Increased emphasis on public accessibility for disabled people has opened up a whole new world for easier wheelchair travel. From walkways to buildings, people in wheelchairs are experiencing more freedom.
With more ramps, curb cuts, elevators, wider doorways and automatic door openers in public buildings, disabled people are encountering fewer obstacles. Airplanes, buses, trains and taxis are now better able to accommodate wheelchairs. This is due in part to the awareness of the needs of the disabled because of strong advocacy groups.
Thanks to them, traveling people in wheelchairs are able to live their lives to the fullest and see the wonderful world that’s waiting for them. Having said that, people of limited mobility still have to plan their holidays more carefully than others. Despite these societal advances, people who must travel in their wheelchairs still need to do some advance planning to ensure their comfort and safety, especially when planning vacations in foreign countries.
Particularly if the holiday destination is in a third world country or remote area such as in parts of Africa, the destination should be scouted out. Check out the hotel and the airlines. What other facilities are in the area that you may need. Where are the hospitals and can you easily fill any prescriptions you might require.
Booking your vacation online is convenient but there are questions specific to your needs that you won’t find answers to on a website. Call your hotel personally to inquire about accessibility and door widths in the room. Ask for a confirmation number or code as proof of your booking. This rarely, happens, but sometimes hotels overbook and can give your room away or deny that you even made a reservation.
Services for disabled passengers vary from airline to airline. Make phone calls to check on provisions made by the airline for wheelchairs. Ensure that you can access the plane in your own wheelchair, or if not, what type of service do they provide. Will they stow your wheelchair in the luggage compartment and what assurances can they give you that your chair will not be damaged? Find out what the airline’s policy is for lost or stolen luggage, which may include your wheelchair.
Does your airline require a doctor’s note listing the prescription drugs that you’re taking? This would be a smart thing to do regardless of the airline’s policy. If you’re crossing a border or even if you’re being screened at security, you can avoid needless scrutiny about any drugs you’re carrying if you have a note from your doctor.
Travel insurance is another area of concern for wheelchair travelers. This is key because often those bound to a wheelchair may have compromised immune systems making them vulnerable to all manner of viruses. There is also the possibility that a fall from the wheelchair could occur. Travel insurance should be extensive. With a bit of planning, traveling the world from the comfort of your wheelchair should be a very satisfying experience.
Tags: disability, disabled, handicap, handicapped, holiday, vacation, wheelchair tour, wheelchair travel
