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AD /Travel and Disability // Things To Consider

AD /Travel and Disability // Things To Consider

Posted on: Sunday 16 October 2016

two women with arms round each other, one in a wheelchair

I have so many ideas in my head of posts I want to write about having a disabled sibling because I think it's a topic seldom covered, but I can't quite seem to coherently write them down. I also find it a difficult thing to write about because every disability is different so for example with this post, a lot of the things I'm going to write about will only apply to disabled people with conditions similar to my sister. 

However, I did think it could be a useful topic, and if not useful then at least interesting for people who may not have considered all the things you have to think about when travelling as a disabled person. Aside from renting a private jet from Jettly (which would make things a hell of a lot easier transport wise) the following are the things those of us whose budgets don't quite stretch so far have to consider.

Accessibility // So obviously this is the big one. You have to let the airline (or any other transport) know about your wheelchair, you need to check that your accommodation is accessible and also that any kind of transport you'll be using while you're there is accessible too. Even if you do all of these things, still be prepared for unwelcome surprises. 

A few years ago we went to Rome as a family, which we booked through a travel agent so she could make doubly sure everything would be accessible. When we got to our hotel I took my sister up in the (extremely small) lift and when we got to our floor we couldn't actually get out because there was a flight of stairs in the way with no room to get a wheelchair round the side. LOL. Cue us carrying her and her wheelchair separately every time we came to and from the hotel. These things are pretty funny when you look back on them, but certainly show the ignorance of what some people class as accessible!

Healthcare // Something my mum has always had to think about when we've been going away is the possibility that my sister might need healthcare while we're away. Things like knowing where the nearest hospital is and having good travel insurance are important. My mum also writes a statement about Bethany's conditions and has it translated into whichever language is spoken in the country we're visiting so that if she ever does need treating it's an easy way for the paramedics/doctors to learn about her. And yes we have made use of it unfortunately!

Things to do // This kind of ties in with accessibility. Obviously whatever you're planning on doing needs to be checked to see if it's a suitable activity/place to visit with a wheelchair. Sometimes you do just have to chance it because it can be tricky finding out and these days places are usually pretty good at having access. A handy tip though is that it's very worth your while checking prices for wheelchair users; quite often either they or a carer will get in places for free. Oh and queue jumping can also be a perk. 

I hope this post was either helpful or interesting!

Amy x

Comments

  1. Aw that photo of you and your sister is adorable :)! I work with disabled people and it's so nice when siblings visit us too and tell us their stories, so this post was lovely.

    Style Sunrise☀

    :)
    x

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    1. Thank you it's one of my favourites :) I had no idea you worked with disabled people! That must be such a rewarding job :) xx

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  2. This was a such a great topic and not enough people cover it so I'm glad your post is out there :) That picture is adorable!

    www.wildfirecharm.com

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    1. Thanks, I love that picture :) I love writing about it so will hopefully cover it more in the future xx

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  3. That is a really sweet picture of you two. I can see the care you take for your sis through this picture. And this post is such a meaningful post. Keep it up honey :)

    xoxo Eva | www.evakindles.com

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    1. Thanks so much Eva, that comment really means a lot :) xx

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  4. I'd love to see more posts like this - you're right, we don't hear very often what it's like for someone in the family to have a disability. Organising a holiday is hard enough without having to worry about whether you or someone with you will be able to get around! There's obviously still a bit to do to make things easier. Thanks for sharing :)

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    1. I'm so glad you'd love to see more :) It is quite stressful but luckily things are getting easier :) xx

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  5. That's such an important post, telling us about your family and also to everyone - I could picture you and your family at the hotel, with the small lift, and finding stairs after that. And your mother does it so right, writing all your sister needs, in case of a problem happens. It's really important! I like to read personal posts, it makes all more real :) Hope you have a very nice week!
    DenisesPlanet.com

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    1. Thanks so much Denise, this comment means so much! I'm glad you liked the post, I like reading more personal ones too :) Hope you're having a good week so far xx

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  6. What a beautiful photo and great tips for anyone travelling for the first time with a disabled person. Hope you are having a lovely holiday. Gemma x
    www.jacquardflower.uk

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    1. Thank you Gemma! I'm glad you think they're useful and it's one of my favourite photos :) xx

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  7. Though I don't personally know anyone with a disability, this is very useful!

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    1. I'm glad this is useful for you, that's why I wrote it :) xx

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  9. I can totally relate to this and it's very well written. I have a disabled sister myself but not as disabled as such. I hope you're doing well☺

    Amy xo | www.amylouiseblogs.co.uk

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    1. Ah thank you so much, I'm so glad you can relate, I'm sure you face similar challenges! xx

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