**Family Vacationer Podcast Episode 153: Traveling with Accessibility Issues**
**Introduction:**
- Today on the Family Vacationer, Rob welcomes back Jennifer Allen of Wonders Within Reach to discuss traveling with accessibility issues. Jennifer was also a guest on Episode 109.
- Jennifer Allen is an experienced traveler passionate about ensuring all families can enjoy travel without limitations.
- In this episode, Jennifer shares insights on planning accessible vacations, including considerations for transportation, lodging, attractions, and dining.
**Transportation and Lodging:**
- When booking accommodations, don't assume accessibility; research and confirm before booking.
- Utilize resources like Wheel the World, Rentable, and Airbnb's accessibility filters to find suitable options.
- Contact hotels directly to ask specific questions about accessibility features such as bed height, shower options, and space layout.
- Use apps like Citymapper to plan accessible transportation routes in major cities.
- While Uber and Lyft offer accessible options, availability varies by location; research ahead of time and have backup plans.
**Attractions and Activities:**
- Check attractions' websites for accessibility information; look for the "Plan Your Visit" section.
- Consider feedback from disability travel bloggers and accessible travel awards when choosing destinations.
- Research dining options by canvassing the area for specific dietary needs and calling ahead for confirmation.
- When visiting attractions, clarify accessibility features such as elevator access, step-free entrances, and accessible restrooms.
**Travel Insurance and Feedback:**
- Understand your existing insurance coverage and consider supplementing with travel insurance for emergencies and trip interruptions.
- Provide feedback to travel companies and airlines, either by phone or in writing, to highlight areas for improvement in accessibility and customer service.
- Remember that constructive feedback benefits not only your family but also future travelers with accessibility needs.
- The Wonders Within Reach blog (wonderswithinreach.com) and Instagram serve as valuable resources for families seeking accessible travel options.
- Consider reaching out to certified travel agents like Rob ([email protected]) for assistance in planning accessible family vacations.
- Subscribe to the Family Vacationer podcast for more travel tips and inspiration for your next family adventure.
*Thank you for listening to the Family Vacationer Podcast. Stay tuned for more episodes featuring tips, insights, and stories to help make your family travels unforgettable!*
The Family Vacationer
A podcast dedicated to families that travel. So many of our memories come from time spent with our family. We want to help you make the most of your family vacations. We do that by covering travel destinations, travel apps, and gadgets, and talk to travel experts for ways to make family travel less stressful. Who doesn't want that?
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Dr. Danny Evans is a 23-year veteran language teacher and world traveler. He has been traveling the world since the age of 16 and loves studying language and culture, but most of all, Danny loves making memories with his family. He has been married for 28 years and has two daughters, Gracie and Zoe.
