Accessible Travel: Mobility
A mobility challenge is a condition that affects a person's ability to move and/or perform daily activities due to an impairment in their body function or structure. Physical challenges can be caused by a variety of factors, including birth defects, accidents, injuries, illnesses, and degenerative diseases. Some examples of physical challenges include cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, and arthritis. People with physical challenges may have difficulty with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, using their hands, or maintaining balance. There are many different types of physical challenges, and the specific needs of each individual will vary depending on the nature of their challenge.
When curating an accessible itinerary, we take many many things into consideration:
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Level of mobility challenge (slow walker, use of walker/crutches, wheelchair, etc.)
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Prior barriers to travel that you experienced, concerns for travel that you have
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Accessible transportation options, such as buses, trains, and taxis that are equipped with ramps or lifts.
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Destination infrastructure, such as sidewalks and buildings without ramps or elevators.
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Accessibility in lodging and tourist destinations.
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Accessibility of ports for cruises.
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Accessibility of excursions/tours.
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Regulations and enforcements for accessibility internationally.
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Accessible equipment rentals such as wheelchairs, scooters, etc.
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Getting around unfamiliar places with limited mobility.
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Availability of personal assistance services or caregivers during travel.