Since getting ready to travel should have top priority, Global Access invites you to check out the following tips and resources. To share your own helpful tip(s), simply click on the e-mail button at the bottom of the page. Research Most physically disabled travelers can’t easily fly off at the last minute, or stay in a stair-ridden youth hostel when they arrive. If we don’t start planning months ahead of time, any trip can quickly become a nightmare. Taking that planning in stages makes the process far more manageable. Think of travel research as pleasure reading. Once you've chosen a destination, you're ready to start researching. Devour the book catalog and microfiche at your local library first, then head for the new and used book shops. Always check publication dates before you invest in a travel book.. Yes, all those books for able-bodied travelers can still provide good, general information. Unfortunately, one can't usually count on them for accurate access info, but they're still a good source for history, culture, city maps, museum information, etc. For budget travel, we recommend "The Rough Guides," "Lonely Planet" guidebooks and the "Arthur Frommer" series. Prior to your research, you may have had a vague idea that Heidelberg might be an interesting place to visit. But once you start researching that city you'll discover if it's really your bratwurst or not. If it is, start making lists of what you'd like to see and do there, how long it would take you to do them, what it would cost, and what nearby attractions are available. Ferreting out what's accessible comes later. For now, dream. If you're traveling overseas, write to the national tourist office of the destination(s) you plan to visit. Travelers planning to visit U.S. cities should request information from the various cities' Chambers of Commerce or Visitor Information Center. This travel link lists the addresses of worldwide travel offices. Request access information, city maps and brochures describing places and activities of interest you. Be sure to ask if they have any access info or can refer you to any disability organizations in that city. Your most reliable access information will often come from those disability organizations and the networking you do through them. When writing an overseas disability organization, be sure to enclose International Reply Coupons (available from the post office). Overseas postage is expensive, and you’re more likely to receive a response if you foot the bill Join the Travable Listserver and network through your e-mail account with other people interested in accessible travel. It's easy (and free) to subscribe and sign off. People from all over the world subscribe to this list, so it provides a great opportunity to chat with people who share a passion for travel. Visit their web site for details at:: Check our Travel
Links, Travel
Books, and Travel
Archives sections for in-depth info on worldwide destinations. The best sources of accessible travel information are (not surprisingly) published by disabled folks, who invariably provide the most reliable data.. Mobility International, P.O. Box 10767, Eugene, OR 97440, Phone: (541) 343-1284. One of the true pioneers for disabled travelers, Mobility International offers a wonderful quarterly newsletter, "Over the Rainbow" ($15 per year). It details worldwide travel resources and opportunities for disabled people. The Very Special Traveler, P.O. Box 756, New Windsor, MD 21776. Phone: (410) 635-2881. Beverly Nelson's quarterly newsletter shares personal insights from her many trips while listing the latest in resources. Access for Disabled Americans, 436 14th Street
#200, Oakland, CA 94612. SATH (Society for the Advancement of Travel for the Handicapped), 347 Fifth Ave., Ste. 610, New York, NY 10016. Phone: (212) 447-1928. While this publication doesn't provide the disabled traveler's hands-on approach of the other newsletters, this quarterly newsletter, Access to Travel ($13 per year) can offer some advice--especially if pricey group tours are in your budget. Travel Videos are another great resource for general knowledge.. Besides your local library, there are several companies that offer videos in the $25-$30 range. Call for free catalogs. Rand McNally, 2515 E. 43rd St., Chattanooga, TN 37407, Phone: (800) 234-0679. House of Tyrol Inc., P.O. Box 909, Cleveland, GA 30528, Phone: (800) 241-5404. International Video Network , 2246 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583, Phone: (800) 669-4486. The Internet is, of course, a treasure trove of travel information and the perfect place to communicate with other travelers, some of whom are disabled. Start networking online with the following USENET groups: Many overseas destinations require a passport to visit. If you don't already have one, visit your local U.S. post office or government office for an application. Processing may take a month or longer--especially during the summer. They'll need proof of citizenship and a certified copy of your birth certificate, including the registrar's seal. You must enclose two identical 2"x 2" inch photos of yourself. First time applicants over 18 pay $65 for a 10 year passport. If you have an expired U.S. passport, issued no more than 12 years ago, you may apply by mail. Send your old passport, new photos, and DSP-82 renewal form. The cost is $55. Allow 3-4 weeks for its arrival. Since this is one of the most costly items on your budget, call the major airlines and compare prices. Rates are usually lower if you book summer travel in February or March. Most large carriers have toll-free numbers. Ferret out that lowest fare before you visit a travel agency as agents often promote one airline over another that may cost you considerably more. While you’re calling the airlines, research their attitude toward disabled travelers. What are their policies for helping you board, storing a wheelchair, batteries, etc? Ask, ask, ask, and take notes. Choosing a carrier that expresses disability awareness and concern for your comfort makes a big difference. Let’s face it, flying non-stop for 7-8 hours is not exactly a joy ride without an accessible bathroom. We’re all still awaiting that day when there will be truly accessible bathrooms on-board. When booking your flight, remember that point-to-point airfares are always cheaper than “open-jaw” fares, but open-jaw fares provide more flexibility. For instance, a point-to-point round-trip fare to London will always be cheaper (by at least two hundred dollars) than a ticket that takes you into London, but allows you to return home from another city (like Amsterdam). You may find open-jaw fares are well worth the extra money if you don’t have to spend time backtracking in order to catch your flight home. If you're a U.S. disabled citizen and do have a negative experience with an airline, remember that you do have rights. Here are two handy resources: DOT, the U.S. Department of
Transportation Accessibility Homepage lists laws, agencies and advocacy groups concerned with
increasing access to transportation. They provide phone numbers and addresses of government agencies where you can file complaints; links to
Amtrak and Greyhound guides for the disabled; the text of the 1990 Americans
With Disabilities Act; and proposed legislation, with dates and locations of public hearings.
In July 1999, the DOT announced that it will remove the $2,500 cap on compensation that airlines are required to provide if they damage
wheelchairs. Stay tuned for when this measure is finally implemented. The
wheels of government often grind as slowly as a rusty wheelchair! If you'd rather have someone else figure out the best aifare and schedules for you, then choose a travel agent, but choose one carefully. First, ask your disabled friends for referrals, then ask your able-bodied friends. Getting a good recommendation could help you avoid novice agents and/or those who know zip about travel requirements for disabled people. Visit at least two of the agencies and interview the agents about their knowledge of your chosen destination(s). Veteran agents are more likely to remember a hotel with an elevator or recall a museum's access. You'll be able to quickly determine if the agent has a greater interest in your wallet than your access needs. Not that you can totally rely on them for access help. They're there to book planes and tickets, not measure bathroom doors. Any hotel listings they do provide will most likely be in the four to five-star price range. Be wary of 800 numbers as the phone preservationists rarely have a clue about how accessible a room is or isn't. Call the hotel directly and ask to speak to the manager, who should be able to provide you with access info. Be specific about your requirements. If you need a shower chair or TDD, ascertain if the hotel actually has them. Since hotels require a credit card to hold your room, be certain of your dates when making a reservation as cancellations can be costly. If you cancel, the hotel may keep all or part of the cost of your room. Every reservation should be confirmed in writing through a letter or FAX. If you're traveling overseas, sending your message with the international wheelchair symbol on it to remind the hotel that you need an accessible room. Budgeting for meals demands discipline and setting limits. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive, but you can sift right through your budget if you don’t economize by buying snacks from vendors, markets and delis instead of dashing for a restaurant meal that costs four times as much. A bank Gold Card can save you a lot of grief by insuring your purchases for 90 days from the date of purchase. Use this for purchasing something like a video camera that you'd use on the trip within that time frame, and enjoy peace of mind knowing it would be replaced if something happened to it. Gold cards also come in handy for avoiding collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance charges for overseas car rentals. Without a card, CDW can cost an additional $20-$30 per day. If you refuse the rental car company's CDW, and use your Gold Card for this transaction, you can avoid the CDW charges. In addition, your card company will pick up all or part of the bill in case you do have an accident. Check with your individual card company to ascertain their CDW policies. If you're planning an overseas trip, click on this site to use a handy currency converter. At Thomas Cook, exchange U.S. dollars for about $100 currency of each country you plan to visit. Having local currency upon arrival, enables you to skip the long money changing lines at the rail stations. By the way, when you do cash U.S. traveler's checks into local currency, check the commission rate the money changers charge. It can vary a great deal. Railways stations charge more than banks, and banks offer better exchange rates than hotels. At Thomas Cook, you can also buy traveler's checks in the currency of each country you plan to visit. Hotels accept them as easily as cash. Be sure to keep a list of the numbered checks you use in a separate place than your checks and keep emergency numbers handy to replace your checks or credit cards in case they're lost or stolen. Some U.S. banks allow customers to withdraw cash from ATM machines in Europe, but each bank's fee varies. Try to keep souvenir buying to a minimum. After all, whatever you buy you have to either lug around or mail home, which can be costly. Always charge purchases on a Gold credit card that insures all purchases from loss, theft or damage for 90 days. Health, Oxygen, Dialysis & Taking an Attendant Traveling can be a tiring experience even if you're in the best of health. If you require medication, take extra bottles along and a written prescription from your doctor. An increasing number of travelers need oxygen as a necessity. Air travel presents special circumstances as each airline has different policies regarding use of oxygen. One of the best web sites we've seen that deals with this topic is Breathin' Easy --A Guide for Travelers with Pulmonary Disabilities. The Oxygen Traveler can arrange for oxygen deliveries just about anywhere in the world. To learn more about their services contact The Oxygen Traveler at 937-848-7100 Fax: 937-848-7949 or e-mail: oxygen0202@aol.com Check out Ed Long's breathtaking tale of traveling with oxygen: "The Breathless Traveler" in our Travel Archives section. Dialysis The following groups focus on dialysis for travelers: Linda Byers McGrath For dialysis at resorts in Europe, Asia, etc. call: Spa & Dialysis Travel Cruise Planners While Global Access does not endorse any of the following organizations, we wanted to list them as possible sources for your consideration. International Association for Medical Assistance for Travelers, 417 Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092, Phone: (716) 754-4883. This is a network of English speaking physicians throughout the world (125 countries) who will visit your hotel. Medic Alert offers an identity bracelet or necklace containing your medical history. In case of an emergency, your medical history is available 24 hours a day to physicians throughout the world. This may be ordered from: Medic Alert Foundation International, P.O. Box 1009, Turlock, CA 95381-1009. The bracelet has a one-time fee. Travel Assistance International offers overseas medical insurance. For further information contact: Travel Assistance International, Europe Assistance Worldwide Services, Inc., 1333 F Street, N.W., Suite 300, Washington, D.C. 20004, Phone: (202)347-2025 or (800) 821-2828. Taking along an able-bodied friend or attendant will make your trip go a lot smoother, especially if you plan to use a lot of rental cars and hand controls aren’t available. If your disability requires a lot of personal care, don’t travel with anyone who is not familiar with your needs. If you need to hire a travel helper, here are some sources for your consideration. Accessible Journeys, 35 West Sellers Avenue, Ridley Park, PA 19078, USA, Phone: 800-846-4537, FAX:610-521-6959, e-mail: sales@disabilitytravel.com. They operate tours exclusively for slow walkers, wheelchair travelers, their friends and families and can provide travel companions who are registered nurses. Travel Companion Exchange, Box 833, Amityville, NY 11701, Phone: (516) 454-0880. Traveling disabled takes a great deal of planning. Decide what you need on a daily basis but on a much smaller scale. If you are ambulatory mode, try to manage with just one carry-on piece of luggage. If you're a wheelchair traveler, take another one for wheelchair parts, charger, etc., and a wheelchair backpack. If you do use a wheelchair, take the narrowest one you can find. If you can cope without a motor chair, your luggage will be minimal. If not, you might want to consider a motor add-on device that fits your lightweight chair. Damaco actually makes a motor that attaches to a Quickie frame. It collapses in minutes and fits easily into a car trunk. The detachable motor weighs about 17 pounds and fits into a carry-on case, as does the detachable armrest and joystick. Major chair parts can be on-board with you at all times, and you needn't be concerned about mishandling in the airplane baggage department. Let your batteries travel in the cargo after being boxed and labeled. New wheelchair batteries may be essential if you’re taking a power chair. The airlines love gel cells. Even so, when packed they can resemble a suspicious-looking package. Get used to being searched. Many scooter and wheelchair users have experienced damage to their vehicles from airline mishandling. Haseltine Systems sells protective containers for your vehicle. Phone: (203) 387-0450. If you're traveling outside the U.S., you'll need a voltage converter if you plan to use electrical appliances or have a power wheelchair. Consider electrical current. Whether you take a power chair, or any electrical appliances, be aware that electricity abroad varies drastically from the U.S., so you'll need adaptor plugs and a transformer. When buying adapters, plugs and transformers at a travel store in the U.S., be sure you get the right products. They're not easy to get overseas and cost five times as much. For example, Continental Europe wall sockets need two round pins, while British outlets use three flat prongs on their plugs. Don't plug your hairdryer or wheelchair into the hotel's razor plugs. Since they only handle 15 watt appliances, you'll blow a fuse, wreck your equipment and get an angry knock on your door from the manager. If you have questions about converters, first check with your wheelchair manufacturer
then when you can describe your wheelchair needs properly contact the Franzus Company, Dept. B50 Murtha Industrial Park, PO Box
142 Beacon Falls, CT 06403, Tel. (203) 723-6664. They'll send you a free pamphlet
describing foreign electricity. Or check these handy sites: Magellan's Here are some recommended travel essentials. Extra medications and refill prescriptions. Spare eyeglasses if you use them. An inflatable head cushion is perfect for plane or train travel. A small bottle of concentrated liquid detergent for washing out socks, underwear or a shirt. A sink stopper and small clothesline (available at any travel store). An inflatable hanger is great for drying freshly washed things overnight. A small bedpan and one roll of toilet paper could come in handy in rustic areas. Extra name labels for your batteries and luggage. Pre-moistened tissues are great for quick clean-ups. Resalable plastic bags are perfect for storing food, film, container liquids like shampoos, and even maps. Bring a minimum of travel books. Tear out or photocopy the essential pages you'll need and forego the heavy books. Too many books = too much baggage weight Camera and film. Protect film from airport radiation with a protective pouch sold at camera stores. Since most museums will not allow flash, take plenty of 400 ASA film. Take a resalable storage box to hold your toiletries and prevent spillage in your luggage. Sharing shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc. with a companion really cuts luggage weight. These are basic tips for anyone planning their first European trip. Taking a Service Dog Since entry regulations for animals vary for each nation, your best bet is to contact the government tourist boards of each country you plan to visit. For example, Italy's Tourist Board issues a pet approval form that states the dog's health and vaccinations. The form must be signed by a veterinarian France also requires a recent note from your vet that states your dog is in good health and states that you have proof of your dog's rabies vaccination at least a month prior to your trip. Be sure to check with the airline you plan to use for their specific requirements. Some airlines allow a small dog in the cabin. If your pet must travel in cargo, try to book a direct flight as it will prove less stressful for your dog. Booking Rooms While booking rooms, remember that in Europe first floor doesn't necessarily mean ground floor. Europeans refer to what we in the U.S..call our second floor as their first floor. If a hotel clerk tells you they have a first floor room available, be aware that that doesn't mean it's without steps, as your room may be one flight up with no elevator. If you're planning on taking trains, get used to the 24-hour clock, better known as military time. It's the same as our regular clock until noon, then in lieu of p.m. you'll use 13:00 for 1 p.m. 14:00 for 2 p.m., etc. This is in standard use outside the U.S. and it helps to think in these time terms, especially when reading a train timetable. It's simple to convert back to regular time by subtracting 12 hours, i.e. 16:00 -12:00 = 4:00 p.m. Europeans use trains as commonly as we use freeways. For the most part, their rail systems are clean, modern and fast. For overnight trains, You can transfer to the train's couchette seat which reclines and sleep comfortably. Don't expect accessible restrooms, however. The EurailPass will take you far for a reasonable price. There are many versions of this pass. Either try their web site: Rail Europe or call Rail Europe (800) 438-7245. For Brit Rail: 1-800-677-8585 Friendly Agents efficiently provide needed information regarding train timetables, distances between destinations, etc. There are many rail and rail/drive options available. You can chose a Eurail Drive pass that allows the flexibility of using the train to cover long distances then pick up a car at the train station to explore a specific area. In addition to buying a pass, you may find it to your benefit to buy point-to-point tickets for short train rides. Example: Instead of using passes (equal to $45 a day per person) to travel from Venice to Florence (a three-hour ride), purchase point-to-point second class train tickets for $32 apiece. Second class is fine. You'll still get the spacious wheelchair compartment, along with the same views experienced by first class passengers, and save your passes for longer train trips. For overnight train travel, consider a cable lock to secure bags to the overhead rack. Driving a car in Europe offers a lot more flexibility than taking planes and trains, but cars with hand controls are difficult to locate. They are available in London and Paris through both Hertz and Avis. Parking in Europe Great news! European countries now honor disabled parking placards from the U.S. and Canada. The placards must display the international symbol for disability and state the name of the document holder. Prominently display your documents inside your car's windshield. This resolution, passed in 1997 by the ECMT (European Conference of Ministers of Transportation), applies to travelers from EMCT member countries and associated member countries.. The combination Eurail/Drive and Brit Rail/Drive passes are a bargain. In the U.S., purchase the exact number of train and car days you want in advance. Vouchers can provide you with a reserved car of your choice. Car rentals include unlimited mileage and taxes. At each rental location, exchange your pre-bought vouchers for the rental car and be on our way. If you wait to rent a car after arriving in Europe, it can cost over $100 a day. Some travel agents suggest buying an International Driver's Permit. They're available for $10 from the American Automobile Association. If you're taking a wheelchair, consider new tires. In Europe, traditional air-filled inner tubes provide more shock resistance on cobblestones. Wheelchair repair shops are not a common sight in Europe. A tube repair kit should include: bicycle wrenches, puncture repair kit, a tire changing kit and cheap garden gloves. Forget taking a pump. Bicycles shops are common in Europe. You'll find that a narrowing device is essential for doors skinnier than your wheelchair. Use a 12-inch long 1/4" chain with a snap hook at each end that attaches through holes in each wheel axle brace. Shortening the chain as needed by moving the hook to a different link, and re-attaching it will pull the wheels together and narrow the chair. A wheelchair backpack comes in handy constantly for carrying cameras, maps, snacks, etc. A small lock on the pack will keep it free from pickpockets. Money belts provide the ultimate peace of mind for cash, passports, credit cards, tickets etc. Choose one of three styles. One style fits around your waist, another around your neck, and still another style can be worn on your calf. By keeping your valuables in them, you foil potential pickpockets, and sleep comfortably on trains, etc. Your eating utensil pack should include: a plastic folding cup (available at camping stores), straws - they aren't always available in Europe when you need them, a plastic knife, fork and spoon. After arriving at your destination, buy a small knife for cutting cheese, bread, fruit. Pack some extra snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts that could come in handy for snacking on the train or waiting for one. Buy your film in the U.S. It's a lot cheaper. Tap water is usually drinkable everywhere, but for good taste and a cold drink on a hot day bottled water bought from markets and vendors can't be beat. If you'd like to pick up on equivalent disability terms, you might want to order the Disabled Traveler's International Phrase Book for £1.75 ($2.73). It's available from Disability Press Ltd., Applemarket House, 17 Union Street, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey KT1 1RP, England, Tel. 081-549-6399. It features French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish and Dutch phrases that might come in handy Self-service laundromats are not the 24-hour type places we're accustomed to in the U.S. Most European establishments aren't open late in the evening, and quality of machines can vary. Your hotel manager will direct you to the most convenient one. If you must call home, use a calling card. Direct dial calls cost about $3 per minute, but calls charged on a card are one-third to one-half the direct dial cost. Clothing Unless you're taking along a pack mule, both you (and any possible helper) will appreciate minimal luggage. This helps one avoid long lines at the baggage claim area as well as any chance of lost luggage. I travel with two carry-on suitcases (one for clothes and one for wheelchair essentials) and an empty wheelchair backpack. Here are some packing suggestions. A selection of cotton/poly clothing that won't wrinkle or retain stains. One warm, lightweight jacket, preferably one with a detachable liner. One plastic hooded rain poncho. This is critical gear, as the weather can be unpredictable. You needn't splurge for the pricey ones offered in the disability clothing catalogs. Just pick up one from your travel or luggage store, and tuck the back in so it won't get caught on your wheels. One everyday warm sweater and one dressy sweater (men and women). A warm scarf and a a brimmed hat. One long-sleeved cotton/poly dress shirt and tie (men). One cotton/poly dressy blouse (women). One extra pair of jeans and one pair of dress slacks (men or women). A skirt or dress is optional. Five polo shirts or T-shirts and one sweatshirt to layer over them. Five changes of socks and underwear. Your most comfortable shoes imaginable with a non-slip sole. What to Leave at Home Sometimes it's more important to know what not to take. Here are some suggestions for what to leave behind. Any valuable jewelry. It's just one more thing to keep track of. If you can't bear to leave something behind, put it in the hotel safe when you're not wearing it. Never leave it in your room. Clothing that can't be thrown in a washer and dryer without looking like hell. Anything you will use only once. For good, general knowledge of the following European countries, click on the highlighted name. Disabled access is specifically addressed on our Disability Links page.
Here are e-mail addresses for tourist offices that will repond to queries from the public: Austrian National Tourist Office Belgian Tourist Office British Tourist Authority Irish Tourist Board Hungarian Tourist Board Monaco Government Tourist Office Polish National Tourist Office
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