I was thrilled to hear that Barrier-Free Travel; Utah National Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers was named a finalist in this years INDIES book awards. Previously named the Ben Franklin Awards, this prestigious prize is presented by Foreward Reviews, an independent media company. And I was also equally thrilled when 22 Accessible Road Trips; Driving Vacations for Wheelers and Slow Walkers was named a winner in 2013. Continue reading
Thompson Holidays Drops the Ball on Accessibility
Matt Anderson had every reason to believe his Cape Verde vacation would be a relaxing retreat for him and his partner Shelly Grainger. After all, Anderson booked a wheelchair-accessible room through Thompson Holidays. The British travel operator was quick to take Anderson’s £2,800, but when the couple arrived in Africa they were informed that the accessible room was only “requested” and not “reserved” for him. Continue reading
Get Your Free Parks Canada Pass!
Banff
Canada is celebrating the 150th anniversary of their national parks system, and they have a gift for you – a free Parks Canada pass that’s good for admission to all Canadian national parks for the entire year. And there’s no catch; in fact even the shipping is free. It’s easy to order one too. Just go to http://www.commandesparcs-parksorders.ca/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/parksb2c, fill out the form, and you’re good to go.
UK Supreme Court Weighs in on Buggy vs. Wheelchair Issue
The UK Supreme Court ruled last month on a pivotal disability rights issue regarding the use of allocated wheelchair spaces on buses. The case stemmed from a 2012 incident in Leeds, where wheelchair-user Doug Paulley tried to board a FirstGroup bus, but a mother with a stroller who was occupying the wheelchair space refused to move. In spite of the signage that clearly states that the seats are reserved for disabled passengers, the driver would only request — not require — that she move. Ultimately Mr. Paulley was left at the curb. Continue reading
French Court Fines easyJet Again
Once again France has stepped in to remedy access problems caused by British budget air carrier easyJet. In response to a criminal complaint filed by Joseph Etcheveste, last month a French court fined the air carrier €60,000 for their failure to allow the plaintiff to board his 2010 flight from Biarritz. Mr. Etcheveste is a wheelchair-user who was traveling unaccompanied, and according to easyJet, that was a “security problem”. Continue reading
Escape to Carmel-by-the-Sea for Wine Tasting, Ocean Views and a Great Deal!
Hofsas House
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a long-time favorite of mine. There’s something to be said for a town that actually prohibits street addresses — a law that was enacted by the founding fathers because they feared the village would become too citified if mail delivery was allowed. And to this day, the downtown area is still bereft of addresses, parking meters and street lights. I just love simplicity. Continue reading
Price to Rise on NPS Senior Pass in 2017
Get your NPS Senior Pass today and start exploring our great national parks.
Since 1994, the National Park Service (NPS) lifetime Senior Pass, which is good for admission to all national parks and monuments, was available to US citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older for a mere song – just $10. That’s all set to change in 2017 when the cost will rise to that of a standard Annual Pass, or $80. And although you my think that’s quite a jump, it’s not a bad deal when you consider it’s good for the rest of your life. Continue reading
Catch These Grand Canyon Winter Deals
You just can’t beat the views from the rim
When I was researching my Barrier-Free Grand Canyon book, I remember the front desk supervisor at El Tovar telling me that winter was the best time to visit the park, as not only are their fewer people there at that time, but you can also snag some pretty good deals if you shop around. And you know what — she’s right! With that in mind, here are a few money saving deals in one of my favorite national parks. Continue reading
Friends and Family Discount on Newly Released Florida Book
I have two pieces of good news to share today. As I sit here in my Icelandic sweater, shivering in front of my keyboard, I’m happy to announce the release of my newest book, “Barrier-Free Travel; Favorite Florida State Parks for Wheelers and Slow Walkers”. Ah, to be in the warm Sunshine State again!! Continue reading
Pigeon Forge is Open For Business!
Although massive wildfires swept through the Smoky Mountains last week, I’m happy to report that it’s back to business as usual for Pigeon Forge. Continue reading