Traveling with a disability can be very difficult. In fact, finding ADA compliant hotels, restaurants, sidewalks, buses, beaches, planes, pools, or anything else can be a full-time job! But, do not fret, it is possible with some planning and a couple of tips. So before you go booking something this summer here are some things to help plan ahead to get the most out of your vacation!
Do Your Homework
It is very important to take your time and do your homework when planning a vacation. This starts by choosing a destination that is widely accommodating to disabilities. Nowadays with technology, it is easier than ever to see how accommodating a place may be. Google Maps is a great tool to see if the area has lots of handicap parking, the sidewalks are large, and you can even see bumpouts and accessibility using the Google Street View feature.
Another thing to consider before booking anything is the hotel. Look for a hotel that is ADA Compliant. Things like Priceline.com can be helpful with their search filters that narrow down “Handicapped Rooms/Facilities”. Although I would still highly recommend calling ahead and seeing whether or not the rooms will accommodate your specific needs. For instance, if you need to fit a Hoyer Lift under the bed and their hotel uses platform beds then you will not be able to use the lift.
Also, take into account is how far away you are willing to stay, as well as the time of year that you are looking to stay. Weather.com has great search features to see what the general temperature will be throughout the year so you can plan your days out (or avoid rainy seasons). When it comes to traveling consider whether or not you want to fly. There are so many things to consider if you want to fly so make sure to call the airlines to check out accommodations beforehand to allow an easy travel experience!
Having a backup plan is vitally important. I know this seems like more work than it is worth. However, one of my patients told me about how a room was mistakenly booked out and the family resorted to staying in a standard non-accommodating room for a couple days until an accessible room opened up. This was a huge burden on the vacation and made it much more difficult than it was worth. So making a backup plan is necessary. Finding additional hotels in the area that are also accommodating and close to the attractions you want to visit is important.
Have Fun!
Here are some quick tips:
If you plan ahead and take the extra time to make sure that you are prepared for anything, then the trip will be much more enjoyable. I often times talk to parents that are reluctant to take vacations with a son or daughter that has accommodating needs. However, in the end after consideration and thought along with planning the trips always seem to go great! Just remember planning ahead is the key to having a great time!
