Navigating Europe's New EES System: An Accessible Traveller's Guide to Seamless Adventures!

Hello fellow explorers! Andy Wright here, and I'm thrilled to be back sharing some insights that will make our incredible European adventures even more accessible and enjoyable. As UK travellers, we’ve all got our favourite spots across the continent, and while new systems can sometimes feel a bit daunting, understanding them is key to keeping those travel dreams alive. Today, we're diving into the upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES) and how we, as disabled travellers, can navigate it with ease, uncover budget-friendly options, and perhaps even discover a new hidden gem or two.

What is the EES and How Will it Affect UK Travellers?

First things first, what exactly is the EES? It stands for the Entry/Exit System, and it's a new automated IT system being introduced by the European Union to register travellers from non-EU countries (like us in the UK!) each time we cross an external EU border. Essentially, it's replacing the manual passport stamping process with a digital record of our entries and exits.

• Who it affects: UK citizens and other non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).
• What it does: It will record your name, type of travel document, fingerprints, and a facial image, along with the date and place of entry and exit.
• When it's coming: While initially planned for earlier, the system is expected to launch in 2024 or early 2025. It's always best to check official EU and FCDO guidance closer to your travel date.
• The goal: To enhance border security, identify overstayers, and modernise border management.

Accessibility at the Forefront: My Thoughts on EES for Disabled Travellers

This is where my antennae really go up. Any new system involving physical kiosks and biometric data collection raises questions for disabled travellers. Here's what we need to consider and advocate for:

• Kiosk Design & Assistance: Will the self-service kiosks be wheelchair accessible? We need adjustable heights for screens and scanners, clear visual and audio instructions, and sufficient space to manoeuvre a wheelchair or scooter. For those with visual impairments, tactile feedback and audio prompts will be crucial.
• Staff Support: During the initial rollout, and indeed always, there must be trained staff available to provide assistance. Not everyone can easily use a self-service machine, and a friendly, knowledgeable face can make all the difference. This is especially important for travellers with cognitive impairments, motor difficulties, or those who struggle with fine motor skills for fingerprint scanning.
• Queue Management: New systems can mean longer queues initially. For those of us who can't stand for long periods or need regular breaks, this is a major concern. We need clear information on priority lanes or assistance services at airports and ports to ensure a smooth, comfortable experience.
• Pre-registration & Online Options: While the EES itself requires in-person biometric capture, any future developments that allow for some pre-registration or information submission online could significantly speed up the process at the border for disabled travellers.

Andy's Accessibility Tip: Always contact your airline or ferry operator in advance to request special assistance. Inform them about your mobility needs and any concerns you have about the EES process. They can often provide wheelchair assistance to and through border control, which can be invaluable.

Budget-Friendly Travel in the EES Era

The EES itself doesn't directly impact your budget, but smart travel planning always does! Here are some ways to keep costs down while enjoying Europe:

• Travel Off-Peak: Less crowded periods often mean cheaper flights, accommodation, and potentially quicker processing at borders. Think shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) when the weather is still lovely, but the crowds and prices are lower.
• Stay Longer, See More: Since the EES tracks your entries and exits, make the most of your 90-day allowance within a 180-day period. Slower travel can often be more budget-friendly as you save on frequent travel costs and can find better deals for longer stays.
• Accessible Public Transport: Research accessible public transport options in your destination. Many European cities have excellent, accessible tram, bus, and metro systems that are far cheaper than taxis.
• Self-Catering Accommodation: Booking apartments with accessible kitchens can save a significant amount on food costs, allowing you to prepare some of your own meals.

Discovering Accessible Hidden Gems

While the EES might make you think of bustling airports, remember the incredible destinations awaiting us! Sometimes, avoiding the major tourist magnets can lead to a more relaxed EES experience and certainly better value. Here are a few accessible hidden gems:

• Porto, Portugal: While popular, it's often overlooked for Lisbon. Porto boasts a beautiful, accessible riverside (Ribeira district), historic tram routes (some accessible), and delicious food. Many port wine lodges offer accessible tours.
• Ghent, Belgium: A stunning medieval city with picturesque canals, Ghent is remarkably flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it great for wheelchairs and scooters. Many museums and attractions are accessible, and it offers a more laid-back vibe than Bruges.
• Lake Bled, Slovenia: For nature lovers, Lake Bled offers breathtaking scenery. While the island church is tricky, the accessible path around the lake provides incredible views, and many hotels and restaurants in the town are accessible.
• Malaga, Spain: Often seen as just a gateway to the Costa del Sol, Malaga itself is a vibrant, accessible city with a beautiful historic centre, a Roman theatre, the Picasso Museum (accessible), and a lovely accessible beach promenade.

Andy's Hidden Gem Tip: Always double-check specific accessibility details for any attraction or transport option before you go. Local tourist boards are a fantastic resource!

Andy's Top Tips for Navigating the EES Smoothly

1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official EU and UK government (FCDO) websites for the latest EES implementation updates.
2. Arrive Early: Especially during the initial rollout phase, allow extra time at airports and ports for the EES process.
3. Have Documents Ready: Ensure your passport is valid and easily accessible.
4. Be Patient: New systems can have teething problems. A calm and patient approach will make the process easier for everyone.
5. Don't Hesitate to Ask for Help: If you encounter any difficulties, ask a border official or airport staff member for assistance.

The EES is coming, but it doesn't have to be a barrier to our travel dreams. With a little preparation and a focus on accessibility, we can continue to explore the wonders of Europe. Here at Andy Wright Travel, we believe every journey should be possible, and with these tips, yours will be too!

Happy travels!