Useful Information

Language

We are largely an English speaking nation but many people speak a little or a lot of our native Gaelic language, Manx. You may hear it when you are greeted or see translations on signage. You may see Ellan Vannin (Isle of Man) and hear phrases such as Failt Erriu (Welcome) and Traa dy Looar (time enough).

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Accessibility

Following the introduction of the National Accessible Scheme, we have dedicated Accessible Accommodation options assessed and accredited with a mobility rating ranging from M1 to M3i. If you are unsure which level best suits your requirements, please check against the symbols and explanations and browse the options here. All other visitor accommodation promoted on Visit Isle of Man feature an accessibility statement.

Information for the bus and transport network can be found here. Manx National Heritage publish detailed Accessibility Guides for all their visitor attractions.

If you require accessibility aids whilst visiting the Isle of Man, including wheelchairs and commodes, please contact the British Red Cross, Circa or Disability Networks, who will be able to assist you to ensure your requirements are met.

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Currency

The Isle of Man has its own currency with the same denominations as UK sterling. UK currency is legal tender in the Isle of Man but Manx currency is not accepted in the UK, although notes can be exchanged at UK banks.

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Reciprocal Health Agreement

UK residents visiting the Isle of Man will receive free NHS treatment if they become ill whilst here. Statutory charges are applicable for both residents and visitors e.g. prescription charges. Anyone visiting the Island should ensure they have adequate insurance in place in the event of repatriation (return travel to someone’s home country) being required. The information regarding the Agreement is correct at the time of publication but visitors are recommended to check the position prior to their visit.

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Doctors & Hospitals

The Manx Emergency Doctor Service (MEDS) operate an ‘Out of Hours’ emergency service when doctors’ surgeries are closed. The service is contactable on and is ONLY available out of hours - 6.00pm to 8.00am Monday to Friday or 24-hours over weekends and Bank Holidays. In the case of an emergency please attend Accident and Emergency (telephone +44(0) 1624 650040 for A&E enquiries), or for life threatening emergencies please call emergency services on 999. Noble’s Hospital is situated outside of Douglas at The Strang, Braddan. Should you need to contact the hospital the telephone number is +44 (0) 1624 650000. Ramsey Cottage Hospital in the North of the Island can be contacted on +44 (0) 1624 811811.

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Banks & Cash Machines

Most high street banks have premises on the Isle of Man. The opening hours are generally weekdays 9.30am to 4.30pm. They are predominantly in Douglas, the capital. Automated cash machines are available in all the major towns around the Isle of Man. Manx bank notes are dispensed from all cash machines apart from those situated at the Sea Terminal and the Airport, where English notes are issued.

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Mobile Phones

There are two mobile phone networks operating on the Isle of Man - Manx Telecom and Sure. Each mobile network has commercial agreements with mobile phone networks in the UK, Europe and the rest of the world.

It is advisable to check with your own mobile network to determine the level and charges of the roaming services with the Isle of Man providers.

Please note the Isle of Man is outside the EU jurisdiction and as such does not benefit from the tariff caps operating within the European Union.

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Parking

The Isle of Man operates a policy disc parking zones in the Island's Towns and Villages. Non residents wishing to park in these areas must display a parking disc in their vehicle showing the time of arrival in the parking place. Discs are usually available from vehicle hire firms, the Sea Terminal, Douglas, Police Stations, Post Offices and local Commissioners' Offices throughout the Island.

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Weather & Shipping Forecasts

The Isle of Man has a temperate climate due its situation surrounding Irish Sea. The warmest weather is seen generally between July and September. Accurate and up-to-date forecasts are provided by the Ronaldsway Met Office:

• Online Information: gov.im/weather

• Recorded weather forecast: 0900 624 3300 (Premium rate)

• Weatherman - 24 hours: 0900 624 3200 (Premium rate)

• Recorded shipping forecast: 0900 624 3322 (Premium rate)