 |
| En route to the "Chac Mool" Cenote near Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. |
Accessible travel for individuals with mobility issues has often been thought of as impossible or, at the very least, damn near impossible. For those of us who who roll around (use wheelchairs), the very thought of travelling to a potentially inaccessible destination is nucking futs. And yet we all desire to explore strange new worlds and cultures. Why must this desire be impossible? Why must we shelve our interest in journeying to exotic lands? Why can't we just pack our bags and go? Well, the goal of this here blog is to shed some light on the Goliath that is "Accessible Travel". Specifically: Travel for those with physical disabilities that cannot navigate the stairs and rocky terrain of this fine planet.
This blog will focus on accessbile (and seeming IN-accessible) destinations, including: hotels, activities, restaurants, landmarks, and (most importantly) bathrooms! I also want to review current online resources for accessible travel. Some of these websites are good and some are terribly vague. Most will tell you how to get from your hotel room to the nearby swimming pool... and that's about it. I believe the devil is in the details and that's what travelers expect: specifics. Not only specifics but all of the options available in a given location.
I hope this blog will encourage feedback and open discussion regarding all things travel and specific destinations. If you have or know someone who is living with a disability, voice (or write) your thoughts. I admit that my expertise is limited to access for individuals who use wheelchairs. Hopefully any info. that covers access for wheelchairs will also help those with other physical disabilities. That said, if I don't cover issues pertaining to visual/hearing impairments, please forgive me. I have limited experience with the subject and would probably screw it up big time. I also want this blog to act as a resource so that folks can get out of their comfort homes and venture into the great unknown.
So, why am I interested in the subject of accessible travel? In 1996 I was paralyzed in a repelling accident. I severed my spine at the thoracic 9-10 level and now use a wheelchair for mobility. I also love travelling. So, it makes sense that this is a subject that is near and dear. Since '96, I've had some good and bad experiences while globetrotting. At times, my travels have been somewhat frustrating. But always, my journeys have been an opportunity to experience new things and test my abilities. There's no greater sense of accomplishment than conquering an inaccessible foreign land. To say you made it, you did it, and you'll do it again and again. Sound good? Great! Now let's get out there.
