Accessible China | Episode 2: Settling into Sanya

At the end of June 2026, Forget-Me-Not Productions travelled to China on a unique working visit exploring accessibility, assistive technology and disability inclusion. In Episode 2 of Accessible China, Mel and Shania arrive in Sanya and begin settling into life on Hainan Island before the rehabilitation work begins. For Shania, who has a learning disability and autism, those first few days are about acclimatising to a very different environment, from the heat, language and unfamiliar surroundings to some of the practical realities of travelling in China. Shania also gets to work as our media assistant, filming as Iain and Mel discuss some of the practical considerations involved in travelling to China with a learning-disabled adult. Along the way, they explore Sanya, visit museums and historic sites, navigate Chinese signs and translations, register with the local police and encounter one thing Shania definitely wasn't hoping to meet... a snake. In this episode: Arriving and settling into Sanya Their home for the next two weeks Travelling with a learning-disabled adult Flights, seating and practical travel considerations Shania's work as a media assistant Exploring everyday life and culture in Sanya An unexpected encounter at the ancient caves Iain and Mel discuss what brought Forget-Me-Not Productions to China This series isn't about comparing countries. It's about learning, sharing ideas and celebrating international collaboration in accessibility, assistive technology and disability inclusion. Next time: the work begins, as Forget-Me-Not Productions visits rehabilitation services in Sanya and explores approaches to communication, assistive technology and inclusive creative practice. Forget-Me-Not Productions creates fully inclusive arts, assistive technology and creative projects that empower disabled people to communicate, participate and thrive.