Did you know that it is estimated that about twenty percent of the U.S. population has some form of disability? And that the number of people in this group is increasing daily.
Hope's Travel Desk has been helping families like ours (and yours) take those much needed vacations since we opened our doors.
As Accessible Travel Advocates we are certified by Special Needs Group to have unique, and specialized knowledge that helps individuals with disabilities, as well as their family members, enjoy wonderful, hassle-free, and memorable vacations.
When we work with you and your family we help you craft the perfect vacation for YOUR family by
Outlining Your Specific Travel Needs
We firmly believe that the time for roughing it or trying to “tough it out” should not be while you are on vacation. If a wheelchair, scooter or portable oxygen will make your trip easier, then we will place that item on your list.
TRAVEL FACT: Many people who do not use wheelchairs or walkers at home feel more comfortable using these mobility aides for tours and excursions on their vacations.
If you already own a scooter or portable oxygen, it’s important to know the policy and procedures for bringing that equipment onboard all of the transport vehicles included in your itinerary, from planes to taxis to ferry boats. We will do the research and confirm that the method of transportion on your itinerary has a way to stow your scooter or wheelchair. We will find out for you if oxygen is allowed on board.
Did you know that some airlines prohibit certain types of batteries, such as wet cell batteries, or oxygen cylinders?
Airlines operate under strict rules, so there may be packing procedures to follow if they do allow the equipment. Keep in mind, most airlines need at least 48 hours’ notice to make special arrangements, and be prepared to fill out forms.
Overall, cruise ships are more lenient in allowing oxygen, but some disallow certain types of oxygen. They ll require that the oxygen be delivered to the ship, and that you have enough for the entire voyage. Oxygen may never be brought aboard in your luggage. Again requirements do vary from cruise line to cruise line, so we will check for proper instructions with the one you will be sailing with, and will let you know if any documentation or paperwork will be required.
Whether you are headed for a cruise ship, hotel or all-inclusive resort, we will double check for wheelchair access at that venue, plus any venues that you will be visiting on the trip. We will confirm that accessible hotel rooms, resort accommodations or ship staterooms are available for your travel dates.
PLANNING TIP: The earlier you can make your reservation, the better your chances are of securing fully accessible accommodations. Making your plans early also increases your chances of securing a ground floor hotel room or cruise stateroom located closer to the elevator, if these features are important to you.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Be sure you purchase a full travel insurance policy that includes medical coverage abroad, as well as trip cancellation insurance. These can be extremely important benefits to have for any family, but essential to ones that always have to prepare for the unexpected.
Simply stated, we will not take anything for granted. Please know that it IS possible for us to arrange accommodations for almost every situation. We want you to know that the world can bewonderfully accessible, once you know
We are ready, willing and able to make sure all of your needs are met, and we look forward to helping you with all of your accessible travel needs!