Every person deserves and has the right to travel. As much as that concept is ingrained in our Seven Corners DNA, we cannot deny that some people confront a greater challenge than others in realizing their travel aspirations. Travel is an important aspect of living life to its fullest. We would be the last to disagree that it is a worthwhile investment of time and resources. Prior to the Covid-19 outbreak, Americans with disabilitiesThe Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. This includes people who have a record of such an impairment, even if they do not currently have a disability. It also includes people who do not have a disability but are regarded as having a disability. The ADA also makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person based on that person’s association with a person with a disability. were a vibrant and quickly rising section of the travel business. According to a 2020 nationwide Harris Poll survey, at least 70% (28 million people) spent $58.7 billion on travels in 2018 and 2019. Adventure Travel News discovered that people with disabilities spend $95 billion per year on travel.
So, what does it mean to travel with a disability? And how can we overcome the obstacles that appear as we set out on the road? While the answers to those questions vary widely depending on the individual—the types and severity of disabilities, as well as personal preferences—it is apparent that traveling with a disability is not only doable, but also completely worthwhile.
Here are a few suggestions to make your next vacation easier:
The UCT map (www.UCTmap.com) can help you find universal changing tables.
Use Google Images to find accommodations, and watch YouTube videos to learn about other families’ experiences in the places you want to visit.
Call the hotel’s front desk directly rather than going via the sales department. Before booking, you can request that the hotel’s front desk take images of the accessible rooms.
If you are not taking your device, you can bring any equipment you may require while away from home.
The majority of destinations have an accessible travel planning organization. Work with them personally. Many of their trip planners are in wheelchairs and have visited the hotels and attractions they recommend
Call the airline and request wheelchair service. You can also contact TSA and request special handling.
