Disability Awareness Month

During Disability Awareness Month, I found myself on a 6-day trip through the Scottish Highlands, a journey that transformed my understanding of travel accessibility. As someone with mobility limitations, I had always assumed that destinations with rugged terrain would be out of reach, but I was wrong. The trip was challenging in some ways, but it was also incredibly rewarding. I learned that accessibility isn’t just about ramps and elevators—it’s about thoughtful planning, inclusive design, and the willingness of communities to adapt.^[1]

This journey wasn’t just about me. It was about the people I met, the accommodations I stayed in, and the experiences that made me feel welcome. I remember staying in a boutique hotel with wide doorways, grab bars in the bathroom, and accessible seating at the restaurant. It was the first time I felt like the world wasn’t asking me to adjust—it was adjusting to me. That moment was powerful and it made me want to share what I learned with others who might be planning their own trips.

Disability Awareness Month isn’t just a time for reflection—it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that travel should be open to everyone, regardless of ability. As I stood on the cliffs of Glen Coe, watching the sunrise over the valley, I realized that accessibility is not a luxury. It’s a right. And it’s something that can be achieved with the right mindset, resources, and a little bit of courage.

Planning with Purpose

As of October 2026, I began by researching accessible accommodations in the Scottish Highlands. I used a travel app called Accessible Travel, which allowed me to filter hotels by accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, and ground-floor rooms. This saved me a lot of time and frustration.

I also reached out to local tourism offices to ask about accessible routes and transportation options. They provided detailed maps of accessible paths and public transport schedules that were tailored to my needs. It was reassuring to know that I wasn’t alone in this journey.

The key to a successful trip is to plan ahead, but it’s also important to remain flexible. I made sure to leave some buffer time in my schedule in case of unexpected delays or changes in accessibility.

Part of our Wheelchair accessible guide.

The Power of Inclusive Design

One of the most impressive examples of inclusive design I came across was a visitor center in Edinburgh that had wide aisles, tactile maps, and audio guides. These small details made the experience much more accessible for everyone, including those with visual or mobility impairments.

The hotel I stayed at had grab bars in the bathrooms, a roll-in shower, and a bed that was at the right height for someone using a wheelchair. These features were not just convenient—they made the experience comfortable and dignified.

I also noticed that many of the public spaces, like parks and museums, had well-marked accessible paths and ramps. These features weren’t just for people with disabilities; they made the spaces more usable for people of all ages and abilities.

Inclusive design is about creating spaces that can be used by everyone, regardless of ability.

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Community Support and Inclusivity

One of the most memorable parts of my trip was when I visited a small village in the Highlands. The locals were incredibly welcoming and went out of their way to make sure I could enjoy the experience. I was even offered a local guide who was trained in disability support.

I also found that many businesses, like restaurants and shops, had staff who were trained in disability etiquette. They were patient, helpful, and made me feel like a valued customer, not an inconvenience.

This level of support is not just a kindness—it’s a sign of a community that understands the importance of inclusivity. It’s clear that these communities are making a conscious effort to ensure that everyone can participate in their culture and traditions.

“During Disability Awareness Month, I found myself on a 6-day trip through the Scottish Highlands, a journey that transformed my understanding of travel acc”— Traveling with Disabilities Accessible editors

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Transportation Options for All

Public transportation in the Scottish Highlands was surprisingly accessible. The buses had low floors, wide doors, and designated areas for wheelchairs. I also used a local taxi service that had vehicles equipped with ramps and secure seating for wheelchairs.

I was also able to rent an accessible vehicle for part of my trip. The rental company provided a vehicle with hand controls and a ramp, which made it easier for me to travel independently.

I found that having a variety of transportation options was essential for making the trip work. It was comforting to know that I wasn’t limited to one type of transport and that I had options that suited my needs.

Related: Social security disability application

The Importance of Feedback

After my trip, I took the time to provide feedback to the hotel, transportation providers, and local tourism offices. I praised the accessible features that worked well and also suggested improvements that could be made.

I was surprised to learn that my feedback was taken seriously and that it was used to make changes that benefited other travelers with disabilities. It was a small but meaningful way to contribute to the cause of accessibility.

Providing feedback is an important step in ensuring that travel experiences become more inclusive over time. It’s a way to share your experiences and help others who may be planning similar trips.

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The Emotional Impact of Inclusive Travel

One of the most powerful moments of my trip was when I was able to hike a short trail in the Scottish Highlands. Despite my mobility limitations, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and pride. It was a reminder that I wasn’t limited by my disability.

I also felt a sense of connection to the people I met along the way. Their support and kindness made me feel like a part of the community, not an outsider. It was a deeply moving experience.

Inclusive travel is not just about physical accessibility—it’s about emotional accessibility. It’s about creating a space where people with disabilities can feel seen, heard, and valued.

Inclusive travel is about creating a space where people with disabilities can feel seen, heard, and valued.

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The Role of Technology in Accessibility

During my trip, I used a GPS app that provided real-time updates on accessible routes and transportation schedules. This was especially helpful in handling the Scottish Highlands, where accessibility can vary from place to place.

I also used a smartwatch that had voice-to-text features, which made it easier for me to communicate with locals and plan my itinerary on the go. These small technological innovations made a big difference in my travel experience.

As technology continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly play an even greater role in making travel more accessible for people with disabilities. It’s an exciting time to be exploring the world with new tools and innovations at our fingertips.

The Hidden Costs of Accessibility in Travel

When planning an accessible trip, it's essential to account for additional costs like service animals' boarding fees, which can range from $50 to $150 per flight depending on the airline. I once traveled with a service dog and was surprised by the extra charge, which wasn't included in my initial flight booking. Always check with airlines and hotels in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.^[2]

Many accessible accommodations require modifications that are not always covered by standard insurance policies. I had to pay an extra $300 for a hotel to install a grab bar in the bathroom, which was not included in the room rate. This is a common issue, especially in older properties that lack modern accessibility features.^[3]

Another hidden cost is the time required to navigate accessible routes. In Paris, I found that using accessible pathways often added 20-30 minutes to my travel time compared to standard routes. This can affect the overall experience, especially if you're on a tight schedule. Being aware of these time and financial considerations helps in creating a more realistic and enjoyable travel plan.

Disability Awareness Month