Category Archives: Tips and Advice

Holidays, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

Quingo Accessible Getaways: Bristol

You can get away and enjoy a fabulous break with ease at hundreds of places across the UK. At Quingo Scooters, we’re bringing our pick of the most accessible getaways in the UK, to help you plan your next trip.

We’ve got a fantastic getaway for you this time around, Bristol. Straddling the scenic River Avon in South-West England, Bristol is a favourite with travel enthusiasts, and here’s why.

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Exploring all the city offers

Bristol has it all – fascinating museums, stunning architecture, lush green spaces, plenty of shops and more. It’s also a great travel destination for accessibility, with attractions such as:

  • M Shed: Delve into Bristol’s rich past, by paying a visit to the M Shed museum! M Shed, which lies on the edge of Bristol’s iconic floating harbour, features exhibits telling the story of the people of Bristol, as well as outdoor industrial showcases which you can check out even when it’s closed! M Shed has level access, lifts to all floors, and is free to enter.
  • Royal West of England Academy: Bristol’s oldest art gallery, the Royal West of England Academy, on Queen’s Road, is worth checking out. It hosts 1,200 pieces of art, spanning from the 19th Century to the modern day. There’s level access across the building, and lifts to all upper floor galleries. An adult ticket costs £6.25.
  • Bristol Aquarium: Explore the mysterious depths of the ocean, by stopping by the Bristol Aquarium while you’re in the city. Situated on Anchor Road on the riverside, Bristol Aquarium is home to fascinating creatures such as sharks and tropical fish. It’s a completely accessible building and you can enter at a discounted ticket rate of just £13.
  • Bristol Cathedral: Bristol Cathedral is a must for culture enthusiasts. The building, which is on College Green not far from the Aquarium, hosts a treasure trove of religious sites for you to see, such as its glorious medieval stained glass windows. Free to enter, Bristol Cathedral is an accessible space, with ramps spaced throughout so you can get around at your leisure.
  • St George’s Bristol: If you like good music, St George’s Bristol is the attraction for you. Situated in the heart of the city on Great George Street, the venue hosts performances from talented musicians in a range of genres, from classical to folk and jazz. It’s an accessible building and has parking spaces for blue badge holders.

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Talking accessibility

There is plenty if information to help you plan your trip on the travelling to Bristol page of the Visit Bristol tourist website. If you’re looking for convenience, it’s best to travel by rail, as the train station, Bristol Temple Meads, is centrally located. You can also get there by car, as the city is based at the intersection of the M4 and M5 motorways.

It’ll also be easy for you to find somewhere to stay, with accessible hotels across Bristol. Check out the accessible accommodation page of Visit Bristol for a comprehensive list. We’d recommended you try the Mercure Bristol Brigstow Hotel, a four star hotel where rooms start from £65 per person, per night. Based on Welsh Black Road, this boutique hotel is completely accessible and provides gorgeous riverside views, making it the perfect place to appreciate everything Bristol has to offer.

If you want to get out and explore the sites of Bristol, you’ll be able to do so, as the city provides various accessible travel options. Most buses have low floors, and you can ask the driver to put out a ramp, so you can board at your convenience. You can also take an accessible taxi around the city, and there’s a list of drivers you can contact on Bristol.gov.uk. You’re sure to have the time of your life if you visit Bristol on your next holiday, and make memories you’ll cherish forever!

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

News, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

No DLA? No Problem – Quingo Offers Flexible Scooter Hire Services

Quingo Scooters understands that some users depend on Disability Living Allowance (DLA), to finance their mobility scooters. But the government is moving from DLA to a new system and this could deprive up to 700 people per week of their Motability vehicles. If you’re one of these people, don’t worry, as Quingo Scooters provides a range of flexible scooter hire services for you to take advantage of.

Exploring options

DLA is being replaced with Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This comes with an allowance for enhanced mobility. Due to strict criteria, you may not qualify for this allowance under the new system, even if you depend on a mobility scooter to get around. However, we are pleased to offer alternative solutions if you are affected by this.

Quingo offer flexible finance options on all of our scooters, which will allow you to own your mobility scooter. However, we also understand that not everyone wishes to buy their scooter. This is why we offer our easy term contract hire on all models. This is a more flexible option than Motability, available on a 2 or 3 year term. Most importantly, our contract hire scheme does not require you to be receiving high level DLA or the PIP enhanced mobility payments.

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Easy term contract hire

Coupled with a higher level of insurance, our easy term contract hire option is more flexible than Motability.

When you opt for contract hire, you can have your Quingo Scooter with just one simple monthly payment, allowing you to use your mobility vehicle without worrying about the cost. With contract hire, you’ll also receive the following benefits, ensuring you get real value for money with Quingo Scooters:

  • Fixed monthly cost: You will benefit from a fixed, low monthly rental fee that won’t rise in your hire period, making it easy for you to factor mobility into your budget long-term.
  • Demonstrations services: Before hiring a Quingo Scooter, you can ask one of our friendly and knowledgeable mobility advisors to give you a full demonstration and assessment, for free, in your home. 
  • Training programme: During your demonstration, you’ll be offered the chance to take our Blue Diamond training programme, to learn how to use a mobility scooter safely. We would advise you to take advantage of this training programme, but you won’t be required to.
  • Full customisation: After you’ve selected your model, a completely qualified Quingo engineer will deliver it straight to your door. The engineer will customise the model according to your exact specifications, so you can be as comfortable a possible when using a Quingo Scooter.
  • Maintenance services: You can ask Quingo to conduct any necessary services, maintenance or repairs on your scooter. We will include call outs in your hire contract and we will even supply you with speedy roadside scooter recovery services, every day of the year.
  • Comprehensive insurance: If your Quingo Scooter gets damaged for any reason, you can benefit from a comprehensive insurance package, when you hire one of our models. This includes fire & flood damage cover, accidental damage cover and theft cover for loss or damage. We also include tyre and battery cover, for up to two Quingo Scooters with our easy term contract hire.

Quingo Scooters

Value for money

With so many benefits, you can get real value for money when renting a Quingo Scooter on an easy term contract hire basis. Our prices start from as little as £22 per week, allowing you to get around on a safe, stable, quality Scooter without stretching your budget too thin, even if you won’t receive the enhanced mobility component in the government’s new PIP programme.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Maintenance, Tips and Advice, Wellbeing

How Can I Look After My Mobility Scooter in Winter?

Having a Quingo Mobility Scooter can give you so much freedom over the chilly winter months, especially in the run up to Christmas!

However, you may be thinking about how you can look after your mobility scooter in winter and if it’s any different from usual. Yes, it is! In this post we’ve put together some top tips to ensure your mobility scooter runs smoothly this winter.

Maintaining your mobility scooter in winter can be done in a few simple steps. The below tips will ensure safety and optimal performance of your scooter.

Check your mobility scooter’s power supply

As you probably would have guessed, the cold temperatures of winter can affect your scooter’s power supply. By storing your scooter in a warmer area when it’s not in use, you can ensure the battery remains in a good condition.  However, if storage in a warmer area isn’t an option for you, simply be extra vigilant. Check your mobility scooter’s power level before every trip, even if it was full the night before. Taking your scooter out for a spin most days will keep your battery healthy too, so the more you use it the better!

Layer up – you and your scooter!         

When you’re sat on your mobility scooter, you will feel the cold more as you’re sat still. Wearing lots of thinner layers are a good idea, and thermals are even better. Don’t get caught out in the rain and snow either – make sure your outerwear has a hood! Speaking of outerwear, waterproofs are best as they can reduce wind chill.

It’s also recommended that you protect your Quingo from the weather too! The all-weather removable canopy has roll up doors and protection from the wind and rain when you need it. Find our more information about the all-weather removable canopy here.

Plan a safer, alternative route just in case

It’s essential to make sure the route you plan to take on your mobility scooter is safe as the winter weather takes its toll. Even though you may have a stable mobility scooter, it’s always best avoiding a route that has steep inclines or other hazards when the ground is icy. It may take a bit longer, but it’s safer to consider a route that’s more flat.

Stay in the loop

It’s a good idea to take a mobile phone out with you when you go out on your scooter, just in case there are any unforeseen hiccups. Your mobile should have an ICE (In Case of Emergency) number in its phone book. Alternatively, if you don’t have a mobile phone, you can always carry a small book of contact numbers with you.

Have a wonderful winter!

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Tips and Advice

Where Are The Best Accessible Restaurants In Manchester?

Whether you’re wanting a weekend treat, celebrating something special, or simply want an easier option for dinner – Quingo Scooters know how important it is to find somewhere to eat that is completely accessible where you can feel entirely at ease.

Previously on the blog we’ve been to London to check out the best accessible restaurants there, and today we’re heading north to discover some accessible Manchester eateries.

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El Gato Negro – 52 King Street

If you’re a fan of Spanish tapas – this is definitely worth checking out. The Good Food Guide hailed El Gato Negro the ‘best tapas in the north’, whilst The Times ranked the restaurant the number one tapas bar in the country. Chef Simon Shaw is known for creating simple, bold and confident tapas dishes. He takes the best of modern and traditional Spanish flavours and techniques, whilst drawing on inspiration from closer to home.

El Gato Negro is fully accessible, with level access from the street and tables with enough space to park your mobility scooter at the side of. And if you did want to remain on your mobility scooter whilst eating, there’s room for that too. There is a spacious accessible toilet (complete with grab rails) located in the basement of the restaurant, accessed by a lift.

Teacup Kitchen – 53-55 Thomas Street

When you’re in Manchester looking for a light bite – look no further. Teacup Kitchen is the place to be for toast, afternoon tea or cakes. Located in the Northern Quarter, Teacup Kitchen is renowned for its amazing coffee and cream tea.

Overall Teacup Kitchen is a very accessible establishment. The entrance is wide and spacious, enabling easy access into the café’s seating area, and there is plenty of space in-between tables to accommodate mobility scooter users. There is a large disabled toilet in the café, which is incredibly spacious and has a low handled door and grab rails inside.

The French by Simon Rogan – The Midland Hotel, Peter Street

The French offers modern British food from Chef Simon Rogan, in a relaxed environment. Located in the Midland Hotel, the restaurant caters guests as well as visitors. The French has the perfect balance of heritage and progressive cuisine, delivering the best flavours by using seasonal produce grown on their own personal farms. This restaurant is great for when you fancy a real treat.

On arrival you’ll find a ramp from the street in to the hotel, with a lift operating up to the restaurant. In the restaurant itself, tables are adjusted to allow space for your mobility scooter and you’ll find the staff attentive but not intrusive. There is an also an accessible toilet in The French. Overall, a wonderful experience!

Hotspot Ess Paradies – 372 Barlow Moor Road

Hotspot Ess Paradis is known as the ‘home of hearty food’ – and that isn’t wrong. Specialising in American and German food, Hotspot is focused on providing exceptional customer service and an all-round great eating experience. A family business, the restaurant uses the highest quality ingredients from Germany and the local area – you’ll be in for a truly authentic experience!

There is a ramp from the pavement up into the restaurant, and seating inside is very flexible. Tables can be moved to suit your needs, and the staff here will do everything they can to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

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Share your accessible restaurant with Quingo!

If you’ve been to visit any great accessible restaurants on your Quingo or would like us to write about a particular place you have visited, we’d be delighted to hear from you! You can email your stories, recommendations and pictures by filling out the contact form on our website and we’ll feature them on our blog.

About Quingo Scooters

The Quingo Scooters range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Holidays, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

How Do I Find an Accessible Holiday?

Quingo Scooters understand that when thinking about your next holiday or weekend away, there are certain things to consider for you and your mobility scooter. You want somewhere that can cater for your needs, be accessible and most importantly be comfortable for a relaxing time away.

So how do you find a holiday or short break that you know has everything you’ll need? In this post we’ll be sharing some of the best sites out there that can guarantee to find you exactly what you have in mind, or that can give you some holiday inspiration. There are some great accessible holiday sites out there, dedicated finding you accessible accommodation.

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Accomable

Srin and Martryn run Accomable. They are well known in the accessible tourism arena so they understand better than anyone what makes good accessible accommodation. With holiday accommodation not just in the UK but from around the world, this site enables you to explore that little bit further. Accomable has over 500 properties in 40 countries – so you’re sure to find somewhere new to discover!

Tip: Don’t forget to submit your email address to get the latest news, updates and special holiday offers delivered directly to your inbox!

Handiscover

Handiscover is unique in that it has a unique rating system, grading accommodation depending on your level of mobility. This community-based holiday booking platform is great in that it not only lists hotels but also apartments, houses and B&B’s. It’s really easy to use and user friendly, and there definitely isn’t a lack of in-depth information on each property listing.

Tip: Some properties can be booked directly from the Handiscover site, for extra easiness!

Limitless Travel

Angus runs Limitless Travel, and he’s really passionate about finding stress-free places to stay. The site is fairly new, but has a nice design and is easy to use. On here you’ll not only find places to holiday, but also accessible attractions.

Tip: Limitless Travel enables you to focus on one city at a time – this unique feature gives you comprehensive coverage of each city before moving on to the next.

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Share your accessible holiday with Quingo!

If you want to share your mobility scooter accessible getaway, we’d be delighted to hear from you. You can email your stories, recommendations and pictures by filling out the contact form on our website and we’ll feature them on our blog.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.