Timeless tips and tales from senior travellers
Guest Editor's note
By Marcia Frost
As excited as I am to be the guest editor of this spring issue of Accessible Journeys Magazine, it is also bittersweet. One of the stories that I was most interested in doing was on my mom, a polio survivor. She traveled around the world with my dad into their senior years—with both of them using mobility scooters on many trips.
Best senior travel spots
Marcia has explored a variety of destinations that are welcoming, accessible, relaxing, rich in culture and unique experiences. From wellness retreats and cooking classes to wine tastings, sporting events and live music, each location offers its own special charm. For Marcia, the perfect trip is about finding the right balance between comfort and engaging activities, and these destinations deliver just that. Here are some of her top recommendations:
10 tips for seniors travelling in a wheelchair
Whether you are using a wheelchair or a mobility scooter, traveling with power devices can be challenging. Follow these tips for a smoother trip. Don’t leave transportation for last I was recently planning a trip. The destination had plenty of accessible attractions and hotels. I knew they had buses, Uber and Lyft WAV, and trains that were wheelchair accessible in the state, but I learned when everything else was planned the timing and locations did not coincide with my plans.
9 things that make travelling as a disabled senior easier
By Marcia Frost
Travel has been different for me as I aged and changed mobility. I’ve learned to plan and pack certain things that make the experience go smoother.I discovered Clouds of Goods when I was looking to rent a lightweight power chair. They have locations all around the United States and in parts of Canada and Mexico. They not only rent wheelchairs of all kinds, but also have scooters, walkers, oxygen, hoyers, and many other things you might possibly need during your trip. They deliver to homes, hotels, and cruise ships.
Rolling through the world as a senior: Marcia Frost’s take on travel
Marcia Frost doesn’t wait for permission. She never has. The world isn’t built for everyone, but that has never stopped her from carving out a space for herself, one city, one airport, one bumpy cobblestone street at a time. If you ask her why she travels, she’ll tell you it’s in her DNA. Her father, with his club foot and stubborn determination, packed up the car every summer and took the family across the country. Her mother, who had polio, never saw a wheelchair as a reason to stay home.
Follow the Piper
The story of Amy Piper’s disability, started in her early 40s with ovarian cancer that led to multiple hernia surgeries, weakened muscles, and less stamina. It caused her to put off knee replacements too long, leaving her with knee damage from arthritis. Amy uses a walker with a seat for most activities, and a wheelchair for longer distances such as airports. She thinks it’s important to note, “Often, it isn’t a single disease or disability that causes issues.” A freelance writer, blogger, and photographer, Amy is also the author of two books, Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure and 100 Things to Do in Lansing before you die. She knows a lot about Michigan as she grew up there in the town of Holt, where she still lives today.
Travelling with oxygen? Plan, plan and plan again!
The hum of an airport is like the symphony of the world on shuffle. Overhead announcements, hurried footsteps, the occasional bout of laughter from a group of vacation-bound travelers. For most people, it’s a process—check-in, security, boarding, takeoff, arrival. For those who require oxygen, however, travel is a logistical puzzle where every piece must fit, because one wrong move could mean delays, discomfort, or even a cancelled trip.
Senior Travel Buddies
Sometimes the best ideas arrive uninvited, slipping into the mind like a mischievous breeze, nudging a person toward an entirely new direction. This is what happened to Lorry Laby, founder of Senior Travel Buddies. Senior Travel Buddies was not built from a boardroom strategy session or a corporate blueprint. It was sparked by curiosity, by a simple email about a small Irish guesthouse where an elderly man unexpectedly became the heart and soul of his son’s business.
Adaptive Adventures
Chaeli’s Mt. Kilimanjaro adventure - No permission needed!
Some people talk about pushing limits. Others just go ahead and shove them out of the way. Chaeli Mycroft is the latter. If you’re expecting an ordinary story about overcoming adversity, think again. This isn’t that kind of narrative. Instead, it is about someone who never asked whether she could do something, because why on earth wouldn’t she?
Tarryn Tomlinson shows the power of purpose on her Mt. Kilimanjaro climb
“I decided to climb to raise awareness of humanity’s ability to reach new heights when we have the right attitude and the right people supporting us. A strong “why” is essential. I only take on challenges when I have a deep purpose behind them, and I encourage anyone considering such a journey to reflect on their own motives. When your “why” is clear and meaningful, it becomes the driving force that carries you through the toughest moments.” ~Tarryn
Family Fun, No Limits
Accessible destination round up
The National Ability Center puts a new spin on all inclusive vacations – this is the vacation where all abilities are included in all of the adventure. The NAC offers over 20 activities, adapted for all abilities. Want to swing across a ropes course with your kid in a wheelchair? Go for it. Want to ski down Olympic mountains with your sister who’s blind? Have at it. Want to race your mom with a limb difference up a rock wall? Done. Accessible accommodations, access to specialized gear and lessons, and partnerships with nearby ski mountains and outdoor recreation sites make the NAC a one stop destination for families with disabilities looking for adventure. Read more about our experience, here.
Exploring life’s adventures: The inspiring story of Elijah’s baby bucket list
By Amy Tarpein
Life has a way of surprising us, often when we least expect it. My journey began with the diagnosis of my youngest son, Elijah. He was born with Lissencephaly. It is a rare terminal brain condition. I faced the daunting reality that he would not live to see his second birthday. I made a commitment to transform our challenges into a celebration of life. I wanted to embrace every moment, fill our days with joy, and explore the world together as a family.
Break all the rules and LIVE
For us, it began with a baby in a small clinic room at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. For most, it begins with an OBGYN discussing termination.For us, it ended in a Scandinavian style home on a hill in Budapest. For you, I hope it ends with this article. The idea that a disabled life is a lesser life is a lie that has somehow been woven into the fabric of truth across cultures, religions, and political parties. The cruelest among us look at the disabled and wonder why they were allowed to live. The kindest among us look on with pity, and look for ways to help. Neither of these responses are based on reality.
Better together - disability parent Q&A
Q: Do you find that most areas can handle a wheelchair, or is a stroller better?
A: This depends on both terrain and independence.
While it shouldn’t make any difference in accessible destinations, it’s much easier to find an all terrain stroller than a wheelchair that can handle rough surfaces
Feature Stories
The 10 most wheelchair-friendly cities in Europe
Europe is a goldmine of history, breathtaking architecture, and diverse cultures. But for wheelchair users, the charm of ancient streets and historic landmarks can sometimes come with obstacles. Thankfully, many European cities have stepped up their accessibility game, ensuring smooth sidewalks, barrier-free public transport, and inclusive attractions for all travellers.
Accessible beach locations worldwide that provide relaxation and freedom
By Edrian Blasquino
No matter an individual’s capabilities, everyone should have the opportunity to feel at ease and free, particularly when it comes to their travels and adventures. And the perfect place for unwinding? Without a doubt, that would be beaches with their calming waves that instantly draw you into a cozy hug, and golden sands where you can create castles alongside your cherished ones.
Three reasons why London is one of Europe's most accessible travel destinations
By Paige Bishop
Europe as a whole is known for its accessibility, but if you’re searching for a travel destination that ensures enjoyable, stress-free experiences, London tops the list. With 1.2 million people registered as disabled residing in the capital, this city has many inclusive features that make it a popular destination for those with accessibility needs.
Accessible travel tips shared by the Wheel the World community
By Ethan Godard
Traveling with a disability requires thoughtful planning, adaptability, and a few key strategies to ensure a smooth experience. But for those new to accessible travel, the idea of navigating unfamiliar destinations can feel overwhelming. That’s why we turned to seasoned travelers in our accessible travel community for their best travel advice—real-world insights from those who’ve been there and done that.
Accessibility abounds on the coast of Southwest Michigan
By Marcia Frost
I visited Michigan many times, but it wasn’t until I visited Traverse City that I fell in love with the state. I was enamored by the coastline. I have since returned to TC twice, and visited the Upper Peninsula, Grand Rapids, Mackinac Island, St. Joseph, Saugatuck, and many other areas, but not as a full-time wheelchair user.
Exploring accessibility at ITB Berlin: A transformative experience
By Kristy Durso
Attending ITB Berlin as a keynote speaker for Accessible Tourism Day was an incredible honor. I was invited to speak by Olaf Schleipper from the German National Tourist Board, and stepping onto the stage alongside global industry leaders was both humbling and exhilarating. As I sat among experts like Igor Stefanovic from UN Tourism, Ivor Ambrose from ENAT, Karl-Peter Naumann from PRO BAHN, Glenn Mandziuk from the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, and Verena Bentele from Sozialverband VdK Deutschland, I initially felt outgunned. But I quickly realized that my insights and lived experience as an accessibility advocate were not just welcomed but valued.
From grandkids to grandparents: Key features of an Accessible Short-Term Rental (STR)
By Lorraine Woodward, Becoming RentABLE
Multigenerational travel has seen significant growth in recent years as there is a growing desire for parents, grandparents and children to prioritize time together. A recent study from the Family Travel Association showed that over 50% of parents are planning to travel with grandparents and children in the next year. Nearly half of children aged six to eleven prefer traveling with their grandparents over just their parents.
Destination spotlight
The Italian region you didn’t know: Friuli Venezia Giulia is open for all
Nestled in the northeast of Italy, Friuli Venezia Giulia has spent years creating an inclusive, accessible destination for travelers from around the world, addressing a wide range of needs and interests. This is a region that offers everything, from the mountains to the sea, to an excellent wine region, ancient architecture and archeological gems.
Visit Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach (PCB) is located in the northwestern part of the state of Florida and is the perfect place for a memorable beach getaway, offering all the amenities desired by those looking for an ideal warm-weather beach vacation. The destination – best known for its 27 miles of sugar-white sands bordering the clear, turquoise waters of the Gulf–was named the world’s No. 2 “Emerging Destination” by Trip Advisor.
Immersive Nature Experiences
Top of the bucket list: Paradise in a wheelchair
By Jan Bonville
When one thinks of Tahiti, what comes to mind is honeymooners in overwater bungalows, and divers seeking rays, sharks and magnificent expanses of corals in the lagoons and atolls. It is a bucket list destination, magical, a dream for people around the world since the tales of James Michener and paintings of Paul Gauguin. It is all that. But Tahiti is also a destination for families—and—based on my personal experience, for travelers with mobility impairments traveling with companions.
Silent Adventures
Kellina Powell is breaking silence and smashing barriers. Difference is not a limitation!
From a young age, Kellina had to navigate a world that wasn’t designed with her in mind. But instead of letting frustration take root, she took charge. She built Kellina’s Empowerment and Consultation, a powerhouse of advocacy, education and empowerment, all aimed at uplifting young adults with disabilities. Through her books, workshops and speaking engagements, she’s turning obstacles into stepping stones, proving that barriers only exist if they are allowed to.
Melisa Ozerska: Think Deaf people can't travel the world solo? Think again!
Melisa Ozerska is a globe-trotter, storyteller, advocate, and a full-on adventure lover who’s been stamping her passport with purpose. As a proud Deaf traveller, Melisa has roamed far and wide, from bustling cities to remote hideaways, all while navigating the world on her own terms—and in her own language.
Blogger Spotlight
Elaine & Jack, Seniors with Latitude, shares tips and recommendations about travelling as seniors
“There are so many ways to travel we could go on forever. We prefer to travel together, just the two of us. Except for our travel to Africa, we pretty much plan our own trips. Nowadays, we generally fly first class and travel with only a carry on and a backpack. We do not do hostels, couch surfing or budget airlines. There’s nothing wrong with any of that – it’s just not for us.” ~Elaine
Cruising Corner
Stuck at Sea: The lightbulb moment that inspired a mission for accessible travel
By Mike Clapper, Able2Global
Have you ever had a dream that suddenly turned into a nightmare? I want you to join me in an exercise. Close your eyes and picture waking up to a beautiful Icelandic landscape. What does it look like? What does it sound like? Can you taste the salty sea air? I can tell you exactly what it was like, because I got to experience that scene firsthand — well, kind of.I am a passionate cruiser and full-time wheelchair user. My wife Kylie and I were late to the cruising scene, hesitant over accessibility concerns. In 2020, Kylie was working as a travel professional and found us an incredible deal for our first cruise, just as cruise lines were welcoming passengers back after the COVID-19 shutdown.
5 cruise tips every wheelchair user should know
By Mike Clapper, Able2Global
Don’t Get Caught Without Power—Bring your own extension cord (without a surge protector—most cruise lines won’t allow them) to help reach tricky outlets. And double-check the ship’s voltage before you plug in. Some ships use European voltage, which could fry your power chair charger if you’re not careful.
