A new hotel on the island of Phuket offers wheelchair users the chance to relax in 'sParadise's.
Located just a few minutes from the international airport, and with safe, sandy beaches nearby, Nai Yang Paradise Resort has been especially designed to provide access to both able-bodied
and disabled guests.
British owner Simon Luttrell, who has lived in Thailand for several years, recognised the difficulties that disabled and infirm tourists encountered during holiday trips. 'sEven a small
step can be a huge barrier to a wheelchair user's he says. 'sUnfortunately, most holiday accomodation is not fully accessible to disabled guests. Furthermore, the costs of retro-fitting
an existing hotel, such as widening doors and removing steps, can be prohibitive. It makes much more sense to build an accessible hotel right from the start.'s
To ensure that his family-run hotel fully complied with access requirements, Simon consulted the ADA (American Disability Association) guidelines. These provide detail descriptions of the
requirements for each and every aspect of a hotel, including guest accomodation, reception, restaurant and leisure areas. Simon was particulary concerned about access for
visually-impaired guests. Nai Yang Paradise Resort therefore features braille and raised-lettering for signage, embossed surfaces for all footpaths, and a 'stouch and smell's garden which
includes carved statues, running water and local flowers and shrubs.
'sI want to emphasize that our hotel welcomes all guests, whether they are disabled or not's says Simon. 'sWe have simply tried to consider the access needs of everyone's.
The hotel offers 10 luxury rooms, with wide doorways and roll-in showers. An additional bonus is that each room is connected to a 24/7 assistance centre. Panic buttons are provided in
each bedroom and bathroom. The hotel also provides more conventional facilities, such as free internet access, a Thai and Western restaurant, and a swimming pool set amongst shady palm
trees.
Simon is confident that his new venture will be successful. 'sPhuket is a wonderful place for holidays, whatever your age and whatever your abilities. My wife and hotel staff are looking
forward to welcoming all our guests in the near future's
The hotel website at http://www.NaiYangParadise.com provides further information.