I flew out to Benidorm for the first time, when I got to Birmingham airport, I realised I’d put my memory card in my phone instead of my sim card.

It meant I couldn’t contact anyone. I keep in  touch with my parents regularly, so they know that I am ok. I was panicking thinking what I am going to do?

When I arrived, I was trying to be excited but I also just wanted to get to the hotel. I knew my parents would be starting to worry. I had to get the coach from Alicante to Benidorm and then because of siesta had wait till 4pm for the shop to open. Instead I connected to the hotel wifi and facetimed my parents to let them know I was safe and what happened. Then, feeling proud of myself, I could relax.

I went out to buy a SIM but no one in the shop could speak English they thought I wanted sell my phone. I asked where taxi point was and tried to understand but got completely lost, I found the tourist information place who gave me a map and eventually found the taxi point and I got back to the hotel. A very adventurous 1st day!

There were lots of challenges on my holiday, mainly getting completely lost and communication difficulties. Accessibility was an issue too as I use a walker and much of Benidorm is all steps. I went to Peacock Island and was not told it was not accessible that was a challenge getting on and off the boat and then steps on Island. I just stayed in the café with a cup of tea and my packed lunch till the boat came back.

I nearly left my walker wheels in Benidorm/walker. The jet 2 rep asked if I wanted trolley to help with walking. I said yes and then Jet 2 rep ran after me, I forgotten all about my wheels!

There were many challenges I faced on my holiday in Benidorm, but I’ve learnt lots of things in my job at CASBA that help on holiday. Like problem solving, being resilient and keeping going, no matter the difficulties. I met some lovely people and made two very special friends Pietro and Sue. I had a great time and I’m going back in March for more adventures!