
In a perfect world, your summer vacation would involve hiking a majestic mountain range, shopping ’till you drop at some of the best retail venues, or perhaps learning to surf at a sunny tropical locale. Now that you’re on the road to recovery, however, these vacation bucket list items may need to be put on hold temporarily.
Fortunately, there are plenty of vacation spots that are ideal for those suffering temporary disabilities. Consider all the special needs accommodations that these great spots have to offer:
1. Seattle, Washington
As USA Today notes, Seattle is not only home to some of the country’s greatest attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and a variety of amazing museums and restaurants, it is also one of the most accessible vacation spots. If you are currently wheelchair-bound, the city offers plenty of hotels and attractions that you can easily access. For example, the Warwick Seattle Hotel, known for its terrific views of the Space Needle, has 12 handicap-accessible guest rooms that are conveniently reached by an elevator and feature grab bars around the toilet and in the tub. Roll-in showers are offered in certain rooms, and you can also request a shower chair.
The Seattle Art Museum has convenient drop off areas out front, as well as ramps, elevators, and loaner wheelchairs.
2. Toronto, Canada
If you would like to travel internationally this summer but are hesitant to embark on a long journey over to Europe or take a trip down to Mexico, a vacation to beautiful Toronto, Canada can provide you with plenty of much-needed relaxation. In addition to being known for its superior healthcare, much of the region is readily accessible for the handicapped.
Fresh air is great for healing, and both your body and soul can benefit from the cool weather involved in sailing, fishing, or just enjoying the scenery by boat. If you would like to channel your inner angler while you’re in the Toronto area, or are dreaming of spending hours exploring one of its gorgeous waterways by powerboat, be sure that you have your Canadian boating license on hand.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
If Sin City is on your vacation to-do list, you don’t have to let your personal injury stop you from enjoying some festive time in Las Vegas. As LasVegas.com notes, the city has more handicap-accessible guest rooms than any other place in the country; just be sure to inquire when placing your reservations. Depending on the extent of your injury, rooms are available with roll-in showers, transfer shower benches, or tubs with built-in or portable seats. Wheelchair seating is also available in most restaurants and showrooms.
If Lady Luck is calling your name, all hotels have accessible slot machines, and many of the other games are played while seated and can easily accommodate a wheelchair.
When it’s time to cool off, most of the Vegas hotels have lifts that will help you get in and out of the swimming pool.
Author info: Alison Stanton has been a freelance writer for the past 15 years. She enjoys writing about a wide variety of topics, and always looks for opportunities to learn about new subjects.