Travel Without Limits #3 by travelwithoutlimits

without limits

WHICH DISNEY THEME PARK IS RIGHT FOR YOU? THE GREAT AUSSIE SALUTE

Accessing Australia's top attractions

SAY ALOHA TO Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;AHU

Dreams do come true An interview with model and frequent traveller Madeline Stuart

+ Bali + Group tours + France

VOL 3 MARCH 2020 RRP AU$9.95

+ Roadtrips

+ Singapore

Readers Photos

01 - PIERRETTE from Paris enjoying a magical sunrise on the southern edge of the Grand Canyon. 02 - ALEX and his friends had a great time when they travelled with Tapooz Travel from Paris, France to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in the USA.

Readers Photos

03 - JAMES broke his neck in late 2008, becoming quadriplegic. James wasn't going to let his accident dampen his quest for adventure. Here he is bungy jumping in Queenstown. He is also one of the only quadriplegic golfers in the world. empowergolf.com.au 04 - RIVER (4 years) lives with cerebral palsy and Beckwith Wiedemann syndrome. River enjoyed exploring Mt Cook, New Zealand with his walker. 05 - EVANDER (8 years) Evander loves the beach. Heading out to surf with the guys from Sargood at Collaroy.

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Image: Sylvia Longmire Spin the Globe

Hello!

As a country, Australia faced a tough end to 2019 and a brutal start to 2020, with bushfires affecting so many families and our beautiful wildlife. We witnessed a country coming together to help one another, dedicated emergency-service workers and volunteers all striving to make a difference. And yet, when the last fire was extinguished, another important job began: rebuilding communities. Many of the communities affected were tourist towns – places that usually have a boost in income over the summer holiday period, but not this year. There’s a simple way we can all help now and that’s by taking our tourist dollars to these regions. In this issue, we’re sharing plenty of ideas for accessible holidays across Australia. In accessible tourism news, last year I enjoyed travelling to San Francisco for an accessibility conference. It was interesting to hear speakers from various US destinations sharing how they are striving to make their destinations inclusive and welcoming to people of all abilities. We need to continue to share ideas and examples across the globe to improve inclusion within the tourism industry. At Travel Without Limits, we are proud to have contributors from across the world bringing you stories from their travels. Style of travel, budgets and challenges when travelling may vary between contributors, but each has a passion for travel and a determination to make it happen. This issue we have contributors from the US, Europe, Ireland, Canada and, of course, Australia. If you have feedback or a story to share we’d love to hear about it. You can contact me on julie@ travelwithoutlimits.com.au or follow us on Facebook. Happy travels! Julie

Founders Julie Jones & Janeece Keller

Kathryn Canavan-Seth Joanna Cannon Daniel Carroll Executive Editor Dane Cross Julie Jones Karen Earley Sub-editor Dianne Evans Sarah Friggieri Michael Forbes Art director Yasmine Gray Jon Wolfgang Miller Julie Jones Marlena Katene Contributors Janeece Keller Ben Aldridge Jessica Dove Will Butler Josephine Burns London

Sylvia Longmire Pamela Camarda Matzner Mary-Elaine McCavert Daniel Michel Dee Osmond Ron Pettit Kirsty Russell Daniel Stubbs Kate Swain Nicole Thibault Morgan WebbLiddle

Published by Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd - ABN 90 633 273 560 431 Warringah Rd, Frenchs Forest NSW 2086 Copyright © Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd 2020 ISSN 2652-0656. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every endeavour has been made to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is correct at time of going to print. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will be returned.

36 CONTENTS Access All Areas 14 A fresh start When travel offers you the chance to reimagine your life 16 Be my eyes An app opening up the world for those with low vision 22 Dreams do come true An interview with model and frequent traveller Madeline Stuart 20 Paralympian spotlight Boccia revolutionised Daniel Michel’s life

Travel 31 Vive la France One interabled couple takes on the city of love 36 Which Disney theme park is right for you? 43 The road to success How to roadtrip with autism

46 The great Aussie salute Accessing Australia's top attractions 58 Singapore sojourn Spontaneous travel can be done – even with wheels 62 Indonesian interest How one family overcomes travel challenges in Bali 69 Nature’s beauty in abundance Say aloha to O‘ahu 84 Blood-pumping fun Eight accessible ways to raise your adrenaline across Britain and Europe

Tips & tricks 90 Kids’ picks 92 Tips for travelling with dietary restrictions 94 Accessible cruising tips 98 Directory

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Enjoy more accessible travel options with Mable’s national network of Support People Bringing your travel plans to life is made even easier when you can find and choose the right support along the way. Wagga Wagga-based teenager Caitlin, who lives with Down syndrome, was able to enjoy a personal first recently when she travelled to Melbourne with her busy working mum Pieta and sister Georgia. Pieta, who works for Mable as a Community Engagement Manager, was travelling to the city for work and decided to take her daughters with her. Using the Mable online platform, Pieta was able to connect with a support worker in Melbourne to show her daughters the city’s sights while she attended meetings. This meant she was able to meet her work commitments while her daughters were enjoying a fun day in the city. “At home, we have a small team of Mable independent workers who are building Caitlin’s skills and independence, helping her organise and live her life without me having to be involved at every turn,” explains Pieta. “When organising our trip, we decided to place a job ad on Mable, looking for someone in Melbourne, and the result exceeded our expectations!” The family was able to search a national platform of support people, all covered by the same safeguards and insurance. Pieta and her family were able to specify that they wanted someone similar in age to the girls, the days and times required, and the support and needs involved. “We received responses from more than 15 people in just one day!” smiles Pieta. Pieta, Caitlin and Georgia shortlisted five profiles and ultimately decided to contact Chloe, whose profile featured excellent client

feedback. After exchanging a few messages and meeting via video call to confirm they were the right match, a formal agreement was put in place. “I felt completely safe entrusting my girls to Chloe because everyone on the platform has gone through the required checks before being verified and have the right insurance. Plus I know exactly how much they are being paid for their work.” Over their two-day stay, Chloe took the girls sightseeing, shopping, on tram rides and even to the aquarium. “They were able to do all the things two confident teenage girls should be doing in Melbourne,” Pieta says. “Suddenly,

Caitlin’s world is so much bigger than even I expected. It’s great that she’s able to live an independent life in her own community, but how much more exciting for her to be able to dream, plan and save for a trip to Melbourne to see a concert, to Sydney to see the New Year’s fireworks or to the Gold Coast for a beach holiday.” By signing up and searching on mable. com.au, National Disability Insurance Scheme participants and other people with disabilities can find caring, independent support workers for everyday requirements and also to fulfil those exciting travel dreams! mable.com.au

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NEWS: IN THE KNOW

FLY FIJI AIRWAYS Last year we were lucky enough to get onboard Fiji Airways’ brand-new A350-900 plane. The aircraft, named ‘Island of Viti Levu’, offers daily flights between Nadi and Sydney as well as Nadi and Los Angeles. The arrival of the state-of-the-art aircraft has provided a range of reasons for travellers to choose Fiji Airways: • Its cabin is among the quietest in the world. • The option of 39 Economy Bula Space seats with extra legroom. • Seat-back screens with in-flight entertainment and internet connectivity. • Business-class seats with flat beds and aisle access. • 25 per cent lower CO2 emissions versus previous generation aircraft. • A large accessible toilet (it’s two toilet cubicles joined together) that’s accessible from both sides of the main cabin. • A large baby change table, making nappy changes less of a juggle with young babies.

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Image: Gold Coast Airport /Luke Marsden

TAKING THE WHEEL

Bondi Beach is one of the busiest and most popular beaches in Australia. In fact, last year it played host to four million visitors. When one in 20 people have an access need, this means there’s a significant number of those visitors who require assistance to fully experience the beach – which is why Waverley Council and Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club recently joined forces to make Bondi Beach more accessible, with a range of facilities now available. The Access Bondi initiative sees Bondi Beach add to their beach wheelchair fleet with a Sandcruiser (adultsize beach wheelchair), Sandpiper (child-size chair) and Mobi-Chair, which allows flotation in the water in a more reclined position. The Sandcruiser and Sandpiper are free to use and are stored in lockers on the promenade at the northern end of the beach. While you’re taking the beach wheelchair out, you can secure your own wheelchair in the locker. The Mobi-Chair is available from the Bondi Patrol tent on weekends only. Beach matting is rolled out on Thursdays and Saturdays from 8.30am to 2pm, surf and weather conditions permitting. This is located at the northern end ramp of Bondi Beach, near Wally Weekes Pool. Bookings are required for the beach wheelchairs and can be made by calling 02 9083 8400 or emailing bondipav@waverley.nsw.gov.au

Gold Coast Airport therapy dogs Gary and Ranji and their handlers

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LOOK OUT FOR THE GOLDIE’S SUNFLOWER In close consultation with Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Gold Coast Airport has launched one of the most comprehensive airport hidden disability programs in Australia. The airport program includes planning tools, social stories and extensive employee training. Gold Coast Airport uses the sunflower symbol throughout the terminal to highlight sensory-friendly facilities throughout: • A sunflower display is at the Information Desk in the check-in hall. It’s a subtle indicator to passengers who understand its relevance that it’s a place where they can seek help. Sunflower badges are also worn by staff who have been trained in the program. • A terminal sensory map identifies low-, medium- and high-sensory areas to help passengers navigate their way through the terminal and prepare for crowded areas, additional noise, smells and lights. Quiet areas are also identified. Gold Coast Airport offers a Low Sensory Entry, Low Sensory Bathroom (the sensory-friendly bathroom does not have hand dryers – instead, paper towels are provided) and a Sensory Friendly Room. These locations are marked with a sunflower symbol on the terminal’s sensory map. • Passengers can apply for a Hidden Disabilities Lanyard prior to travel. Wearing the sunflower lanyard is a discreet way of indicating to airport staff that a passenger may need extra help, guidance or time with airport processes. Preparation for travel can begin long before your departure date, with social stories available online, and on weekday mornings you’ll find Gold Coast Airport’s AmbassaPAW Program’s therapy dogs spreading smiles throughout the terminal and alleviating the stress often associated with travel. Passengers are encouraged to stop in for a cuddle with the furriest members at the airport. Plan your visit to Gold Coast Airport using the accessibility guide (goldcoastairport. com.au/at-the-airport/accessibility), which includes many helpful downloadable tools.

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Marshall

Amy

Comfort and dignity combined Wonsie bodysuits offer practical solutions to many tricky situations faced by families with a loved one with a disability. The bodysuits keep those wearing them warm while tube-feeding, puts a stop to inappropriate undressing and are ideal for sensory sensitivities. We asked two families to share how their favourite Wonsie garments have helped them.

Marshall

“Marshall loves the short-sleeve tummy-access Wonsie, using it both as a singlet and a shirt. We appreciate the fact that it can be worn as an undergarment under shirts and jumpers, yet still looks like a shirt to the untrained

eye for warm days. When it comes to travel, we’ve found Wonsie’s help stop ‘diaper diving’, which is a big relief.”

Amy

Amy loves the tummy-access bodysuits in long-sleeve, shortsleeve and singlet varieties, depending on the weather. She loves them because they’re soft and comfortable, with no scratchy bits or labels. She also loves the sensory feedback they provide. We appreciate the Wonsie bodysuits because they cover Amy’s PEG but provide easy access to the site when it’s time for a feed; no more inquisitive fingers venturing into places they shouldn’t! We

have significantly reduced the number of times she’s pulled out her PEG or had an infection in the site. It has also removed nappy access, which has made a massive difference to our stress levels. When travelling, the Wonsie bodysuits are comfortable for long car trips as they keep Amy cool, don’t ride up and don’t create pressure sites like other clothes can do when sitting in a car seat.” Wonsie bodysuits were created by an Australian mum who made the first one to help a friend who was experiencing difficulties with her child smearing. The bodysuits have gone on to assist families across the world (worldwide shipping

is available) and come in sizes that fit everyone from toddlers to large adults and are also wonderful for people in aged care. ‘Dignity’ is a word often used by families who purchase the bodysuits. Dignity for their loved one because they encourage appropriate behavior, and for those who require peg-feeding the discreet slit makes feeding easier. As a proud National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, the Wonsie team believes everyone deserves dignity and is proud to assist in making life easier for people of all ages. Visit wonsie.com.au for more information.

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The Shine Shed – All Abilities Play Centre The Shine Shed (shineshed.com. au) is Sydney’s only all-abilities play centre catering for kids, teens and young adults of all abilities. The Shine Shed welcomes everyone, with a wheelchair swing, adaptive zipline seat and sensory room, specialised therapy swings, trampoline and foam pit. Accessible parking and a bathroom equipped with an electric-lift change table and hoist means families have all they need for an accessible day out.

Birthday parties

For many children with a disability, birthday parties can be a real challenge, whether they are a guest or the birthday person themselves. Parties can be overwhelmingly loud and unpredictable, and many venues can’t meet the needs of kids for whom this is a problem. The Shine Shed provides a sensoryfriendly birthday party for all ages and have a range of options for any budget, from a self-catered kiosk party to whole-centre hire. Since opening, it’s hosted many successful first-time parties for children who have been unable to enjoy a party in the past. It’s wonderful to see the smiles and joy on the faces of the children, but also the happiness of the parents as they watch on.

Don’t just take our word for it…

“Today we held my non-verbal son’s 7th birthday party at The Shine Shed. We booked the centre out and Lisa and her staff were amazing in the lead-up and on the day. Nothing was too much trouble and they were extremely accommodating with regards to understanding our needs and requests! They went above and beyond to make sure our first real

To book your next party, email bookings@ shineshed.com.au or call 02 4629 5555 and press 2. Want your own Shine Shed? Contact Lisa on enquiries@ shineshed.com.au.

attempt at a birthday party was a huge success. I would not hesitate in recommending visiting The Shine Shed or holding a birthday party here! The best experience! Thank you, Lisa, and your wonderful team!” – Karen

Nerf battles

The Shine Shed is well-known for its awesome Nerf battles that are great for the whole family and run during the school holidays and other times as announced on its Facebook page (facebook.com/ theshineshed). Nerf battles are a great opportunity for kids and the young at heart to play and make friends, get some fun exercise and test their Nerf skills. The Shine Shed supplies Nerf blasters and darts to use on the day or you can bring own. They are also developing some switch-adapted Nerf blasters for those participants with limited hand function so everyone can join the fun! The cost is just the standard entry fee of $27 for two hours and family passes are available.

Coming soon!

The Shine Shed is proud to announce that it is opening a second venue at Vineyard in Sydney’s north-west! Proudly owned by the Thompson family, The Shine Shed North West Sydney is scheduled to open in April 2020 and will bring its amazing sensory-play facility closer to families, schools and disability services in The Hills area and surrounds, so that more people get the opportunity to Shine! Keep an eye on the website and Facebook page for updates.

Access All Areas Another Luggie user, Maureen Corrigan, visiting the Scily Isles in the UK

Off Road in comfort New travel mobility products are popping up all the time. Freerider (of Luggie fame) has released four new high-end models of its trusty scooter, in addition to a Luggie powerchair. Each of the new scooter models features soft-ride tyres and suspension, while keeping the lightweight frame and large carrying capacity. The design of the new Luggies is intended to address a common issue with the old versions: bumpy terrain meant a bumpy ride. The new tyres and suspension mitigate that problem. Two of the new scooters are also genuine four-wheelers, with a widened wheel base. This is ideal for those who prefer the added stability at the expense of a little manoeuvrability. Robin, from the New South Wales Central Coast, was one of the first in Australia to get her hands on the new Super Deluxe four-wheel model. She travelled to Europe and Israel on her old Luggie, and indeed shared some of those common complaints. “Everything about [the scooter] was perfect – except it didn’t do so well in cities with iffy footpaths, so I never felt completely comfortable around Paris. The new one is much better,” she said. But Scott Sanderson (pictured) wins the prize for bumpiest terrain; he braved Monument Valley in the USA some years back. The Blue Train in South Africa and the Northern Lights in Norway are among other feathers in his cap. For him, however, the narrow wheel base was the biggest problem with the old Luggie. “The scooter rocks too much whenever you take a bump at an angle,” he said. Peter Fraser, Managing Director of Scooters Australia (importer of the Luggie), said he was glad the manufacturer had heard the feedback. “It gives us a lot of trust in the manufacturer. They improved an already great product, responding to the genuine concerns of customers that we passed on to them. It’s extremely gratifying to see old Luggie users come in and get excited about the new versions,” he said. The Luggie TravelChair is Freerider’s foray in to the powerchair market. Its design resembles that of its scooter cousin, and it too can be folded for easy transportation in a car or plane. With a carrying capacity of 160kg, a sturdy frame, a li-ion battery and a dual motor, expect to see it at many tourist destinations across the world. For more information, visit luggieaustralia.com.au

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Expanding with Integrity Integrity Car Sales and Rentals (ICSAR) understands there’s been a gap in accessible vehicle rentals across Australia. They understand their clients’ desires to explore this big, beautiful country. So in response to many enquiries for wheelchair-accessible rental vehicles in more locations, ICSAR has developed Chair Share, an online rental platform with satellite rental sites to support local communities.

Satellite Rental Sites

In 2019, ICSAR was excited to expand the Chair Share Rental Platform to include services in Dubbo, Adelaide, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and the Gold Coast. From March 1 2020, the team was thrilled to have rental vehicles available in Penrith, Central Coast and Cairns. In May, they’ll be adding the Sunshine Coast to this list. These wheelchair vehicles will not only help people travel with greater ease, but also assist locals requiring a short-term transport solution.

NDIS funding

Every day, the ICSAR team is asked by clients if they can use their NDIS funding – and the answer is yes, they can. ICSAR have been NDIS providers for three years and have seen the agency and all participating in it go through many challenges and changes. A recent trend they have observed is that more Participants are exercising choice and control over how they spend their funding a very positive development. Sometimes NDIS participants tell the ICSAR team that their request for a rental vehicle was turned down and that they were approved for other services that they may never use. Except in rare circumstances, funds in a participant’s Core Support budget are unallocated – that means that regardless of how the planner calculated the budget, it’s up to the participant to decide which services he or she needs. In short, participants are not required to get permission to rent ICSAR’s vehicles. To date, ICSAR has advocated for

and helped many clients go on holiday, participate in the local community, attend special events, go to doctor and therapist appointments, have a replacement vehicle when theirs was in a workshop, and visit family and friends. It’s been their pleasure to help participants get mobile, get out of the house and have fun!

Answering the call from fire-affected regions

The ICSAR team has been saddened by the months of fires burning across Australia and know many people who have been directly affected by them. One of the things we can all do to aid in the recovery of these devastated communities is to visit them. Holiday at home this year and visit one of these areas to help them rebuild, and look out for ICSAR’s vans – they’ll be there, and they hope to see you there too! 1300 WELCAB | 1300 935 222 www.icsar.com.au www.chairshare.com.au

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A fresh start When travel offers the opportunity to reimagine life, you take it with both hands. WORDS: JESS DOVE LONDON We’re a Kiwi-Aussie family looking to give our cheeky 4-year-old boys, River and Zach, an extraordinary life. Entering the disability world, we found limitations were automatically placed on our boys, but we wanted to reimagine a really big life for them – one where, regardless of any ability or mobility restrictions, we wanted them to live large. Travelling has helped us do that. Our boys have some medical and disability labels, including cerebral palsy and Beckwith Wiedemann syndrome, which is rare. After their arrival into this world, we had years of hospital life and decided we needed a season to heal. Adventure and nature is our passion and we saw travel as an opportunity for a reimagined life. We spent the first four years of the boys’ lives in New Zealand, and this is where our travel adventures began, when we decided to live in a bus for six months and adventure across the country.

Making the dream a reality

Making a home out of our tiny house bus was our first challenge. Financially we decided to live a simpler life and used our savings to realise our dream. When we started the bus trip and our international travel, we had many unknowns, including whether River’s health would be strong enough. We were also concerned with how he’d handle the long flights with his movement. Our first six months, we travelled across New Zealand in our house bus, with the next six months spent travelling across the world. Therapy and surgery were the primary reason for our travels, but we had plenty of adventures along the way in New Zealand, Australia, UK, Iceland, USA, Canada, Lanzarote and Thailand. Our boys have shown amazing resilience and loved much of our travels – thank

Jess, River, Zach & Tim, Rochester, New York State

goodness they loved the flying part because we did quite a bit of it! That’s not to say it was all smooth travelling; three bouts of pneumonia, tonsillitis and gastro proved extremely difficult to deal with. Limited luggage proved a challenge when we were travelling with walkers and other equipment. In hindsight, we wish we had our boys’ wheelchairs with us for this. My husband and I found this part of our adventure tough and tiring.

Family travel highlights

Travelling to Iceland was a spontaneous decision after seeing a cheap flight. We had unexpected snow, visited four different hot pools, and the boys even went horseriding. Iceland was so different to home, it felt like going to the moon. Other travel highlights include charming Cornwall in the UK and riding camels in the mountains of Lanzarote. River and Zach love any experiences that involve transport, animal encounters and swimming. They were also lucky to visit many fabulous museums across the world.

Tips for long-term travel

When travelling with a disability, always ask for help and consider travelling with friends and family. We love having friends with us –extra hands help make things easier. It often opens up the possibility for greater adventures.

Our future plans

For now we are based in Australia for a season, with lots of local adventures planned. We hope to kayak, camp, see wild dolphins and ride bikes. River has mastered a trike, so we’re hoping to teach Zach this year too. Through our travels, we’ve experienced the highest of highs and some real lows. The highs were unreal, and the world felt like it had opened up to us and our boys like never before.

You can follow Jess, Tim, River and Zach on YouTube (youtube.com/ordinaryextraordinary), Facebook (facebook.com/ordinaryextraordinary) and Instagram (instagram.com/ordinary__extraordinary).

River exploring Iceland

Tim and Zach, England

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Tim and Zach, Rochester USA Cornwall Jess with river and Tim with Zach

River looking out to sea Devon

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Be my eyes A wondrous app has opened up a whole new world for those with low vision. WORDS: WILL BUTLER

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Every day, people make choices and navigate their environment using their vision. Doing this independently becomes difficult for someone who has low vision or for a person who is blind. Checking the useby date on food, navigating a hotel room or even reading a menu all become a challenge without sight. Thanks to the Be My Eyes app, assistance is at hand whether a person is at home or travelling somewhere new.

How does it work?

Be My Eyes is a very simple app – it gives you access to human sight when you need it, any time of the day, as many times a day as you need. The mobile app is free and can be downloaded on any iOS or Android mobile device. Using the phone camera, the user sends live video to either a volunteer or a company representative of their choice, and the person on the other end will describe over audio exactly what they’re looking at. In some cases, if expertise is needed, users can be guided through more complex troubleshooting and expert help scenarios with the company representatives who answer in the Specialised Help section of the app. Today that includes companies like Microsoft, Google, Procter and Gamble.

What should I use it for?

People use Be My Eyes for daily tasks: to spot-check clothes, read labels and get around inaccessible tech. In travel, we hear accounts of users pulling out the app in hotel rooms, at train stations, or for reading bus schedules, maps, tickets or many other printed materials. Be My Eyes is often used for restaurant menus, display cases, price tags and tons of other shopping scenarios. Check out the article ‘100 Ways To Use Be My Eyes’ on bemyeyes.com for some great ideas on how others are benefitting both at home and while travelling.

What if English isn’t my first language?

Since launching in January 2015, more than two million volunteers have signed up to assist blind and low-vision users across the world, with assistance available in more than 180 languages. Be My Eyes is an excellent example of humans and technology working harmoniously together for a wonderful outcome.

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Sightseeing without sight Imagine what it’s like to travel on a tour with a vision impairment. Many tours rely on presenting destinations through sightseeing – a typical tour has multiple lookouts, fast-paced itineraries and a large group. This travel style lacks engagement for a blind or low vision traveller, so it’s no wonder most vision-impaired travellers rely on family and friends to travel or possibly don’t travel at all. While holidays with family and friends are fun, sometimes you may have a specific interest or want to discover a destination in depth and with new people. Here are our tips for blind or low-vision travellers.

Choose the right itinerary

An itinerary with many touch and taste experiences will be more engaging and stimulating than one filled with sightseeing alone. Cocky Guides looks for small family run farm gate and cellar-door tours, which have a more personal approach for guests.

Ask questions about comfort and safety

When selecting a tour, ask about the accommodation, food and activity providers that will be used. This will allow you to check customer reviews of each business independently to ensure peace of mind. You should also ask how long the tour operator has been working with these businesses. In many cases, the length of the relationship will indicate the strength of their bond and ability to work together to cater for specific needs or requests.

Travel in small groups

Travellers with a vision impairment benefit from small groups for many reasons, including: • access to the trip leader • less background noise • ease of getting to know everyone • the opportunity to participate in authentic local experiences • less time hopping on and off the bus, which means more time at your destination

Think about support

Consider the type of support you will require, particularly in new environments. Some questions you might want to ponder include: • Are the activities, location, weather and terrain suitable for your guide dog or cane use? • Does the tour operator provide any additional support? • Are there discounts for companions? Cocky Guides is an Australian tour operator providing unique multi-sensory small-group adventures for the blind and low-vision community. Each adventure is designed for travellers who are active and competent with mobility using either a cane, guide dog or a companion as a sighted guide. Every trip offers discounts for companions and trip leaders are experienced to ensure that everyone feels safe, supported and included. Visit the Cocky Guides website (cockyguides.com.au) to see the diverse range of itineraries offered or call 1300 657 640 with any questions or requests for tailormade group trips.

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ATSA Independent Living Expos 2020 The popular ATSA Independent Living Expo is heading to Melbourne and Perth in May 2020. The ATSA expos are the premier event for the disability sector, with events taking place in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Perth. ATSA expos started more than 20 years ago for allied health professionals, but with the rollout of the NDIS empowering consumers, the show has broadened its offerings to evolve with this trend. An increase in exhibitors and new seminars have been added to the event to meet this need.

What’s on?

The expos address people’s day-to-day requirements, with exhibitors showcasing wheelchairs, home modifications and assistive-technology products. But the organisers understand that visitors are also looking for service providers, sporting opportunities and equipment that will assist with travel – so they offer all of this in one place. The seminars are always popular with both clinicians and caregivers, with topics covered including aqua therapy, disability sports, transfer tips for caregivers and accessible tourism. This year, it’s offering an ATSA first with a special area for free wheelchair tune-ups!

So convenient!

The venues are wheelchair-accessible and provide an accessible bathroom facility with adult-size change table and hoist to ensure you can stay as long as you like. Free parking is also offered and there are complimentary shuttle services from the railway station. And, to keep your energy up, there’s free coffee and tea!

Coming up…

The Perth event is put on by ATSA (Assistive Technology Suppliers Australia), supported by Indigo (formerly Independent Living Centre WA) and organised by Interpoint Events. It will be held at Claremont Showground in Claremont on 6 and 7 May 2020. The Melbourne event will be held at Melbourne Showgrounds in Ascot Vale on 13 and 14 May 2020, and will be the largest display of assistive-technologies equipment and services in Australia. For more information, call 1300 789 845 or visit atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au

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Paralympian spotlight Images: ÂŠ Sport the library/Greg Smith

When Daniel Michel was introduced to boccia at a muscular dystrophy camp at just 15 years of age, it completely revolutionised the way he would live his life.

I am a 24-year-old sport lover from the Sutherland Shire in Sydney. I was born with a disability called spinal muscular atrophy type II, and as a result I have used an electric wheelchair since I was 5 years old. Currently I represent Australia in the sport of boccia, which is a target-ball sport best described as a cross between bowls and snooker. After growing up with little sporting interaction, I found boccia as a 15-yearold and never looked back. Since then, I have travelled to more than 15 countries competing and have achieved a world ranking high of number two. I am currently ranked fourth and will represent Australia in the Tokyo Paralympic Games later this year.

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Even before boccia, travel was an enormous component of my life. My mum is Dutch and since I was 3 months old we have made regular trips to Europe to visit family. My mum never saw my disability as a barrier to my ability to travel and I grew up with the same instilled belief. I am a passionate advocate for travel for people with disabilities and enjoy sharing my knowledge and experiences with other people in similar positions.

Travel challenges

The thing I often consider interesting about air travel is the fact that the process for assisting people with disabilities seemingly hasn’t changed at all in the two decades I have been flying. When you consider the advances in approach to assisting people with disabilities in other sectors, it seems strange that we are still stuck in the dark ages when it comes to boarding a plane. The entire process from check-in to disembarking is always a rather uncomfortable and humiliating one. Anyone who uses a wheelchair will tell you that taking away a personalised wheelchair is the equivalent of taking away someone’s legs. It’s more than just a machine, it is an entire network of independence and comfort. The fact that a person is unable to remain in their wheelchair during air travel is probably the single most daunting thing about flying. Will it arrive in one piece? How uncomfortable am I going to have to be? For how long? These are all questions and considerations that people with disabilities have to manage. All other forms of transport, whether it be trains, cars or

buses, are now totally wheelchair-accessible and it’s about time the air-travel industry caught up.

Overcoming the challenges

Preparation is key for me to be able to enjoy some level of comfort on a plane. After many years of sitting incredibly uncomfortably in a stock-standard economy seat, the revelation of bringing my seat cushion from my wheelchair onto the plane suddenly hit me. This on its own has made an enormous difference – at least an 80 per cent improvement. I’ve also recently had a block made from foam to put under my feet so they aren’t hanging, and this has been the icing on the cake. When I used to dread even a short flight, I now find it relatively easy and comfortable to make the 14-hour trip to Dubai.

Travel highlight

The thing I enjoy most about travelling is experiencing the different cultures and ways of living in the countries I visit. For me, the culture I enjoyed immersing myself in the most was Colombia in South America. I found the people to be incredibly upbeat and happy, and everything from the food to the scenery was superb. I’m also a big coffee enthusiast, and the coffee I had in Colombia is the best I’ve tasted. The vibe was contagious and it was just really difficult to not have a good time.

Travel with purpose

Travel for me lately has meant competing. Most of the places I visit now are through my sport, and the travel aspect kind of plays

second fiddle to the job I’m there to do. In saying that, I am still a traveller at heart and I really relish any opportunity I get to see and experience something different. I believe travelling is a really good way to broaden your horizons as a human being and to get a better understanding of the world we live in.

Improving the tourism industry

I would really like to see the travel industry acknowledge and take steps to improve the customer experience for people with disabilities. Nobody should have to give up such a high degree of comfort and independence when they travel, and I believe finding ways to allow people to use their personal wheelchairs throughout the air-travel process would be a great way to level the inequity.

Olympic goals

The major event this year is the Tokyo Paralympic Games in July and August, so that is where my ultimate focus is. In the meantime, I have a lead-in event in Montreal in April that I’m currently preparing for. My goal is always to be better today than I was yesterday, and throughout my preparation for Tokyo that will be my mindset. Considering where I am, I feel confident about coming home with a medal, which would be an absolute dream come true! More broadly I am super-passionate about inspiring young people with disabilities to get involved in sport, which in my mind is the greatest equaliser available. I want the joy and purpose that boccia has brought to my life to be experienced by as many people as possible.

Image: Madeline Stuart Facebook

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Dreams DO COME TRUE

When almost the entire world is telling you something is impossible, there’s only one thing left to do… WORDS: MADELINE & ROSEANNE STUART

Thanks so much for chatting with us, Madeline – tell us a bit about yourself. My name is Madeline Stuart. I’m 23 years old and was born in Brisbane, Australia. Just like every girl, I have dreams. My biggest dream was born the day I saw a fashion show with my mum when I was 17 years old. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be a model, but I knew I had some work to do – I needed to change

society’s perception of the word ‘beauty’. I was born with Down syndrome, and thus don’t fit the mould of a typical model. But though I knew there would be plenty of people who took one look at me and said “No, you can’t”, I said “Yes, I can” and didn’t let being different stop me. I knew there were countless girls who felt completely left out of the fashion industry because of the ridiculous standards that had been set.

If I could break down those boundaries, I could help other girls feel like they too didn’t need to worry about being different – that they too could celebrate their differences. Turning my dream into a reality wasn’t easy, but I worked hard to get myself into the best shape possible and then took some stunning photographs, and when I posted them on social media they went viral and

across the world – no matter where they are from, what they look like or what cards they have been dealt in life – that they can overcome obstacles to fulfil their dreams too. If someone tells you ‘no’, make the choice to keep going and you will find a yes elsewhere. It is through our own naivety that we discriminate towards people who are different. But the more of us who step up and out of the shadows, the more opportunities we give others to realise how wide the spectrum of beauty can be. That true beauty is the spirit that lives inside each one of us. You obviously need to travel quite a lot for your modelling work. What’s the biggest challenge you encounter when you travel? I think the biggest challenge is jetlag, especially during Fashion Week. Last

Madeline Stuart in New York

Image: Lukas Gabo | Dress by: Hendrik Vermeulen

caught the attention of the very people I’d hoped to reach: the fashion industry. Today my dream has become a reality. I’ve walked the runways of New York Fashion Week for the past seven seasons, Paris Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, LA Fashion Week and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week China, to name a few, been named Model of the Year by Melange, was the first person with Down syndrome to be the face of a cosmetics company (GlossiGirl Cosmetics), and I’m the only person in history with an intellectual disability to get a working visa in the USA. I am proud to say that I am the first professional supermodel with Down syndrome who defied all societal odds of what ‘beauty’ used to mean, and that I have made progress to reshape what the definition of that word really is in the modern world. I want my story to be one that shows girls

Image: Tigas Photography

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Image: Madeline Stuart Facebook

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September I walked for 18 designers over 10 days in New York and London. Travelling to and from Australia was very exhausting. How do you manage that challenge? I think the only way to manage it is to allow time to rest. I usually arrive at least three days before any events so I can get over my jetlag and start refreshed. Then I try to have at least two days’ rest after my events before commencing my journey home, which is usually between 20 to 30 hours with commutes. If possible, I take a stopover for at least 24 hours, especially if I am travelling from Europe to Australia, and I always try to book my flights so I fly during the day. What’s your favourite destination? My favourite place to work is New York – it is almost like a second home to me now because I have worked there so much. When I fly in, I always get butterflies in my stomach and very excited, but my favourite place to holiday is anywhere on a cruise ship. Actually, I am working with Princess cruises in March this year for International Women’s Week – I am very excited. I think cruising is such a relaxing way to travel for

a lot of people with disabilities; I know my friends all love it. You don’t have to worry about packing and unpacking to go to a new destination, if everything gets a bit overwhelming you can just go back to your room, you get to meet so many new people on the boat, and there are so many great things to do. It is just the best! Plus I get to eat so many great meals. Do you have time to travel for fun or is it always work-related travel? Most of my travel is for work. We do try to spend a few days when we go somewhere new to see the sites, which is nice. I just feel blessed I have gotten to travel to so many wonderful countries across the world – it is just amazing. As a frequent traveller, do you have travel tips to share? What information do you think would help first-time travellers? • Triple-check the time of your flights, what time you need to get to the airport and that you have your passport. Also, check they have not changed your gate at the last minute – you don’t want to be

relaxing in one place while your plane is taking off from somewhere totally different. • Keep the details of where you’re staying on the first night on a piece of paper with your passport – don’t leave the information on your phone because customs always asks where you are staying and you are not supposed to turn on your phone in the airport security area. • Make sure your credit card works overseas and your bank has not blocked international spending. Also, notify them that you are travelling so they don’t block any transactions if you are skipping from one country to the next – you don’t want to have to try to explain to a taxi driver that you are not trying to scam him when your payment won’t go through. • Always take a light jumper, even to a warm climate. And when you google temperatures for your destination, always look for the ‘feels like’ temperature, as the actual temperature may be a little different. • Always check your phone’s international charges and turn off international data roaming as it can be very expensive.

Image: Paulina Duczman

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I just feel blessed I have gotten to travel to so many wonderful countries across the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is just amazing.

What’ll be your next modelling assignment? At the beginning of March I will be flying to Florida for my cruise contract. The year will pretty much flow like this: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Cairns, Jakarta, Prague, Germany, Singapore, Los Angeles, New York, London, Doha and Singapore. What’s been your most heartfelt achievement? Opening my own dance school, InsideOutside Dance. After I went viral and started booking work all over the world, I wanted to give back. I started a dance school in the hopes that other people would gain the confidence I got through dancing and performing in front of an audience. My dance school is now the biggest school for people with disabilities in Brisbane, with 15 classes at 11 locations across Brisbane and surrounding areas. Dancing is the thing I love as much as modelling. Lastly, what would be your dream modelling job? I would love to model for Victoria’s Secret or Sports Illustrated Swimsuit or be on the cover of Vogue. A girl can only dream!

If you’d like to keep up with Madeline’s travel, modelling and dance school, you can do so on Facebook (facebook. com/madelinesmodelling), Twitter (twitter.com/ Madeline_Stuart) and Instagram (instagram.com/ madelinesmodelling_).

Image: Tigas Photography

• Don’t get your currency converted at the airport – you won’t get value for money. Most of the street sellers will give you a better price. • Make sure your flight has entertainment and food if it is a long one. • Use SeatGuru to actually see if your seat on the plane is a good one. • There is an app called LoungeBuddy that allows you to input your frequent flyer status so you can see all the lounges that are available to you at every airport. • Tell someone where you are going and give them a copy of your itinerary – you never know what can happen. • If you are booking accommodation, check the comments before you book that affordable apartment that looks too good to be true – it probably is.

Image: Alicia Fox

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Sargood on Collaroy, more than just accessible include returning to work/study, intensive exercise and more. Thought-provoking courses and events are designed to facilitate learning and independence and are open to guests staying on Sargood on Collaroy’s accommodation packages. Examples of recent courses include yoga retreat, photography course, return to work and study course, deep-sea fishing and scuba diving. The on-site adaptive gym offers the latest in human underarm resistance technology and is staffed by an expert clinical team who are available to support guests. As an NDIS-registered provider of short-term accommodation and assistance, stays at Sargood on Collaroy may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme for up to 28 days per year. Sargood on Collaroy is a not-for-profit service that is proudly supported by the Sargood Foundation, icare and a private benefactor, which provide funding assistance, essential equipment and other necessities to encourage independent living for people with a spinal cord injury. Sargood on Collaroy is operated by Royal Rehab, which brings 120 years of experience in rehabilitation and support to the role.

Sargood on Collaroy is open to all with permanent spinal-cord damage that is not progressive or palliative. Discover unforgettable, stress-free stays at Sargood on Collaroy and put the fun back into travel! Sargood on Collaroy, 1 Brissenden Avenue, Collaroy NSW 2097 sargoodoncollaroy.com 02 8597 0600 enquiries@sargoodoncollaroy.com.au

Image: Daniel Tran

Located on a spectacular headland overlooking Sydney’s Collaroy Beach, Sargood on Collaroy is a world-first NDIS-approved provider of short-term accommodation and accessible stays for people of all ages with spinal-cord injury (SCI). Purpose-built with wheelchair accessibility in mind, Sargood on Collaroy boasts spacious self-contained apartments, the latest in adaptive technology, accessible equipment and specialist staff. For guests, Sargood on Collaroy is the place to enjoy stress-free stays and do as much or as little as you want in Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches. Choose from an extensive range of leisure and recreational activities specifically designed for people living with SCI. From surfing to golf, ceramics to archery, Sargood on Collaroy is the perfect place to engage in new experiences and discover new skills. As part of your shortterm accommodation package, specialist spinal-trained therapists will support you in activities, making it a truly positive experience. Activities include surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, yoga, golf, mountain-biking and more. Educational courses run throughout the year at Sargood on Collaroy. They are designed to improve the skills and independence of people with SCI. Topics

31 Vive la France One interabled couple takes on the city of love

58 Singapore sojourn Spontaneous travel can be done – even on wheels

74 The grand tour Taking a Contiki tour with additional support needs

36 Which Disney theme park is right for you?

62 Indonesian interest How one family overcomes travel challenges in Bali

80 By my side Sometimes all you need is a good travel companion… or 10

66 Six autism-friendly things to do in Mesa, Arizona

84 Blood-pumping fun Eight accessible ways to raise your adrenaline across Britain and Europe

43 The road to success How to roadtrip with autism 46 The great Aussie salute Accessing Australia's top attractions

69 Nature’s beauty in abundance Say aloha to O‘ahu

86 Flying high and making a special birthday an occasion

Roadtripping and mobility equipment storage Travelling by road can be awe-inspiring. Have you ever decided to explore an unknown town and discovered a slice of heaven? That’s the stuff of memories. The freedom of a driving holiday is difficult to surpass – it’s just one reason we love them. They also allow easy transporting of daily essentials, home comforts and necessary equipment. Let’s look at useful car storage hacks that make roadtripping easier.

STORAGE OPTIONS

When planning storage, consider all equipment, not just your wheelchair or mobility scooter. Walking frames, commodes, ventilators and emergency supplies also take up space and must be stored safely. Heavy items like oxygen bottles and extra batteries need to be properly secured too, to prevent them from becoming hazards. Several external vehicle modifications can increase storage space: • Towbar-mounted wheelchair and

scooter carriers: Foldable manual wheelchairs can be mounted on a rack similar to a standard bike rack, while larger aids like scooters can sit on a tray with extendable ramp. • Roof racks: Usually combined with car roof hoists, these are only suitable for use with foldable manual wheelchairs and come with or without weatherprotection covers. • Trailers: These can be specially designed to carry mobility scooters or power wheelchairs. • Storage boxes/roof pods: These are a great way to store mobility equipment such as manual wheelchairs or walking frames, and other general luggage. While on the road, you’ll want things to stay in their place and be easily accessible, externally and internally. Consider interior storage options like behind-headrest and under-seat pockets, boot compartments, console organisers, luggage nets, umbrella stands and more. These will help safely store your

back-up battery, first-aid kit, equipment tools, extra winter woolies and other must-haves.

JUST AS ESSENTIAL

Insuring your vehicle and mobility equipment is crucial for holidays, and for daily life. Consider a specialist insurer like Blue Badge Insurance, which really understands the needs of people with disabilities. Blue Badge Insurance has car insurance for disability parking permit users, giving discounted premiums of up to 25%^, up to $5000 cover for in-car assistive technology, and can cover others who drive your vehicle. Converted cars are also provided a ‘new for old’ replacement option for disability conversions*. Blue Badge Insurance’s mobility equipment insurance covers wheelchairs and mobility scooters against accidental loss and damage, and third-party liability for personal injury and property*. Visit bluebadgeinsurance.com.au

TERMS AND CONDITIONS ^Discounts for the Blue Badge Insurance Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance will be applied to the base vehicle rates subject to the customer holding a permanent Disability Parking Permit and/or the vehicle has been converted for use by a driver or passengers that have a disability. The discounts do not apply to the Blue Badge Roadside Assistance Optional Benefit. Underwriting criteria will be applied to the consideration of the risk. Additional excesses will apply to drivers under 25 and drivers who have held a full Australian driver’s licence for less than two years. This offer may be withdrawn at any time. *For full details of the conditions, terms, limits and exclusions, and to decide whether this cover is suitable for you, please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement at bluebadgeinsurance.com.au.

Go further with SmartDrive + FreeWheel The travel bug, once acquired, is hard to kick. Over the past 40 years, I have been fortunate enough to travel extensively. One of the reasons I love to travel is for the challenges it presents – and with the right assistive technology, I have found I can push the boundaries further than ever before. Recently my wife and I visited Porto in Portugal. We booked a room through Airbnb using the accessibility filters. We ended up in a one-bedroom apartment right in the heart of Porto, equipped with a kitchen, good living-room space and a bathroom set-up that worked for me. Porto is an ancient city, built around the Douro River. This means there are a lot of steep hills, cobblestones and narrow alleys – not ideal for wheelchairs! But to compensate for this it is a beautiful city with magnificent views, architecture, history and very friendly locals. In addition, there is some excellent infrastructure, such as the funicular, cable cars, accessible buses and accessible paths along the river and on the famous Dom Luís I Bridge. We also did a

half-day river cruise, which was spectacular and included a train ride back to Porto. In terms of getting around, we explored a lot of the city by wheeling/walking. I find that one of the attractions of old cities like this is to just wheel through the lanes and alleyways, get a feel for the history and be surprised by the small shops and their produce. Two essential pieces of equipment were the SmartDrive™ and the FreeWheel®. These two products work so well together – the FreeWheel for the cobblestones and going down steep hills, the SmartDrive for getting up the steep hills. Having travelled through Europe without the FreeWheel, the difference it makes on cobblestones is truly liberating! Having the SmartDrive allowed my wife and I to explore much more of the city than we could have without it. I used the SmartDrive PushTracker E2 and was really impressed with it. The connectivity, screen and ease of use is improved from the original PushTracker. Using it only for the SmartDrive, the battery

lasted all day for me. On days I knew I would be relying heavily on the SmartDrive, I put the E2 into battery-saver mode (a simple swipe and one-click process) when I was not using my SmartDrive and ended up with battery to spare at the end of the day. For more information on these products, visit permobil.com.au, email orders.au@ permobil.com or call 1300 845 483.

Vive la France One interabled couple takes on the city of love. On a warm summer day, we sat in my parents’ backyard in beautiful Nova Scotia, Canada, dreaming of a trip across the pond. My name is Dee and I was born in England, and the time suddenly felt right for my partner Kevin and I to plan a trip there together. Among the excitement of this adventure, we felt some nerves creeping in as we thought more about the unknown involved with travelling to another continent. Kevin and I are avid travellers. We have been together for five years and love exploring new places together. Kevin is a C4 quadriplegic who became paralysed from the shoulders down at the age of 15. Through perseverance and a can-do attitude, he has made sure his life is lived to the fullest each day, bringing travel to be one of his favourite hobbies. In the past five years, we’ve been to Hawai‘i and

WORDS & IMAGES: DEE OSMOND

Florida and on a few Caribbean cruises. We would occasionally fantasise about a trip to Europe, but it was quickly dismissed in favour of easier destinations (or so we thought!). Suddenly the time felt right and the next thing we knew we had purchased plane tickets to London. Our time there was well-planned and calculated. I had many childhood places to see and things to do. After watching another interabled couple (Squirmy and Grubs) visit Paris via the Eurostar, Kevin’s eyes lit up and we realised it was something we could do! Before we knew it, we were booking our train tickets. Three months later, we embarked on this adventure. After spending five days in London, we packed our bags to go to the city of love for three days of jam-packed adventures. These are our top five Parisian experiences…

Making our way towards the famous Eiffel Tower

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Enjoying VIP service on the Eurostar during the 2.5 hour journey from London to Paris

1. EUROSTAR

Before we even crossed the border, we were sitting in the luxury of first class (sipping my fourth coffee) on a very speedy train. Eurostar is a high-speed train that travels from London to Paris at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour. We conveniently booked our tickets online (a few months in advance) and were surprised to learn there is a discount for wheelchair users and their companions. We were even more thrilled to see that our tickets were for first class! When we arrived at St Pancras International in London, we were checked in and through security with ease. While waiting for boarding, we were shown to the business-class lounge (free food and drinks!) because we had first-class tickets. The wheelchair and companion seating on the train was comfortable and the service was top-notch. It was easy for Kevin to manoeuvre his head-controlled power wheelchair into the spot with a height-adjustable table and window. This newfound transportation method had us hooked (and never wanting to travel by plane ever again).

2. BATEAUX MOUCHES RIVER CRUISE

To see the Paris landscape, we embarked on a 90-minute river cruise. Bateaux Mouches operates accessible tours along River Seine. The lower level of the ship is accessible, and it has both indoor and outdoor viewing areas. This was a fun way to see famous landmarks such as Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower, and learn some history.

3. LOUVRE

This iconic art museum is a must-see attraction! We ventured there on our first day and were immediately ushered to the front of the queue. Once inside the lobby, we were told to proceed directly to the exhibits free of charge. The Louvre offers free admission to wheelchair users and their companion. Our good fortune continued as we followed the maze of elevators to find the famous Mona Lisa. The room was large, the painting small and crowds were gathered, staring at her face from afar. As we entered the room, we were greeted by an employee who showed us to the accessible viewing area â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was the front row! We were stunned and took a quick selfie with the painting. There was plenty of beautiful art of all kinds and we only saw a fraction of it.Â

We were stunned and took a quick selfie with the painting

4. EIFFEL TOWER

After a romantic river cruise, we sat in the park (Champ de Mars) to watch the crowds and admire the Eiffel Tower with croissant in hand as we debated whether to go up the tower. After much deliberation, we ventured in to buy tickets. We were pleasantly surprised to see an accessibility meeting point. We were met there by a staff member who escorted us to buy our discounted tickets. After purchasing our tickets, we were taken directly to the elevator, avoiding the very long line-up. As the elevator ascended, we were amazed by the engineering feat and mesmerised by the beautiful views of this old city from above. We exited on the second level (wheelchair users canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t access the top floor) and we were very happy with the view. After taking many photos, we had no trouble getting on the elevator back down.Â

Mesmerised by the beautiful views of this old city from above 34

View of the Sacre Coeur Basilica

5. SACRÉ-COEUR

The next day, we took the bus to the adorable old village of Montmartre, where the iconic SacréCoeur cathedral is located. It is at the top of a very steep hill – but fear not, the funicular (cable-car railway) can take you up and down. To enter the cathedral, you must go to the back (some cobblestone is involved) and take an elevator to the main level. The cathedral is beautiful, and it was nice to get another view of the city (from the opposite side).

On the flight home, we realised how much fun we had in this special city. The accessibility was much better than we anticipated. We loved seeing the initiatives for accessibility in the attractions and getting around on its 100 per cent accessible bus fleet. The only problems we experienced were taking the RER (commuter train) to and from our Airbnb and dealing with steps to get into many restaurants and cafés. We are dreaming of more European adventures, though, and can’t wait to take the train again.

If you’d like to keep up with Dee and Kevin’s adventures, you can do so on YouTube (youtube.com/accessibleadventurers) and Instagram (instagram.com/accessibleadventurers).

TOP THREE TIPS • If visiting the Louvre, give yourself lots of time and figure out in advance what exhibits you want to see. • Paris’ bus system is accessible and very easy to use. Use a navigation app such as Google Maps to plan your route, as signage is not always clear. Avoid the RER train and Metro as they use portable ramps and their system is inefficient and unreliable. • Make sure you stop by a Boulanger – the croissants are unbelievable!

Will the happiest place on Earth be the happiest for you? 36

Image: Sylvia Longmire Spin the Globe

The rule of three: Disney edition

Disney parks are a dream on so many people’s bucket lists – but what’s the access like? We’ve rounded up regular travellers to each of the parks to share their top three accessibility tips.

SHANGHAI DISNEYLAND, CHINA

WORDS - SYLVIA LONGMIRE

Visiting Shanghai Disneyland in a wheelchair was so incredible! There were absolutely no curbs anywhere, I was able to go on many of the rides and see all the shows, and just really enjoy that Disney magic even though I was thousands of kilometres away from my home in the US. Here are my tips for visiting Shanghai Disneyland: 1. Be prepared for very large crowds and be prepared for them to not give you a centimetre of space. Personal space considerations in China are very different to what they are are in western countries. 2. Be prepared for a lot of looks and stares and attention. I learnt through experience that it’s not malicious – wheelchairs are a very rare sight in China, so you will be the object of curiosity more than anything else. Also be prepared for people wanting to take their picture with you! 3. Be patient. The ‘Cast Members’ at Shanghai Disneyland are incredibly friendly and helpful, but wheelchairs aren’t the same priority as they are in the US. While there are reserved spaces at the shows, they do not have reserved spaces for the parades, and sometimes they’re not sure where to put wheelchair users. That being said, they are always ready to find out how to do it right. Follow Sylvia at spintheglobetravel.net

DISNEYLAND PARK AND DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK, USA

WORDS - KAREN EARLEY

TOKYO DISNEYSEA, JAPAN

WORDS - KATE SWAIN

I’m a keen traveller and enjoy combining my love of adaptive skiing with trips to Tokyo DisneySea. My tips are: 1. Upon arrival, stop at Guest Relations and they’ll note all your barrier-free details. You’ll only need to do this once for your stay, even if you have multiple days between the two resorts. This allows you to go to a ride and get a return time to come back so you don’t need to wait in line. 2. My must-do ride at DisneySea is Toy Story

Mania!. An accessible cart allows you to stay in your wheelchair (depending on wheelchair size) if you prefer and you can either use the triggerpull like everyone else or there’s an option for a push button, which I found a lot easier. 3. The Japanese use the words ‘barrier free’ instead of ‘accessible’ and ‘slope’ instead of ‘ramp’. For ease of communication, it’s easier to ask for this when making enquiries about access.

available (special Disney badges are free and available to visitors to celebrate particular milestones, like first visit, birthdays and anniversaries).

My family and I get to Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park every few years. My daughter Katie has cerebral palsy and is a wheelchair user, and I use a motorised scooter. Both of us also have special dietary needs. Here are our tips for a smooth day at the parks:

2. We always go online and try to plan our days there ahead of time. If you are going to be there multiple days, try to break the parks up into areas – it will save a lot of energy and having to fight crowds crossing back and forth across the park.

1. When you first arrive, visit City Hall at Disneyland Park or Chamber of Commerce at California Adventure – they’re both close to the main gates. They have maps for guests with disabilities, dietary information if needed, and will answer all your questions. Don’t forget to ask for any special buttons

3. All restaurants on the property will have a chef come to your table and make a meal that will work for you. Tell them about all of your allergies and preferences. We found them very accommodating. Every food vendor is well-informed about allergens and was very helpful to us.

HONG KONG DISNEYLAND, HONG KONG

WORDS - DIANNE EVANS

On a trip to Europe soon after our daughter Tara’s 18th birthday, we had a stopover in Hong Kong. We spent two days there, staying at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel for three nights. Hong Kong Disneyland is smaller than Disneyland Park, but when you’re pushing someone in a wheelchair it’s easier, so we didn’t really mind. Here are our top tips for visiting:

1. Like at Disneyland, a parade entertains the crowds each afternoon and evening. Wheelchair-accessible viewing is available for the parades to ensure they have an unobstructed view of the parade. 2. We found almost all the rides were accessible, with ride attendants

bringing the accessible cars into service when needed. This took about 20 minutes, but we found staff very accommodating. 3. We visited in July, which was peak season and very hot. We wouldn’t recommend visiting at this time of year, if given the choice.

Pamela & family at Walt Disney World Florida

WALT DISNEY WORLD, USA

WORDS - PAMELA MATZNER

My family and I visit Walt Disney World two to three times each year. My sons and I have a rare form of dwarfism that affects our joints, making long-distance walking an obstacle. Over the past 20 years of visiting the park, I have learnt many tips to help people with diverse needs navigate the park a little easier: 1. Always stay on the property. Benefits include free accessible transportation to and from the airport and free on-site transportation for the duration of your stay. There are many other benefits to staying on the property, like extra hours at the park and the option of a meal plan. 2. If walking long distances is difficult and you don’t own a mobility device, you can rent one from ScooterBug Rentals. They will deliver it to your hotel and it will be waiting there for when you arrive. The average cost is about US$25 a day, compared to park rentals which are about US$70 a day. The park scooters also cannot leave the parks.

Joanna, family and friends Disneyland Paris

3. If someone in your party has a nonvisible diverse need, you can request a DAS (Disability Access Service) Card at Guest Relations when you arrive. This will allow you to get return times for longwait rides so you will not have to stand in line.

DISNEYLAND PARIS

WORDS - JOANNA CANNON We are a family of four; Richard and I are powered-chair users, our 11-year-old son Jacob is a part-time manual wheelchair user, and our 7-year-old daughter Molly does not have a disability. We went to Disneyland Paris last year for six days and had a fabulous time. We stayed on site at Disney’s Sequoia Lodge Hotel, which is mid-range and three-star. It is a 15-minute walk/roll to the park, which we were able to manage. I understand there are accessible buses, but we did not use these so we cannot vouch for them. Here are our top tips for visiting Disneyland Paris: 1. For many rides we needed a carer with us, even though we wouldn’t need a carer in real life. We went on this holiday with

another family, so we could go on most rides, even if we weren’t allowed to sit with who we wanted to sit with. But be prepared for inconsistency – one day they let my son go on Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast with me, the next day they wouldn’t. 2. Although they expect wheelchair users to have a carer with them, the good news is you can get a free carer ticket for park entry. We booked through a travel agent as a package with the hotel and they managed to get a good discount for this. 3. Disneyland Paris has a great system where you can take evidence of disability to get a priority pass. This allows you to get priority access to rides and attractions, including meeting characters and the parade, and often means you do not need to queue – at least not for as long. There can be a long queue at peak times to get your priority pass, so go to the studios to get this done – the queue is much shorter! We took lanyards and plastic wallets to wear the passes while walking around the park, so we always had them to hand. Learn more at travelwithoutlimits.com.au

Soar like an eagle on the Mornington Peninsula

Images courtesy of @SmithsHolidayRoad and @FreeWheelWeekends

Gliding quietly through the sky in a gondola at Arthurs Seat Eagle, you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported a million miles away, rather than one hour’s drive from Melbourne. With uninterrupted views framed by swaying gum trees and birdsong, grazing kangaroos and the trace of distant coastlines, you are immersed in a truly majestic Australian landscape. Named in honour of the wedge-tailed eagle (indigenous to the area and revered in local Aboriginal lore), the Eagle gondola experience takes you through an area steeped in history and surrounded by nature. Onboard the Eagle’s aerial gondolas, some of the best photo opportunities can be found in brilliant shades of blue with the backdrop of native bushland. Soaring above and past the trees, you ride inside comfortable allweather and fully accessible cabins. It’s an awe-inspiring journey as you ascend quietly up Arthurs Seat to the summit, where you can take in some of the best views of the Mornington Peninsula region, across Port Phillip Bay, towards the city skyline, along the coastline and beyond.

OUR ARMS ARE WIDE OPEN

Everyone has a space at the Eagle; the entire site is wheelchair-friendly with accessible parking and ramped access throughout the Summit and Base Stations. The gondolas slow down (and can be paused) at each of the stations and allow level access for ease of boarding (gondola doors open to 80cm and double prams or oversized wheelchairs may not fit). At the base, the award-winning ‘Changing Places’ restrooms cater for visitors with disabilities and mobility limitations. Awarded ‘Best Accessible Toilet’ in 2017 by MyTravelResearch.com, the restrooms provide world’s best practice accessibility. The open and spacious Summit Café offers a casual dining experience with amazing views from nearly every table. Paired with an expansive outdoor deck, there’s plenty of room to sit with a coffee and a snack or even a local wine or beer. At the Base, there are hot and cold snacks in the kiosk and an accessible tree-lined picnic area. The friendly team is consistently applauded for their high standard of customer service and are always on hand to ensure a smooth and comfortable visit.

Opening hours: Daily from 10am (excluding Christmas Day) Location: Base Station (1085 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat Vic) and Summit Station (795 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat Vic) Phone number: 03 5987 0600 Website: www.aseagle.com.au

Staying cool, calm and collected while travelling Travelling, as exciting as it is, can bring about stress and anxiety in some; new places and being out of a routine can lead to physical and mental unrest. Managing this in new environments, and while in transit, can be a real challenge. In answer to this, a Danish company has developed a range of sensory-stimulating products that can be taken on the road. The Protac KneedMe knee blanket comes in different sizes and weights and is easy to travel with as it has its own handles and folds up. You can use it while sitting on buses, planes and in wheelchairs to help with conditions such as hyperactivity, restless leg syndrome, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and brain injuries. By stimulating the sense of touch through weighted balls, you can get a feel for the limits of the body, and through this feedback to the nervous system a calming effect is created. Many users report a greater sense of wellbeing and experience more positive outcomes in new and stressful environments. Users of the product have reported that when using the sensory lap blanket, they feel it calms the body down, particularly fidgeting and spasms of the lower body. Beyond this, completing different tasks like writing or reading becomes a little easier with an increased sense of calm. If a more active holiday is calling, or you’re struggling with conditions such as ADD, autism, spasticity, developmental disorders, deaf or blindness, the Protac MyFit vest could be a more appropriate solution as you can move around freely, going about all your activities while still gaining the benefits of sensory stimulation. The vest comes in different sizes and is suitable for use by children, promoting a sense of calm. Users of the vest have found that it helps to tone down behaviours that make it difficult to form new social relationships. It’s also been used in therapy to help train balance and coordination. Many users of the vest have reported that they feel their breathing slows down and it’s easier for them to interact with new people in social environments, which is a great benefit when travelling. [02] 8315 2834 our sales@avantinnovations.com.au email and website www.avantinnovations.com.au

The road to success Give your family the green light for roadtrips with a bit of preparation. WORDS: KIRSTY RUSSELL

The traditional family roadtrip is a rite of passage for most of us. Memories of being piled into the car, winding down the windows and heading off for adventure are often part and parcel of our collective childhood experience. However, for families with an autistic family member, the traditional roadtrip may feel beyond them. With so many potential sources of stress and strain when it comes to long

car trips, it’s no surprise that many families have given up on the dream. So what is it about roadtrips that make them so stressful? Some complicating factors for people on the spectrum include: • vestibular sensitivity resulting in motion sickness • inability to stim to stay calm • difficulty sitting or staying still • lack of space to move

• sensory overwhelm (smells, noise, light, seatbelt) • change in routine • anxiety about going away One or more of these issues can make even brief car trips unbearable and painful for autistic individuals. However, if you can pinpoint the main challenges facing your child or loved one, it’s possible to help make their experience more comfortable, using a few simple strategies.

Kirsty & family

PLAN YOUR ITINERARY

Limit surprises by mapping out your route, including your planned rest stops and overnight stays. This will provide certainty for you and limit your own stress and anxiety. It will also keep you on track, particularly if you are due at a destination at a specific time. Including an itinerary in a social story will also go a long way to reducing your loved one’s anxiety by showing them where you’re going and how long it will take to get there.

SCHEDULE REST BREAKS

It’s important to stop regularly to give everyone a chance to stretch and enjoy some space. Movement helps everyone’s mood and is the perfect circuit-breaker to combat boredom and fatigue. Find rest stops with playgrounds or open space to make the most of your time out of the car. Regularly taking a break from the car will help keep the peace, maintain calm and, more importantly, keep everyone as happy and content as possible.

BREAK UP LONG TRIPS

Consider limiting time in the car to five hours each day and breaking up long trips with an overnight stop. This gives you the opportunity to leave home mid-morning and get to your destination mid-afternoon, with rest stops along the way. It’s a more relaxed way to travel, reduces time in the car and provides an opportunity to explore along the way. We’ve found this to be a more comfortable way to travel and an effective strategy to minimise stress and anxiety.

DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS

Always take along food and drink, even if you plan to stop along the way. You know what your kids will and won’t eat and having food immediately at hand will make your life so much easier. Tissues, wet wipes, sunscreen, a first aid kit, pain relief, device re-chargers and plastic bags (for rubbish and motion sickness) are also a must. Also, consider packing a bag with spare clothes to avoid having to delve through packed suitcases in an emergency.

BRING ALONG ALL THE TECHNOLOGY

Technology is a must when it comes to family roadtrips, providing entertainment, calm and time out for everyone. Pack headphones, ensure devices are fully charged and load them up with favourite apps and movies for the trip. Don’t forget to take along books, music, games and activities. Make sure you load up some podcasts, audible books or classic roadtripping tunes to keep you entertained as well!

ORGANISE YOURSELF

Make life easy by organising your car before you leave. Back-seat organisers are great for storing essentials, plus they also help kids access what they need when they need it. Ensure you can easily access what you need on the road – there’s no point packing food in the boot if you can’t get to it when your child decides they are starving. Anticipate your loved one’s needs, work out what you might need along the way and store it within easy reach.

CREATE A VISUAL ITINERARY

Social stories and visual itineraries are a great way to prepare your kids for a roadtrip. They answer the why, what, where, how, when and who, provide reassurance and guide your kids on what’s expected along the way. Use a visual itinerary to talk to them about your destination and how you’re going to get there. Knowing a little more about what’s to come will help them feel less anxious and better able to cope with the inevitable change in routine.

Read more of Kirsty's tips and stories at positivespecialneedsparenting.com

PREPARE YOUR CAR

The last thing anyone needs is to be stranded in the middle of nowhere with mechanical trouble – especially if you have autistic kids who are already stressing out about being away from home! Get your car serviced before you head off. Ensure you have extra water in the boot, a working spare tyre, oil and coolant, and update your roadside assistance membership before you depart. A little preparation will go a long way to ensuring the success of your roadtrip.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

If your family is not used to travelling long distances, try a practice run first. Pack the essentials and take your family on a test drive for a few hours. Having a practice run will highlight any specific issues for your family, giving you the chance to deal with them before the real deal. It will give kids the opportunity to get used to travelling for longer periods, help you identify other things you’ll need to bring along and allow you all to explore places closer to home.

The great Aussie salute When the going gets tough, the tough get going… all across Australia. WORDS: JULIE JONES

Australia’s brutal summer has taken a toll on the country – bushfires, drought and flooding have affected families, our wildlife and the tourism industry. Aussies are known for mateship and rallying to help others, and we’ve seen extraordinary efforts during this difficult time, but the recovery process will take a long time. Holidaying in Australia is a win-win. On one hand,

Accessible viewing Uluru

by booking an Aussie holiday you’ll be helping the economy and the regions affected. On the other, with so many wonderful destinations to explore, you’re sure to have a memorable time. This quick lap around the continent scratches the surface of accessible travel ideas to help you choose your next Australian holiday.

Queensland CAIRNS

Thanks to Quicksilver Group, the Great Barrier Reef has become even more accessible. Take a daytrip to Agincourt Reef aboard the Quicksilver VII catamaran. Once there, use a two-storey structure that sits on the edge of the reef with a water-powered lift (hoist) providing accessible water entry for those with limited mobility. Passengers can swim directly off the lift’s chair and into the weightless environment of the reef, where they can snorkel and explore at their own pace. Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures allows safe and easy access viewing of the tropical north’s famous crocs from every angle; taking an accessible boat tour to spot crocodiles and watch the powerful crocs leap from the water to grab a snack is one of the most popular. For families, Cairns Esplanade is a hive of activity featuring Muddy’s Playground, an ideal spot for imaginative play and to cool off in the water play area. Muddy’s is equipped with a good variety of wheelchairaccessible features, including a Liberty Swing (a wheelchair swing accessed with an MLAK key).

THE OUTBACK

Heading west about 3.5 hours from Cairns is the Undara Experience. It’s been dubbed ‘Australia’s accessible outback’ for its location, but the facilities available also puts it on the list of accessible Queensland experiences. Guests can stay in repurposed and beautifully restored Queensland Rail carriages, including one that is wheelchair-friendly (due to the limitations of a railway carriage, not all wheelchair users will find the circulation space sufficient). When the Undara volcano erupted about 190,000 years ago, it led to the creation of the longest lava tubes in Australia. One of those is accessible to visitors with mobility restrictions thanks to a chair lift that has been installed to help guests who can’t negotiate the stairs.

GOLD COAST

Families have long flocked to the Gold Coast for its theme parks and long stretches of gorgeous coastline. For wheelchair users who cannot transfer, Sea World offers the greatest theme-park accessibility. Easy access throughout the park is offered with excellent viewing of animal enclosures

and allocated seating for shows. For a special interactive experience, I recommend the dolphin experience. Designed for guests with additional needs, the trainers and dolphins are handpicked for their suitability. A hoist allows easier access to the dolphin encounter for guests needing assistance to transfer from a wheelchair to the platform. There’s nothing better than exploring the long stretches of white sandy beaches the Gold Coast has to offer. A permanent accessible beach program offered by City of Gold Coast includes a range of beach wheelchairs and beach matting. City of Gold Coast also provides a variety of equipment free to borrow from many of the surf life-saving clubs in the area. Equipment includes Sandcruisers, Hippocampes and WaterWheels; availability at each club varies, so check in advance if you have a preference or specific need.

Beach wheelchairs make the Gold Coast's beaches accessible to visitors & locals

South Australia ADELAIDE

South Australia is a wine and foodie’s paradise. In the state capital, consider heading to Adelaide Central Market to sample the state’s best fare at one of the largest undercover fresh-produce markets in the southern hemisphere. The stalls and shops are accessible and there is an accessible bathroom. If you indulge too much, Adelaide Zoo is the place to walk off those excesses. Not only is this zoo the only place you’ll see giant pandas in Australia, but many of the animal experiences – including the Squirrel Monkey Encounter – are wheelchair-accessible. Accessible by tram is the seaside town of Glenelg – perfect just before sunset for a stroll and dinner.

ADELAIDE HILLS Consider a daytrip to Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. The footpaths are generally flat and paved, and although some of the historic buildings have stepped entry, many have ramp access, such as Udder Delights, an iconic Adelaide Hills cheese producer.

The Squirrel Monkey's at Adelaide Zoo are happy to get up close and personal

Enjoying the Manly to Shelly Beach coastal walk

New South Wales COFFS HARBOUR Just an hour’s drive inland from Coffs Harbour’s beautiful beaches is Dorrigo National Park. Here, visitors can explore part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area – the most extensive strip of diverse rainforest anywhere on Earth. The elevated Skywalk lookout is wheelchair-accessible and allows visitors of all abilities the opportunity to experience life at the top of the rainforest canopy. On a clear day, Skywalk offers views from the forest to the sea. Alternatively, swap a wheelchair for a TrailRider to get among the mythical-like environment of the forest floor.

SYDNEY Sydney is a busy city, with the harbour as its centrepiece and a diverse range of activities to keep everyone busy. Get up close to Sydney’s famous landmarks by going behind the scenes at the iconic Sydney Opera House to learn more about its design and construction, with a tour

designed for guests with mobility restrictions. Or use the newly installed lifts to access Sydney Harbour Bridge and walk across to Lavender Bay. For a 360-degree view, head to the top of Sydney Tower Eye and get your city bearings. Enjoy the harbour by hopping on a ferry to Manly Beach and enjoy the coastal walk around to Shelly Beach.

BLUE MOUNTAINS Just a 90-minute drive west of Sydney are the tranquil Blue Mountains. Known for its dense eucalyptus-covered valleys, abundant birdlife and bushwalking, the Blue Mountains is perfect for a daytrip or short stay. At Scenic World, two of the three rides (Scenic Skyway and Scenic Cableway) are wheelchair-accessible, opening up Jamison Valley to all. At the base of the Scenic Cableway there’s an accessible walk through the valley where you can get among nature and, if you’re lucky, see lyrebirds dancing atop their nests.

Using the TrailRider to explore Dorrigo National Park

Australian Capital Territory CANBERRA

Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve

The nation’s capital is jam-packed with museums, galleries and family friendly attractions with excellent accessibility. In all seasons, Canberra offers variety, education and fun for all ages. The Australian Institute of Sport offers accessible tours and gives visitors an insight into the training life of an elite athlete. The Australian War Memorial aims to help us remember the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom; lest we forget. History buffs will be in their element and kids will be

happy in the The Discovery Zone. Questacon offers a plethora of hands-on activity stations that will ensure kids leave thinking science is cool. Just quietly, the adults will have just as much fun! Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, a short drive from Canberra, has an extensive variety of national flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Many of the bushwalks are suitable for visitors with a mobility restriction and a TrailRider is available to use by prior arrangement.

Northern Territory RED CENTRE

Standley Chasm West MacDonnell Ranges

People often describe their visit to Uluru as spiritual; it certainly has an allure thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult to explain. To appreciate the size, magic and beauty of Uluru, visitors need time to see it in its many moods. Sunset and sunrise viewing areas are popular for capturing gorgeous photos of the rock, but walking the 10km base (or part of it) offers a unique perspective. Compacted paths and footbridges make this accessible to most. A must-see while at Uluru is Field of Light. Bruce Munro created the light installation using 50,000 slender stems crowned with frosted-glass spheres, which are planted in Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heartland. When the sun goes down, the field comes alive with a spectacular colour. An accessible minibus is available for guests needing a step-free

transfer. Various styles of accessible accommodation are available at Voyages Ayers Rock Resort.

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Springs is home to many attractions that give visitors an insight into life in Outback Australia, including School of the Air, the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Telegraph Station. A highlight of a stay in Alice Springs is a daytrip to West MacDonnell National Park. Stretching 161 kilometres west of Alice Springs, the ochre colour, sheer rock faces and blue sky make for a stunning scenic drive. Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole are listed as wheelchair-accessible and, depending on access requirements, some may manage portions of Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm too.

To appreciate the size, magic and beauty of Uluru visitors need time to see it in its many moods.

Western Australia PERTH Western Australia offers vast and varied experiences for visitors, so we asked local Ben to share some of his favourite places with us. Yagan Square is a meeting and celebration space that features a range of attractions, like engaging public art, green spaces, pop-up festivals and some of the best cafes and restaurants in Perth. Accessibility is great throughout, with a water-play playground at the top an amazing place to unwind on a hot day.

BUSSELTON Located two-and-a-half hours south of Perth, Busselton is the gateway to the Margaret River region.

The Busselton Foreshore precinct is an attraction in itself, with accessible playgrounds, stunning beaches (beach access and beach wheelchair available), great restaurants and the famous jetty. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than 1.7 kilometres long and, if you book in advance, has an accessible train ride you can catch to the end. At the end of the jetty is an observatory, which descends eight metres underwater and has lift access for people with mobility restrictions. Many of the newer breweries and wineries in the south-west have been built with accessibility as a focus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for a relaxing holiday. My favourites include Amelia Park Wines, The Goose and Eagle Bay Brewing Co.

Ben and family at Busselton Jetty

Tasmania

Tahune cable hang-gliding

GEEVESTON

Tahune AirWalk, a short daytrip from Hobart, is an adrenaline-pumping and accessible attraction. Give the Eagle Hang Glider a go or take in the views of the forest canopy and the Huon and Picton rivers. There are plenty of opportunities for photos both above the forest or along one of the wheelchair-accessible paths of the Huon Pine Walk.

GEORGE TOWN On Tasmania’s north coast, the penguin experience at Low Head is fun for the whole family. At sundown, watch penguins return to their nests after a day at sea. Guides illuminate the area with amber torches that don’t hurt the penguins’ eyes, and if you need wheelchair access the staff are very accommodating – they will try to ensure that you get into a position where the penguins will walk right past.

Victoria

MELBOURNE

Melbourne is famed for its laneways, museums, galleries and coffee culture. Sea Life Melbourne has a combination of lift and ramp access, making it a pleasure to visit as a wheelchair user. The windows and tanks are at a great height for both young children and for visitors using mobility aids. The aquarium is divided into 11 zones, including Bay of Rays, Coral Atoll and Rainforest Adventure. There’s also a 4D Ice Age cinema experience. From almost anywhere in Melbourne, you can see the gold-plated Eureka Tower. On the 88th floor, Eureka Skydeck is the southern hemisphere’s highest viewing platform, offering 360-degree views of Melbourne. For the more daring, The Edge lets visitors venture outside the building in a glass box to experience Melbourne suspended in the air. Skydeck and The Edge are both wheelchair-accessible and there are Access Keys available to download before a visit for those with additional sensory or vision needs.

…AND SURROUNDS Australia’s Garden State can also provide a nature fix if you venture out of the city. Parks Victoria has something for everyone, including Walk in the Park, a program for blind or vision-impaired visitors, an accessible playground at Brimbank Park and a stairclimber at Buchan Caves. If you fancy taking to the water, an electric hoist is available at Patterson River boat ramp and a variety of beach wheelchairs are available to use at Wilsons Promontory National Park, Cape Conran Coastal Park and Point Nepean National Park. TrailRiders and accessible accommodation ensure visitors to the parks can play and stay in comfort. Thanks to Dane Cross (inclusiveaccess.com.au) and Ben Aldridge of 30 Foot Drop (30footdrop.com.au) for contributing to elements of this story.

Tahune Airwalk

Introducing Beachwheels Australia’s new Delta Buggy The Delta Buggy is the new all-terrain buggy that is providing families and caregivers with the opportunity to approach life with a greater sense of fun and adventure. It brings back the joy of participating in so many of the activities Aussie families love. It is the ultimate all-terrain buggy for exploring the great outdoors. It’s both compact and lightweight but built tough. It packs in a wealth of features, making it the best in its class. From the ergonomic, fully supportive suspended canvas that is designed to offer maximum postural support and the

adjustable rear axle that gives full control of the dynamic stability, the Delta Buggy offers features and a range of accessories you won’t find on similar products. With off-road capabilities, it opens up new horizons beyond the reach of conventional strollers and wheelchairs. It’s available in a range of sizes to suit adults and children and comes in three designs: Classic Delta Buggy, Delta Recline and Delta Run. Contact Beachwheels Australia on info@beachwheelsaustralia.com or 0435916391 to arrange a personalised trial of a Delta Buggy.

WHERE YOUR WHEELS CAN TAKE YOU Here’s where you can enjoy your Delta Buggy: • At the beach, taking a long stroll along the sand • An off-the-beaten-track picnic or barbecue • A bushwalk in a peaceful location • With friends on a bike ride • Fishing at your favourite creek or river • Overseas or interstate to see family and friends • Taking the dog for a walk in the neighbourhood or local park There are endless possibilities with a Delta Buggy!

Image: South Australian Tourism Commission.

U City the latest in accessibility for Adelaide If the vibrant city of Adelaide has been on your bucket list for a while, there’s no better time to visit than now! Not only is it home to stunning coastline, inviting wine and hills regions, and a jam-packed arts and culture calendar, it is also leading the way in access and inclusion. In 2019, the City of Adelaide endorsed its Access and Inclusion Plan, making clear its commitment to making the city a welcoming place for everyone to enjoy. Uniting Communities’ U City is playing a big role in supporting this, offering brand-new purpose-built accommodation right in the heart of the city. The 20-storey building has been designed with a focus on supporting people living with disability, offering a range of

features including hotel-style accommodation. U City’s 18 accessible serviced apartments are all about choice, supporting guests with accommodation to suit their needs and maximise independence – all in a fantastic location that’s close to public transport, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Features include the latest state-of-the-art assistive technology, allowing guests to control lights, blinds, air-conditioning and doors, and to contact Concierge from wherever they are in the apartment. Built-in cameras allow guests to see visitors at the entrance and remotely grant them access to the building. Within the apartments is a range of purpose-built

features such as wheel-under hot plates and kitchen sink, motorised doors and blinds, lifter tracks and functional beds, height-adjustable en suite basins and kitchen benches, wide doors and passages, and step-free thresholds and shower cubicles. Each of the one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments are fitted with different accessible features designed for low, medium and high physical support, so guests can select the one most suitable to their needs. U City also offers specialist disability accommodation and a newly accredited Changing Places facility – a bestpractice bathroom including a hoist and other customised features to provide dignified and purpose-built toileting and showering facilities, and the only 24/7 Changing Places in the Adelaide CBD. So why make Adelaide part of your travel plans? Here’s just a hint of what’s on offer:

BREATHTAKING COASTLINE

Adelaide’s metropolitan beaches are popular yearround. Catch a tram direct from the city to Glenelg and you’ll find plenty of places to drink, dine and take in the vibrant atmosphere. For wheelchair access, head to Seacliff, Henley Beach, Largs Bay or Semaphore (Seacliff even features a Mobi-Chair Floating Beach Wheelchair!).

WINERIES FOR MILES

From McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills to the Barossa and Clare valleys, South Australia’s wineries are among the world’s best. Many are an enjoyable daytrip from Adelaide, with Penfolds’ renowned Magill Estate nestled in the eastern foothills. If you want to stay closer to town, visit the National Wine Centre on the city’s edge, providing a handy one-stopshop for the best wines in the state.

Glenelg Beach - just a short tram ride from U City, located in the heart of the Adelaide CBD.

HEAD FOR THE HILLS

The Adelaide Hills region is home to a range of accessible attractions within easy reach of the city. Stirling, Hahndorf and Blackwood all offer a quaint village vibe with bustling cafés and unique stores to explore. Get back to nature with a visit to Cleland Wildlife Park, with a step-free café and interpretive centre, paved pathways and accessible bathrooms. A little further up the freeway, Monarto Safari Park features ramps and railings, with wheelchair access for the thrilling Lions 360 experience.

EASY ACCESS TO WORLD-CLASS SHOWS AND FESTIVALS

Adelaide’s arts and culture scene thrives throughout the year with Mad March, the Adelaide Cabaret, Sea and Vines, SALA (South Australian Living Artists) and OzAsia festivals – along with exciting programs from the State Theatre Company, Adelaide Symphony Orchestra and State

Opera. There truly is something for everyone, all within easy access of U City – and even closer once Her Majesty’s Theatre reopens just down the street.

A NEIGHBORHOOD PACKED WITH TOP EATERIES

Whether you like awardwinning fine-dining or cosy brunch spots, Adelaide is alive with restaurants, pubs, bars and cafés. Head south from U City for the best of the Central Market – the largest freshproduce market in the southern hemisphere – as well as Gouger Street and Chinatown, featuring delicacies from across the world. Head north and explore revitalised laneways between Currie and Hindley streets. In any direction, you’ll find something to satisfy your tastebuds.

A SHOWCASE OF SPORTING TALENT

For keen footy or cricket fans, Adelaide Oval is easily accessed by tram or bus, or a 20-minute

walk from U City. As well as hosting a range of international events each year, the oval is worth a visit for anyone interested in learning more about one of Adelaide’s most iconic sites. From time to time, it also plays host to some of the world’s largest

musical acts – Queen, U2, Adele and Ed Sheeran have all played there. To experience all that Adelaide has to offer and make U City your base in the CBD, visit ucity.com.au or call 1800 247 365 to book your stay today.

Road testing the Chair Topper 56

Mobility Engineering has been on the road again, with brothers Amin and Omid testing some more vehicle mobility solutions. To showcase the independence the Chair Topper can provide, they travelled from Sydney to Brisbane and back. Although it’s a tried and tested product, the Mobility Engineering team always does their own on-road testing of all the products they bring to market – they’re keen to ensure it will fare well on Australia’s long and sometimes bumpy roads. The Chair Topper is a roof-mounted wheelchair loading solution that can be attached to any vehicle fitted with roof racks. Its unique feature is that it’s completely enclosed, like a roofmounted luggage storage box, meaning a wheelchair will stay dry and clean on the way to your destination. Suitable for manual-folding wheelchairs, it provides the driver with independent transport when coupled with other vehicle solutions. Mobility Engineering’s demonstration vehicle was equipped with a tip-up plate, allowing the driver to bridge the gap between their vehicle seating position and the wheelchair, and also providing a seated platform to help guide their wheelchair when using the Chair Topper. Along with this, the driver could use a set of driving controls to provide full control of the vehicle. The combination allows a driver independence to go wherever they need to and take a wheelchair without carer assistance. Clients can apply for funding through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to have the Chair Topper supplied and installed to their vehicle. As it can be easily transferred to another vehicle, if you change cars or sell your car, this makes the funding process simpler. Mobility Engineering offers trials of the Chair Topper, along with the other driver solutions for vehicle independence across Australia. If you would like to book this in and give it a try, call 02 9482 4572 or email info@ mobilityengineering.com.au

Far North Queensland – the accessible way The launch of a multimillion-dollar purpose-built facility in Cairns makes accessible travel to the beautiful and diverse region of Far North Queensland easier than ever. The Spinal Life Healthy Living Centre, located just metres from the blue waters of the iconic Cairns Esplanade, has been built from the ground up to be fully accessible for guests with a physical disability. The centre includes seven accessible accommodation units for both holidaymakers and Far North Queensland residents looking for transitional accommodation as they prepare to return home after injury. Guests can access a personal support worker during their stay to help with their daily routines or getting out and exploring the community, and are also welcomed to take advantage of the therapy services on offer at the centre, including physiotherapy,

occupational therapy, hydrotherapy and exercise physiology. Guests and locals can also access the Active Gym with accessible equipment that can be used with or without a wheelchair, as well as a hydrotherapy pool with a lift for easy access. Spinal Life Australia CEO Mark Townend notes that everything about the Healthy Living Centre was constructed specifically to meet the needs of people with a physical disability, including spinal-cord damage. “Whether you’re a visitor looking for a home base to explore the beautiful forests and coasts of Far North Queensland or a Cairns local looking to access important disability services closer to home, our team at the Healthy Living Centre are there to help,” said Mr Townend. Guests can opt to self-fund their visit or choose from a range of NDIS-funded accommodation packages, including access to the Active Gym, consultations with a

therapy professional and access to personal support workers to assist during their stay. Each bedroom contains a heightadjustable bed and celling hoist, left or right transfer bathrooms, height-adjustable cupboards for easy access, and a tablet that can remotely control electronics, lights and blinds. Mr Townend said the centre would give the region a much-needed boost in accessible tourism options. “Spinal Life’s Advocacy team has been working on promoting the importance of accessibility and inclusion in the tourism industry – what better way to lead than by example?” he said. After more than two years of planning and construction, the Spinal Life Healthy Living Centre was officially opened to the public in February 2020. For more information on the Healthy Living Centre, visit spinalhealthyliving.com.au

Singapore sojourn

Image: Yasmine Gray

Yasmine on the accessible MRT

Never underestimate the glory of spontaneous travel – it can be done, even with wheels! WORDS: YASMINE GRAY

I’ve got the travel bug and a strong case of wanderlust that sees me always planning travel, whether real or imagined. I’ve travelled my whole life, including over the past 25 years when I’ve experienced growing mobility restrictions due to multiple sclerosis. Most of my travel has purpose – events with family and friends, business commitments or holidays with my son or partner. It’s not often that a spare week comes my way – in fact, it’s so rare that I can’t remember the last time – but late last year I had the chance, and the biggest contemplation was where to go. I was exhausted and needed a relaxing break. As a full-time power chair user with daily personal-care needs, a major consideration was access and support requirements. I decided an easy trip would mean good accessibility, an English-speaking country and a reasonable flight time from Australia. Singapore was the winner.

CREATURE COMFORTS

Singapore has a reputation for being the most accessible city in Asia. After my visit, I feel it’s possibly the most accessible city I’ve visited in the world. It was more than just the infrastructure with transport, almost every tourist attraction and the hotel being wheelchairaccessible. The attitude of locals – from hotel and tourist-attraction staff through to the general public – also impressed me. From the moment we landed at the airport, the ease of getting off the plane, through customs and onto the MRT (train) was astounding. It gave me confidence that my hopes for an accessible and relaxing holiday in Singapore might come true. We stayed at Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay, a medium-range hotel close to MRT stations on two different lines. Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay has six accessible

Singapore has a reputation for being the most accessible city in Asia. After my visit, I feel itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possibly the most accessible city Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve visited in the world

Image: Yasmine Gray Yasmine on the Faber Peak cable car

rooms; it was one of the most accessible hotel stays I’ve had, and anything overlooked was easy to overcome, given I had a carer with me and the staff were so helpful. The room was well-designed with a sliding door to the bathroom, handrails and a roll-in shower with a bench. Circulation space was good within the room and I was happy to find the ironing board and iron were stored in a way I could access them on my own as a wheelchair user. Staff were friendly and attentive, and I found easy access throughout the hotel. The outdoor lap pool on the roof has a ramp to its edge but sadly no hoist, only a ladder for access. Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay is closest to Clarke Quay (Northeast Line) and Fort Canning (Downtown Line) MRT stations. We mostly used the MRT for getting around during our stay, and although we had to allow extra time to find the accessible entry or exit at each MRT station, we soon found the patterns and became quite comfortable using it. We were able to access the carriages independently; the accessibility of the MRT was probably the single most welcoming feature of our visit. The relaxation (lack of anxiety) resulting from being spontaneous in the planning and timing of our activities cannot be understated. As a wheelchair user, I was particularly pleased with the realisation that every tourist destination and attraction in Singapore was accessible to people with a variety of accessibility needs. Given my aim for the week was relaxation, I took my time in the mornings before going out to explore one or two sites, rather than powering through a tourist blitz seeing as much as I could.

EXPLORING THE SIGHTS

We first visited Gardens by the Bay late in the afternoon and got caught in a tropical downpour. Luckily there was a way to get to the gardens underground from the Bayfront MRT station and there were undercover walkways around a small portion of the gardens. Our second visit was focused on the Supertrees, including going up to the treetop walkway, which was fully accessible I’m not much of a shopper, but Marina Bay Sands and the shops between the MRT station and Marina Bay Sands are a shopper’s paradise. Being a foodie, I was more interested in the two restaurants we tried. We had dinner during our first visit at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, which has windows out to Bayfront Avenue (wheelchairaccessible seating is available). We were amazed by the quality of the food and reasonable price, including a pineapple carpaccio dessert, which was an absolute standout. For a special dinner to remember, I wanted to go to a restaurant at the top of Marina Bay Sands. We chose to eat at the LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, making a reservation for just after sunset so we were permitted in the lift and had time to have a cocktail while watching the sunset at LAVO’s bar. Although LAVO has tables on split levels, both are wheelchair-accessible. We reserved a table on the same level as the outdoor terrace so that we could easily move between the two. LAVO’s food was good but pricey. Our dinner there was more about the experience of eating at the top of Marina Bay Sands after having a Singapore Sling cocktail on the terrace with

a view of the sunset. Being a nature-lover even more than a foodie, my absolute favourite part of Singapore, was my many rolls through various parts of the Southern Ridges, including Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park. The entire length (10km) of the Southern Ridges Walk is wheelchair-accessible. The path is well-signposted, with explanations of flora and fauna along the way. We had started by taking the cable car from HarbourFront to Faber Peak, and followed our noses to find Henderson Waves bridge. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a section of raised walkway along a steep hillside, with one side having tree canopies at eye level. I ran out of time to try the Singapore Flyer, the City Sightseeing Singapore Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour and the National Museum of Singapore, but my research tells me these are all accessible. First-time travellers to Singapore can visit with the confidence of knowing attractions and transport are accessible. Spontaneity is possible and the attitude of the local Singaporean people make this a city welcoming of people of all abilities. In fact, the ease of access meant that my week in Singapore was the closest Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to a spontaneous travel experience since before developing mobility limitations.

Yasmine Gray is the founding director of getaboutable.com, an information-sharing platform empowering people with mobility, hearing, vision and other assistance needs to participate in travel and leisure activities. You can join the Getaboutable community on Facebook (facebook.com/groups/getaboutable).

Indonesian interest

Bali may have its challenges, but this family is determined to overcome them again and again. WORDS & IMAGES: DANIEL CARROLL

We are a family of four: Daniel, Jodi, Morgan and Sydney. Formerly from Melbourne, we moved to Noosa Heads 13 years ago for a change of lifestyle. After many years of medical intervention for our girls, our experience has taught us to live life to the fullest, take each day as it comes and don’t sweat the small stuff. We are content with our lives; no longer influenced by material possessions, we’ve decided to pare down our life so we can travel more often. Morgan’s entry to the world was traumatic; Jodi had complications with the pregnancy and, in an emergency, Morgan was delivered at 28 weeks. After many complex issues, including the loss of oxygen, Morgan suffered an intraventricular brain haemorrhage, resulting in hydrocephalus. Consequently, she has multiple disabilities, including spastic diplegia cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, intellectual impairment and is legally blind. She requires 24-7 care and lives at home; Jodi is her full-time carer, with support workers assisting with outings and activities. Our daughter Sydney entered the world at 38 weeks, resulting in pulmonary hypoplasia (incomplete development of the lungs). Sydney lives daily with chronic asthma. At the age of 4,

Morgan enjoying a swim

she suffered a post-viral infection: bilateral optic neuritis, an inflammation that damages the optic nerve. This rendered her temporarily blind. With much intervention, Sydney’s sight has improved significantly, but she still only has approximately twothirds of healthy vision in both eyes.

THE SCHOOL OF LIFE

Despite Morgan’s complex needs, she’s social and loves to travel, especially to Bali. We are firm believers in the concept that travel is the school of life and feel Morgan has benefited and grown from her travel experiences. Travel broadens the mind and opens our eyes to different cultures and how other societies coexist. There’s so much to explore in Bali, and each visit we try to experience something new. Many travellers only see the touristy areas of Bali and miss out on so much. You just have to know where to go – we are born explorers and like to see as much as possible. We have made so many local Balinese friends, and it’s become our second home. Soon we’ll start building our own small wheelchairaccessible villa in the east of Bali.

CHALLENGES ABOUND

We love travelling, but it’s not all carefree beach days. Morgan’s epilepsy and related seizures, as well as difficult behaviours related to her autism and intellectual impairment, can be challenging when travelling. Morgan’s also particular with food, cannot walk unaided and has hearing sensitivities. Like many parts of South East Asia, Bali’s footpaths are often broken or uneven, forcing wheelies onto the road. And, frustratingly, scooters, vehicles and sometimes building materials are on the pavement, blocking access. Steps often lead to the entrances of many shops, cafés and restaurants, but we can overcome these problems by lifting Morgan’s wheelchair; independent wheelchair users may have trouble, as there are few ramps. Similar access issues are found at many attractions across Bali, but where there’s a will there’s a way! We purchased a Hippocampe beach and all-terrain wheelchair to help combat these problems. We never use Morgan’s manual chair in Bali anymore as it’s not practical for the problematic terrain. The Hippocampe also allows us to take Morgan to the beach with ease, thanks to its balloon wheels. We now also have a great Balinese friend who doubles as our driver and tour guide. Morgan can transfer from a wheelchair to a vehicle, so we don’t require modified transport for outings.

We are firm believers in the concept that travel is the school of life and feel Morgan has benefited and grown from her travel experiences

Morgan visiting The Lotus Lagoon Candidasa in her Hippocampe chair

Morgan visiting The Ubud Palace

Bali is a destination that captivates and entices us back again and again. The tropical weather, scenery, beautiful Balinese people and Indonesian food all appeal to us.

Pantai Pasir Putih Di Bali - or Virgin Beach, Bugbug. Karangasem Region in East Bali (also known as white sand beach)

THE RIGHT TREATMENT

Thankfully we have never required medical treatment while in Bali. Carrying medication for an emergency is essential, though. During one trip, Morgan had a tonic-clonic seizure in a remote area, but we were able to give her life-saving medication we had travelled with from Australia. We always pay a higher premium for Morgan’s travel insurance due to her existing medical conditions. On one occasion, she had a hospital admission related to her epilepsy in the 12 months before our trip, which caused a blowout in the insurance premium, raising it to $1000 just for Morgan. We always ensure we list all existing medical conditions – it’s important to do so to ensure your policy is not voided if you do need to claim.

BACK TO BALI

For our family, Bali is a destination that captivates and entices us back again and again. The tropical weather, scenery, beautiful Balinese people and Indonesian food all appeal to us. Balinese people are family oriented, and the awareness that it takes a village to raise a child is ever-present in their lives. Having Morgan, this notion is close to our hearts and is why we’ll keep travelling back to Bali.

TOP TRAVEL TIPS

Our top Bali travel tip is to research all aspects of your trip before you book flights. Finding accessible accommodation can be frustrating as many advertise wheelchair-accessibility but that could be as little as a grab bar in the bathroom. We’ve found that talking to the management and careful research is key to making sure the accommodation we book will meet our needs. Booking accommodation through popular online sites is risky. There are a few truly accessible private villas in Bali – they’re usually built by westerners who understand the requirements of people with disabilities.

Daniel & Jodi

If you are travelling with medication, ensure you keep them in their original boxes with labels and take more than necessary in case of travel delays. Due to strict regulations in Bali, it’s important to carry a doctor’s letter outlining your medication requirements. Many places are impossible to access with a standard wheelchair; carrying a portable ramp around would undoubtedly help if you can manage it. There are companies in Bali specialising in wheelchairaccessible tours. Tours are an excellent option for independent wheelchair users to see the island as they are fully supported. Accessible Indonesia and Bali Access Travel are two that we can recommend. They both offer airport transfers and sightseeing tours in an adapted vehicle. If you don’t require an adapted vehicle, try to find a driver or tour guide you gel with and speaks your language; this can provide cultural opportunities for you if you can build a relationship and loyalty. Try to learn a few Indonesian words, especially greetings, ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ – Balinese people love it when you make an effort. Be polite and respectful of the locals – remember you are visiting their country. Personally we’ve found that taking a support worker along on a trip allows us some much-needed time for self-care, and we recommend this to others. We’ve also found Bali One Care helpful in providing personal assistants, nursing care mobility aids and adapted transport. You can follow Daniel, Jodi, Morgan and Sydney at rollinadventures.com and on Facebook (facebook.com/rollinadventuresinbali) and Instagram (instagram.com/rollinadventures_in_bali).

Image: Julie Foskett of Foskett Creative

Enjoying Unicorn Cotton Candy Tacos

Six autism-friendly things to do in Mesa There’s nothing better than visiting a city that has been curated to cater to your family’s needs. WORDS & IMAGES: NICOLE THIBAULT

Known for its beautiful desert vistas, challenging golf courses, exceptional arts centre and many museums, Mesa in Arizona is now famous for another fabulous reason: it’s the world’s first autism-certified city! My family – me, my husband and my three boys (one with autism, one that is typically developing and one with sensory processing disorder and childhood apraxia of speech) – was invited to travel from New York to Mesa to experience the newly certified attractions and businesses. Here’s a rundown of the best.

1. ARIZONA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Here, our boys explored the museum’s many exhibits, including the Dinosaur Hall and the Arizona Gems collection. Their favourite activity was panning for gold in the History Courtyard. Sensory guides for each exhibit at the museum can be found on its website, educating guests about sensory levels

before they even visit. arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org

2. I.D.E.A. MUSEUM

This interactive museum features art- and craft-inspired exhibits, hands-on technology experiences and lots of play spaces. The Zen Den was my favourite exhibit; here, we listened to several different sounds (nature, musical) as they travelled through the igloo dome. The boys loved the Animation Station and Tech Table located in the HUB area – they used their imaginations to build their own creations and had great fun sharing them with each other. ideamuseum.org

3. JAKE’S UNLIMITED

Jake’s Unlimited was a wonderment for our boys. While this venue may not be the most sensory-friendly place to visit, our boys love arcades and gaming, so it was a favourite stop. We tried our hands at bowling, the Spin Zone bumper cars, the

Radius ride and several arcade games. The buffet had tons of kid-friendly choices that even my pickiest eater would sample, and the ultimate dessert was the Unicorn Cotton Candy Tacos. jakesunlimited.com

4. SAGUARO LAKE GUEST RANCH

Sitting beside the Bulldog Cliffs in Tonto National Forest, Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is a quiet respite from the cityscapes. We spent a lovely morning touring the grounds, the main house and the stables. Guests can kayak and tube along Salt River beside the ranch, and hike along the trails around the property. None of my boys had ever tried horseback riding or even been on a horse before, so we encouraged them to give it a try. My youngest son stepped up to the challenge and completed several laps around the corral on a beautiful horse. This was my absolute favourite stop on our tour; it offers the quintessential cowboy

Getting ready to kayak the Salt River at the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

experience, and for kids on the autism spectrum, this is the perfect sensoryfriendly location for time spent with family. saguarolakeranch.com

5. ODYSEA AQUARIUM

The largest aquarium in the south-west USA – with more than 50 exhibits and 500 different species of sea creatures – OdySea Aquarium truly has something for everyone. We saw alligators, fish, otters and penguins. While we did not need it on our visit, we also toured the quiet room available for guests on the autism spectrum who are looking for sensory relief. This out-of-theway room has comfortable chairs and low lights, so those requiring a less-stimulating environment can calm down before returning to the aquarium. odyseaaquarium.com

6. RIVERVIEW PARK

All of Mesa’s parks and recreation facilities have been through the autism-certification process and all the playgrounds, parks, pools and camp staff have had autism training. Riverview Park has an amazing array of playground equipment. The boys enjoyed the splash pad, cooling down from the Arizona heat with the water features and sprayers. They also loved the zipline and spent lots of time climbing on the play structures. mesaparks.com As an autism mum and a certified autism travel agent, what I love most about Mesa’s autism-certified city status is that it gives families with autism a choice in holiday destinations. Families can choose from nine hotels, six restaurants, 19 attractions, two transportation companies and several community resources – the staff at each of these certified autism centres have been trained and vetted for autism awareness and sensory awareness, and are ready to welcome families with autism. Families with autism can easily craft an entire week’s getaway from these selections, creating a holiday that they might not otherwise be able to enjoy. Mesa is giving these families such a gift – the gift of a family holiday. If you'd like to follow Nicole you can do so facebook.com/stssv

Jake’s Unlimited

Enjoying the many exhibits at the Arizona Museum of Natural History

Welcome to the first autism-certified city Mesa, Arizona, is the first autism-certified city in the United States. Designated by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), it’s the result of an almost year-long quest to tailor travel experiences for individuals with autism and other neuro-diversities and their families. The effort behind the designation was launched by Visit Mesa to encourage hospitality businesses to participate in specialised autism training geared toward executives and front-facing service staff. The training helps better recognise autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and service the needs of ASD travellers from the planning stages of a holiday to when they arrive at the destination and throughout their stay. “Our goal is to ensure individuals with autism and their families enjoy their perfect vacation in Mesa,” said Visit Mesa President and CEO Marc Garcia. “As a parent of a child diagnosed on the spectrum, not only

is inclusivity the right thing to do, it makes business sense.” In total more than 60 businesses and organisations completed autismcertification training and are now deemed certified autism centres by IBCCES. The effort was immediately embraced by other city organizations, including the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. More than 500 Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities employees and 1200-plus Mesa Police Department public safety and law enforcement officers have completed autismcertification training. In total, almost 4000 community members are autism-certified. “IBCCES certifies organisations across the globe,” said IBCCES Board Chairman Myron Pincomb. “Mesa stands out for the drive of its leaders and the commitment, passion and engagement of the business community. We’re proud to say that through this partnership and the IBCCES certification, individuals with autism or sensory disorders

can feel confident they will have a positive experience in Mesa.” As part of this citywide initiative, Copa Health, an autism-certified non-profit organisation in Mesa, has launched its Copa Connect program, which provides tailored autism respite services to allow families travel time, outings with or without their child and the ability to participate in activities that support self-care without guilt, fear or anxiety. The team provides support services and recreational activities for families with children visiting Mesa, using a variety of techniques including drop-in services, on-site visits and community outings. Copa Connect is available by appointment only by contacting Copa Health (480-969-3800 or copahealth.org). For travel planning, download the new Visit Mesa Autism Travel Guide and head online to view a complete list of certified autism centres in Mesa at AutismTravelAz.com

Nature’s beauty in abundance Whether it’s sand or summits you’re after, O‘ahu has you covered. WORDS & IMAGES: DANE CROSS

Just hearing the word ‘Hawai‘i’ conjures up images of golden sand, cocktails and relaxation. But for many people with a disability, fear of poor access stands in the way of an island escape. After a busy year, our family made an impulsive decision to book a family holiday to Hawai‘i. We were searching for a holiday that would provide rest and relaxation with a side of adventure. The destination needed to be wheelchair-accessible for me while also catering to the interests of our sons, Ashton, 6, and Dawson, 2. Hawai‘i proved the perfect choice and we found – thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act – that the Hawai‘ian dream is an achievable reality for those with access needs.

Ashton, Dane, Stacey and Dawson on Waikiki Beach

Ashton, Dane and Dawson on the accessible beach matting on Waikiki Beach

Dane and Stacey on their honeymoon

Kualoa Ranch Hollywood Movie Sites Tour

Hawai‘i was where my wife Stacey and I honeymooned five years ago, so it holds a special place in our hearts. We also know from our previous visit that it’s relatively accessible, especially in and around the tourist strip of Waikīkī. Booking at the last minute limited our accommodation options, but we were happy with our choice: ‘Alohilani Resort Waikīkī Beach. Formerly known as Pacific Beach Hotel, ‘Alohilani is newly renovated, centrally located in the heart of Waikīkī and features an infinity pool that gives guests the best views of the famous Waikīkī sunsets. With a food and cocktail menu to match the view, Swell Bar quickly became our go-to spot when we weren’t out exploring. The hotel offers a selection of accessible rooms (with a choice of roll-in showers or tubs), continuous accessible path of travel to all bars, restaurants and public areas, as well as pool hoists into both the infinity pool and keiki (children’s) pool, making it perfect for our family. Arriving at the hotel, we realised we’d neglected to check if there was clearance under the bed for a hoist and discovered solid-based beds with none. A call to housekeeping quickly solved that problem, however, with the arrival of a new bed frame on casters, giving us ample under-bed clearance for a hoist.

A highlight of our stay at ‘Alohilani was an evening spent in the accessible private cabana, located in the outdoor lounge area near the pool. Our poolside host, Jones, won our boys over with his welcoming nature and daily servings of poolside chocolate-chip cookies. He’s also a master of the pool hoist, which, for a person with a disability who doesn’t spend much time in a pool, was a special experience, both for me and my boys, who had only swum with me once or twice before. As much as we enjoyed the hotel’s facilities, the adventures beyond the hotel were the reason we’d travelled to Hawai‘i. On our previous trip, we’d toured Pearl Harbor and taken a breathtaking accessible helicopter tour over the island of O‘ahu. We knew that this time, two energetic boys wouldn’t have the attention span for a historic tour of the USS Arizona, nor would our budget stretch to a private helicopter tour, so instead we kicked off our adventures with a trip to Honolulu Zoo, located a short distance from ‘Alohilani. The zoo is fully accessible and home to some of the stars of the animal kingdom: lions, elephants, bears, giraffes, zebra, chimpanzees and alligators. Wanting to leave the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, we decided to hire a car. Unfortunately for us, an impulsive holiday meant Hawai‘i’s only accessible car-hire company didn’t have an accessible vehicle available, so we decided to hire one of the most impractical, inaccessible vehicles: a Jeep Wrangler. Stacey is physically fit and has a determined attitude that, at this stage of our lives, doesn’t allow physical barriers (such as lifting me into the front seat of

The zoo is fully accessible and home to some of the stars of the animal kingdom: lions, elephants, bears, giraffes, zebra, chimpanzees 71 and alligators

Ashton and Dawson on The Star of Honolulu dinner cruise.

Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;i offers an incredible selection of scenic tours, shopping, dining and activities. To top it off, much of it is entirely accessible. The Cross Family on Waikiki Beach

Kualoa Ranch

ACCESSIBILITY TIPS • Roberts Hawaii provides accessible airport transfers. • A hoist can be hired from Hawaiian Islands Medical. • Accessible vehicles are available from Wheelers of Hawaii. • Waikīkī Beach is accessible via beach matting and beach wheelchairs at various locations across the island. Check honolulu.gov/parks for specific locations.

a Jeep) to prevent us from experiencing things other families would usually do. The Jeep fitted the family, my wheelchair and my Spinergy ZX-1 Power Add-On. Thanks to the help of friendly tourists and locals, we had assistance with getting me in and out of the Jeep at each of our stops on the island. Diamond Head was just a 10-minute drive from our hotel and we were keen to check out O‘ahu’s famous volcanic crater. A tunnel and ring road allows vehicles to drive inside the crater – and the views inside were great! Unfortunately that’s about as far as a person with mobility limitations can go. Steep terrain and steps limit going any further than about 500 metres up the trail. After a cruise through the Kahala estates (The Kahala Hotel & Resort has dolphins swimming inside its lagoons), we headed to Hanauma Bay, which the locals consider the best spot to snorkel on O‘ahu. It is accessible via a ramped pathway or tram. A beach wheelchair is available for use on site, allowing visitors access to the beach and brilliant snorkelling just metres from the shore. While we enjoyed all our stops, the focus of the day was reaching Kualoa Ranch to do the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour. Kualoa Ranch is an active ranch sporting cattle and other produce, while doubling as one of Hollywood’s most favoured and famous movie sites. Movies such as Jurassic Park, King Kong, Godzilla and 50 First Dates were all filmed here. The Hollywood Movie

Sites Tour is one of the only accessible and family friendly (infants are allowed) tours of the ranch. Fortunately for us, we scored the accessible tour to ourselves, so our family enjoyed a private tour with our knowledgeable and personable tour guide, Uncle Leonard. The picturesque landscape, combined with the ranch’s history and Hollywood nostalgia, is all accessed via an accessible 4x4 tour bus, which takes touring parties off-road. We don’t consider ourselves movie buffs, but we enjoyed the informative, entertaining and adventurous tour. A Hawai‘ian holiday isn’t complete without experiencing a luau, so on recommendation we booked Chief’s Luau. Chief Sielu Avea and his ohana (family) treat guests to an amazing evening of Polynesian entertainment, including fire-knife dancing, Hawai‘ian games, crafts and a traditional island feast. The park has great wheelchair access, including accessible amenities. Our last adventure was on Star of Honolulu for a sunset dinner cruise. The cruise departs Honolulu daily and offers lift access to all levels except the upper-most viewing deck. While the sun set on one side of the boat, we enjoyed views of Waikīkī Beach and Diamond Head on the other. We were only distracted from the views by our five-course dinner, which included lobster and steak. With the major accessible tours and attractions ticked off, the remainder of our holiday was spent at shopping mecca Ala Moana (accessible by public bus), the Waikīkī shopping and dining strip (including Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s own restaurant) and on Waikīkī Beach. Hawai‘i offers an incredible selection of scenic tours, shopping, dining and activities. To top it off, much of it is entirely accessible. When it’s not, the Polynesian people are so kind and helpful that you won’t be hardpressed to find someone to help. Hawai‘i – specifically the island of O‘ahu, gets a big shaka from my family. Hang loose!

Dane lives with a spinal-cord injury (quadriplegia, C5, complete) as a result of a sporting accident in 2001. He is also a Brisbane-based disability access consultant and inclusive (or accessible) tourism advocate. Follow his travels on Instagram (instagram.com/cross_ family_adventures).

The grand tour Guided holidays can be absolutely spectacular – just be sure you’re booking one that caters for those with accessibility requirements. INTERVIEW BY MARLENA KATENE

Ready to take a river cruise on Windermere Lake, England

Josie & Morgan in Lisbon, Portugal

The thought of going on a group tour can be daunting, especially if you’re travelling with a disability. But just because you have additional support requirements doesn’t mean you have to forego the convenience and expertise provided by tour companies. I interviewed Morgan and her support worker Josie, who recently toured Scotland and England with Contiki, to understand what the experience was like and what they learnt along the way.

My favourite places were Liverpool and Edinburgh. I didn’t like bagpipes, but after visiting Scotland I love them!

Thanks for catching up with us, Morgan and Josie! Tell us about the trip and your favourite experiences. Morgan: My favourite places were Liverpool and Edinburgh. I didn’t like bagpipes, but after visiting Scotland I love them! I made a lot of friends and my Contiki leaders were really nice and funny. Josie: I first met Morgan in London, where she was staying with her parents, and the Contiki tour started from there. The trip lasted eight nights and was fast-paced, which allowed us to see so much of both countries in a short time. Each time we arrived in a new city we were driven around while our Trip Manager gave us a runthrough of the history before we got off the bus to explore. It was a fantastic way to travel with Morgan, without having to worry about organising every detail.

Punting in Cambridge, England

Scotland and England are not the best places to get around with a wheelchair. How did you find the access? Were there any challenges? Morgan: I think Scotland and England were not very accessible because the pavement was bumpy, and there were lots of stairs. Steep hills were a challenge. Josie: Travelling anywhere with a wheelchair isn’t easy, but in England and Scotland the buildings were old and sometimes didn’t have lifts. I have to say that Edinburgh was possibly the most difficult city to navigate, as we didn’t have a power chair and the whole city is hills and slopes! Safe to say I got a good leg workout that day.

Taking shelter with new Contiki friends.

How much pre-planning did you do to make sure the trip was a great experience for both of you? Josie: We were clear with Contiki about Morgan’s requirements when we booked,

and they were in constant contact about hotel accessibility. They warned us from the start they couldn’t guarantee accessible rooms throughout the tour, so we were prepared for some tricky situations. Thankfully we managed throughout the week, but there were some moments when I wasn’t sure how – or if – we would. It’s all about being determined and adaptable, though, and we loved proving people wrong when they thought we couldn’t get somewhere. Also, before we left, I called about a dozen places to make them aware of our situation. We were allowed access into bars through lifts provided by their neighbours, priority entrance and extra assistance where needed. Some places only allow one wheelchair user in the building at a time – for safety reasons, in case of evacuation – so it’s really important to call ahead.

Josie & Morgan hitting the dance floor in Cumbria, England.

A fake hen's night with Contiki friends

Morgan, what was it like to go on a trip without your parents and to have the freedom to do what you wanted to do when you wanted to do it? Morgan: It was amazing! I got to meet people my age and had the opportunity to make friends and I made my own decisions about when I wanted to go out with them. It felt like Josie was a friend rather than a support worker because she had fun with me. Josie, were there times on the trip when people assumed your role as a support worker was to oversee everything Morgan did? Josie: There was a fair amount of confusion because some people seemed to think I should be right next to Morgan at all times. The thing is, I wasn’t there as a babysitter – I was there to enable and support Morgan to do what she wanted to do. There are certain things she needs support with, but otherwise she is hugely independent. She loved having the freedom to mingle and meet new people. The other travellers on Contiki quickly realised how fiercely independent she is and loved it, but I found myself often having to explain to strangers that I was only there if she needed me – and a lot of the time, she didn’t. What advice do you have for those considering a trip like this? Morgan: I would recommend a slow-paced trip, giving you more time to see everything

and more free time. Getting on and off the bus all the time tired me out a bit, and I didn’t like the early mornings. Some of the hotels weren’t so good, especially in a wheelchair. Josie: Keep in mind that the majority of tour companies don’t cater for people with accessibility requirements, so you need to be very adaptable and ensure you don’t have your expectations too high. Group tours are great for meeting people and building friendships. What’s next for you both? Morgan: The next place I want to visit is Budapest, to see different scenery. I haven’t been to eastern Europe before, but I would like to. Josie: I am based in Europe while I complete my Bachelor’s degree online. I’ve been visiting Australia for a couple of months and have been working with Morgan and her mum to grow an exciting idea we had – one that will allow others to travel with a support worker. I think it’s super-important for everyone to be able to access the support to travel as independently as possible, which is difficult for many as they can’t afford to fly support workers overseas with them and the National Disability Insurance Scheme doesn’t cover the costs involved (flights, hotels, meals). Jump on our Facebook page “Adaptive Travel Support” for updates and more information.

ABOUT US Morgan has CDG, a congenital disorder of glycosylation. “I have trouble weight-bearing and balancing, and I use a walker,” she says. “I use a communication device called an Allora and my eyesight is deteriorating; I have only got 25 per cent of central vision left. My disability makes it hard to go on long trips because I have issues with blood clotting and I need someone to help me with navigating, cooking and personal care.” Josie travelled with Morgan as her support worker. She says “I actually met Morgan when I was looking for work with horses! Her mum reached out as Morgan is a successful para-equestrian and her support workers need to be comfortable around horses. It wasn’t something I’d considered, but once I met Morgan I knew I wanted to help her achieve her own goals. That was more than three years ago – I guess the rest is history!”

Wash away the winter blues Summer may have come to an end, but there’s no time for the winter blues. It’s time to start preparing for next summer – and there are lots of things to consider. If you’re thinking of installing a pool at home, applying for funding for a new pool or spa hoist, or lobbying your local public facility for new equipment to make their facility more accessible, you’ll need to start now.

IT’S TIME TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION FOR FUNDING

If you’re wanting to add a hoist to an existing pool or spa, begin the process and submit your application for funding. There’s a shift in focus from considering swimming a ‘leisure only’ activity to its being viewed as an essential part of rehabilitation. Aqua therapy is a wonderful way to relax, build muscle flexibility, strengthen arms and legs and increase range of motion.

IT’S TIME TO CHOOSE YOUR ACCESS EQUIPMENT

It’s wise to include access equipment you want to put around the pool in the original brief for your pool project. This ensures the

location is perfectly suited to your chosen hoist. Pool hoists allow a means of safe transfer in and out of a pool. With many people having success with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), they’re now enjoying aqua therapy in the comfort of their home. It’s essential you get the right advice on equipment. Your supplier can work with your project manager to ensure your needs are fulfilled, and that equipment is installed correctly and complies with industry standards.

IT’S TIME TO SERVICE EXISTING EQUIPMENT

If you already have a pool hoist, it’s a great time to check if it’s been serviced within the last 12 months. If not, book a service call. If you’re not going to be using equipment for a while, it’s important to protect it with a cover or store it away safely for the winter. Equipment that uses a battery should be kept charged. A handy hint is to always charge and test batteries during extended periods of not using your hoist so it’s ready to use when you need it.

IT’S ALWAYS TIME TO TRAVEL

Escape the winter blues by travelling to a location with access equipment for you to use. We’ve listed a few options below, but remember to contact them before you visit to ensure the equipment is suitable for your needs. New South Wales: Seaside Holiday Resort Fingal Bay (seasideholidayresort.com.au) South Australia: Adelaide Aquatic Centre (adelaideaquaticcentre.com.au) Queensland: The Westin Brisbane (marriott.com.au/hotels/travel/ bnewi-the-westin-brisbane) Western Australia: Ritz Carlton Perth (ritzcarlton.com/ en/hotels/australia/perth) New Zealand: H20 Xtream (h2oxtream.com)

Australian manufacturer Para Mobility has been making life easier and more dignified for its customers for more than 35 years, designing and handcrafting pool and spa hoists, car hoists, aquatic wheelchairs and wall-mounted change tables. The team offers advice, installation and servicing/maintenance for their equipment. To get in touch, call 1300 444 600 or visit paramobility.com.au

Get out and about with getaboutable.com Getaboutable is a Canberra-based social enterprise that empowers people with mobility, hearing, vision and other assistance needs, to experience mainstream travel and leisure activities. Getaboutable's goal is to make it easier for people with accessibility needs to find information about accessible infrastructure and activites. We work to encourage the travel and leisure sector to be more inclusive of people with disabilities. Getaboutable’s main service is the getaboutable.com website, an informationsharing platform with listings and reviews of accessible and inclusive travel and leisure options. Think of getaboutable.com like a TripAdvisor for the 20 per cent of the population that finds it difficult to experience new places and activities, mostly because of a lack of information about accessibility.

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GROW AND THRIVE

Getaboutable relies on crowd-sourced information. For getaboutable.com to grow as a resource, we rely on you – the users – to nominate and/or review inclusive activities and venues you have experienced. Become a member at

getaboutable.com and join the Getaboutable Community at facebook.com/groups/getaboutable to share your experiences about accessible and inclusive travel and leisure activities.

HELPING BUSINESSES ATTRACT AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST TOURISM MARKET

Getaboutable is an award-winning platform for the tourism sector to showcase their inclusivity to the one in five people who have a mobility, vision, hearing, or other accessibility need. The market is huge, with accessible tourism worth more than $10 billion per year to the Australian economy. Businesses that are inclusive and accessible have been proven to increase revenue and goodwill. It doesn’t have to be costly and timeconsuming – being accessible and inclusive is as much or more about attitude and communication as infrastructure and regulations. Often, all it takes is common sense and being mindful to your customers’ needs. For more information on how to promote your business and tap into the spending power of people who value venues that cater to their needs, visit getaboutable.com/businesses/promotemy-business

ASIA-PACIFIC ACCESSIBLE TOURISM CONFERENCE & EXPO Canberra, Australia The expo will showcase accessible and inclusive travel and leisure options, while the conference will share best practice and improve the travel and leisure sector’s understanding of accessible tourism. To keep updated on dates and progress visit. getaboutable.com/ apatce

By my side Sometimes all you need is a good travel companion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or 10! WORDS & IMAGES: DANIEL STUBBS

Dan and Carl enjoying the twelve apostles while roadtripping along the Great Ocean Road

Carl soaking up the sun on the Sunshine Coast

Dan and Carl exploring Hobbiton while traveling through New Zealand

Carl and I met while living in Canada. Carl had been in a vehicle accident 11 years earlier when he was 18. The accident resulted in his paraplegia with the additional loss of all use in his left arm. I moved to Canada from the United States in 2015 on a job assignment when I met Carl. We became quick friends, occasional travel partners, and roommates for a year. One evening, Carl and I were talking about travel and Carl brought up his desire to travel to Australia and asked if I would go with him. Less than 24 hours later we were both set on the idea to pack our bags and have an adventure. Our journey lasted 10 months and we travelled through Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and New Zealand, with the majority of our time spent in Australia. We could tell an exhausting number of stories of mishaps, frustrations, random acts of kindness and new friendships that will last a lifetime. We can even tell of the pure freedom and at times complete misery that is inevitable while living together in a van for six months. However entertaining I believe these details to be, they were not what changed my life. Instead, I want to share how my life changed as I transitioned from a construction engineer to a travelling caregiver. Our first flight to Thailand was where I began to understand the hassles of

travelling with a power wheelchair; “It is too large”, “The battery is unacceptable” and “The chair can’t be taken to the gate”. I am naturally a peacekeeper and a rule-follower. As we continuously encountered a variety of issues, despite routinely calling ahead, I continued to defend the airlines. I would argue with Carl that we could not expect airlines to be prepared for our unique situation. This was the beginning of my discovery of how much I needed to learn. My selfish conflict-avoidance was leaving Carl stranded to fight for himself. As we continued our travels, I began learning what it meant to leave my comfort zone and become Carl’s ally. In Thailand we spent two weeks moving between touristy beaches and remote small towns. During our time in Phuket we made a visit to Monkey Hill. We had greatly underestimated the intense climb it would take for me to push Carl in his manual chair to the top. A local man saw us struggling to climb the steep streets and offered to help, but out of pride I turned him away. He talked to us as we walked and eventually offered again to help. I was tired, I was soaked in sweat, but I wanted to prove I could push Carl to the top. As I struggled, I realised I had turned my desire to help Carl into a need to prove myself. Eventually I allowed the man to help, which led to several hours spent with a newfound friend – the first of many. I realised then that just as I was honored that Carl allowed me to be a part of his story by asking for my help, I would have to learn to allow others into our story by being willing to accept help. Carl had long since learnt this lesson out of necessity, and as

One evening, Carl and I were talking about travel and Carl brought up his desire to travel to Australia and asked if I would go with him

I learnt to accept the help and hospitality of complete strangers, I began to find the beauty in community that continued to surround us. We continued from Southeast Asia to the beautiful Gold Coast, where some incredible people had invited us into their home for the holidays. They told us of a mountain a few hours south called Mt Warning (Wollumbin). Carl and I, with a shared love for a challenge and the outdoors, set our minds on figuring out a way to climb the mountain. The nine-kilometre round trip is a challenging hike on its own, add in carrying Carl and his wheelchair to the top and it became apparent that we would need help to make it happen. After a first failed attempt and an inadequate amount of planning, we prepared to give it a second

Dan and Carl taking a Gold Coast Beach selfie

try. On January 20, 2018, the morning of Carlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30th birthday, we met a group of people at the base of Mt Warning. Several days earlier we had sent out messages to new friends we had met in the area asking for their help with the hike. Many forwarded that message on to their friends and on the morning of the hike we were surprised to be greeted by a group of eager hikers. The seven-hour hike was life-changing. To see a group of strangers coming together was inspiring. If I had gone on the hike by myself, I could have easily walked the trails, taken in the views and captured the scenery with a few photos. However, the struggle it took for Carl and I, along with our community of strangers, to experience this beauty made it all the more memorable. Carl changed my life by allowing me the

privilege of joining him on this adventure of a lifetime. Sometimes all that is holding us back is our hesitation to allow others the joy of joining our journey. Since finishing this trip with Carl, my goal is to provide others with similar opportunities. Through an organisation called Travel Care Companions, we connect people who want to travel, but cannot travel alone, with carefully matched travel care companions. There are amazing things out there to experience and our goal is to make them accessible to everyone.

Learn more about joining the Travel Care Companions community at travelcarecompanion. com. You can also read more about Daniel and Carlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story on a blog they wrote throughout their journey at thegloberollers.wordpress.com

Carl at Cape Reinga the Northern most point of New Zealand

Dan and Carl in Thailand

Dan's and Carl's sunset profiles

Bloodpumping fun Eight accessible ways to raise your adrenaline across Britain and Europe. WORDS & IMAGES: MARY-ELAINE MCCAVERT

1 PARASAILING IN SPAIN WITH PARASCENDING TENERIFE

Well what else would you do on holiday but parachute off the end of a boat? Both my dad and I gave this a go. After being lifted onto the boat and a choppy speedboat journey, it was our turn. We sat on the end of the boat (well, I lay, as my balance was reduced) and the wind lifted us 61 metres into the air. I struggled to sit in the seat but it didn’t matter – you couldn’t go anywhere in the harness. When it was all over, Dad said “Never again”, and I just smiled because I knew we had blokarting booked the following week.

2. ZIPLINING IN WALES WITH ZIP WORLD

If you get the chance to try the fastest zip line in Europe you go for it, right? There’s nothing like testing your limits with family at your side. My brother and I tried this and it was incredible. The team attentively understood and supported my needs - I was able to lie down to put the harness on as I can’t stand unaided and I had a team of staff to help me dismount at the end. Flying at speed over a quarry is certainly a memory of a lifetime. The only problem? I could have ziplined for 10 times longer.

3. SKYDIVING IN NORTHERN IRELAND WITH WILD GEESE

The skies were where I first became an adrenaline junkie and where I realised my physical limitations didn’t have to limit my love of adventure. My tandem skydive was my first adaptive sport experience and it set the bar high. I’ll never quite forget that feeling of uncertainty as we sat in the doorway ready to jump – it was terrifying and thrilling all in one. The team were wonderful – they just adapted everything to suit my needs; nothing was a problem. My tandem partner was able to take off and land for us both and I was kindly reassured throughout.

Sit-skiing

Blokarting

4. SIT-SKIING IN SCOTLAND WITH DISABILITY SNOWSPORT UK

Reaching 64 kilometres through the snow? Snow bother! I have no words to describe the feeling of freedom and the rush I got through this experience. Disability Snowsport UK is a charity that specialises in skiing for those with disabilities. The whole experience was flawless. We arrived and I was matched up to the sit-ski that best suited my needs. Then, after a quick practice in the car park, we were on the beautiful Cairngorm Mountain. The twohour lesson flew by. My muscles ached but it was worth it for the high. Nothing could take the smile off my face, and to make it even better my family got to join in on the fun too, making it a completely inclusive activity for us all. It’s just a pity snow season lasts only a few months!

5. ADAPTIVE WATERSKIING IN ENGLAND WITH ACCESS ADVENTURES

This experience was a complete body and mind boost – the confidence and pride I felt from it was long-lasting. Access Adventures provides adventure sports for those with physical disabilities. We had three days of waterskiing, campfires and wonderful

company. I loved it so much, I’ve been back twice since. Being out on the water has become my happy place.

6. INDOOR SKYDIVING IN ENGLAND WITH IFLY

This was 90 seconds of giggles. As soon as we arrived, our own member of staff guided us through the whole process. We geared up, learned the poses you should adopt (all of which I struggled with) and then pushed my chair right up to the wind tunnel. As soon as I was in flight, my body just seemed to adapt, and the wind pressure helped me change my position as needed. I felt like I didn’t have to fight with my body – it was wonderful. In fact, the instructor said I was the best flyer of the day (shockingly without any bribery on my part), and so I got my first set of wings. iFLY, I’ll be back.

7. PARAGLIDING IN FRANCE WITH FLYEO

Floating above the beautiful sights of Annecy was an unforgettable experience. After a positive response to my email about my access needs (“You don’t need your legs to see beauty”), we arrived and straight away I felt at ease. I didn’t see panic in their eyes at my chair, I just saw the passion they had for their sport. After our hellos,

we were off. They drove me up to the top of the hills, lifted me out from the car and supported me as I was strapped into the harness. Then, before I had time to ask what was happening next, my guide was running off the end of the mountain and gliding through the air. The 15-minute experience felt like two as I tested the controls and took in the scenery. My chair was there to meet me upon landing and I only wished I had booked another flight the next day.

8. BLOKARTING IN NORTHERN IRELAND WITH BLOKART WORLD

Have you ever struggled to push a wheelchair through the sand? Blokarting (sailing on sand) shows you what it’s like to move freely. After wrapping up warm and learning some sailing theory, I was off. My muscles fought against the wind and my left hand didn’t want to join in the party at times, but boy was it a laugh chasing my family in the sand and pushing myself to my limits! After all, they say our life begins at the end of our comfort zone, don’t they?

Mary-Elaine is a psychologist and PhD student who has a preference for wheels over heels. You can follow her adventures on Instagram (instagram.com/cpandm_e) or on her blog (me-and-c-p.blog).

Flying high It was time to get up, up and away for a special birthday! WORDS: KATHRYN CANAVAN-SETH

SIX TOP TIPS Marking a special birthday is an occasion many of us look forward to, and when my turn came I had two options on my wishlist: travelling to Europe and taking a hot-air balloon ride. I decided on the hot-air balloon ride as the Europe trip would have taken a lot more saving to achieve. Taking a flight in a hot-air balloon was something I’d dreamed of for many years, after first seeing the Pixar movie UP and after watching them float over our home in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley. Being a wheelchair user, for many years it appeared to be a dream that was out of reach due to the inaccessibility of the balloon baskets. That’s until I saw a story about Global Ballooning Australia, a company offering flights in an Easy Access Basket. The basket is fitted with a door, so climbing over the high basket edge isn’t necessary, and once inside there’s a seat with a harness. Instead of lots of small birthday gifts, my family and friends got together and contributed towards the cost of a hotair balloon trip as a combined present. Although an adapted hot-air balloon basket made the experience accessible, we still had planning and logistics to negotiate before we could take flight. I was keen to enjoy the experience with my husband, so we enlisted the assistance of a local support worker to help us with transport. Although we could drive our accessible car to the launch site, the balloon would be landing elsewhere and we needed to provide our own accessible transport for the pick-up at that end. We

listed our requirements on a job board and a support worker messaged to say she was available to help. Knowing it would be a big day, we booked a hotel nearby so we wouldn’t have to travel so far before and after the trip. After bad experiences in the past with wheelchair-accessible taxis, we decided to use our own transport. It guaranteed we’d get there on time and I felt more comfortable travelling in our own van as it’s specific to my needs. My support worker met us at our hotel at 4am and travelled with us to the launch site. It was arranged with staff that our support worker would follow the minibus that was collecting the other passengers at the end of the flight. Once this was all organized, I was able to use my power wheelchair up to the basket door. There’s not much time at this point to transfer to the seat inside, but I found everyone helpful. Floating over Victoria’s Yarra Valley at sunrise was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The view at dawn was amazing; the vineyards reminded me of where my husband and I got married in the Hunter Valley – light fog and a beautiful sunrise. Sitting in the hot-air balloon was a very peaceful experience and I was feeling happy and calm due to not having experienced any significant access barriers, which is a common occurrence in everyday life for people with a disability. We were lucky to have fine weather to go ahead with the flight, but careful planning helped in making the day such a success.

• The Global Ballooning Australia website (globalballooning.com. au) has good access information about the experience, so use it to assess if it can meet your needs. • Sitting upright for an hour was tiring. I found it a very physical day. Knowing this, I’d allowed rest time after the flight and appreciated having a nearby hotel room to return to. • Those booking the trip need to be flexible in thought, as the flight is weather-dependent and may not go ahead if the conditions aren’t right. It can be cancelled up to 4am on the day. You’ll be advised the night before if it’s likely it will go ahead. • We deliberately chose the month of October for the milder weather. Wearing layers of clothing is advisable so you can take off warmer items as the day warms up during the flight. • Use the accessible bathroom before the flight – it’ll be at least two hours before you can take another pitstop. • The launch site is hilly. My power wheelchair managed okay, but a manual chair may find it more difficult to get traction on the grassy hillside.

Experts on the ground Tourist Transport Fiji (TTF) is Fiji’s premier transport operator and ground handler, having been in operation for more than 36 years. Based in Nadi, Fiji, TTF is conveniently located at Nadi International Airport. No other business has a more experienced team nor modern fleet to offer a safe, efficient and environmentally friendly transport and ground handling in Fiji. TTF meets the needs of more than 200,000 passengers each year through the following services: • Fiji’s modern and most environmentally friendly fleet • Airport arrivals service and greeting lounge area • Tours, reservations and ground-handling service • Conference and incentive groups handling • Personalised private transfers • Regular seat in vehicle services connecting all international flights from all resorts

• Dedicated groups, tours and series department • Day tours, adventure travel and sightseeing • 24-hour transport and customer services • Fiji’s only wheelchair-accessible vehicle service provider TTF offers clients the use of a Sandcruiser beach wheelchair – equipped with both balloon and self-propelling wheels – to access pools, the beach and some of Fiji’s remote locations. The combination of the Sandcruiser and accessible transport is a unique offering for TTF’s clients – in fact, it offers clients a special free-of-charge hire deal as part of the package if they are booked on TTF accessible day tour. They want to ensure everyone has access to the experiences they offer. For any other daily use, this Sandcruiser can be hired from TTF at a minimum cost.

As specialists in tourist transportation, TTF knows and constantly meets the expectations of its customers and ensures staff are fully trained in safe practises and customer service. TTF has a close association with many tourist-based operations in Australia and New Zealand, and its commitment to high-quality operations is expected. No company in Fiji has a better understanding of visitor transport and ground-handling requirements than TTF. It ensures safe practises and a very high level of responsibility at all times. Vehicles undergo rigorous maintenance and are monitored by GPS tracking on a 24/7 basis. TTF has FJ$8.5m public-liability insurance in place and motor-vehicle liability of FJ$32m. All insurance offered has a worldwide jurisdiction, including the US and Canada. For more information, visit touristtransportfiji.com

Benga from the Wag Brigade San Francisco Airport

90 Kids’ picks 91 Tropical travel tips What to consider when you’re craving a beachside escape 92 Is it gluten-free? Physical limitations aren’t the only barrier to travel – sometimes they’re allergy-related too

94 Sail away in style Accessible cruising tips from one of the best in the business 96 The pawfect helper Animals giving sight to the visionimpaired and sound to the hearingimpaired 98 Directory

KIDS’ PICKS Three siblings share their top travel tips and favourite destinations. Meet three sisters who love to travel. Lana is an artistic 11-year-old who loves playing her saxophone and clarinet; Madeline is a cheeky 9-yearold who enjoys the outdoors and being physically active – she lives with diastrophic dysplasia, a rare form of dwarfism; Briella is a sweet 6-year-old who loves dinosaurs and dragons – she also lives with diastrophic dysplasia. What’s been your favourite holiday so far and why? Lana: I really liked going on a cruise because I liked the view in all the places that we went to. I didn’t like the rocking of the ship though because when we got off the land was rocking too. Madeline: I really liked our cruise, and I also really like going to Hong Kong and Singapore because I like spending time with our family. I also liked going to Disneyland in Hong Kong. I liked the cruise because after school you just want to have a break. Briella: My favourite holiday was when we went camping at Pebbly Beach. It was so good because there were fishies in the water that we got to step on! What’s the hardest thing about going on holidays and why? Lana: Mostly the transportation because

sometimes my ears get blocked on a plane and sometimes I feel carsick or seasick in a car or boat. Madeline: When we went to Hong Kong and Singapore, I didn’t like sitting down for so long on the plane – I’d rather be walking around and doing things. One problem is that I don't like sitting down for a long time – my legs hurt when I sit down for too long. Briella: One problem is if we are driving far distances, we have to stop and undo our seatbelts to wiggle so our backs don’t hurt. What’s your top travel tip? Lana: Don't overpack because most of the stuff that you pack you'll end up not using. Madeline: My top travel tip is that it is really fun to get away from all your schoolwork to have some fun with your family. If you have a disability, you might want to bring a special pillow to make yourself comfortable… and maybe a toy. Where would you like to go next? Lana: Paris because I want to try the food and I want to see the Eiffel tower. Madeline: Vanuatu because I would like to help the people there who don't have much money, or who are sick and need help. Briella: I want to go to Denmark to see my cousins and aunt and uncle.

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays Queensland

Captain Cook Cruise Fiji

TROPICAL TRAVEL TIPS When your body is craving a beachside escape, here’s what you need to consider. WORDS: JULIE JONES Swapping fast-paced city life for a tropical getaway is high on the travel wishlist of many looking at their next holiday destination. Often, fears over accessibility, poor infrastructure and healthcare facilities cause hesitation for travellers with a disability, but with research and planning that tropical dream can absolutely come true. First thing’s first: choosing a destination… G’DAY, AUSTRALIA! We often fall into the trap of thinking we need to go on a long flight to a remote location to fulfil our tropical dreams – but we have many opportunities right here in Australia. Tropical North Queensland and the Whitsundays both offer a tropical fix without leaving behind the infrastructure that can make a holiday accessible. Good healthcare is guaranteed and there’s no exchange rate to stress about. If you need assistance to travel due to your disability, both Virgin Australia and Qantas offer a discount for companions or carers, making it even more attractive to holiday at home. Although most Australian resorts don’t provide pool seats or hoists, many beaches are adopting beach wheelchairs and matting to assist visitors to access the coast.

BULA, FIJI! If you’re looking for a tropical escape with a twist of culture, choose a destination with a variety of accessible recreational activities and styles of accommodation. Fiji is a great example of a destination that varies greatly in its accessibility, depending on the location you choose. Most of the islands in Fiji are difficult for wheelchair users due to access, but Denarau has good facilities. A range of large hotels including Hilton, Sofitel and Sheraton are in Denarau. These hotels understand accessible accommodation requirements and provide a good standard of accessibility. Fiji has accessible day tours and airport transfers. A beach wheelchair is now available for use on these accessible tours and can be hired from Tourism Transport Fiji (TTF). In remote areas, it’s more challenging when it comes to physical accessibility and accommodation options, but often the willingness of locals to assist a traveller can help to overcome these difficulties. ALOHA, HAWAI‘I! As a tropical destination, Hawai‘i provides a high level of accessibility, given it’s governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), with tours, shuttle buses and

venues providing good access. Pools and spas are equipped with pool hoists, and many resorts and beaches provide beach wheelchairs for ease of access to the ocean. The facilities offered in Hawai‘i make it a particularly inclusive destination for a traveller with high-support needs. BOOKING YOUR ESCAPE Before getting swept up in the moment and booking a destination based on Instagram photos or the latest travel show you’ve watched, it’s a good idea to work out your travel personality and needs. What will make or break a trip for you? If you’re happy to accept the help of locals and go with the flow, you’ll no doubt make any tropical adventure work. But if you prefer to know the facilities provided will support your needs and therefore make it a more relaxing and enjoyable holiday, book somewhere that will fit with your level of comfort. At different times or stages, one or the other may be more appropriate. Keeping in mind that a tropical holiday should be relaxing, filled with memorymaking moments and a break from the dayto-day routine, the location is less relevant than the experiences with family and friends you have once you’re there.

Kirsty & family enjoying a dinner while cruising

IS IT GLUTEN-FREE? Physical limitations aren’t the only barrier to travel – sometimes they’re allergy-related too. WORDS: KIRSTY RUSSELL

It can be tough travelling with dietary limitations. While everyone around you is enjoying the local cuisine, you’re there wondering whether that famous delicacy is going to confine you to your room for the rest of your holiday… or worse. Travelling when you need to avoid certain foods, such as those containing gluten, adds an extra layer of stress when you just want to sit back and relax. As a coeliac (and married to a coeliac!), this has been our reality for many years now. While awareness and gluten-free alternatives are growing, it’s still quite common to be presented with limited choices or poor understanding of glutenintolerance when out and about. Many people don’t understand the risks of cross-contamination or fail to realise just how prevalent gluten-containing ingredients are in everyday items. Whether you’re planning on travelling overseas or exploring closer to home, there are several common challenges that face anyone travelling when they need to eat gluten-free.

Culinary challenges

LABELLING In Australia and New Zealand, a gluten-free label means there are no detectable signs of gluten in the product. However, in Europe and the US, food labelled ‘gluten-free’ can contain up to 20 parts per million of gluten, which can make relying on labels when travelling a tough ask.

Travelling when you need to avoid certain foods, such as those containing gluten, adds an extra layer of stress when you just want to sit back and relax

UNDERSTANDING Many people don’t know that gluten is a protein found not only in wheat but also in barley, rye and oats, which means it’s found in lots of everyday foods. Even if a product is made 100 per cent gluten-free, it may still be contaminated with gluten during the preparation process. AVAILABILITY Cooking for yourself is near impossible in a hotel room and it can be tough to find gluten-free food you can trust in an unfamiliar place. You may also need

to account for local dietary customs and cultural practises, which may be incompatible with a glutenfree diet. LANGUAGE This is one of the toughest barriers when it comes to travelling as a coeliac. It’s hard enough explaining what gluten-free means to those who don’t understand it in your own language, but it’s exponentially harder when you’re trying to communicate across a language barrier as well! A few years ago, I had to travel to Bali at short notice for personal reasons. Without time to research, I had to somehow find gluten-free options while navigating an unfamiliar culture and a foreign language. Sticking to grilled chicken and boiled rice for a fortnight, I somehow emerged unglutened, but I was lucky (and desperate for something new when I finally arrived home!). On a more prepared trip to the US, my husband and I were able to enjoy an array of gluten-free items at Walt Disney World Resort and on a Royal Caribbean International cruise. It was a far cry from the bland chicken and rice that dominates my memories of my Bali trip! So, what can you do to make your next holiday one to remember for all the right reasons? The secret is to be willing to put in the work before you leave so you know where you can go for safe gluten-free options. Here are some tried-and-true strategies you can use to avoid gluten and stay well while on holidays. RESEARCH Always take the time to research your destination before you travel. Search for gluten-free eateries and menus as you may be surprised at what you’ll find. We found a smorgasbord of safe options at Walt Disney World Resort a few years back and we’re looking forward to tucking into gluten-free pastries in Paris later this year – thanks to research. PREPARE If you’re flying, request a gluten-free meal for your flight when you book. If you’re boarding a cruise, advise the cruise line of your dietary needs ahead of time. Contact your hotel to see if they can accommodate your dietary needs or recommend gluten-free restaurants nearby. Also, consider taking gluten-free food with you to be totally prepared. PLAN If possible, choose accommodation with cooking facilities to prepare your own meals. Plan to have breakfast before you leave and take lunch with you

where possible. When eating out, ask to speak to the chef directly to ask about the ingredients used as well as the food-preparation process. Often waitstaff are not familiar with these details, so it’s best to go straight to the source. ORGANISE Get organised and confidently communicate your needs wherever you go with ready-made cards in more than 60 languages at celiactravel.com/cards. It’s also recommended to contact the coeliac society at your destination for more information and advice. Read more of Kirsty's tips and stories at positivespecialneedsparenting.com

SAIL AWAY IN STYLE The greatest accessible cruising tips from one of the best in the biz! Ron Pettit is Director, Disability Inclusion & ADA Compliance at Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. His passion is to enable guests with disabilities to have a great cruise experience and make Royal Caribbean a great place to work for employees with disabilities. Ron is responsible for the accessible guest experience and product development as well as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance for its three global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara. He leads a team of more than 22 people dedicated to this market. Do you have a favourite ship or cruising route you’ve sailed? We’d love to hear why it’s your favourite. I love all our ships, but among my favourites is Freedom of the Seas since I have sailed on it about 10 times in preparation for a full-ship deaf charter with more than 3600 deaf and hard-of-hearing guests back in 2007. I love our Royal Promenades – it’s great for people watching while having a drink at our English Pub. Also on our Royal Promenades, Sorrento’s has the greatest pizza at sea – we even make gluten-free pizzas! Royal Promenades are available on our Voyager-, Freedom- and Oasis-

class ships – these are among my favourite ships. In Australia this would be Explorer of the Seas. My newest favourite ship is Symphony of the Seas because it has Hooked, which is a New England seafood restaurant, also available on Navigator of the Seas. I’m from New England and I love Maine lobster with loads of butter! Cruising is a popular holiday choice for many people, and we are finding it’s increasingly popular for people living with disability. What do you think are the main benefits of choosing a cruise vacation? There’s an interesting statistic I learnt many years ago that, on a percentage basis, more people with disabilities take a cruise than those without disabilities. I think it’s because people with disabilities have realised cruise ships are one of most accessible holiday options. Many of our guests and travel advisors have told me they love our accessible staterooms; they are so well-designed with accessibility in mind, and they’re usually better than the accessible rooms in the hotel they stayed in before they got onto our ships. The great advantage of cruise holidays is the ability to explore many destinations, and you only have to unpack once!

What are your tips for first-time cruise passengers when it comes to choosing and booking a cruise? I have so many tips! Consider the length of time you want to spend on a cruise. If you haven’t cruised before, you may want to opt for a shorter cruise rather booking a longer trip to see how you like it. If all goes well, a longer cruise may be in your future. Some travellers prefer smaller ships, but larger ships offer more choices of activities and amenities. I personally enjoy the bigger ships because of all the entertainment and dining options! I recommend using a professional travel advisor – there are many who specialise in accessible travel and even just accessible cruising. Some travel advisors specialise in specific disabilities – they know what questions to ask and how to arrange a cruise holiday that meets all your detailed needs. Is there anything you feel people should know about cruising and accessibility? I would encourage people to book early – and think about where the room is located. Maybe you need to be closer to the elevator to avoid having to go all the way forward or aft of the ship to get to your room. Perhaps you want to be closer to the dining room or the adultsonly pool. For example, our main dining room is usually aft in the ship, and our guests will book a room aft of the ship so all they have to do is go up and down the elevator to get to the dining room. Otherwise, if your room is forward, not only do you have to go up and down, now you have to go the length of the ship to get to the dining room. Are there any accessible services or provisions aside from the accessible cabins that you think people should know about? Our ships have many accessible features. We have pool lifts for easy access in and out of our pools and whirlpools. We have automatic doors to public restrooms, and on Quantum- and Radiance-class ships, we have automatic doors to our accessible staterooms. In Australia, this includes Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas. On all ships, there are usually automatic doors in public areas. We offer braille/tactile signage and large print menus for our guests with vision loss. We also provide assistive listening systems and portable room kits for guests with hearing loss. We can accommodate a wide variety of disabilities – just simply ask. What do you suggest people don’t leave home without? Is there anything you can’t take on the ship? It’s important to make a list to make sure you have everything. I recommend that you pack things like medication in your carry-on luggage and carry it onto the ship yourself. Some people like to bring decorations for their door; when you look down one of our stateroom corridors, they look all the same, so personalising your

stateroom makes it easier to identify. We have a list of items you can’t take on a ship: royalcaribbean.com/aus/ en/faq/questions/prohibited-items-onboard-policy. Did you know you can’t take irons onboard? Are there any issues with charging power wheelchairs or scooters on the ship? There are no issues with charging power wheelchairs or scooters on the ship. Most guests will charge their equipment in their stateroom overnight; it’s very easy and convenient. Our ships are equipped with usually two North American standard outlets 110 volts and two standard European 220/230 volts AC outlets in staterooms (these are located on the vanity). However, in public areas, European outlets are more prevalent because North American outlets are rare in public areas. If you are using Australia chargers, you’ll need an adapter. On Ovation of the Seas, we have added a North American outlet at the head of the bed, making it convenient for people with oxygen or CPAP machines. When there are only outlets at the vanity, we will provide an extension cord upon request.

Some people like to bring decorations for their door; when you look down one of our stateroom corridors, they look all the same, so personalising your stateroom makes it easier to identify.

Where will you be cruising next? We just booked our next cruise on Explorer of the Seas, sailing on a Mediterranean itinerary from Rome in May 2020. It has an awesome itinerary including Sicily, Malta, Mykonos, Santorini, Athens and Naples! I am most excited about seeing the Greek Isles again; I was last there in 2004. Explorer of the Seas will be just coming out of drydock after a $100 million amplification project, where many features are being added, including The Perfect Storm racer waterslides and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. I’m looking forward to having my favourite drink of the day: a frozen strawberry daiquiri at the new poolside bar Lime and Coconut! For more information about accessible cruising on Royal Caribbean, visit royalcaribbean.com/aus/en/ experience/accessible-cruising

Animals don’t just have a calming effect – they’re also giving sight to the vision-impaired and sound to the hearing-impaired.

Image: Australian Lions Hearing Dogs

THE PAWFECT HELPER WORDS: JULIE JONES

Pets have long been considered man’s best friend, but now they’re doing far more than providing love and companionship to their owners. Guide dogs, assistance dogs and therapy pets are helping to provide many people with a better quality of life and independence. AN INDEPENDENT LIFE Michael and his assistance dog Fizz are a dynamic duo. When Michael became a quadriplegic 11 years ago, he was looking for the best way to regain his independence. Fizz has enabled Michael to return to work and allows him to be independent for a significant period of the day. Michael refers to Fizz as his “insurance policy”; Fizz is there to help if he drops his phone or keys and can’t reach them, he alerts others if Michael falls out of his wheelchair by barking to get help, and he assists with tasks such as triggering pedestrian lights, opening doors and passing Michael his crutches when they are out of reach. STRESS RELIEVERS Therapy dogs in the US became popular after September 11, when travellers were experiencing high anxiety around air travel. Seeing the success experienced by the first airports that adopted the program, others soon followed in their footsteps – or, in this case, paw prints! The Wag Brigade at San Francisco International Airport began six years ago when the airport partnered with San Francisco Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to bring dogs certified through its animal assisted therapy program to roam the terminals. Many of the animals were already participating in therapy programs in hospitals before becoming part of the Wag Brigade. Some were even being used to alleviate stress in universities during final exam week. A dozen animals, including LiLou the pig, make up the Wag Brigade. It’s been noted by the animals’ owners that they see a change in passengers’ moods when they meet the animals; a pat has been proven to lower blood pressure and a smile releases endorphins.

Knowing this, San Francisco International Airport’s guest services deploy the animals to areas of high stress, including waiting areas at the boarding gate when flights are delayed. Guests interacting with the animals receive a trading card with the Wag Brigade member’s name, breed and personality traits. Keen travellers work towards collecting the entire set of cards.

Want to learn more about what you’ve just read? Visit assistancedogs. org.au, flysfo.com/ services-amenities/ wag-brigade and hearingdogs.asn.au

SMART ABOUT SAFETY Lovingly labelled “the furry ears for the deaf and hard of hearing”, Australian Lions Hearing Dogs transform the lives of their owners by providing independence, security and confidence. With one in six Australians living with some form of hearing loss, these dogs are helping many in the community. From chihuahuas to Labradors, these working dogs alert their owners to anything from a knock at a door or a mobilephone message to the sound of a smoke-detector alarm. Some have even been trained in specific tasks; Ted was trained to alert his owner to an alarm that sounded when the stomach-feeding tube of his owner’s foster daughter became blocked, which saved her life many times. Although the majority of the work the dogs do is associated with their home environment, when out in public they play another important role. Being with their owner turns an invisible disability visible. The dogs’ presence can alert a stranger who’s trying to get the attention of someone who is deaf that they may need to use a method other than their voice to communicate – if their back is turned, for example. Most Australian Lions Hearing Dogs are sourced from pounds, shelters and rescue organisations, giving them a second chance at life.

Image: Assistance Dogs Australia - Richard Bulley Photography

MICHAEL’S TOP FOUR TIPS 1. Be confident when you present yourself and your dog in public. Some people are afraid of dogs – reassure them the worst that will happen is that they’ll be licked to death, as the dog is there to assist his or her owner. 2. When making a booking at a restaurant or hotel, advise them you are taking an assistance dog. 3. Working dogs shouldn’t be distracted. Be aware that some assistance dogs may have a ‘STOP’ sign advising a dog must concentrate. This is particularly important if they are trained for alerting for potential seizures and for dogs assisting a person with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). 4. Each airline has different rules for assistance dogs. Qantas requires a dog to be registered; a free seat is provided for the dog to lie on the floor and the airline provides a bluey mat.

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