We are always excited for our next adventure, but it’s so easy to lose steam when we encounter issues trying to find suitable accommodations. It’s estimated that one in five Canadians (or 6.2 million) aged 15 years and over had one or more disabilities that limited them in their daily activities, according to new findings in 2017. Yet there are very few accommodations available for those wishing to travel.
It’s not uncommon for us to have to try multiple hotels or AirBnBs to find available accommodations. Our options are limited due to supply and demand. It’s not uncommon for us to not find a room available at the time we want. We once spent 3 hours trying to find accommodations in New Hampshire after our vehicle broke down and had to be towed for the night…so much more happened that night, but we’ll share that in another post (you definitely will want to check that one out)
Then we also have to look at what is deemed an accessible room in the particular area we are traveling. Our main concerns are a shower with a bath bench or chair, grab bars, a non-slip floor and ideally a hand held shower head. Doesn’t seem like much to ask for, but you’d be surprised by what we encounter.
Planning isn’t something you want to rush to begin with, but as we prepare for trips from experience we know it’s going to take a little longer to find something suitable. You might think well that’s to be expected you have special concerns…but consider this; wouldn’t you think in 2020 that you’d be treated just like everyone else and not be defined by your limitations?
Shane and Elizabeth’s Accessible Travel Adventures 