If you or someone close to you requires a wheelchair to get around, you know how frustrating travel can be. Too often, the fear that an amazing destination won't be wheelchair accessible can hold you back from exploring new places.
In our increasingly inclusive world, many amazing destinations are now easily navigable for wheelchair users. Here are the top 7 spots you and your loved one need to check out!
#1: Washington D.C.
In America, everyone is created equal and entitled to the pursuit of happiness. It's fitting that our nation's capital should boast one of the most wheelchair-friendly public transportation systems in the country, if not the world.vThe underground metro system has elevators at every station and a backup van option when elevators breakdown.
The city has also committed to making all taxis wheelchair-accessible. Broad sidewalks and plenty of outdoor attractions make this a great place to visit.
The Arlington National Cemetery and the Washington Monument are just two amazing, accessible sites the city offers.
#2: Seattle, Washington
Although Seattle has a somewhat hilly terrain, it has a lot to offer in terms of accessibility. Many of the taxis have ramps, and the ferries are wheelchair friendly.
The iconic Space Needle is accessible, as are Seattle's zoo and aquarium. Lightweight wheelchairs, which are great to have for travel, will make navigating the hills with a buddy totally doable.
#3: London, England
Not enough people realize that the London Eye ferris wheel has step-free cars that allow room for up to two wheelchairs at a time. Apart from this attraction's incredible view of the London skyline, the city itself is also very accessible.
The main tourist attractions in the city, including Buckingham Palace and The British Museum, have step-free entrances. The London Underground is also incredibly wheelchair friendly, with ramps and extra space.
#4: The Canadian Rockies, Canada
The Canadian Rockies provide an amazing opportunity for wheelchair users to experience a breathtaking mountain range. Glass-domed train cars pass by picturesque sites like Lake Banff.
Assistance with boarding and exiting the train is available at all stops along the way for those who need it.
#5: Las Vegas, Nevada
They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but we're hoping the city's accessibility spreads to other places. Sin City's performance venues and casinos are all wheelchair friendly, and bus fares are lower for wheelchair users.
The main strip is also very flat with broad sidewalks.
#6: Bridgetown, Barbados
For an accessible beach getaway, look no further than the Caribbean island of Barbados. Accra Beach has wheelchair access, and Harrison Cave is smooth and flat, accessible by a wheelchair friendly tram.
Not only does Barbados boast wheelchair friendly attractions and roadways, but it's also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
#7: Orlando, Florida
Orlando is, of course, known for its theme parks, beloved by children and adults alike. Disney World provides something called the Disability Access Service, which provides an alternative to waiting in long lines. Instead of waiting in line, wheelchair users can approach a ride and schedule a time to return based on the approximate wait time for that ride.
The Disney World bus system also accommodates wheelchair users, and most walkways within the park are smooth and wide.
Conclusion
Wheelchair users don't have to miss out on all the beautiful sites this world has to offer. Thanks to expanded dialogue about accessibility, more cities are improving their infrastructure.
People with disabilities can and should feel empowered to explore the world. All it takes is a little research beforehand, and you're ready to start exploring!
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