Accommodations

Family Travel Accommodations: Accessibility

Choose accommodations that are easy to navigate

Traveling with mobility issues or special needs can often present unique challenges. However, with the proper planning and research, families can find comfortable and accessible accommodations that cater to their needs.

In this article, we will provide practical tips and suggestions for families seeking accessible accommodations, as well as personal anecdotes to illustrate the rewards and challenges of finding the right accommodations.

Research the Accessibility Features of Accommodations and Amenities

When choosing accommodations for your vacation, it is essential to research the accessibility features of the hotel or rental property.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets forth certain standards for accessible accommodations, but not all hotels or rental properties are created equal. Here are some accessibility features to look for:

  1. Accessible Room: Confirm that the hotel or rental property has an accessible room that meets your needs. An accessible room should have wider doors, grab bars in the bathroom, and lower counters and fixtures.
  2. Accessible Amenities: Be sure to research the accessibility features of amenities such as the pool, fitness center, and restaurants. Some hotels have accessible pools with ramp access or lifts, while others do not.
  3. Location: Consider the location of the hotel or rental property. If you plan to explore on foot, check for sidewalks, curb cuts, and accessibility to nearby attractions.
  4. Transportation: Research transportation options to and from the hotel, including accessible public transportation, taxi services, or rental car options.
  5. Communication: Confirm that the hotel or rental property has accessible communication features, such as TTY systems or captioned telephones.

Suggestions for Families Seeking Accessible Accommodations

Once you have a list of accessible accommodations, it is time to narrow down your options.

Here are some suggestions for families seeking accessible accommodations:

  1. Check Reviews: Look for reviews from other travelers with mobility issues or special needs to help you make an informed decision. Reviews can help you understand the level of accessibility and quality of amenities.
  2. Contact the Accommodations: Once you have identified your top choices, reach out to the hotel or rental property directly to confirm the accessibility features of the rooms and amenities. You may also want to inquire about any additional accommodations or services they offer.
  3. Consider Working with a Travel Agent: If you are struggling to find the right accommodations, consider working with a travel agent who specializes in accessible travel. They can help you identify the best accommodations and assist with planning your itinerary.

Personal Anecdotes and Case Studies

Finding accessible accommodations can sometimes be a challenging experience. However, the reward of a comfortable and enjoyable vacation can make it worthwhile. Here are some personal anecdotes and case studies to illustrate some of the challenges and rewards of finding the right accommodations:

  1. A Family’s Experience: A family with a child with cerebral palsy wanted to visit New York City but were unsure of where to stay. They contacted a travel agent who helped them find an accessible hotel with a roll-in shower and lower counters. The agent also arranged for accessible transportation to and from the hotel, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
  2. A Solo Traveler’s Experience: A solo traveler with spinal cord injury was planning a trip to Europe and struggled to find accessible accommodations. After extensive research, she identified an accessible rental property in Amsterdam, which had a lift, wide doorways, and roll-in shower. The experience was a success and allowed her to explore the city independently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing accessible accommodations for your vacation requires proper planning and research. Families with mobility issues or special needs should research the accessibility features of accommodations and amenities, reach out to the accommodations directly, and consider working with a travel agent who specializes in accessible travel.

By following these tips and suggestions and being persistent, families can find comfortable accommodations and enjoy a memorable vacation.