As a travel writer since 1977, Candy Harrington has been writing about accessible travel exclusively since 1996. She’s the founding editor of Emerging Horizons, and the author of the popular Barrier-Free Travel national park series. With thousands of bylines to her credit, Candy hits the road often, in search of new accessible travel finds. Candy and her travel photographer husband Charles Pannell reside in NE Washington, where they tend to their chicken flock and enjoy a rural lifestyle.
Located in northern Ohio, Maumee Bay State Park is a nature lovers dream; but that doesn’t mean you have to rough it when you overnight there. Quite the contrary, as Maumee Bay Lodge (www.maumeebaylodge.com/) offers a comfortable and accessible alternative. Not only can you spend the night in this wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin, but you’re also just a stone’s throw away from some great accessible trails.
Spend the Night
Billed as Ohio’s premier resort, this family friendly lakeside property features accessible parking in the lodge lot, with a barrier-free path to the lobby door. Alternatively, there’s a large drop-off area directly outside the lobby entrance. Inside, there’s wheelchair access to all the public areas, including the Water’s Edge Restaurant and the Icebreaker Lounge; and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter to the front desk.
Accessible Cabin 17 is located a short drive away, along a road that overlooks the adjacent marsh. Accessible parking is available in a paved area in front of the cottage, with a wide level walkway up to the front porch. Although there’s a small lip at the transition from the walkway to the porch, it’s doable for most folks with a little assistance. The four-bedroom deluxe cottage features wide doorways and excellent pathway access to all the first-floor rooms, with stairway access to the two upstairs bedrooms.
One downstairs bedroom is furnished with a bunk bed and a twin bed, while the other bedroom has a 24-inch high king-sized bed. Upstairs, one bedroom has a bunk bed and a double bed, and the other bedroom has a double bed. The ground floor bathroom is equipped with a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower bench, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Other access features include a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated). The second-floor bathroom has a low-step shower, but it lacks grab bars or the space to maneuver a wheelchair.
Shower in cabin 17 on the ground floor
Toilet and sink in Cabin 17 on the ground floor
Downstairs you’ll also find a gas fireplace, a washer and dryer, a spacious deck and a standard hot tub. Top it off with a well equipped kitchen and you have everything you need for a family getaway at this wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin.
Ground floor of cabin 17 at Maumee Bay Lodge
Explore Maumee Bay Lodge
There’s certainly no shortage of recreational activities at Maumee Bay Lodge, many of which are accessible and can be enjoyed by the whole family. There is barrier-free access to the indoor splash area, which includes seven splash features, as well as a waterfall that spills into the pool. There is also an accessible locker room nearby, which is equipped with roll-in showers.
Soft Play Area at Maumee Bay Lodge
If you’d prefer to keep your little ones active but dry, then check out the soft play area for children, which includes pirate-themed climbing features on a cushioned floor. There is level access to this brightly colored indoor play area, and plenty of room to roll around the climbing features.
Outside, there are a number of accessible options, including bicycling or hiking on one of the many bicycle trails throughout the park. Although the trails weren’t specifically designed to be accessible, most of them are level and very doable for wheelers and slow walkers.
If you want to learn a little about the native flora and fauna, head over to the Trautman Nature Center, located next to the lodge. There is barrier-free access to the building, which houses a number of interpretive exhibits detailing the nature and history of the area.
Maumee Bay Lodge boardwalk
Finally, save some time for a first-hand look at the local inhabitants on the two-mile boardwalk, just east of the lodge. There is barrier-free access to this excellent loop trail, and interpretive signs along the way. Best of all, one side of the boardwalk is pleasantly devoid of railings, so wheelers can enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding wetlands. It’s the perfect way to top off your wheelchair-accessible Maumee Bay cabin stay.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
The Lost Man Creek Trail in Redwood National Park, California
When I first started writing about wheelchair-accessible travel some 30 years ago, I was definitely the odd duck in the pond. I remember approaching tourism reps and explaining my niche — travel for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Usually the response was a polite smile, a nod, a deafening silence or the ever so popular, “we have accessible restrooms in our visitor center” reply.
While I certainly don’t long for those days, it seems that things have come full circle today, and now wheelchair-accessible travel is the cool niche. Diversity is “in”. And although this visibility is a good thing, it’s a double-edged sword. Everyone wants accessible travel content, but the majority of folks don’t want to take the time to appropriately research it, which unfortunately has led to a glut of misinformation. And the internet has made it easy to cobble together articles by cherry picking “facts” from online “resources” that may or may not have been properly researched.
So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff as far as reliable and accurate wheelchair-accessible travel content is concerned? Truth be told there’s not one sure-fire test, but here are a few tips that will help you weed out those poorly researched pieces — ones in which the writers have never actually visited the destinations in question — and direct you to the more useful and accurate access resources.
In this day and age of outsourcing tasks, writing is no different. In fact there are many sites online that offer custom content for as little as $5. And to be honest, who can blame people for going the economical route when getting content for a website? The thing is, you get what you pay for, and in many cases this content is being crafted by folks who speak very little English, and just put their finished work through an on-line translator. And of course, for $5 their research is almost non-existent.
And with the increased usage of Artificial Intelligence to craft articles, credible content is getting harder and harder to find. So, if you start to read an article that makes little sense, keeps repeating the same thing in different ways, or begins to sound like those e-mails that you receive from that Nigerian prince who wants to give you millions, chances are the content is not well researched.
Shower at the Little River Inn, Mendocino County, California
There’s just no way to get around this requirement. That said, all photos are not created equal, as far as website usage is concerned. Be clear, I’m not talking about quality here, but instead photo content. Be wary of wheelchair-accessible travel articles that only show the beautiful glossy tourism photos, and have no specific access photos.
For example, if an article talks about an accessible hotel, but includes a photo of the well manicured gardens under the hotel sign, but fails to feature any photos of the accessible rooms, that’s a huge tip-off that the writer has never been in the accessible room. Chances are they are getting their access information second-hand, which in most cases is incorrect, or at the very least inaccurate. Look for photos that accurately depict access.
Candy enjoys a Moroccotini at the El Morocco in Desert Hot Springs, California
Although the jury is still out on whether you actually have to visit a destination to write a general travel article about it, there is absolutely no way you can pen a wheelchair-accessible travel piece without a site visit. Unfortunately some people are taking shortcuts and gleaning information from online sites and putting it into their accessible travel articles — all without ever leaving their desk. This of course leads to a lot of misinformation, and then that content is subsequently copied by others and repurposed into more inaccurate articles. It’s a vicious cycle.
So how do you tell if a writer has been to a destination? Well some folks just come right out and tell you, while others weave it subtly into their narrative. And then some folks tell it with detailed photos or stories about their trips. Beware of any article that reads like a travel brochure and gives absolutely no indication that the writer ever visited the destination. Also watch out for articles that continually quote websites — “xyz.com says that the Acme Hotel has accessible rooms with roll-in showers” — as that sometimes indicates the writer has not visited the destination to check out the access first-hand.
And then there are the influencers, who are paid to promote specific destinations. Some influencers present honest reviews, while others just praise destinations and post photos of themself frolicking on the beach in a designer outfit with perfectly coiffed hair. Be wary of any article that paints a picture of a “perfect” destination, without at least taking some of the drawbacks or access shortfalls into consideration. There is no one destination that’s perfect for everyone.
Covering wheelchair-accessible travel is not as easy as it looks — trust me on this one. Not only do you have to do site inspections, but you have to know what to look for. There’s no shortage of places that I’ve visited that claimed to be wheelchair-accessible, but instead had one or two steps at the entrances. And let’s not even talk about the B&B that had two two-by-fours as an entrance ramp. Suffice it to say that if an article only says that a place is wheelchair-accessible, but gives no other concrete access details, chances are either the writer has not visited the place, or they have absolutely no idea about the access needs of wheelchair-users and slow walkers. And remember, everyone’s access needs are different.
Bathroom at the Olea Hotel in Glen Ellen, California
If an article gives little more than the catch phrase “ADA compliant” as the entire access description for a hotel, chances are the writer didn’t visit the property. Additionally, since the average traveler has no idea of the actual ADAAG regulations (https://www.access-board.gov/ada/), that phrase is pretty meaningless. For example, let’s say you are looking for a hotel with a roll-in shower and you read in an article that a certain hotel is “ADA compliant”. Chances are you’d probably assume that hotel has a roll-in shower — and that assumption might be incorrect. According to the ADAAG, only hotels with over 50 rooms are required to have accessible rooms with roll-in showers; so if the hotel only had 45 rooms that “ADA compliant” property would probably only have accessible rooms with tub/shower combinations. And a detailed access description — instead of a short catch phrase — would have clarified that fact.
Don’t automatically rule out an article that includes archaic — by US standards — terminology, like “handicapped” and “infirmed”. Although it would tend to show a lack of understanding if these words were used by someone in the US, they are the norm in some developing countries. Look beyond the words for a true understanding of access issues.
For example if the article assumes that all wheelchair-users can walk and that one or two steps won’t be a problem, then that person does not understand the realities of life in a wheelchair. Moreover, that lack of understanding will most likely result in an inappropriate evaluation of the access. On the other hand, if you find an article by someone who doesn’t quite get the language right, but still has a good understanding of access needs, it may actually provide some important access information on a less-touristed region of the world.
Accessible Red Bus in Glacier National Park, Montana
In order to evaluate access, you need to look at the big picture. Be cautious of destination articles that don’t include access information about ancillary services, such as public transportation. If the author has traveled to the area, they most certainly know about the availability of accessible public transportation, and understand the importance of including this detail in the article.
I’ve seen many an accessible travel article filled with flowery prose, about areas that I know have no accessible public transportation. The authors mention the sandy beaches and gorgeous sunsets, yet fail to acknowledge there is no accessible way to get from the airport to the hotel. Conversely, watch out for articles that claim a destination is accessible because it has an accessible bus system, yet lacks any concrete access details about lodging or attractions.
Finally be wary of roundup articles and listicles. These short pieces are all the rage with editors today, and most have a catchy title like “25 of the Best places to X”. Although they are fun to read, they generally contain very little substantive information; as the writer usually didn’t visit the destinations.
Instead these articles are filled with access information gleaned from the internet and combined with flowery prose from tourist brochures. That said, some legitimate travel writers — myself included — sometimes pen roundup pieces that contain useful access information. In the end, the key is in the access details — look for them. If they are missing or glossed over, that article is probably chock full of misinformation.
I recently ran into an old friend at the grocery store, and as old friends do, we spent a few minutes excitedly catching up with one another. I told Christy about my upcoming book projects, Charles’ battle with Dupuytren’s and the new additions to our flock; while she updated me about her now-teen daughters, her husband’s new job and her growing catering business.
As we were saying our good-byes she added, “Oh yeah, I’m a travel agent now. I signed up last week. I write a travel blog, and people always ask me for advice, so I figured I may as well get paid to help them out now. I might even venture into disabled travel, and if I do I’ll hit you up for advice on that for sure. Catch ya later.” As Christy walked away I just stood there in a state of shock. I mean, how much travel agent training could she get in a week?
I have a number of good friends who have been travel agents for well over 40 years, and I know how hard they work, and how much training they have. Is it really possible for Christy to just sign on the dotted line and become a travel agent – with absolutely no training? This especially concerned me because of her comment about accessible travel – a growing travel niche for sure. So I decided to do a little digging to find more about travel agent training.
For a little primer on travel agent training. I had several discussions with long-time travel agents — those with several decades of experience under their belts. These folks are not only intimately familiar with all aspects of the business side of things, but they are also well versed in the training that new agents may or may not receive.
First and foremost, there’s no national licensing or training requirement for travel agents in the U.S. That said, some states require travel agents to post a surety bond or obtain a sellers permit in order to do business in that state. There are however several business models for travel agents.
The most common business model is an agency owner, who can have independent contractors working for them. In this case the agency, often called a host agency, trains the contracted agents and sometimes provides them with errors and omissions insurance. The independent agents book clients through the host agency and the host agency pays them a commission. A big advantage to this business model is that the host agency has agreements with preferred suppliers and consortiums, who offer extra perks for the agency’s clients. The downside is that the agent training really depends on the host agency – some provide a good deal of training, while others offer minimal support.
Another business model — the employer travel agency model — is much like the independent contractor model. The big difference is that employer travel agents are paid a flat wage and are subject to agency rules and oversight. Like the host agency the employer agency also has agreements with preferred suppliers and usually provides ongoing training to their agents. Examples of employer travel agencies are American Express and AAA.
Another business model is where experienced travel agents buy into a national franchise. It’s not a cheap investment, so these travel agents — now franchise owners — are usually committed to providing their clients with a high standard of service. Like the host agency business model, franchise owners also have access to preferred suppliers for extra client perks. The other advantage to this model is that the franchise owners benefit from the name brand and advertising reach of the national franchise. Some examples of franchises are Cruise Planners and Dream Vacations (formerly Cruise One). Generally speaking franchise owners undergo a large amount of travel agent training.
At the bottom of the food chain in travel agent land is the Multi Level Marketing (MLM) business model. In order to join a MLM, you need to fill out a few forms and pay a fee. Travel agents in this business model receive minimal training — usually in the form of webinars — and in fact their main focus is on building their downline (recruiting more agents) or earning prizes and free trips instead of actively booking travel.
The MLMs recruit new agents by promising free or discounted travel, and in some cases the agents don’t even actively seek out clients. And as my experienced travel agent friends told me, many long time travel agents feel that the MLM agents give them a bad name, because of their narrow focus, little experience and lack of real training.
Travel Agent Training and Professional Memberships
Although there’s no license required to become a travel agent, there are a number of training courses and designations that give travel professionals the extra knowledge and expertise needed to deal with a wide variety of travel-related issues.
At the top of the list are the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) designations available through the Travel Institute. Although any travel agent can become a rank-and-file member of the Travel Institute and take advantage of their continuing education webinars, travel agents are required to have at least one year of experience in order to attain CTA status. CTC and CTIE designations require at least five years experience in the industry. All of the designations require a significant time and financial investment. In short, if your travel agent has any of these designations, you know you are dealing with a seasoned professional.
Many travel agents also boast about their memberships in trade associations such as the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). These trade associations are open to both both independent contractor and employee travel agents. CLIA requires members to generate at least $5000 in commissions every year, and offers a number of advanced designations, from Certified Cruise Counselor to Elite Cruise Counselor. ASTA Membership, on the other hand, is open to any travel agent who is an employee or independent contractor for an employer agency or host agency who is ASTA member.
At the bottom of the travel agent credential list are certifications from destinations, tourist boards, resorts and cruise lines. Agents can obtain these by attending short informational presentations or longer webinars, training sessions and multi-day conferences. And although product knowledge is good thing, be wary of agents that are “specialists” in everything.
In the end, certifications and professional memberships can be key elements in travel agent training. That said, dedication, professionalism and product knowledge also come into play. Just because you like to travel doesn’t mean you can just pop into a travel agency, sign on the dotted line, and magically be transformed into a competent travel agent. In short, it’s a package deal – hard work, the right certifications and ongoing training will yield the desired outcome. That said, it’s more than an alphabet soup of professional initials on a business card – it’s also about how travel agents conduct their business. With that in mind, here are a few ways to spot a real pro.
First off, your prospective travel agent should ask a lot of questions – about your travel style, budget and general expectations. In travel-agent parlance this is known as “qualifying” a client, and it’s essential, so that clients get what they want, not what the travel agent happens to personally like. This is one thing that legitimate travel agents do, as they realize that the same vacation isn’t right for anybody.
This is especially important for accessible travel, as it’s not a cookie-cutter niche. All disabilities are not alike, and even individuals that have the same disability may have different access needs. For example, one power wheelchair-user may require a roll-in shower, while another person with the exact same disability may need a tub/shower combination with a shower chair. Qualifying a client with a disability takes even longer, because the agent needs to ask a lot of access-related – and sometimes personal – questions. If your prospective travel agent doesn’t spend much time on this, then you are perhaps dealing with someone who lacks the appropriate training.
Destination knowledge also factors into the travel agent training process, and this knowledge comes with experience and repetition. After all, when you book one type of travel day-in and day-out you learn the top attractions, the preferred suppliers and insider secrets. So it only goes to follow that an agency that specializes in a particular type of travel probably has better trained agents than an agency that has no specialty.
Again, that’s because these agents book the same type of travel again and again, and this repetition helps when it comes to training new agents. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to ask a prospective travel agent about their experience with booking your preferred type of travel. Going one step further, it wouldn’t be out of line to ask a prospective cruise agent how many cruises they have taken. After all, a good travel agent should be intimately familiar with their product.
Last, but certainly not least, longevity in the business is also the sign of a real professional, as that experience builds good connections that give clients better offerings. Longevity leads to a large network, and it also leads to knowing what to do – and who to contact – when things go wrong. The real professionals don’t tweet about lost luggage or a delayed flight – they know who to contact on the inside to remedy that problem. And that only comes with experience.
Bottom Line – a properly trained and experienced travel agent can help you find a vacation that suits your tastes, budget and access needs; so make sure and take the time to fully research any travel professional, before you sign on the dotted line.
Thanks to the work of David’s Chair, loaner track chairs are now available at a number of Oregon locations. These rugged wheelchairs are outfitted with tank tracks instead of wheels and they can easily travel over sand and other obstacles found on inaccessible trails and beaches.
About the Track Chairs
Three types of track chairs are available — standing models, seated models and a youth chair. All have a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds. Although the majority of the chairs are available at fixed locations, there are also several several models in the tow-and-go program. This program includes a track chair in a ramped trailer that can be towed by a personal vehicle. Tow vehicles need to have a two-inch ball with a straight four-prong trailer hookup and safety chain hooks.
Advance reservations are required for all loaner track chairs, and a liability waiver must also be signed. Some locations offer limited time slots, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Reservations for fixed location chairs can only be made at davidschair.org/request-fixed-location-chair/, while reservations for tow-and-go track chairs can be made at davidschair.org/request-tow-n-go-chair/.
Track Chair Locations
Fixed Locations
Seaside Elks Lodge #1748
324 Avenue A
Seaside, OR 97138
This seated model can be only used at the beach, which is located 2.5 blocks from the lodge.
Manzanita Visitor Center
30 Laneda Avenue
Manzanita, OR 97130
This seated model can only be used at the the beach off of Laneda Avenue, which is a short roll from the visitor center.
Gold Beach Visitor Center
94080 Shirley Lane
Gold Beach, OR 97444
This seated model can only be used on the beach near the Gold Beach Visitor Center.
Heceta Beach County Park
88466 1st Avenue
Florence, OR 97439
This seated model can only be used on the beach north of Driftwood Shores Resort, which can be accessed by the Heceta Beach access point.
Happy Camp Hideaways
825 Happy Camp Road
Tillamook, OR 97141
This seated model can only be used to access the beach off of Happy Camp Road.
Don and Ann Davis Park
840 West Olive Street
Newport, OR 97565
This seated model can only be used to access the beach near Don and Ann Davis Park.
The Pelican (Cape Kiwanda Parking Lot)
33180 Cape Kiwanda Drive
Pacific City, OR 97135
This standing model can only be used to access Pacific City Beach from the nearby parking lot.
Mount Pisgash Arboretum
34901 Frank Parrish Road
Eugene, OR
This seated model can only be used at the Mount Pisgash Arboretum.
Lithia Park Cabin
340 S. Pioneer Street
Ashland, OR
This seated model can only be used in Lithia Park.
Tow-and-Go Locations
White City
This location has a standing model, a seated model and a youth chair.
Gold Beach
This location has a seated model.
Coos Bay
This location has a seated model.
For more information about these programs, visit davidschair.org/.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which was first passed in 1986, covers air travel on US airlines and on all flights to and from the US. Fortunately it’s been updated over the years. The most recent update, which was on July 20, 2020, largely addressed access issues on single aisle aircraft with more than 125 seats. The current proposed updates include some service performance recommendations for the airlines, as well as the addition of improved access features on twin aisle aircraft.
Proposed ACAA Changes
Some of the airline service issue proposed changes include:
Clarify “safe and dignified assistance for disabled passengers.”
Clarify “prompt enplaning and deplaning assistance for disabled passengers.”
Make mishandling of assistive devices an ACAA violation (subject to fines).
Require airlines to notify passengers when their wheelchairs have been loaded and unloaded from the cargo bay.
Require airlines to notify passengers immediately if their assistive device will not fit in the cargo bay.
Require airlines to transport delayed wheelchairs within 24 hours.
Require airlines to offer passengers a choice between having the airline handle repair to their damaged wheelchair, or letting the passenger deal directly with the vendor of their choice.
Require airlines to provide functional loaner wheelchairs in the event of wheelchair damage, and to consult with the passenger regarding their specific needs.
Require airlines to provide reimbursement of the fare difference if a passenger has to take a more expensive flight because their wheelchair won’t fit on their original (cheaper) choice.
Require airlines to provide enhanced training to employees and contractors who physically assist disabled passengers or handle mobility devices.
The proposed changes for improvement to the access features on twin aisle aircraft include:
Set a size standard for accessible lavatories on twin-aisle aircraft. The current standard is “to permit a disabled passenger and their attendant to enter the lavatory”. The proposed standard would be that the lavatory must have enough room for two males in the 95th percentile of height and weight (6 ft. 2 in., 246 pounds). That was the standard that was set for single aisle aircraft with more than 125 seats in the 2020 update.
Set new standards for on-board wheelchairs, that would require them to be maneuverable in the accessible lavatories. It would also apply to single aisle aircraft with more than 60 seats.
Airline Costs & Feedback
As far as the costs of these proposed ACAA changes to the airlines, it’s estimated that most of the service issues won’t result in any increased cost. The enhanced training for airline personnel and the improved standards for on-board wheelchairs are the big ticket items though. The former is expected to cost the airlines $5.44 million and the latter is expected to cost them $700,000.
And nobody really knows how much more it will cost the airlines in fines if the mishandling of assistive devices is considered an ACAA violation.
On the other hand, the Department of Transportation (DOT) believes the unquantified benefits of the proposed rule would outweigh the additional costs to the airlines. These benefits include a reduction of injuries and fatalities sustained by disabled passengers while receiving physical assistance from airline personnel, as well as a reduction in injuries from using inappropriate assistive devices after airline loss or damage to personal assistive devices. And I’d say that’s a huge benefit.
Of course the airlines have a different take, which basically boils down to a delaying tactic. Several airlines organizations, including Airlines for America, the International Air Transport Association, the National Air Carriers Association, the Regional Airline Association and the Airline Service Providers jointly submitted public comments to the proposal. They want to delay the May 13, 2024 deadline for comments for 90 days, so the air carriers can have ample time to prepare their responses.
And of course, once the public comment it done, then the DOT takes things under advisement and either issues a final rule or asks for more comments on specific issues. Then when the final rule is adopted, a specific date is set for implementation. So let’s just say that this isn’t a quick process. We don’t need any more delays.
What Can You Do?
Of course the public has a say in these proposed ACAA changes too. And I encourage everyone to make a public comment. You have until May 13, 2024 and it’s easy. Just go to https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/DOT-OST-2022-0144-0225, type in your comment, and then hit “submit”. It’s that easy.
What should you say? Well of course you should encourage the DOT to quickly adopt the proposed rules, but if you have personal experience with accessible air travel that didn’t exactly go as planned then tell your story. What kinds of things should you tell them?
If your assistive device was lost or damaged by an airline, how did it affect you?
Have you ever had a bad experience or been injured being transferred to or from an aisle chair?
Have you ever been given a loaner wheelchair from an airline that didn’t meet your physical needs? How did this affect you?
Have you ever flown on a wide body jet but couldn’t access the lavatory because the on-board wheelchair wouldn’t fit inside? What did you do and how did it affect you?
Have you ever not been able to fit in the onboard lavatory on a widebody jet? What did you do?
Have you ever sat on an airplane for an extended period of time after landing, waiting for you wheelchair to be delivered to the gate?
Did you ever arrive at the airport, only to find out that your wheelchair did not fit in the cargo bay? How did the airline handle the situation and what ultimately happened?
Have you ever missed a connecting flight because the airline took too long to get your wheelchair back to you?
Let the DOT know about these things!
Afraid to Fly?
Or maybe you’ve never flown, because you are afraid that the airline will damage your wheelchair. Let the DOT know about that too. And if you have friends or family who would benefit from these proposed ACAA changes, speak up on that subject too.
The point is that if we don’t all speak up, then things will never change. Before the ACAA was enacted, some airlines required wheelchair-users to sit on blankets because they were afraid they would soil their seats. The ACAA — which was enacted before the ADA — put a stop to that. And with some comments we can all put a stop to the high incidence of airline damaged wheelchairs, and make flying a reality for more people.
Located on the main drag of the Gold Rush town of Murphys, the Victoria Inn (www.victoriainn-murphys.com/) fits right in with the vintage buildings that line the thoroughfare. And aside from the allure of its decidedly old world ambiance, it also makes a great home base for exploring the area. Not only is the property located within walking distance of many favorite restaurants and tasting rooms, but it’s also just a short hop off of Highway 4, which connects to other Calaveras County must-sees. And although the Victorian Era wasn’t exactly know for its stellar wheelchair access, this namesake property does a nice job accommodating the needs of wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
Finding the Property
Admittedly, finding this property can be a challenge if you are unfamiliar with the area, and are relying on GPS. Granted GPS will technically take you to the front door; however you can’t exactly see the front door from Main Street. The Victoria Inn is located across the street from Murphys Mall, between Murphys Village Toy Store and Shirt Tales Boutique; however the approach to the parking lot is marked “no outlet” and it looks like a private driveway.
Nonetheless, that is the correct spot to turn. If you miss it, then turn on Church Street, go around the block and try again. The small parking lot includes one accessible space that’s usually open, and from there it’s just a short walk to the registration area. There’s no guaranteed public parking with a room reservation, so try and grab the accessible parking space as soon as you can. There’s also some public parking in the lot on Church Street, but if you choose that option, try and drop off any wheelchair-users or slow walkers first.
Spend the Night
Entry to room 15 at the Victoria Inn
There’s ramp access up to the main building of the Victoria inn, and level access through the front door to the registration desk. There’s also barrier-free access to a large room off the front lobby which is furnished with sofas and chairs and has all the essentials for a relaxing stay. There are cookies, water, ice, board games, coffee, cocoa, a microwave and of course the requisite wine glasses available for guest use.
Room 15 (also called Mae’s Room) is located in a small cottage around the corner. Although the accessible parking spot is near the registration desk, there’s paved standard parking in front of the cottage that may be more convenient for guests. There’s ramp access up to the front door, and level access to the room. Access features include wide doorways, lever handles and adequate pathway access.
Inside room 15 at the Victoria Inn
The room is furnished with a 24-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on the left (as you face it), a chest of drawers and two end tables. The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius, a tile floor and a pedestal sink. The 36-inch-square transfer-type shower has a slight half-inch lip, and is equipped with a fold-down shower seat (with easy transfer access from the bathroom), and a hand-held showerhead. There’s also a portable shower bench, if needed, The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated).
Sink in room 15
Shower in room 15
toilet in room 15
There’s also a small front porch with two chairs and a table, which can be moved to accommodate a wheelchair. The porch is surrounded by trees and it’s a nice place to enjoy a glass of wine after a long day of sightseeing. It’s a very relaxing and accessible Calaveras County lodging pick.
Barrier-Free Travel National Park Lodges for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Located in Northwest Washington, Mount Rainier towers 14,410 feet over the surrounding alpine meadows. And when the “mountain is out” it’s visible from as far away as Seattle, Portland and even Vancouver. That said, there’s nothing like a close look at this active volcano, which can be had from Mount Rainier National Park , as well as aboard a local rail excursion. Although it’s only possible to access these sites in the summer season, due to snow and road closures; they are definitely worth a visit. So take some time to to check out these wheelchair-accessible Mount Rainier views on your next Washington national park road trip.
Kautz Creek Boardwalk
Located about three miles east of the Nisqually Entrance to Mount Rainier National Park, the Kautz Creek Boardwalk is one of the newest accessible trails in the park. There’s accessible parking near the picnic area, with level access to the .1-mile boardwalk across the street. The boardwalk leads through a section of forest that’s still recovering from a 1947 glacier generated debris flow, and it ends in a crushed granite viewing area with a few benches. And on a clear day, you just can’t beat the Mount Rainier view from there.
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center
Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center
Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible Mount Rainier views is the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center, which is located about 14 miles up the road in Paradise. This area of the park was named by an early settler who reportedly exclaimed “Oh, what a paradise!” when she first saw it. And it’s a fitting description. There’s accessible parking in front of the building, with barrier-free access to all areas of the visitor center. The visitor center offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the area, but you’ll also get a great Mount Rainier view if you just step out the back door. And if you hit this stop at the right time in the summer, you’ll also be treated to a nice view of the wildflower-filled meadows.
Reflection Lake Pullout
The next stop is about 3.5 miles up the road at the Reflection Lake Pullout. Although the lake is on the left side, the most accessible viewpoint is located on the right. The small parking area includes an accessible parking place with curb-cut access out to the viewpoint. And you just can’t beat the stunning reflection of Mount Rainer in the water. This is also a great stop for folks who have trouble walking, as you can get a nice windshield view from the pullout.
Sunrise Visitor Center
Mount Rainier viewed from Sunrise Visitor Center
The highest point in Mount Rainier National Park which can be reached by vehicle is located in Sunrise, about 60 miles northeast of the Nisqually Entrance. And it just makes sense that you’ll get a good mountain view from this 6,400 foot vantage point. Although the front entrance to the Sunrise Visitor Center has steps, there’s an accessible side entrance. There are a number of interpretive exhibits inside, but the main attraction is the view. You’ll get an absolutely jaw-dropping glimpse of the mountain from the spotting scope on the far side of the room. It’s definitely worth the drive! Plan ahead though, as the visitor center is generally only open from July through mid-September, as the road closes after the first substantial snowfall.
Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
The Nisqually River Viewed from Mount Rainier Railroad
Last but not least on our list of wheelchair-accessible Mount Rainier views, is the impressive vista that can be seen aboard the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad (mtrainierrailroad.com). This seasonal train excursion departs from the Elbe depot, which is just 15 minutes from the Nisqually Entrance. There’s accessible parking near the depot, with barrier-free access to the building. Accessible restrooms are located next door, and there are plenty of accessible pathways around the outside depot area. There’s lift access up to the roomy baggage car, which has plenty of room for a wheelchair. This scenic excursion travels along the Nisqually River and offers no shortage of photo worthy views. And there’s an announcement right before you round the corner for that iconic Mount Rainier view. And with the large open doorways and a safety fence in place, wheelchair-users have the perfect vantage point. It’s a great addition to any Mount Rainier visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Washington National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers
Today air travel comes with the obligatory — and often dreaded — trek through the airport security checkpoint. And although the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) won’t release their exact screening protocols due to security reasons; they have made public their rules and regulations for screening disabled passengers (www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures). That said, a little advance planning goes a long way to help the whole process go a bit smoother. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you out along the way.
Tips and Tricks
Allow plenty of extra time to get through airport security, especially if you wear a prosthesis or use any type of assistive device.
If you can’t walk or go through the metal detector, tell the TSA agent. You will be hand-wanded and given a pat-down search.
If you tire easily or can’t stand for long periods of time, request a chair during the screening process.
Slow walkers should request a wheelchair at check-in. This will expedite the screening process as wheelchair-users are usually fast-tracked through security.
Canes and walkers are allowed through security checkpoints, but they will be inspected thoroughly by security personnel.
Prosthetic devices do not have to be removed for screening; however the screener will manually inspect the device and swab it for explosive residue.
You have the right to a private screening and to have a companion present during that screening.
You are not required to remove your shoes if your disability prevents you from doing so. You will however be subject to a pat-down search and your shoes will be swabbed.
Liquid medications are allowed through the airport security checkpoint; however if they are in volumes larger than 3 ounces each, they may not be placed in the quart-size bag and must be declared to the TSA agent before the screening process begins. They must be removed from your luggage and kept separate from items to be x-rayed.
Sharp objects or anything that could be used as a weapon will be confiscated at the security checkpoint, so pack your wheelchair-repair tools in your checked luggage.
Syringes are allowed through the security checkpoint upon inspection. Although not required, it’s best to bring a doctor’s note when carrying syringes in an airport.
TSA Cares Hotline
Last but not least, contact the TSA Cares Hotline (855-787-2227) at least 72 hours in advance to request the assistance of a Passenger Support Specialist or a Supervisory TSA Officer at the security checkpoint. Questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint can also be answered on this hotline.
In the end, patience is really the key for dealing with airport security; however, if you feel your needs as a passenger with a disability are not being adequately addressed, don’t be afraid to speak up.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Park Road Trips for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
If you are looking for wheelchair-accessible airport transfers in Puerto Vallarta, then look no further than Puerto Vallarta Transportations (puertovallartaairporttransportation.com/puerto-vallarta-handicap-transportation). This local transportation provider has a ramped van that can accommodate even the largest power wheelchair and scooter. Wheelchair-users can stay in their own wheelchairs (and use the tie downs) or opt to transfer to the van seat. The van can accommodate one wheelchair-user and five other passengers, or two wheelchair-users and three other passengers. Top it off with bi-lingual drivers, and an accessible van with plenty of room for all your luggage, and you have a winning combination. For more information about wheelchair-accessible airport transfers in Puerto Vallarta, visit the Puerto Vallarta Transportations website or drop them an e-mail at info@puertovallartaairporttransportation.com.
Spring is a time of renewal, and for many folks it’s also time for a little spring cleaning. We move the furniture, dust and vacuum, maybe declutter a bit, and then clean off the deck and put out the outdoor furniture. And when it’s all done, it’s nice to have a clean and decluttered environment.
Emerging Horizons & Candy’s Blog
The same can be also said for creative works, like this blog. Sometimes they also need a little spring cleaning. I’ve been writing about accessible travel for nearly 30 years, and I started this blog back in 2004, to compliment some of my other work. I wasn’t really sure what a blog was back then, so I got a domain and used it as an editorial platform to compliment Emerging Horizons (EmergingHorizons.com). And back then Emerging Horizons was a print publication.
Things have certainly changed since 2004. Today Emerging Horizons still has the same great content, but it’s only available online. It’s free for everybody, not behind a pay firewall. And there’s still no advertising. Late last year we decided that the website was due for a little “spring cleaning” so Charles and I sat down and decided what we wanted to change and he set out to code it all.
And now it’s ready to re-launch. We’ve removed outdated pieces, given the site a more modern design and improved the navigation; but one of the bigger changes involves this blog. Previously it had a separate URL, but now everything is under one roof. This will not only make it easier for readers to access my blog, but it will also compliment the content of Emerging Horizons.
And you’ll still find accessible travel information and resources in my blog, and of course my own editorial comments thrown in for good measure. So although I’ve got a new address, my focus remains the same — providing unbiased accessible travel information for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which was first passed in 1986, covers air travel on US airlines and on all flights to and from the US. Fortunately it’s been updated over the years. The most recent update, which was on July 20, 2020, largely addressed access issues on single aisle aircraft with more than 125 seats. The current proposed updates include some service performance recommendations for the airlines, as well as the addition of improved access features on twin aisle aircraft.
Today air travel comes with the obligatory — and often dreaded — trek through the airport security checkpoint. And although the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) won’t release their exact screening protocols due to security reasons; they have made public their rules and regulations for screening disabled passengers (
