Travelling with a mobility disability requires a lot more planning and research. Unfortunately it is not always easy to find accessibility information. Each accessibility guide details accommodation options, suggested activities and transportation options. They can be used to help plan your next wheelchair friendly vacation. Unfortunately Covid-19 has put a damper on travel plans for now, so stay tuned for more destination specific guides in the future. For the time being I hope you will enjoy these informational travel guides to inspire your future travel plans.
General Info Travel Guides:
100 Things to Eat and Drink Around the World
Be forewarned.. this might make you hungry. Tasty treats and eats around the world.
For many of us the first introduction we have to a new culture is through its food (and drinks). While many versions of these classics are available all over the world, there is something special about having the OG version. Particularly, when it is made with fresh local ingredients.. and especially when it is made using a family recipe passed down through generations.
Beers and Cheers Around the World
Nothing beats a beer with friends. Learn different ways to cheers around the world and brush up on your beer knowledge. Here is a crash course to study up before your next trip abroad. Or just to impress your friends on the next trip to the bar.
The good thing about beer is that it is accessible to all (assuming you like the taste). Whether you like ales, lagers, sours, stouts, or alcohol-free.. there’s something for everyone.
Hotel Room Accessibility Considerations for Wheelchair Travelers
There is a lot more to consider when booking accommodations as a wheelchair user. Everyone has unique needs when it comes to accessibility requirements. Keep in mind these may not be applicable to each individual. It can be useful to make a checklist suited to your specific needs or comfort levels. Here are some accessibility requirements to consider when booking a hotel room or accommodations when traveling
Destination Travel Guides:
Canada:
Canmore, Alberta:
Canmore, Alberta: Gateway to the Canadian Rockies
Canmore is usually only seen as a stopping point on the way to Banff, or as a cheaper place to stay when exploring Banff National Park. However, there is so much to love about this little town nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Canmore is well known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation activities. There is also a thriving arts and foodie scene.
There are plenty of activities for wheelchair users in this mountain town!
Edmonton, Alberta:
Accessible Activities in Edmonton, Alberta
There are a variety of different sights to see and activities to enjoy year round. Catch an Oilers game or a concert at Rogers Place, or catch the newly renamed Edmonton Elks play a game of Canadian football at Commonwealth Stadium. Culture yourself and enjoy the art scene at the Art Gallery of Alberta, the Winspear Centre or the Citadel Theatre. Take in the natural beauty of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, or learn about the pioneer days and the history of the city at Fort Edmonton Park or the John Walter Museum. Enjoy the newly renovated Stanley A Milner Library, Muttart Conservatory or the Royal Alberta Museum. There are many world class exhibits, festivals and food to enjoy in the “River City!”
Enjoying Edmonton’s River Valley Trails as a Wheelchair User
Also known as “The Ribbon of Green” the North Saskatchewan River Valley Parks System is one of a kind. Boasting the largest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America! Not bad for a city with a population of just under 1.5 million.
Altogether, there are over 160 kilometers of trails through Edmonton’s River Valley. Of these 90.6 kilometers of these are paved. At this time portions of the trail network are unconnected, but there is a plan in place by the River Valley Alliance (RVA) to fully connect 74km by 2024.
Outdoor Wheelchair Accessible Day Trips from Edmonton, Alberta
Enjoying nature has well documented benefits for the body and the mind. Unfortunately, nature doesn’t come with accessible building codes. This can make it more challenging to get out and enjoy natural surroundings. However, these are some great accessible options to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to escape into nature for the day. All are located within a short to moderate drive from Edmonton, and several areas also offer accessible camping sites if you are looking to go on an extended adventure.
Mexico
Riviera Maya
Barcelo Maya Palace : Wheelchair Accessibility
Detailing the accessibility features of the Barcelo Maya Palace luxury all inclusive resort in the Mayan Riviera area of Mexico. The resort is part of a sprawling complex and there is so much to see and do! From snorkeling with turtles right off the beach, roll-able beach sand, a beach wheelchair available to rent, delicious food and elevators and ramps everywhere! All the food was incredible and the staff were all top notch! I would highly recommend this resort to other wheelchair users looking for a relaxing tropical get away!
Iberostar Paraiso Beach : Wheelchair Accessibility
As three wheelchair users we had a fantastic time at the Iberostar Paraiso Beach resort in the Mayan Riveria! There were barrier free accessible rooms with roll in showers. Smooth step free paths around the resort. Zero entry ramps into the pool. As well as a wheelchair accessible boardwalk that went all the way across the beach! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and would recommend it to any other wheelchair user looking for some fun in the sun!
United States of America
New York City
New York City: Wheeling Around the Big Apple
It needs no introduction: “The Big Apple”, “The City That Never Sleeps”, “Gotham”, “The Capital of the World”, “A City of Neon and Chrome.”
The city so nice they named it twice: New York, New York.
We only had time for a self-guided express tour over 8 hours or so. Here are the wheelchair accessible activities we checked out.