Rock & Roll Road Trips by Emma Muldoon

Whenever I get an opportunity to combine my two passions – live music and travel – I never hesitate. I’ve lost count of how many times my partner and I have packed our suitcases, loaded up our snacks and driven long distances in the car.

Recently I received my new upfront passenger wheelchair accessible vehicle, Peugeot Rifter Inspire™, and it’s changed everything. Being able to sit in my wheelchair as an upfront passenger has made everyday car journeys so much more enjoyable. Going on our first road trip sitting side by side was a special experience and it happened to be my birthday making it even more memorable.

Hitting the Road as an Upfront Passenger 

With excitement and anticipation, we set off on our road trip from Scotland to Manchester to see LANY (a US pop rock band) perform at Manchester Academy.

After driving for a couple of hours, we stopped to take a break and enjoyed our packed lunches in the car. Even though it was a simple salad, it was nice to have a car picnic together. I comfortably sat upfront in my wheelchair enjoying the view, next to my partner. Something so simple, but easily taken for granted. It really is the simple things I enjoy the most.

Checking In

We had booked a wheelchair accessible room at the Moxy Manchester City Hotel, located in the Spinningfields district of the city. Our room was compact but had everything we needed for the night, including a roll-in shower and space for moving around in my wheelchair.

Accessibility at the Venue

After relaxing in our hotel room, we headed out for dinner before the gig. Thankfully we were able to find parking near Manchester Academy and quickly collect our free companion ticket and access wristbands from the box office. We then made our way through the step-free access entrance.

Once inside we took the lift to the access area on the balcony level. The view from the balcony was fantastic with a clear glass barrier. However, the railing was at my eye level so I had to position my chair a bit further back to see more clearly. Other than that it was a great experience on the balcony.

LANY Living Up to Expectations

After years of wanting to see LANY, I finally had the chance and they didn’t disappoint! Their entire performance was incredible. It was hands down one of the best gigs we’ve been to in a long time.

The next day my partner surprised me with a lovely meal and a shopping spree at the Trafford Centre as a birthday treat. Later, on our way back home, we had an epic car karaoke session, singing along to every song in LANY’s discography! I’m sure it won’t be long before my partner wishes I was sitting in the back again to give his ears a break…

To read more from Emma, visit her blog Simply Emma. Make sure to give her a follow on Facebook and Instagram too!