Listen to this Article
When I entered the world of disability through my infant son, the journey forward felt full of unscalable obstacles. Even when he was small enough to ride in a stroller, I began to analyze every outing for what we would and wouldn’t be able to do as he grew into a child who would never be able to walk independently. At first, I worried that my son’s disability would limit our ability to travel—but over time, we discovered that accessibility was expanding, making more of the world open to us than I had imagined.
I stumbled upon disability travel bloggers and learned new ways of doing things while gaining perspective into all that was available. The more I dove into this world, the more it seemed inclusion was almost becoming trendy. All abilities playgrounds began popping up, articles on beach wheelchairs, track chairs, and other initiatives to get the mobility disabled into the outdoors were flooding my inbox. We started traveling again – tentatively at first, but it didn’t take long before we were motoring full steam ahead.
The more we traveled, the more we found we could travel. Our travels have taken us hiking, skiing, skating, rock wall climbing, horseback riding, and, dare I say, on more adventures than we had as a fully “able” family.
Lately, though, that progress feels like it’s stalling, even reversing, and disabled travelers are left wondering: Where do we go when inclusion is no longer a priority?
The shift in inclusive travel
The issue of accessibility and inclusion extends beyond infrastructure to attitudes and beliefs. As disabled travelers turn away from the U.S. – one of the most physically accessible nations in the world – it’s worth noting two key truths. First, there are destinations actively prioritizing accessibility, proving that inclusion is more than an afterthought. Second, true accessibility isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about attitude. Where there’s a genuine commitment to inclusion, there’s always a way forward.
Will we cancel our summer beach trip because the beach has decided not to maintain their accessible beach mat and the beach wheelchair disappeared with a budget cut? No, but we will find a different beach to visit. We’ll shift our travels to destinations that value inclusion. We’re not trying to make a statement, we’re going where we can still enjoy ourselves. Instead of fighting for access, we’re choosing destinations that have already rolled out the welcome mat.
Where will we go?
Japan
Japan is the next big family trip we have planned. Its public transportation system is one of the most wheelchair-friendly in the world, with nearly all train stations offering elevators, ramps, and priority seating, while bullet trains (Shinkansen) provide smooth, accessible rides across the country. As the host for the 2020 Summer Paralympics, Tokyo upped their game in accessibility with city-wide improvements including curb cuts and easier access to major attractions like historic temples, shrines, and even sumo wrestling arenas. If a café where robots are operated remotely by disabled employees isn’t sufficient to highlight Japan’s commitment to inclusion, then its barrier-free onsens and wheelchair-accessible bamboo forests surely seal the deal.
Greece
Greece is setting a new international standard in accessible beach travel. With over 200 beaches equipped with SEATRAC systems—self-operating ramps that allow wheelchair users to glide effortlessly into the sea—plus accessible changing areas, parking, and smooth pathways. Greece has become the most accessible beach destination in the world… along with being one of the most beautiful! Soaking up the sun on a white-sand beach in Crete and floating in the turquoise waters of the Aegean are on my bucket list for next year.
Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy
The ancient streets of Italy may not be the first place that comes to mind when dreaming of a wheelchair accessible getaway, but this is a classic case of where attitude builds accessibility. Because of a passion for inclusion, the region partnered with accessibility organizations to build access to historic landmarks, sun-kissed beaches, ancient castles, culinary delights and fine wines, museums, and wetland reserves. They’ve gone beyond beach wheelchairs to adaptive bikes and watersports – from sailing to kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and paddleboarding. Chase your adventure with the wind in your hair, or create a tiramisu trail through the region – this is where we’ll find something for the whole family.
British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia has put accessibility at the forefront as they work with travel partners to revamp inclusion across the province. Gardens and museums are designed with accessibility in mind. Vancouver Island offers beach wheelchairs, accessible trails through ancient cedars, inclusive farms, and barrier free views from Malahat Skywalk. Mix it up with outdoor thrills through the Kootenay Rockies adaptive sports opportunities. From the robust accessibility information and representation on the website to the accessible options across all venue styles, it’s clear that British Columbia is for everyone.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is often considered the best destination for wheelchair users. Their accessibility initiatives have created all ability access to both lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Beyond the paved jungle trails in Carara National Park Beyond, there are several accessible hotel and resort options. Many towns have worked to create an inclusive experience for diners and shoppers. The people are genuinely thrilled to welcome you. This is where we’d love to try adaptive surfing.
Home
I won’t stop exploring closer to home. It’s worth remembering that the people and attitudes that make this nation are as diverse as its landscapes. There are incredible places here that are still trailblazing in the best ways. There are destinations like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Mesa, Arizona that have built their identity around inclusion and have created spaces that are welcoming to all. Travel Oregon and North Alabama are in the process of major projects to improve accessibility and attract visitors of all abilities. There are organizations like Salt Lake City’s National Ability Center and San Antonio’s Morgan’s that have created campuses of inclusion where all abilities are able to participate in every kind of sport and activity imaginable.
A disability didn’t keep us from traveling, and a lack of inclusion won’t either. We’re not stopping—we’re just choosing the destinations that welcome us with open arms.