Mélange Accessibility for All Magazine October 2020 | Page 26

2 . “ Accessibility ” takes on different meanings from place to place , so be very specific and very clear when describing your disability and specific needs . Not everyone is familiar with the terms used with accessible travel , or the medical terms for certain conditions . Give as many details as you can about what you can and can ’ t do . The more information your travel agent , hotel manager , or service provider has , the better they will be able to accommodate you . If they promise you certain accommodations make sure that you get any promise in writing .

3 . If you have a severe disability or just feel you should get your doctor ’ s advice before traveling , make sure you are very specific about the details of your trip when speaking with your doctor . Remember , your doctor can prescribe ways to cope with long flights , limited medical facilities at your destination , and what to do if you run out of prescription drugs .

4 . I think it ’ s always a good idea to take a note from your doctor describing your condition and their contact information in case of an emergency with you on long trips , especially trips out of the country . The note from your doctor should also include your medications and any potential complications . If you have a special condition requiring specialized attention , make sure to carry your medical alert information in a place that a medical professional or anyone who assists you will find easily ( wallet card , necklace , or close to your identification ).

5 . Always pack extra medication . I always pack my medications in my stowed luggage and a few days supply in my carry-on luggage , just in case my stowed lugged is lost or delayed . And , don ’ t forget to keep the prescription for the medications with you in case you are questioned about carrying those medications !

6 . If you are traveling to a new destination , I also think it ’ s a good idea to check out physician availability at your destination . Your doctor , health care provider , insurance company or local embassy can provide the names and contact numbers of physicians at your destination . For more information , see Health Care Abroad .

7 . If you want to make your travel planning much easier , consider using a specialized travel agent , such as Travel for All , based in Canada . These specialized agencies are adept with handling travel experiences for people with disabilities , and in fact , most of the agents working for these specialized travel agencies have disabilities themselves . Check the agent search feature at TravelSense . org to find qualified travel agents . To Table of Contents

8 . If possible , I avoid connecting flights at all costs . There are too many reasons why your connection can ruin your trip , e . g . the first flight is delayed , you need to use the restroom , you have to switch airlines for the next leg of your journey and the gate is in another terminal , etc . Remember , if you use a wheelchair , you typically board first , so if your flight is delayed