Accessible Travel: Making the World Open to Everyone

Traveling should be an enriching experience for everyone, regardless of mobility limitations or accessibility needs. As a healthcare provider and a mother of a daughter with mobility challenges, I have personally navigated the cobblestone streets of Europe with a wheelchair. This firsthand experience has given me a deep understanding of the unique needs that travelers with disabilities face—insights that many travel agents may lack.

Too often, accessible travel is framed around "confinement"—such as limiting travelers to all-inclusive resorts or cruises where accessibility is built-in but movement beyond the property is discouraged. While these types of vacations are fantastic options for many travelers, I firmly believe that no one should feel confined in their travels. The world is vast and full of incredible experiences, and mobility challenges should not be a barrier to seeing it all.

The Challenges of Accessible Travel

One of the biggest concerns for travelers with mobility limitations is the lack of accessibility in many destinations. Uneven sidewalks, narrow doorways, lack of ramps, and limited public transportation options can make travel frustrating or even impossible in some locations. However, with the right planning, support, and partnerships, these barriers can be overcome.

Traditional travel agencies may not always understand the intricacies of booking truly accessible travel. It's not just about ensuring a hotel has an elevator or a wheelchair-friendly room; it's about ensuring the entire journey—from airport transfers to daily excursions—is seamless and comfortable.

How I Make Accessible Travel Possible

Because of my personal and professional experience, I have developed partnerships with accessibility-focused travel providers who specialize in making destinations around the world more welcoming to travelers with disabilities. Through these partnerships, we can arrange for:

• Custom Accessibility Solutions: Whether it’s arranging for portable ramps, accessible transport, or customized tours, I work with professionals who can adapt destinations to your needs.

• Street Closures for Easier Exploration: Imagine visiting a historic city without worrying about inaccessible pathways! My partners can block off streets and provide necessary adjustments to allow full exploration.

• Trained Support Staff & Assistance: If you require personal assistance during your travels, we can arrange for experienced staff to accompany you, ensuring a worry-free trip.

• Adaptive Equipment Rentals: From mobility scooters to beach-friendly wheelchairs, we can ensure that you have access to the right equipment no matter where you go.

• Excursions Beyond the Ordinary: Many travel agencies will suggest cruises or resorts because they offer built-in accessibility. But what if you want to explore Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, or the narrow alleyways of Rome? With proper planning and assistance, we can make even these destinations accessible.

Spotlight on Planet Abled

One of the organizations leading the way in accessible travel is Planet Abled. Founded by Neha Arora, who grew up with parents having disabilities, Planet Abled offers inclusive travel experiences that cater to people with various disabilities. They provide customized tours and travel opportunities focused on individual abilities and based on universal design principles. Their services include:

• Inclusive Group Tours: Bringing together people with different disabilities and those without disabilities to travel together, fostering inclusivity and understanding.

• Customized Travel Plans: Tailoring trips to meet specific needs, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is accessible and enjoyable.

• Accessible Transportation and Accommodation: Ensuring that all logistics are handled, from accessible vehicles to accommodations that meet specific accessibility requirements.

Planet Abled's innovative approach has been recognized globally, and continues to expand their offerings to make the world more accessible to everyone.

CODE: SASSYSALLY if you contact them directly but as a partner I can book and arrange everything for you.

Destinations and Experiences

Where have you always dreamed of going?

• European Cities with Historic Charm: Paris, Rome, Barcelona, and Prague might seem daunting, but with customized solutions, we can make these cities navigable and enjoyable.

• Safaris & Adventure Travel: Think an African safari is out of reach? Think again! We can arrange for accessible game drives and accommodations that allow you to experience the thrill of wildlife up close.

• Beaches & Islands: Accessible beach vacations don’t have to be limited to resorts. We can arrange for beach-friendly wheelchairs and private tours that ensure you can enjoy the sand and sea.

• Cultural & Heritage Travel: Visit the ruins of ancient civilizations, explore bustling markets, or experience immersive cultural events—all with the right accommodations in place.

• My partner offers accessible travel solutions to over 35 destinations, with a focus on inclusivity and universal design. Their offerings include heritage tours, cultural immersions, adventure trips, spiritual journeys, and wellness retreats. Some of their featured destinations are:

  • Dharamshala

  • Puducherry and Auroville

  • Bali

  • Khajuraho

  • Nainital

  • Jim Corbett

  • Rishikesh

  • Mussoorie

  • Leh Ladakh

  • Amritsar & Wagah Border

  • Golden Triangle Tour

  • Royal Udaipur Tour

  Additionally, we have expanded its operations to Europe, with an office in Austria, and offer inclusive group trips to destinations like Austria.

  For a detailed list of destinations and customized travel plans, please email me, Sassy@Travellikemesassysally.com

Let's Make Your Travel Dreams a Reality

I believe travel should be inclusive, not restrictive. Whether you have a specific destination in mind or just a desire to explore, I am here to make it happen. Don’t settle for a trip that keeps you in one place—let’s design a journey that allows you to experience the world in ways you never thought possible.

Reach out, tell me your dream destination, and let’s start planning! With the right support, no place is out of reach.

Schedule your 15-minute design fee now.