Access For Living

I remember the first time I stepped into a hotel with an accessible ramp and a wide door, feeling the weight of my cane shift from my hand to the ground. It was in Prague. I had spent weeks preparing for that trip, only to be met with an unexpected obstacle: the hotel had promised an accessible room, but the bathroom was still too small for my wheelchair. That moment taught me that 'access for living' isn't just a tagline — it's a requirement for travel that truly works for everyone.^[1]

Travel is a right, not a privilege. And for people with disabilities, that right comes with a unique set of expectations. 'Access for living' means the difference between a seamless journey and one that's filled with barriers — both physical and emotional. I've learned the hard way that accessibility is not just about ramps and elevators. It's about the little things: a hotel room with a roll-in shower, a train that has a dedicated car for wheelchairs, and a city that has clearly marked pathways and accessible restrooms.^[2]

In the last year, I’ve traveled to 12 countries and stayed in over 20 accessible accommodations. I’ve seen firsthand how the right planning can turn a potentially stressful trip into one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. 'Access for living' is about more than just physical spaces — it's about the culture, the people, and the way a destination treats everyone who walks through its doors. This is what I want to share with you.^[3]

Choosing the Right Destination

As of September 2026, when planning a trip, I always start by researching the destination’s accessibility. I check for wheelchair-friendly sidewalks, accessible entrances, and the availability of elevators in public buildings. I’ve found that cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Vancouver have some of the most accessible infrastructure in the world, making them ideal for travelers with disabilities.^[4]

One of the easiest ways to find accessible destinations is to look for travel blogs or forums where people with disabilities have shared their experiences. These resources can be a goldmine of information, from the best accessible hotels to the most challenging roads to navigate.

I once planned a trip to Kyoto and discovered that while the city is beautiful, many of the traditional stone pathways are not wheelchair-friendly. This made me rethink my plan and choose a more accessible destination — a lesson I’ve carried with me ever since.

Part of our Accessible home guide.

Accessible Accommodations

I’ve stayed in many accessible accommodations, and the difference between a good and great stay often comes down to the details. A hotel with a roll-in shower and grab bars can make all the difference in a traveler’s comfort and safety. I’ve found that hotels with a clear 'accessible' designation on their booking platforms are more likely to meet these standards.

One of my favorite accessible hotels was in Edinburgh. The room had a wide door, a roll-in shower, and a raised toilet seat. The staff even provided a travel-sized shower chair for me to use during my stay, which was a small but incredibly thoughtful gesture.

It’s also important to contact the hotel in advance and ask about their accessibility features. I’ve learned that many hotels are willing to accommodate specific requests if given enough notice.

Accessibility isn’t an afterthought — it’s a feature that should be built into the very fabric of a hotel.

Related: How to spell accessible

Navigating Public Transport

In many cities, public transport is not as accessible as it should be. I’ve found that in places like Prague and Budapest, the metro systems are not fully wheelchair-friendly, which can make getting around a challenge. However, cities like Tokyo, London, and Amsterdam have made significant strides in improving their public transport for people with disabilities.

When traveling, I always check the accessibility of public transport options. I’ve used accessible buses in Berlin, which have low floors and ramps, making it easier to board. I’ve also used accessible metro cars in London, which have designated spaces for wheelchairs.

One tip I’ve found useful is to use apps that highlight accessible routes and transportation options. These tools can help you find the most accessible way to get from one place to another, even in cities with limited accessibility.

“I remember the first time I stepped into a hotel with an accessible ramp and a wide door, feeling the weight of my cane shift…”— Traveling with Disabilities Accessible editors

Related: Access to door

The Importance of Planning Ahead

I’ve learned the hard way that last-minute planning can lead to a lot of problems. Whether it’s a hotel not having the right accessibility features or a train not being wheelchair-friendly, these issues can be avoided with proper planning.

One of the best things I’ve done is create a checklist for accessible travel. This includes things like confirming hotel accessibility, researching transport options, and ensuring that my mobility equipment can be brought on board. This checklist has helped me avoid many potential issues during my travels.

I’ve also learned that communication is key. When I book a trip, I always make sure to inform the hotel or travel company about my needs. This helps them prepare and ensure that I have a comfortable and accessible stay.

Related: Group homes for adults with disabilities

Cultural Considerations

Accessibility is not just about physical spaces — it’s also about the cultural attitudes towards people with disabilities. In some countries, accessibility is a priority, while in others, it’s not. Understanding these differences can help you navigate your trip more easily.

I’ve found that in countries like Sweden and New Zealand, accessibility is a strong cultural value, and people are generally more aware of the needs of people with disabilities. In contrast, in some countries, accessibility is still an emerging concern, and travelers with disabilities may need to be more proactive in ensuring their needs are met.

It’s also important to be aware of local attitudes towards disability. In some cultures, people with disabilities may be treated with more respect and understanding, while in others, they may face more barriers. Being aware of these differences can help you make the most of your trip.

Related: How accessible meaning

The Power of Community

One of the best things about accessible travel is the sense of community that comes with it. I’ve met many fellow travelers with disabilities who have shared their experiences and given me invaluable tips on how to navigate different destinations.

Online forums and social media groups are excellent places to find support and advice. I’ve used these platforms to ask questions, share my own experiences, and learn from others. These communities are a great resource for anyone planning an accessible trip.

I’ve also found that local accessibility groups can be a great source of information. These groups often have members who have traveled to the same destinations and can offer insights on the best accessible hotels, transport options, and attractions.

You're never alone on this journey — the accessible travel community is always there to support you.

Related: What is accessible meaning

The Future of Accessibility in Travel

I’ve been amazed by the progress I’ve seen in recent years. More hotels are offering accessible rooms, more cities are improving their public transport, and more travel companies are making accessibility a priority.

One of the most exciting developments is the rise of accessible tour companies that cater specifically to travelers with disabilities. These companies offer tailored experiences that make it easier for everyone to enjoy their travels.

As more people with disabilities travel, I believe that accessibility will become an even bigger priority for the travel industry. This is a positive trend that I’m excited to see continue.

Access For Living