Wheel the World Academy is an online accessible tourism training program created for professionals in the tourism industry.

What is <a href='https://landing.gowheeltheworld.com/hotelpartnersplan' target='_self'>Wheel the World Academy</a>?

Wheel the World Academy is an online training program created for professionals in the tourism industry. Participants will gain knowledge about disabilities, accessibility, and best practices in accessible tourism.
<h4>How it all began</h4>
In December 2016, we were part of the first expedition to complete the W circuit in Torres del Paine in Patagonia with a wheelchair user. Some called us crazy, others said it was impossible, and more than one person said it was irresponsible.
Well, thanks to that “irresponsibility”, Wheel the World is what it is today. It has impacted thousands of people with and without disabilities, allowing people to get to places they never thought possible. I can definitely say that the trip to Patagonia was the most powerful and significant experience of my life.
But we didn’t stop there. Our hunger to make the world accessible then took us to other places: San Pedro de Atacama, Easter Island, Machu Picchu, Italy, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and more!
As we began to visit these places, we grew our knowledge beyond mobility related disabilities. We started to learn more about accessibility for people with visual or auditory disabilities.
Every time we visited a new destination, we realized that people with disabilities face a huge barrier every time they travel. The barrier is the lack of preparation and knowledge about disability and accessibility within the tourism industry and the general population.
Diverse studies show that people with disabilities often opt not to travel, or to return to the same places, due to the lack of accessibility information about new destinations. According to a study done in Spain in 2018 by the organization Adecco, 56% of people with disabilities don’t travel because of a lack of accessibility information.
Many of our partners began to ask us how to acquire more knowledge and training about accessibility, so we decided to share our knowledge through a program called Wheel the World Academy.



<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/what-is-wheel-the-world-academy/DSC2565.jpeg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Demonstrating a transfer at an in-person workshop</figcaption></figure>

<h4>The first Wheel the World Academy</h4>
The very first Wheel the World Academy took place in Doha, Qatar in November 2019. 25 people, who worked for 3 different tour operators, completed the training program. It was a huge learning experience for both us and them. We discovered that many professionals in the tourism industry are willing and eager to learn about accessibility, what had been missing was the information, and a way to explain it.

<h4>Reaching new places</h4>
In December 2019, we traveled to Easter Island to train our friends at Mau Henua, the community in charge of Rapa Nui National Park. We explained theory and practiced skills and techniques in iconic places around the island, like the beach of Anakena.
In February 2020, just before we began to quarantine as a result of the pandemic, it was our partners in Machu Picchu and Cusco’s turn. We trained the team at PEAK DMC, tour operators of the various tours and activities that we offer in Peru. We also trained Inca Rail staff, who operate the train that runs from Cusco and Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the village at the base of Machu Picchu.  We also had the opportunity to travel to various destinations in Chile and train professionals throughout the country.
Unfortunately, the pandemic arrived with full force and the world shut down. However, our purpose to make the world accessible remained, and we found new ways to continue working toward a more accessible world. Unable to travel and train tourism professionals in-person, we decided to launch a virtual program, and WTW Academy e-learning was born.
Wheel the World Academy is an online learning journey, aimed toward professionals in the tourism field. Students learn about different accessible-travel-related topics: types and models of disability, interaction, universal design, accessible transportation, accessible tourism, barriers in tourism, good accessibility practices, sustainable tourism, and more.
Wheel the World also took part in a sustainable tourism accelerator program in Singapore with the Singapore Tourism Council. As part of this program, we partnered with the local Shangri-La Hotel and Sentosa Island. These partners were the first to complete Wheel the World Academy 100% online.
We currently have a long list of various tourism professionals (hotels, tour operators, transportation entities, and government agencies) signed up for Wheel the World Academy.
If you would like to participate in Wheel the World Academy online, read more about our partner certification and training plans <a href='https://landing.gowheeltheworld.com/hotelpartnersplan' target='_self'>here</a>.

What is Wheel the World Academy

We caught up with Yagmur and Tess, founders of the California-based organization Dance for All Bodies to talk all things inclusive dance.

We caught up with Yagmur and Tess, founders of the California-based organization Dance for All Bodies to talk all things inclusive dance. We have been working with Dance for All Bodies to host Travel Through Dance, a week of virtual inclusive dance classes, starting June 23rd, 2020. Sign up for classes <a href='https://www.danceforallbodies.org/upcoming-classes-1' target='_self'>here</a>. Read on to find out more about adaptive dance and how you can join in!
<h3>What is Dance for All Bodies’ mission?</h3>
The mission of Dance for All Bodies is to spread the joy of dance to all bodies through dance classes designed for people with disabilities in mind.
We are dismantling the ableism in dance and in the world one dance class at a time!
<h3>What are the benefits of dance?</h3>
Dance has many different benefits – socially, emotionally and physically. Socially, it is a way for us to connect and create a feeling of community. Emotionally, it is a way to express our feelings and thoughts creatively. Physically, it is a way for us to stretch, strengthen and move our bodies freely. Dance is beneficial for all individuals, bodies, and abilities. It’s also just really fun and it gives your mind a break from thinking about the stress and worries from the other parts of life. It is rejuvenative and recharging.
<h3>What is a typical dance class like?</h3>
A typical dance class starts with introductions and warm up. Depending on the type of class, we will either have it like a zumba class, where the instructor shows a couple of moves and we’ll do it to music, or we learn choreography. Every style of dance has its own energy and attitude, which you just have to try to find the one that fits you the best.
<h3>What styles of inclusive dance do you teach and who teaches them?</h3>
Currently we teach salsa, hip-hop, Diaspora dance, Brazilian dance, flamenco, improvisational dancing, and jazz. We work with a variety of teachers and that is how we are able to offer a variety of styles. Some of our teachers have disabilities while some don’t. Most of our teachers are located in California but we are looking to expand our network of teachers!
We love that our teachers are committed to the mission of Dance for All Bodies and are looking for ways to engage with the community. We have been fortunate to have their interest and willingness to work with us as a new non-profit.
<h3>What would you say to someone who is nervous to participate in a dance class because they never saw themselves as a dancer?</h3>
Yagmur: It isn’t as scary as it seems. It’s purely beautiful, just try it and see what it can do 🙂
Tess: You don’t have anything to lose! You can turn your camera off the entire time on Zoom and no one will see you and that’s totally fine! Dance magic is most potent when you don’t care what you look like.
<h3>Can you give us a little bit of a history about the organization, how did Dance for All Bodies begin?</h3>
Yagmur: Sure! The idea behind Dance for All Bodies came from a one time dance class I organized for an amputee support group at San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH). I wanted to organize a dance class for the amputee patients because they expressed interest in doing a group physical activity together. Since I’m a dancer, I felt inclined to organize a dance class in part because I believe dance is powerful, in the sense that it builds confidence, interpersonal connections, joy, not to mention the numerous physical benefits as well. I organized the first dance class at SFGH in August 2018. When the participants left that first class eagerly asking when the next one would be, I felt moved and excited to organize more classes.
However, I quickly realized that I needed an accomplice who shared this desire to make dance a more inclusive art form. This brought Tess, a close friend, who is also an amazing dancer, creator and leader, into the project.
Even though California’s Bay Area has a large and vocal disability community, with lots of disability infrastructure in place, there aren’t any organizations that specifically focus on organizing dance classes for people of all abilities in the Bay Area. This has become our current niche. As two dancers without disabilities who have the privilege of extensive dance training, we are making the power, beauty, joy, and fun of dance available to people with disabilities too.
<h3>How have recent times, staying home due to Coronavirus, affected the organization?</h3>
Our class attendance has actually increased since the pandemic began. At first, we were a little disconcerted as we have only organized dance classes in person and couldn’t imagine replicating the same feeling through a virtual medium. However we have been surprised by how powerful virtual dance classes can be in creating a sense of community! We have been able to reach a wider audience all over the U.S. and internationally as well. Traveling via public transit tends to be difficult for people with disabilities and so having an online class allows us to reach people in their homes who might otherwise not be able to attend.
<h3>What projects are you currently working on?</h3>
We are developing an accessibility training for workplaces and individuals who want to make their services or products more accessible to people with disabilities. We envision this training as a way (but not the only way) to help people without disabilities become better allies with the disability community. Tess and I are working on becoming more meaningful allies every day and we want to bring other people into this journey with us.
<h3>Lastly, is there a message you would like to share with our community?</h3>
If you have a body, you can be a dancer. Come dance with us!
We hope you’ll join us next week for a week of Travel Through Dance! Remember, you can see the schedule on social media or click <a href='https://www.danceforallbodies.org/upcoming-classes-1' target='_self'>here</a> to register for free classes. When it’s time to travel again, take a look at the dance experiences we offer in Rio de Janeiro, where you can <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/tour/accessible-travel-carioca-night-experience/' target='_self'>go out dancing</a> or <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/tour/accessible-travel-carnival-experience-tour/' target='_self'>learn to samba</a>! To get in touch with Dance for All Bodies, send an email to <a href='mailto:danceforallbodies@gmail.com' target='_self'>danceforallbodies@gmail.com</a>.

Inclusive Dance with Dance for all bodies

Michele Monro is an expert on wheelchair accessible cruises. She shares her experience and what led her to write a book in this blog post.

I have been cruising for more than forty years, the last eleven working as a guest speaker on Celebrity, P&amp;O, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Cruise and Maritime, Fred Olsen and Royal Caribbean. Twenty-five years ago I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, after which I began to notice the lack of information available for people with limited mobility; places I had visited previously presented obstacles that I hadn’t encountered before. One area I noticed obstacles was finding wheelchair accessible cruises.
Information on accessibility is hard to find and the internet is filled with dead sites – with no one policing the web pages, you can source information only to find it is out-of-date and has been for some time. For example, one woman planned a dream trip to Venice as a surprise for her husband who is a permanent wheelchair user. She set off, husband in tow, thinking she had planned the perfect trip. Sadly, when they arrived, she found several bridge lifts had been disabled two years earlier, leaving the couple unable to access the city’s key areas.
As much as I love traveling across the sea, information about wheelchair accessible cruises is scarce. A lack of destination information has been a constant annoyance, with ships never telling you exactly where in the city you will be docking until the night before or whether the port is accessible; P&amp;O don’t even advertise the docking times, making it impossible to pre-plan a day ashore.
<h2>Information: A Common Problem in the Travel Industry</h2>
With the evolution of the cruising industry one thing hasn’t changed: the travel industry’s inability to provide a disabled traveller with what they need to plan and enjoy a stress-free adventure.
I emailed Princess Cruises’ special services with questions relating to the accessibility of their island, Princess Cay, as the only information on the internet was that it had “ramps for easy access.” An automated email promised me a reply within ten business days, but when I finally received a response, it was sketchy at best. Their main concern was that I knew their rules governing tender use for disabled passengers and they attached a medical questionnaire. The bottom of the email informed me “we can supply the information requested; however, we are unable to advise if you will be able to ride the water shuttle.” I asked a simple question and never got the information requested.
One of the dozens of challenging but common ports is Copenhagen’s Langelinie quay, one of three cruise terminals servicing the city. It is fabulously placed for tourists, with many key sights reachable by foot, including The Little Mermaid statue. A hop-on-hop-off bus stops across the road from the port exit, as do the cruise lines’ shuttle buses, tour excursion coaches and taxis. But, it is an incredibly busy street, running more than half a mile. Upon exiting the cruise berth’s wire-fenced compound you are forced to cross the street as only one side has a pathway. The problem is that there isn’t one dropped curb along the entire stretch of road, despite cruise companies complaining to the port authorities for the past few years. If you are travelling in a manual chair, it isn’t too difficult if you are being pushed, as the chair can simply be tilted to mount the pavement, but electric wheelchairs and scooters don’t have that option. The result is often defiant tourists braving the two-way traffic and dodging the port delivery trucks, fuel tankers and tour buses that use the road – it is incredibly dangerous and an accident waiting to happen.
Halfway down the pier’s street, beneath the stone arches of Langelinie’s old harbour-front warehouses, lies a great outlet shopping arcade accessible via eight steel-framed steps. The wheelchair lifts broke several years ago and remain broken. Ignorance isn’t bliss, it is unacceptable.
I have searched high and low for a website that could offer up this kind of information but to no avail; instead, the average tourist is left none the wiser. I believe information is power: the power to be able to control our choices and know what we are going to come up against when we drop anchor in a desirable location.
Everyone experiences different degrees of mobility. For those that can manage a few steps, there is a good and varied choice of accessible tour options, but for those that are permanent wheelchair users, choices can be more limited. Having trawled through thousands of websites and articles and interviewed countless company representatives within the travel sector, I’ve found there are those that are willing to go that extra mile to make cruising more accessible, you just have to know where to look.
<h2>Writing a Solution for Wheelchair Accessible Cruises</h2>
I decided to address all of these issues with a series of cruise books dedicated to disabled people who want to cruise on their own terms. A market first, ‘The Autonomous Cruiser:  The Complete Guide To Cruising For and With Disabled Travellers’, took a number of years to write and then spent the last two years sitting at my publisher because with the advent of the pandemic there was no point in releasing a book on cruising when ships were not sailing. It then had to have a rewrite after Brexit and then again with the onset of Covid. At one point I felt it just wasn’t destined to be published at all and frustration levels were at an all-time high. So you can imagine how elated I felt when a date was finally set that would see the first in the series see the light of day.  This is a subject I am deeply passionate about and I hope will help everyone enjoy sea travel. A general how- to on cruising is aimed at giving people the power to take control, make their own choices and organise the perfect seafaring holiday, getting the best out of both the ship and its destinations. The books that will follow are dedicated port guides and will offer an in-depth look at what each location offers in terms of accessibility, addressing issues like whether the port is easy to disembark at, what facilities are at the terminal and what the destination offers its disabled guests. It will give everyone the ability to get the most out of each destination and not waste precious time in working out what to do or how to do it.
Living with a disability presents a lot of obstacles, but wheelchair accessible cruises don’t have to be one of them. Bon voyage.
The Autonomous Cruiser is out in paperback and eBook on 8th March 2022, you can purchase it <a href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Autonomous-Cruiser-Michele-Monro/dp/1913340961/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1AL5PXST0NZ4Z&keywords=the+autonomous+cruiser&qid=1644868064&sprefix=the+autonomous+cruiser%2Caps%2C54&sr=8-1' target='_self'>here</a>.
If you’re looking for land-based travel, find accessibility information and book places to stay, things to do, and multi-day trips at <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/' target='_self'>wheeltheworld.com</a>.
Michele Monro is the daughter of singer Matt Monro. She is a special interest speaker for cruise lines including Celebrity, P&amp;O, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Cruise and Maritime, Fred. Olsen and Royal Caribbean. In addition to her book, The Autonomous Cruiser, she is working on a series of port guides for travelers with disabilities. When she isn’t cruising, Michele is based in Shropshire, England.

My Experience with Wheelchair Accessible Cruises

Florencia and her boyfriend, who uses a wheelchair, travel often. She gives us tips and advice for a trip to wheelchair accessible Barcelona!

Wheelchair Accessible Travel Barcelona My Experience Traveling with my Partner

Sometimes a trip is just what you need to relax and reset. Here are the top places to go for an accessible self care trip in the US.

Life has a way of bogging people down, presenting emotional, physical, and mental strains that can seem overwhelming. There always seems to be something to do, preventing much-needed rest and relaxation. Too often, people don’t give themselves permission to slow down or practice any form of self-care.
Allotting little or no time for self-care is bad for <a href='https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/health/what-is-self-care' target='_blank'>your overall health</a>. Because people sometimes can’t totally relax in their homes, taking a <a href='https://www.epinsight.com/post/troubleshooting-self-care-having-a-r-e-s-e-t' target='_blank'>reset</a> trip to rebalance their emotions and overall life may be the best option. For those with special needs such as handicap accessibility, some destinations are better than others.
<h2>What Are Top Accessible Self-Care Destinations in the U.S.?</h2>
What’s relaxing and inspiring to one person may not suit others. Do you prefer mountain views, beaches, museums, fine dining or outdoor water activities? Look for accessible destinations that offer things that will encourage you to relax and reset yourself. Who knows, you may decide to move!
<h3>Berkeley, CA</h3>
Located near the Pacific Ocean, Berkeley offers many types of relaxing scenery, hikeable terrain, and attractions to revitalize you.
Several exciting spots make <a href='https://www.busytourist.com/things-to-do-in-berkeley-ca/' target='_blank'>Berkeley</a> a great place to visit:
<ul>
<li>The University of California Botanical Garden</li>
<li>Tilden Regional Park</li>
<li>The Gourmet Ghetto</li>
<li>The Berkeley Rose Garden, which is connected to Codornices Park by a wheelchair-accessible tunnel</li>
<li>Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive</li>
</ul>
The agreeable climate, nearby beaches and mountains, and wide variety of activities may seduce you into wanting to move there. Check out accessible activities and places to stay in Berkeley’s neighboring San Francisco <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-usa/san-francisco' target='_blank'>here</a>.

<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/accessible-self-care-top-us-destinations/Palace-of-Fine-Arts-Dominique-04.jpeg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Berkeley’s neighboring San Francisco is just a short drive or BART ride away.</figcaption></figure>

<h3>Denver, CO</h3>
Known as the Mile-High City, Denver boasts sunny days, beautiful scenery, nearby hot springs, craft breweries, a vibrant downtown area, many options for spas and other <a href='https://www.thedenverear.com/self-care-denver/' target='_blank'>self-care services</a>, and unique, diverse neighborhoods.
If you visit Denver, consider going to:
<ul>
<li>The Denver Art Museum</li>
<li>Wilderness on Wheels</li>
<li>Denver Aquarium</li>
<li>Union Station</li>
</ul>
The job market is booming in Denver, and many remote workers are basing themselves there. Denver’s public transportation and most attractions are wheelchair accessible.
If you consider moving to the area, use <a href='https://www.apartmentlist.com/co/denver' target='_blank'>ApartmentList Denver</a> resources to search for your next home. These listings allow you to filter your search by the number of bathrooms and bedrooms you desire, other amenities, price range, and general location. Some even offer 3D property tours to help narrow your search.

<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/accessible-self-care-top-us-destinations/pexels-pixabay-371589.jpeg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Denver’s surrounding nature in the Rocky Mountains</figcaption></figure>

<h3>San Antonio, TX</h3>
Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, multiple shopping choices, natural scenery, or fine dining, <a href='https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/san-antonio-us-tx-sa.htm' target='_blank'>San Antonio</a> has it all. Best of all, according to Go RVing, San Antonio features <a href='https://www.gorving.com/tips-inspiration/expert-advice/10-most-accessible-places-visit-us' target='_blank'>many accessible attractions</a> and self-care opportunities.
Don’t miss these venues in San Antonio:
<ul>
<li>The Alamo</li>
<li>The Riverwalk</li>
<li>Morgan’s Wonderland and Morgan’s Inspiration Island, which are a fully handicap-accessible theme park and water park</li>
<li>The Pearl District</li>
<li>Becker Vineyards</li>
</ul>
Great weather, and a mix between city and country living are some of the reasons many people are <a href='https://homeandmoney.com/blog/top-10-reasons-to-move-to-san-antonion-tx/' target='_blank'>choosing to move</a> to San Antonio, and why it also makes a great travel destination.

<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/accessible-self-care-top-us-destinations/walk-g11c40e4ff_1280.jpeg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>San Antonio’s famed River Walk</figcaption></figure>

<h3>Seattle, WA</h3>
The home of Starbucks Coffee, the Emerald City boasts many outdoor destinations for those looking to relax and indulge in self-care.
Be sure to visit:
<ul>
<li>Seattle Aquarium</li>
<li>Olympic Sculpture Park</li>
<li>Seattle Art Museum</li>
<li>Space Needle</li>
<li>Pike Place Market</li>
</ul>
Seattle is one of the best cities in the U.S. for jobs and is also one of the best places for those with allergies to live, with a very enjoyable climate. Explore accessible travel options in Seattle <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-usa/seattle?travelers=0&adults=0&children=0&infants=0&formattedDate=%5Bnull%2Cnull%5D' target='_blank'>here</a>.

<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/accessible-self-care-top-us-destinations/seattle-g3035d7c09_1280.jpeg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Seattle’s skyline</figcaption></figure>

<h2>Are You Ready To Travel?</h2>
Getting away from it all can help reset your emotional balance. For those who need accessibility options in travel, accommodations, and leisure activities, research into accessible destinations is beneficial. Explore accessible travel options for a rest or reset <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/' target='_blank'>here</a>.


By Virginia Cooper
Virginia Cooper is a retired community college instructor. She always encouraged her students to see the real-world value in their education, and now, she wants to spread that message as wide as possible. Her hope is that Learn a Living will be a go-to resource for adult learners embarking on starting, continuing, or finishing their education.

Accessible Self Care Top US Destinations

These six tips will help you plan your next accessible vacation in a breeze

*This blog post was written by Catherine, a wheelchair user and member of our travel community*

As someone who uses a wheelchair full time, planning anything accessible can be a challenge let alone a multi-day trip. I thought I would share how I planned our summer vacation to be wheelchair friendly. Here are some quick details: (1) my parents and I are the ones traveling, (2) we are driving so we will have access to a car, and (3) since we are driving, I can bring both my power chair and my pushchair. If we were flying, I would only bring the push chair because... airlines.

The first thing we did was set a budget. Since all of us are employed, we can split costs three ways. We decided that a budget of $5,000 (USD) for everything would be reasonable. With many flight delays occurring overseas, we chose to travel within the United States to allow our budget to go farther. We talked about where we wanted to go and decided a fun road trip to Boston and Maine would be perfect. Next, we needed to decide when to go and for how long.

Our next decision was choosing where to stay. We were disappointed with the lack of accurate accessibility information on Airbnb so we started researching hotels. Although boutique hotels are cute, I felt safer looking for chain hotels to ensure they had a standard for accessibility. Once I found an accessible hotel, I went to the hotel’s actual website to book it so I could verify the room was accessible. I find that Marriott hotels have a lot of accessibility options and also let you specify whether you want a mobility or hearing accessible room. I was very impressed by this! If this process seems daunting,<a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=Planning+a+Wheelchair+Friendly+Vacation&utm_id=Planning+a+Wheelchair+Friendly+Vacation' target='_self'> Wheel the World</a> is a fabulous resource to use for booking hotels. If you create an accessibility profile on their website, you'll be matched with accessible hotels that meet your accessibility needs. Plus, you can see lots of hotel details including door width, bed height, and more. These details are extremely beneficial in knowing if you're wheelchair will fit comfortably.

Now that our hotel was booked, it was time to plan what we wanted to do. My family likes to try to experience destinations like the locals do. We’re huge fans of self-guided walking tours and just wandering. We also love history and eating and like to do things at our own pace. For our time in Boston we’re going to walk the Freedom trail and do a food tour, so we can really experience the area. It was a little bit tougher to find accessible things to do in Maine. We didn’t book any specific tours or activities and are going to play it by ear. I found several great blog posts where wheelchair users described their favorite things to do in Maine so we may check out some of those recommendations. The last part of planning was booking the tours in Boston. Once I booked our tours all time sensitive planning was done! As our trip gets closer, I will do more research into restaurants so we can make a list of places to try (did I mention we like food? LOL). However, we won’t make any advanced reservations because we don’t like to be overly scheduled.

I hope this insight into my planning process was helpful, and you discovered a few new resources to help you plan your next trip! I summarized my steps below so if you are a list person like me you can save it for future use. I also like to keep a google doc with important information in it pertaining to the trip like hotel confirmation numbers and such. This way I always have access to them and know everything is in one spot.

Vacation Plan:
Step 1: Set a budget
Step 2: Identify where we want to go and for how long.
Step 3: Determine how you will get there.
Step 4: Book lodging.
Step 5: Find must-do’s in the places you're going.
Step 6: Book tickets for things that need tickets

There you have it! I hope to write a post about our trip so stay tuned to see if my planning helped!

6 Easy Tips for Planning A Vacation

There are many adaptive equipment options out there that make adventure more accessible. Find out about some of them here!

Movement is a strong source of happiness. Whether it is just going to the park or traveling to another country, it gives us energy and freedom. Since I can remember, my dad used to take me to the forest for walks, that eventually became hikes, that somehow shaped a part of who I am today, mainly due to the connection that I developed with nature.
I was very lucky to have a dad that cared to show me around the forest and the mountains of my hometown. But not everyone has the same luck, and it could get even trickier if you have a disability. The good news is that all around the world amazing engineers have developed different solutions when it comes to adaptive equipment. These products offer possibilities for people with disabilities to traverse the great outdoors.
The possibilities that adaptive equipment may bring to a group of travelers with and without disabilities are endless. I mean, even Wheel the World was born in part thanks to an  amazing piece of adaptive equipment – the <a href='https://www.joeletteandco.com/en/' target='_self'>Joëlette.</a>


<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/adaptive-equipment-making-adventure-accessible-for-all/Diseño-sin-título-2021-07-29T172139.864-1.png' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>The Joëlette in use during our first Patagonia trip</figcaption></figure>

This all-terrain wheelchair developed by the French brand Joëlette and Co was the one we used on our <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfTesPQqjxQ&t=10s' target='_self'>first trip ever</a><a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfTesPQqjxQ&t=10s' target='_blank'> </a>to Torres del Paine in Chilean Patagonia. Without it we could not have hiked the W trail. This high quality hiking wheelchair is part of different accessible travel experiences that we offer. In <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-peru/machu-picchu?travelers=0&formattedDate=%5Bnull%2Cnull%5D' target='_blank'> </a><a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-peru/machu-picchu?travelers=0&formattedDate=%5Bnull%2Cnull%5D' target='_self'>Machu Picchu</a>, for example, it’s used to navigate the uneven terrain,  in Riviera Maya we use it to access a pristine <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-mexico/playa-del-carmen/things-to-do/rio-secreto-dry-tour?travelers=0&formattedDate=%5Bnull%2Cnull%5D' target='_self'>underground cave</a>. It is important to mention that Joëlette’s main model requires the aid of someone in the front and rear to move around, which makes it a great group activity.
Recently Joëlette went one step further and launched a version of their product, designed for kids, how cool is that?! It’s called the <a href='https://www.joeletteandco.com/en/joelette-kid-2/' target='_self'>Joëlette Kid</a>. They designed the perfect product for families that have small children with reduced mobility. It allows them to share the outdoors with a very light and trustworthy all-terrain wheelchair. Being able to do these types of activities is a game changer for many families.



<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/adaptive-equipment-making-adventure-accessible-for-all/Diseño-sin-título-2021-07-29T172315.472-1.png' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>The Joëlette Kid ready to go in the WTW office</figcaption></figure>
As a mountain bike enthusiast I was blown away the first time I saw adapted mountain bikes. They are actually “handbikes”, for people with spinal cord injuries that make it possible for them to ride along fun trails or roads, using their arms to propel themselves. There are many different options on the market depending on the type of terrain you want to ride. For example, there are many road options from <a href='https://global.invacare.com/' target='_self'>Invacare</a>, and just as any conventional bike, you can find different frames, settings, components and materials. They are very reliable, and we use them in activities like cycling the <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-usa/maui/things-to-do/sunrise-haleakala-volcano-urban-cycling' target='_self'>Haleakala Volcano</a> in Maui, or the handbike tour we offer in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. You can check out all of the different adaptive bicycles we use in activities around the world <a href='https://blog.gowheeltheworld.com/2021/06/03/adaptive-bicycles-for-different-disabilities/' target='_self'>here</a>.


<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/adaptive-equipment-making-adventure-accessible-for-all/Diseño-sin-título-2021-07-29T172424.611.png' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Handbiking on Easter Island</figcaption></figure>
But, not all adaptive equipment is related to mountains or trails, a lot of people are more into leisure activities like spending a day at the beach. For activities like this one, it can be a challenge to move around the sand as conventional wheelchairs with slim tires get stuck and it’s impossible to get them into the water, you will just sink! To avoid trouble and enjoy a day at the beach, there are great hybrid or amphibious wheelchairs available. Due to their thick tires, it’s easier to move on sand and access the sea with the help of a companion.
Some of the accessible travel experiences that we offer use an adaptive hybrid beach wheelchair, like a day at the beach on a <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-costa-rica/manuel-antonio/multiday-trips/quepos-manuel-antonio-jaco-tour-costa-rica-5-days4-nights?travelers=0&formattedDate=%5Bnull%2Cnull%5D' target='_self'>trip to Costa Rica</a>. But beaches are not the only place with sand, visiting a desert has a special thing about it, landscapes are very different to what many of us are used to and sunsets are unique. Last year we found out the <a href='http://www.hippocampe.co.uk/' target='_self'>Hippocampe</a> wheelchair was a great product to explore the desert in <a href='http://qatar.gowheeltheworld.com/' target='_self'>Qatar</a><a href='http://qatar.gowheeltheworld.com/' target='_blank'>.</a>



<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/adaptive-equipment-making-adventure-accessible-for-all/Diseño-sin-título-2021-07-29T174625.069.png' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Exploring the desert in Qatar with the Hippocampe</figcaption></figure>
An accessible travel platform like Wheel the World needs to have something to fit everyone’s travel interests. That’s why we also offer travel experiences to discover cities. Who doesn’t like to feel like a local when visiting a city? Some cities can be a bit challenging when walking/rolling around them, but there are super functional options like Stricker’s <a href='https://www.stricker-handbikes.de/en/products/lomo360' target='_self'>Lomo 360</a> that will make facing cobblestone or uneven sidewalks much more comfortable. This is a product that we offer as a compliment on accessible city tours like the one we have in <a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-brazil/rio-de-janeiro' target='_self'>Rio de Janeiro</a><a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-brazil/rio-de-janeiro' target='_blank'>.</a> What type of accessible equipment do you use to explore your city? We are always looking to learn from our community, let us know in the comments.
We know that owning adaptive equipment is not possible for everyone, it requires storage space and can be expensive. That’s why we provide it for many of our accessible travel experiences so that you can explore the world without limits.


<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Blog production/adaptive-equipment-making-adventure-accessible-for-all/Diseño-sin-título-2021-07-29T175228.570.png' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>Using the Lomo 360 while exploring Rio</figcaption></figure>
We will continue to expand Wheel the World’s footprint of adaptive equipment in different destinations around the world. Having adaptive equipment available is something that the travel industry and our community need to push together. Next time you are looking to do a tour that requires adaptive equipment, contact us <a href='sofia@gowheeltheworld.com' target='_self'>here</a> and let us know, perhaps we can help.
At the end of the day all of us like to explore and discover places, it’s part of human nature. That’s why we need to make the travel industry a more accessible one and not leave anyone behind, that is what’s at the core of Wheel the World’s purpose. We still have a long journey to go, but by working together – with the community and industry – we can make it happen.
For me the great outdoors is the place I most enjoy. Just like my father used to take me to new places around the mountains of my hometown, we would love to do so with you and your loved ones, so tell me:
Where should we go together next?

Adaptive Equipment Making Adventure Accessible for All

Accessible tourism is more than a business venture. 

***This article is written by Rachel Justen, Wheel the World community member and blog contributor. ***

Post-COVID tourism is booming. After years of restrictions, tourists want to travel more than ever. This includes over 14 million disabled travelers. This particular group contributes a significant amount to tourist spending each year. Between 2018 and 2019 alone, disabled travelers spent <a href='https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/economic-impact-of-disability-travel-reaches-58-7-billion-301162417.html' target='_self'>over $58.7 billion</a>. That's why more businesses are realizing their value as customers. They no longer add accessibility features to follow local laws. They do so as an investment in disabled tourists as assets.

As a result, it’s common for them to arrive at their destination and discover that certain accommodation options aren't available. Over 50% of disabled tourists even decide to <a href='https://skift.com/2019/09/18/why-accessibility-is-the-hotel-industrys-most-overlooked-asset/' target='_self'>avoid travel altogether</a> due to a lack of information. You can avoid this by communicating the accessibility features you do and don't have. This offers benefits for businesses and disabled tourists alike. For one, it makes the planning process easier for disabled travelers. It allows you to advertise the accessible features you've invested in and ensure they're put to good use. It also allows you to earn the business of family and friends that will likely travel alongside disabled tourists. This is all extremely crucial when it comes to improving customer experiences, trust, and loyalty in your services.
 Clear and consistent communication helps attract as many tourists as possible at all points of the customer experience. Fortunately, <a href='https://online.maryville.edu/blog/how-technology-has-changed-communication/' target='_self'>technology has changed communication</a> in many different ways. The Internet helps consumers access the information they need. This is even more true thanks to modern innovations like captions, screen readers, voice controls, and hands-free mouse-tracking systems. Internet-enabled communications can help all the way from the discovery phase. Disabled tourists can easily discover and peruse your website with accessible design features. These include color contrasts for readable text, ALT text and captions for embedded media, simple navigation elements, and easy-to-understand content. You can also use these features on-site in hotels, travel centers, and tourist spots. These features ultimately play a huge role in facilitating enjoyable and accessible tourist experiences.
 We use vacations to take a break from our everyday lives. The point of accessible tourism is to give disabled tourists that same experience. Earlier, we emphasized how crucial clear communications are to vacation planning. Yet it's even more important in helping the disabled enjoy the experience. As we've previously discussed, <a href='https://blog.gowheeltheworld.com/2020/09/21/what-inclusion-means-to-our-community/' target='_self'>inclusion in our community</a> can mean multiple things. It means being able to do things despite a disability. It means enjoying an experience without discrimination or limited participation. Above all, it means that nobody gets left out. Here, it's the human touch that really matters. Do your research on how best to cater to a wide range of individuals. Use a mix of technology and human input to enhance the overall experience you offer. Train your staff to communicate with people of various disabilities. Teach them how to use and accommodate assistive devices. Then watch as accessible tourism enhances the experiences of all your guests. Accessible tourism is more than just another profitable business venture — it’s your opportunity to improve the world through your profession. By using better communication practices, you can reach out and offer the best tourist experiences to abled and disabled individuals alike.

The Importance of Communication in Accessible Tourism

Keep these accessible travel tips in mind when visiting Paris 

***This post is created by Charlotte Baker, a member of our travel community***


Ah, Paris! (say that loud in French), the city of light, berets, and baguettes. Sure, there is more to it, and you are just about to discover what Paris is all about. From cruising down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, going up the iconic Eiffel Tower, admiring the glorious Arc de Triomphe, and visiting the Louvre Museum, your trip to Paris doesn't have to be uncomfortable. There are tons of things to do in Paris that are accessible, regardless of the challenges you may face.

Paris, especially Paris-Charles de Gaulle, is one of Europe's most disability-friendly airports.&nbsp;

But don't forget to drop off your luggage in a safe storage location before setting on your adventure, as carrying your luggage around Paris is the last thing you need. When you decide it's time to explore, there is a wonderful array of things to see and do.&nbsp;
Keep this guide handy, it will tell you where you can eat, have fun, how to get, which top attractions are accessible, and much more.

Getting around Paris 

First, find the easiest way to get around Paris in a wheelchair. You will need to get from one site to another; in that case, you should know whether to take the metro, ride the bus, or get in a taxi. Furthermore, prepare and plan in advance to avoid cobblestones and hills.
Most public transportation in Paris is made easily accessible for seniors, children, persons with reduced mobility, including the sight impaired, hearing impaired, and mentally impaired.

Over 4,500 buses operate in Paris and the suburbs, and all bus lines are accessible for wheelchair users. In addition, most bus stops are wheelchair friendly, with raised sidewalks and obstacle-free boarding areas. All buses have an automatic ramp; 98% provide audio announcements, while 96% show visual announcements.

One of the best ways to accessible travel in Paris is by bus, followed by accessible taxis. Some Metro lines are accessible, but only one line takes you to tourist sites, which is not very convenient if you need to go elsewhere. Paris railway, or the RER, is another accessible option, but is not as frequent as buses. However, most train stations have elevators and motorized, wide-access ticket gates. The staff is also trained for accompanying people with reduced mobility.

The <a href='https://www.ratp.fr/en/plan-rer' target='_self'>RER</a> is one of the best accessible travel options to visit places outside Paris, like Versaille and Disneyland. If you prefer to keep your adventures within a short distance, there are tons of must-see places in Paris that are easily accessible with a wheelchair.

Centre Pompidou Center Accessible Tour

The <a href='https://www.centrepompidou.fr/en/' target='_self'>Centre Pompidou</a> is a 20th-century museum boasting marvelous modern architecture. It is home to many modern and contemporary art but also a place for shows, debates, activities for children, and more. It is also the most accessible building in Paris. There are no steps are cobblestone to navigate at entry. Getting there is easy: either use the Metro lines 11 for Rambuteau, lines 1 and 11 for Hotel de Ville, and lines 1,4,7,11, and 14 for Chatelet. Or, if you are traveling with a taxi or car, the closest drop-off place is on the South side of the building, at the corner of Rue du Renard and Rue St Merri.

People with reduced mobility can see 100% of the museum, as there are no steps. The hallways are spacious and easy to maneuver with a wheelchair, and grab bars are available throughout the premises. There is disabled parking on site without having to give notice in advance. There are accessible bathrooms and guided English tours on Sundays at 3 pm and French tours on Sundays at 4 pm (except the first Sunday of the month).
Besides its 100% accessibility, the Pompidou Museum and Centre offers free entrance to people with disabilities and their companions.

Wheelchair-accessible guide tour of the Louvre Museum


<figure><img src='https://cms.wheeltheworld.com/api/uploads/Post Images/guillaume-meurice-zoK6WhRlTQo-unsplash.jpg' width='undefined' height='undefined' /><figcaption>The Louvre</figcaption></figure>


The <a href='https://www.louvre.fr/en' target='_self'><ins>Louvre</ins></a> palace and museum are one of the biggest attractions in Paris. With over 400 rooms and 35,000 artworks, tons of corridors, and staircases, it can be really challenging for wheelchair users.

Luckily, there are wheelchair-accessible guided tours that will allow you to see most of the highlights in just a few hours. The guides take you through tour routes specifically designed for wheelchair users, and you get to ride up and down the many hidden elevators. To make your tour even better, tour guides provide expert commentary on the highlights you see, and most assist in pushing manual wheelchairs. The Louvre has long waiting lines year-round. However, you can skip the long lines by booking a wheelchair-accessible guided tour.

Accessible cruise down the Seine

The best way to see most of the tourist attractions and sights in Paris is to take an accessible cruise on the river Seine. Most of these tours last 1-2 hours, and they are easy to get on and off the boat due to the wheelchair ramp access. During the boat tour, you can get a good view of Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d'Orsay, Pont Neuf, Place de la Concorde, and many more sights lined up along the banks of the Seine River.

In addition, there is a commentary about each of the historical sites you pass on your boat tour. There are accessible tables from where you can enjoy the view of the sights too. The accessible Paris dinner cruise will surely fit the bill if you are a hopeless romantic. The boats used for this tour are spacious and have a designated area for wheelchair users. The romantic <a href='https://www.sagetraveling.com/accessible-paris-dinner-cruise' target='_self'><ins>Paris dinner cruise</ins></a> costs about €120 per person, but some agencies give you discounts if you book as part of an accessible Paris travel package.

Final thoughts

Paris has a lot to offer travelers with disabilities, and this guide is exactly what you need to make your trip to Paris a wonderful experience.
Keep in mind that, unless you are on a booked tour with a tour guide, it's best to contact the place you want to visit (be it restaurants, cinemas, theatres, cabarets, leisure parks, zoos, swimming pools, shopping centers) before visiting, to check they offer services that best fit your needs.

For more Paris accessible travel options, visit<a href='https://wheeltheworld.com/destinations/accessible-travel-france/paris/multiday-trips/highlights-paris?utm_source=accessible+travel+paris+blog&utm_medium=wtw+blog&utm_campaign=Accessible+Paris+Travel+Guide&utm_id=blog&utm_term=wtw+blog+' target='_self'> Wheel the World</a> as they have many accessible tour and multi-day trip offerings in Paris.&nbsp;

The Ultimate Guide to Accessible Travel in Paris

From its lush jungles and colorful wildlife to its white-sand beaches and colonial architecture, Costa Rica has long been a paradise for adventurers. What’s even more exciting, however, is how accessible this paradise has become, most recently earning the title of ‘The Best Accessible Destination’ on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel list for 2021.
Here, explorers who use wheelchairs can enjoy a wide range of adaptive adventures, including ziplining with a special harness over tree canopies and catching a wave on an adaptive surfboard in coastal towns like <a href='https://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/central-pacific-coast/puntarenas' target='_blank'>Puntarenas</a>.
In fact, thanks to the nation’s strict accessibility laws, travelers with disabilities can navigate even the wilderness with little to no hassle. Paved accessible trails cross through the rainforest, and universal walkways make for smooth journeys at many national parks, including <a href='https://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/central-pacific-coast/parque-nacional-carara' target='_blank'>Carara National Park</a> and <a href='https://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/central-valley-and-highlands/parque-nacional-volcan-poas' target='_blank'>Poás Volcano National Park</a>.
In celebration of the tropical country’s exciting new title, we’re covering all the best things to do and places to stay at in this incredible travel destination.
Here is some information to help you get started:

<h2>Getting Around in ‘The Perfect Wheelchair-Accessible Destination’</h2>
Costa Rica is the only Central American country to include tourism requirements in its accessibility law. What this national guideline means for you is that there are great public wheelchair accessible facilities everywhere, making for smoother, more seamless sightseeing experiences.
Earlier this year, our own Alvaro Silberstein <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/2019/07/29/costa-rica-wheelchair-accessible/' target='_blank'>wrote on his experience</a> exploring Costa Rica by wheelchair. Not only did it live up to the hype, he said, but impressed him so much that he called it “the perfect wheelchair-accessible destination.”
One major reason why? Costa Rica’s public spaces and buildings, like parks and museums, have fantastic public accessible facilities — restrooms and parking spaces equipped for wheelchair users are everywhere.
A particular highlight for Alvaro was his trip to Jacó beach — its wheelchair accessible restrooms and wheelchair-friendly paths made for a fun and stress-free day at the coast.
Transport was easy during his trip, too. Alvaro used both group buses and smaller van services, all which were equipped with ramps or elevators to accommodate all kinds of wheelchairs — even powered ones. Meanwhile, the chairs could be anchored to the bus or people could be transferred to a seat, making for an easy journey to his itinerary’s must-see spots.
<h2>Wheelchair-Accessible Costa Rica Tour Packages</h2>
Knowing how accessible the country’s attractions are opens up a world of possibilities! Are you looking for a more active experience, jam-packed with once-in-a-lifetime activities? Or do you view vacation as a time to relax and look forward to spending more calming time in nature or at the beach?
Whether you have a few days or a few weeks to explore this utopia, we have some great recommendations for how to get the most out of your stay in the way that’s most meaningful to you.
<ol>
<li>For those who have at least a week and a half for their trip and are keen for a comprehensive experience, we recommend: <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/tour/accessible-travel-costa-rica-the-best-of-costa-rica-12-days-11-nights/' target='_blank'>The best of Costa Rica (12 days/11 nights)</a> ← full itinerary and details here!</li>
</ol>
Highlights:
<ul>
<li>Tour San Jose’s must-see gems and visit the Zooave rescue animal center</li>
<li>Explore the small Caribbean town of Tortuguero and enjoy a boat ride</li>
<li>Watch the sunrise as you observe the exotic animal world waking up</li>
<li>Venture into the wilderness in Tortuguero on a wheelchair-accessible hike</li>
<li>Discover the scenic Sarapiqui by night on a guided tour</li>
<li>Observe the tropical flora and fauna on a tour of the La Selva Biological Station</li>
<li>Go accessible kayaking at the peaceful Arenal Lake</li>
<li>Get your heart racing as you fly through the sky on an Arenal zipline adventure</li>
<li>Relax with a delicious cooking lesson</li>
<li>Learn to catch some waves with an adaptive surfing lesson</li>
</ul>
What’s Included:
<ul>
<li>Accessible transportation between sites</li>
<li>Accessible airport transfer</li>
<li>Accommodation</li>
<li>Adaptive equipment</li>
<li>Guides and assistants</li>
<li>Park entrance tickets</li>
</ul>
Accessible Equipment We Provide:
<ul>
<li>Jöelette wheelchair</li>
<li>Amphibious wheelchair</li>
<li>Tandem kayak</li>
<li>Kayak stabilizer</li>
</ul>
2. Have less time for your trip? Why not get the most out of it by checking out the nation’s iconic natural sites? If this sounds more your style, we recommend: <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/tour/accessible-travel-costa-rica-quepos-manuel-antonio-jaco-tour-5-days-puntarenas-5-days-4-nights/' target='_blank'>Quepos, Manuel Antonio &amp; Jaco tour, Costa Rica (5 days/4 nights)</a>← full itinerary and details here!

Highlights:
<ul>
<li>Soak up the sun as you enjoy a boat tour of the River Tarcoles</li>
<li>Explore the stunning Manuel Antonio National Park and beach</li>
<li>Learn how to ride the waves with an adaptive surfing lesson at Jacó Beach</li>
</ul>
What’s Included:
<ul>
<li>Accessible transportation between sites</li>
<li>Accessible airport transfer</li>
<li>Accommodation</li>
<li>Adaptive equipment</li>
<li>Guides and assistants</li>
<li>Park entrance tickets</li>
</ul>
Accessible Equipment We Provide:
<ul>
<li>Jöelette wheelchair</li>
<li>Amphibious wheelchair</li>
</ul>
3. Another option for travelers who want to get the most out of a shorter stay but have their heart set on action-filled days: <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/tour/accessible-travel-costa-rica-adaptive-adventures-arenal-4-days-3-nights/' target='_blank'>Adaptive adventures at Arenal, Costa Rica (4 days/3 nights)</a>← full itinerary and details here!
Highlights:
<ul>
<li>Go accessible kayaking through the calm waters of Arenal Lake</li>
<li>Fly above the tree canopy on an Arenal zipline adventure</li>
<li>Relax with a delicious cooking lesson</li>
</ul>
What’s Included:
<ul>
<li>Accessible transportation between sites</li>
<li>Accessible airport transfer</li>
<li>Accommodation</li>
<li>Adaptive equipment</li>
<li>Guides and assistants</li>
<li>Park entrance tickets</li>
</ul>
Accessible Equipment We Provide:
<ul>
<li>Tandem kayak</li>
<li>Kayak stabilizer</li>
</ul>
<h2>Where to Stay</h2>
While the tour packages linked above all include accessible accommodation, there’s no shortage of quality hotels in wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica if you’re interested in options.
Many, like this tranquil Arenal Kioro Suites &amp; Spa offer an experience complete in itself. This green luxury hotel boasts panoramic volcano views in a striking rainforest setting for the ultimate relaxation-filled stay.
Ready to fully indulge? Take a soak in the facility’s private thermal water spa or get some fresh air in the ground’s vibrant gardens. Keen to venture out? The suites are conveniently located just minutes from La Fortuna for easy trips into the nearby seaside town as well as the Titokú hot springs, where guests of the hotel can enter free.
If you’re more of a beach bum, be sure to check out the Best Western Jacó Beach All-Inclusive Resort. The shoreside resort looks out onto the Pacific ocean for those ready to enjoy time on the coast. What’s more, its prime location on Pastor Díaz Avenue means it’s just a few minutes from downtown Jaco’s buzzing attractions, shopping, and dining.
Of course, as an inclusive resort, staying in can be just as fun. Enjoy unlimited, delicious dishes and premium drinks with an ocean view or soak up some sun at the pool.
You can book a stay at one of these hotels <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/accessible-accommodations-costa-rica/' target='_blank'>here</a>, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, fill out the form at the bottom of the <a href='https://gowheeltheworld.com/accessible-accommodations/' target='_blank'>accommodations page.</a>
<h2>Checking Costa Rica Off Your Bucket List</h2>
Alongside Costa Rica’s Lonely Planet accolade, our hardworking team at Wheel the World earned the Best in Travel title for our <a href='https://www.lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel?c=diversity&id=inclusive-tours' target='_blank'>Inclusive Tours</a>. This honor is also our commitment to you — we’re dedicated to making sure you can enjoy enriching experiences that are as fun and accessible as they are safe.
As health and safety remain priorities, we’ve only linked packages and hotels in this blog that strictly adhere to Covid safety policies to help make your trip planning easier. We’re also available to help out with any questions or concerns you might have as you plan your next adventure!
With the idyllic wheelchair-accessible Costa Rica recently <a href='https://www.visitcostarica.com/en/costa-rica/statement-costa-rica-tourism-board-covid-19' target='_blank'>reopening its borders for tourism</a>, which of its exciting experiences are you ready to check off your bucket list?

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