FAQ
There are many things to take on board if you have joined Spice recently or whether you are still considering joining. Some of the more frequently asked questions are answered here. However, if you do have a query that has not been covered, please contact us on 0131 5530026.
Overview
- What is Spice?
Spice is the UK's premier adventure, social, leisure group for adults. Founded in 1981, there are over 10,000 members nationwide and 700 members in Scotland, all living life to the full.
Spice gives you the opportunity to 'live your dream', by trying hundreds of exciting events and gives you the chance to meet lots of like-minded people.
Whether you are an adrenalin junkie, or looking for new friends to socialise with, there's something for everyone in our ever-changing programme of events.
- Where is Spice Scotland?
Spice Scotland members come from all over Scotland but most are resident in the Central Belt. We reguarly arrange events in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, Glasgow and the West ,Ayrshire, Perthshire and The Borders. The main social event programme is focused in and around Edinburgh and Glasgow. The Spice Scotland weekend programme visits areas as far a field as Contin, Strathpeffer, Portpatrick and Gretna.
- Can I come to events on my own?
Although Spice is not a singles club, about 85% of our membership is single and 15% are couples so it is very acceptable to come to events on your own. You will find Spice is very friendly and that people are very open to chatting to everyone else regardless of whether they’ve met them before. As such Spice is a great way of meeting new friends and trying new things whether you’re on your own or coming with a friend for moral support. One thing to remember is that everyone was once a new member, and feeling anxious about their first few events. You'll soon get in the swing of it, and looking forward to meeting new people and making new friends.
- Can I bring my children on events?
Unfortunately not. Spice insurance only covers over 18s and is costed around adult insurance premiums. Instructor to participant ratios are also much higher for children. Besides, we think kids have enough fun as it is!
Also, one of the attractions of Spice for some members is that it is adults only so it gives them a chance to have a weekend away from the children.
Occasionally we can offer events that take children if the suppliers insurance overrides ours and these events state that children can be taken on them.
- What do I get?
You will be a member from the date of joining and receive regular newsletters which detail literally hundreds of events which you may attend.
Due to our standing within the industry, events are competitively priced and many are unique to Spice.
In addition you will receive details of special discounts which have been arranged between Spice and various prestigious retailers, holiday companies etc.
More importantly, Spice membership opens the door to the opportunity of meeting new people, making new friends and increasing your social circle in a way you could not have imagined.
Membership
- How do I join Spice?
Joining Spice Scotland is really simple.
Click here to join online now. All you need is a debit or credit card and a passion to 'live your dream'.
Alternatively you can call the Spice Scotland office on 0131 5530026 if you can't wait to get started.
Office hours are Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm.
You can also join at one of our Preview Evenings, where you'll meet Jamie, your Coordinator.
- Quaterly subscription by Direct Debit
Paying quarterly by Direct Debit allows you to spread the cost of joining. It also means that you can cancel your membership at any time without penalty.
Our policy is to keep your Direct Debit payment rate unchanged for as long as your membership period continues unbroken. The only circumstances where we might have to review this policy would be an economic climate of very high inflation. Any changes to your Direct Debit will be notified to you in writing.
The current rates are as follows:
- Standard (one member) £36
- Couple (two people at the same address) £54
Please complete the Direct Debit section on your application form and return it to us with an original signature. Your subscription will be debited to your account automatically on the 15th of the month (or as soon as your bank receives the instruction) and then every three months on the 15th of the month.
Please note that the option of quarterly payments is only available to those paying by Direct Debit. Those who wish to pay by any other method may only take out an Annual Membership
- Annual subscription rates
Those who prefer to pay by credit/debit card can pay for a full year at the following rates. For express membership, you can even join over the telephone on 0131 5530026:
- Standard (one member) £144
- Couple (two people at the same address) £216
- Personal Accident Insurance
Your subscription fee includes liability insurance on all the events you take part in with Spice, so if you damage any property or equipment or accidentally injure another member you are covered. Your subscription also includes personal accident cover whilst taking part in any Spice event or traveling to or from it.
- Satisfaction guarantee
If you decide within the first three months of your membership that Spice membership is not for you, we guarantee to return all membership monies to you without question.
- I've just joined - what do I do next?
You've taken your first step and joined Spice, and the next step is to come along to your first event. I know this can be a daunting prospect when you don't know anyone else in the group, but there's no need to be apprehensive - Spicer's are a friendly bunch! Most of us come along on our own to events, so we are used to meeting and welcoming new people. We also remember what it was like turning up on our first event and not knowing what to expect! Just tell your VC or supplier it's your first time and they can introduce you to everyone in the group, they'll soon have you laughing and feeling at ease.
- I've booked my first event - what should I expect?
There's no need to be worried about anything in Spice - we're all very friendly and welcoming. We all remember that the first few events can be daunting for a new member. If you have any questions, just call the Spice office on 0131 5530026 and we'll do our best to help. And don't forget to speak to your Volunteer Coordinators when you're on an event - they really enjoy meeting new members and it’s a great reward for them to see new members enjoying themselves after an apprehensive start!
If you have any questions at all just give the Spice Office a call at the office on 0131 5530026 and we'll always do our utmost to help you.
Another tip is to take a newsletter with you - you can ask the advice of the longer terms members on which events to try.
- What if I move away from the area?
Just let us know where you are moving to and we can transfer your membership to your nearest group. Your current membership rate will continue with your new group. Remember, if you join quarterly by Direct Debit, this amount remains unchanged for as long as you maintain continuous membership.
If you are away for a short period, or working in another part of the UK, you are welcome to attend events run by other Spice groups. You'll have to book direct with that group by telephone as your Spice Scotland membership number is unique only to our group. All Spice groups, including Spice UK are listed in the back of your bi-monthly newsletter.
Events
- When do I get a Newsletter?
The Spice Scotland newsletter is produced monthly. (We produce 10 a year, July & August and December & January are double Bumber editions). This includes events, weekends and national holidays.
As new events are added throughout the month, you don't have to wait until your newsletter hits your doorstep to book on any new events. Just keep checking the Events List for updates.
We aim to have the newsletter land on your doorstep early in the month. We are however at the mercy of the printers and the postal system, so please bear with us if it's a few days late.
We also publish regular updates and post additional events online so check the home page and 'Events Diary' links for the latest information.
- How do I book events?
Once you have decided which of the numerous events you wish to attend, just pick from the following methods to let us know which events you are interested in:
You can telephone us on 0131 5530026. Office hours are Monday-Friday 10am-5pm.
Or you can book online at any time to suit your convenience.
- What if I cannot attend an event?
Provided you give us enough notice you will usually receive a full refund less a nominal cancellation fee.
However cancellation policies vary on many events, details of which will always be given in the newsletter.
Please see the Spice cancellation policy.
- Do I need special equipment?
Most of our events are aimed at the beginner unless stated otherwise. As such all specialist equipment and instruction is provided and no prior knowledge is required. This gives you the chance to try an activity and see if you like it before spending hundreds of pounds on something that will end up as just another fad.
You will be sharing your experiences with other like-minded people and gain the advantage of support from the group. All our instructors are fully qualified and used to calming the nerves of even the most timid - so that you have an enjoyable and fun day.
Some events and weekends do require equipment as a prerequisite: This will be detailed in the event write up.
For rambles, we do recommend you invest in a good pair of walking boots and waterproofs. We ask that you do not wear jeans on rambles as they can get cold and heavy when wet and will cause discomfort.
For horse riding, you will need to wear boots with a small heel and smooth soles.
For cycling and mountain biking events, you will need to bring a helmet and you will not be allowed on the event if you are not wearing it.
- Can I bring a friend?
Guests are very welcome on events although they will pay a guest price, which is detailed in the write-ups. As we are a membership group, we ask that guests attend 2 events, after which we will expect them to join. Sorry, but ex-members are not allowed to book as guests as it is unfair on our members who are paying their membership fees.
If you do come along with a friend, do make sure you introduce them and integrate them into the group. I know it's tempting to just stay with your guest, but you will get more out of Spice if you come out of your comfort zone and interact with your fellow Spicers as well.
- Do I need a car?
You will need transport to get to the various events. However members often travel share and you will have access to the Transport Share List once you have booked onto any particular event.
If you wish to attend an event and think that you might have a problem in getting there, just call the Spice office for some additional advice and guidance.
- I don't want to bungee jump or skydive!
You don't have to be an adrenaline junkie to join Spice! We have lots of social and leisure events, such as rambles and town walks to meals out and party nights. You can do whichever events you choose - it’s your choice. You never know, you may find with time that you expand your own limitations and try something that you never dreamed possible.
- Do I have to go on a certain number of events per month?
No. Spice is there for you to dip in and out of as you choose. You may do five events one month and then nothing for another month - it’s entirely up to you. Some members join just to do the weekends or the holidays.
