hasta luego
Martyn
Co Editor Disability Horizons
Co Founder Accomable