Safe Travels!
As an able-bodied person, I don’t have to worry about walking over small ledges. I can walk up and down stairs without assistance. When going somewhere, I can assume I will have easy access and no physical barriers blocking my way. Able-bodied people walk through life with advantages that may pose limitations to those with disabilities.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines requirements for making buildings accessible for individuals, and when the building is ADA-accessible, some features allow individuals to use it safely. The U.S. Department of Justice explains, “The ADA guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to enjoy employment opportunities, purchase goods and services, and participate in state and local government programs.” The importance of the act is to provide access to those with disabilities that able-bodied people may take for granted.
The Department of Justice clarifies, “The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in everyday activities.” An example of these everyday activities is opportunities to travel. Let’s explore popular destinations that are ADA-accessible and welcoming to individuals with disabilities.
Disneyland and Disney World
Theme parks such as Disneyland and Disney World accommodate people with disabilities by providing first aid rooms, allergy-friendly menus, service dog relief areas, and accessible transportation. The Disability Access Service (DAS) offered at the parks allows registered guests to choose a return time for rides comparable to the standby wait.
Miami, Florida
Museums, parks, and food – this sunny city offers a variety of accessible amenities. Miami has wheelchair-friendly beaches with mats and beach wheelchairs. Hotels include the required ADA features in addition to others, such as adjustable beds.
Caribbean Cruises
Cruises are a great travel opportunity for individuals with disabilities because of the accessible bathrooms and wheelchair access. There are also features for individuals with visual and hearing disabilities and autism. Large print menus, assistive listening devices, and autism awareness programs aid those with varying needs.
Are you looking to travel but need friends to go with? The Camp Echoing Hills travel program has five experiences within the 2025 – 2026 travel year, including Disney World and a Caribbean Cruise, available to adults 18 and older. Individuals with disabilities and experienced staff will fellowship together, making memories that last a lifetime.
https://www.access-board.gov/adaag-1991-2002.html#purpose
https://adatile.com/what-is-ada-accessibility/#:~:text=When%20a%20business%20or%20organization,safely%20use%20and%20navigate%20them.
https://www.ada.gov/topics/intro-to-ada/#:~:text=The%20ADA%20guarantees%20that%20people,state%20and%20local%20government%20programs.
https://enablingdevices.com/blog/best-cruises-for-people-with-disabilities/#:~:text=Accessible%20cruises%20can%20offer%20accommodations,the%20pool%20lift%20to%20swim.
