| What has four wheels and cruises? ME!
The world is my oyster! Even in a wheelchair!
By Sheera B. Lake, managing editor Cruisegourmet.com magazine
Have wheelchair, will travel
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| Touring Lisbon |
A few years ago, a diagnosis and severe attack of Multiple Sclerosis required I rethink my life's adventures from a wheelchair perspective. Travel has always been a passion of mine and fortunately it remains a realistic activity for me. For those of us with added challenges, travel is a very workable option. Aided by a wheelchair since 2002, I have worked hard to regain much of my independence. Operating with a "don't tell me I can't" approach has enabled me to remain an avid and determined traveler. With a little extra planning, awareness, and a few pre-trip phone calls the world is still my oyster.
Airlines
Airlines are very accommodating and have designated seating for passengers with disabilities. Airline & airport personnel are readily available to assist passengers needing help to navigate through airports and onto flights. Wheelchairs are made available for those long concourses. I bring my personal chair and check it at the gate/jet way when boarding. It meets me at the door upon leaving the plane at my destination. Fortunately, I am able to walk the aisle on my own but aisle chairs are available for those needing the added help. Flight attendants are at the ready to help with my carry-on bags and ensure I am seated safely. When making reservations be sure a note about needing assistance is made in your record. Also, if the name of the person meeting you is put in your record it may be possible for them to get a gate pass to meet your plane. Some airlines will accommodate this. Make sure to leave ample time to get through security and catch your flight.
Cruise ships... things to know
Dedicated to meeting all their passengers' comforts, the cruise industry has taken extra steps to accommodate those passengers with special needs. Wheelchair accessible cabins with handicapped provisions are available on all major cruise ships. It is important to book early and carefully check deck plans to ensure the most convenient cabin location and easy access to venues you'll frequent during your trip.
During a recent trans-Atlantic crossing on the Crystal Serenity, I enjoyed one of the finest wheelchair accessible cabins I've seen. It was very spacious with a well designed layout. In addition to an enormous, exceptionally comfortable bed, I had a love seat and adjustable coffee table, as well as plenty of room allowing me to move freely while in my chair. Access to the veranda was easy thanks to removable ramps both inside and out. The clothes rack in the closet easily lowered to wheelchair height which was especially helpful when dressing for formal evenings. A perfectly fitted bathroom complete with folding shower seat, room for my wheelchair and a telephone made the cabin an ideal fit that answered all my needs.
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| Best Closet at Sea |
During my crossing I found it critical to "read" the doorways and "lips" at some of the "seams" along the passageways. Some were easily traversed without special negotiation while others demanded I cross them backwards' large wheels first; a small adjustment to ensure unimpeded movement while aboard ship. Oh, course traveling with an able bodied companion makes everything easier and a lot of fun. My companions had cabins on a different deck; although my accessible cabin did have an adjoining stateroom in case I needed someone next-door.
Cabin location
As always, you should consider location, location, location. Accessible cabins are located at different points on board. Those at mid-ship on the Serenity offered the convenience of immediate access to the elevators and a quick outlet onto the Promenade deck-very conducive to "free-wheeling" with the sea air in your hair—just be sure to keep an eye out for joggers. My cabin with its veranda was located as far forward as possible and required an extra "walk" to the elevators. Being that far forward also meant more movement while underway; great for being rocked to sleep at night but an important consideration when booking your cruise.
Your itinerary
Of course, the itinerary you chose is a major decision. When traveling "on wheels" you must also ask "how often during the trip will I disembark?" or "Will I go ashore via gangway or tender?"
Gangways in foreign ports are not always as handicapped-friendly as those in the U.S. For example, recently when boarding my ship in Lisbon the gangway was a series of steps, before I could even ponder the obstacle, four crew members surrounded me and carried me in my chair onboard like Cleopatra; the epitome of service with a smile. When in Alaska I passed on an excursion into Sitka because, at the time, I was unable to negotiate the staircase to the waiting tender below. Instead I opted for a relaxing pedicure and manicure in the ship's spa. Cruising always offers countless ways to enjoy your day.
Bon Voyage
For those of us on wheels, the world is our oyster and cruising is a wonderful way to embrace it. Thorough planning and awareness will keep you "on the go." Before you board and once onboard, remember, every member of your crew wants to make your trip outstanding. They simply cannot do enough to help you... so just be sure to ask for anything you need or want! I wish you Bon Voyage and encourage you to keep on cruising.
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