Advice for elderly travellers

Whilst many of the new, modern hotels being constructed in Bulgaria are adapted to the special needs of the elderly and disabled persons, there are many hotels that do not have these facilities. When making a reservation for your holiday, we advise you to check with your tour operator that your hotel accommodation and/or holiday is suitable for any special requirements you may have.

Although no tour operator will guarantee your requests will be met, you could ask for things such as a room on a low floor, wheelchair access, wheelchair/scooter hire on resort or special diet requirements.

There will be a small print disclaimer on your holiday booking form that explains that the tour operator cannot be held responsible for disabled access and/or availability of mobility aids.

Until Bulgaria becomes part of the EU, there are no strict European laws dictating access for disabled and even when this occurs, it will take time before all establishments comply with requirements.

You must remember that Bulgaria is still a developing country and some resorts may have a great deal of building work taking place. This will naturally cause obstacles for wheelchairs and disabled persons.

Drugs and Medicines
Most major resorts have ample provision for chemists and doctors, however, if you rely on special drugs and/or medical aids then you are advised to speak to your doctor before you depart for Bulgaria and make sure you have adequate supplies for the duration of your stay in Bulgaria.

Mobility Aids
On the major tourist resorts it is possible to hire wheelchairs, mobility scooters, crutches and many other essentials. Check with your tour operator when you make your booking. It is quite possible that these items can be reserved in advance and maybe delivered direct to your hotel for your arrival.

Tips for Elderly Travellers

• Bulgaria, as with most of Europe, uses the Metric system which can cause some confusion. Kilograms instead of pounds etc.
• August can be very hot in Bulgaria. Bear this in mind when planning your trip. The most pleasant time to visit is in the spring or early summer.
• Whilst most areas are reasonably safe – DO NOT take valuable jewellery on holiday with you. Leave it at home. Better safe than sorry. Better still, take it to the bank and put it in a safe deposit box.
• If you take your credit cards on holiday with you, make a note of the emergency number you have to call if they get stolen.
• Wherever possible take travellers cheques as opposed to cash.
• Make sure you have travel insurance, adequate for your needs. If you are prone to accidents or illness, make sure you have adequate medical insurance cover. Better to be over-insured than have none at all.
• Make a photocopy of your passport and leave it in the hotel. If your passport is stolen, having a photocopy will make it easier to get a replacement. Never give or show your passport to anyone other than a policeman and the hotel receptionist who will keep your passport for 24 hours upon your arrival.