BY Clay Larroy
In
the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both
new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books,
videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am
providing valuable information about accessible travel. When you want to
plan a vacation contact me!
ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL…NO LIMITS
Travel
is about access to new and different possibilities. To those individuals with
physical or medical disabilities, however, the word "access" takes on
a multi-dimensional meaning. Accessible travel is a goal, an adventure, a state
of mind. Increasingly, accessible travel is a concern for the tens of thousands
of senior adults that are now seeking new experiences in all corners of the
globe. As used here, "accessible travel" means travel that takes into
consideration both the physical and cost hurdles that often face those with
physical or mental impairment.
There
is a growing awareness on the part of destinations and tour operators of the
economic impact of failing to adequately compensate for accessible travel. As a
result, more travel than ever falls into the general category of
"accessible". Nevertheless, a bit of planning is always in order when
deciding on a vacation, where you must consider issues such as wheelchair or
scooter access or if restaurants allow service animals.
A
good travel consultant is an invaluable ally when making accessible travel
choices. Travel agents have professional research tools that provide inside
information on the efforts that destinations have undertaken to accommodate
travelers who need special access or assistance. Your travel consultant will
contact tour operators that specialize in providing accessible travel. These
tour operators have relationships with tourism offices, dining facilities,
hotels and attractions and are the best possible resource in researching a trip.
However, it is important to use a tour operator that has a reputation for solid
customer service. Your travel agent’s research tools will quickly determine the
top tour operators to use for any destination.
In
planning, be sure to give your tour operator details about special needs you
have as early in the planning process as possible. Just as importantly,
however, let your agent know what you are willing to take on as a challenge.
For example, many articles indicate that cobblestone streets or buildings
without elevators are not suitable for wheelchair users. However, such
decisions are best left to the traveler. You are the best judge of what is or
is not appropriate for your own physical abilities. A frank discussion with
your travel consultant will make sure that you receive the greatest possible
value and that your expectations are met.
Travel
can be physically taxing on any traveler. Speak with your physician about the
best practices for visiting your selected destination as well as the particulars
of your own condition. Doctors who are familiar with travel medicine can work
with you to make sure all of the appropriate immunizations and special
considerations of your destination (i.e., altitude) are taken into account.
If
your condition requires special equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters or
oxygen, your travel consultant can assist you with determining the best way to
either ship your own equipment or obtain similar equipment at your destination.
Most airlines and cruise ships are acquainted with the need to accommodate
wheelchairs and scooters, but vary on whether they must be checked or may enter
the main cabin. Some airlines also require that batteries on motorized scooters
be gel-batteries rather than wet cell, so ask your travel agent to find these
requirements in advance. Knowing the airline and cruise ship policies in
advance makes it much easier to cope with any requirements when necessary.
Remember, too, that it may be difficult to get your wheelchair or scooter
serviced in a far-off locale, so if possible, have your equipment serviced
before traveling. Again, your tour operator will provide good indications of
the availability of repair and supply services at your destination.
Likewise,
undertake proper planning with regard to any medications you might need. It is
best to travel with an adequate supply as well as with a prescription to
acquire more medicines should the need arise. Always travel with your medical
supplies, especially medicines, on your person, when possible to prevent problems
arising from lost baggage.
Traveling
with service animals can be difficult when crossing borders. Many countries
have very stringent quarantine requirements regarding the importation of
animals to prevent rabies and other canine diseases. Special vaccination
requirements and paperwork may be in order. Likewise, make sure that any
hotels, B&Bs or other accommodations permit service animals in advance. If
possible, acquire letters from your accommodations in advance acknowledging
their acceptance of your animal companions. Finally, do a bit of research on
local veterinarian offices in case your dog requires any attention while
traveling.
If
you are traveling with a tour operator specializing in accessible travel, it is
highly likely that your itinerary will take into account special considerations
your condition might require. However, if you are not traveling with a
specialist tour company, make sure that the rigors of the daily itineraries are
suitable for your needs. In some instances, you may find yourself confronted
with inaccessible buildings, museums, walkways or distances. Days may be long
without adequate facilities for your comfort. Again, these aspects of a trip
are yours to determine and choose, but to the extent that you can properly
anticipate any obstacles early in the planning process, the better equipped you
will be to handle situations as they arise.
The
world is a big place, make it your own.
Links for successful travel
REFERENCE SITES:
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/
Enjoy and travel to
create great family memories!
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