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Australia holds such unique experiences when it comes to traveling. You have a vast array of terrains, climates, and regional quirks that imprint lasting memories. There are a few hidden barriers when you travel with a disability, especially when it comes to accessible accommodation. One person’s idea of accessibility may not match your needs! Different states around Australia hold different ideologies of what constitutes an “accessible” facility.
Accommodation
Before deciding on accommodation, one needs to consider the activities you wish to participate in while you are in the area. For example, when using wheelchairs or walkers and/or walking supports, it may be useful to find satellite images of the surrounding streets and footpaths to assist you in navigating the major pathways and planning a relaxing outdoor experience in advance to avoid the hazard of uneven terrain and those sneaky small steps or uneven pavements!
A helpful tip is to use Google Earth to snoop around the surrounding area before booking accommodation or traveling to an unfamiliar area. Although pictures may not be current, they provide an idea of the major hills, stairs, and ramps. Some cities or major sight-seeing regions have accessibility maps that mark accessible areas or alternative routes. There’s comfort in knowing the area of one’s holiday destination, making the whole trip far more enjoyable.
Reading multiple reviews from a variety of sources such as Google Reviews and Trip Advisor to name a few, can also assist in uncovering an unbiased view of the accommodation. The hotel’s website may be great in depicting room facilities, however, guest experiences may tell you a different story. Another helpful tip is to call ahead and ask for room-specific details. For example, one might want to ask a few key questions regarding wheelchair accessibility; is there a step that may prohibit access to the balcony? How wide is the bathroom door? Will they supply a shower chair? How high is the bed? You would be surprised at how many balconies have steps!
Support Coordinators at Ability Connect can assist you with finding the right fit for your travel needs. This may be in sourcing Support Workers who would be happy to travel alongside you, or by sourcing IT Support to help navigate the online accommodation planning.
Contact Ability Connect for more information email info@abilityconnect.com.au or Book a Discovery Call Today!