Barrier Free Travels

My publisher passed along this information about an interesting presentation coming up in New York City. Sounds like it will be of interest to anyone who uses, works with or is interested in assistive technology.

Hats off to Paul Quartz, a UK-based travel agent who not only battled Eurostar on behalf of his disabled client, but also won the skirmish. Still it could signal a potential trouble spot for other disabled travelers. 

I just got an e-mail from a traveler who was denied boarding on a WestJet flight. The circumstances were a bit unclear to me, but her fitness to fly was called into question when she had trouble boarding (she stumbled and I think fell) and then spent some time in the lavatory. Somehow they got hold of her medication list, and she believes something on that sent up a red flag. Again, I'm a bit fuzzy on the details, but apparently some of the meds she takes for pain relief are also anti-psychotics. 

I love Hong Kong, but it's not exactly the most accessible place in the world. Still,  with some advance planning and a rugged attitude, it is possible for some wheelers and slow walkers to travel there.

People like Mr. Zhu, who freely admits travel is more of a challenge for him because of his wheelchair; but since he loves to travel, he's not willing to give it up.

Well, it was bound to happen. In the aftermath of the underwear bomber incident,
Canadian airlines are now limiting carry-on items on all US-bound flights. So
what does that mean to disabled travelers?

I just love the San Antonio Riverwalk. It's a great place to stay, as you can hop on a river taxi or just walk along the river and enjoy a variety of shops and delicious restaurants. It's all very convenient.

And although efforts have been made over the years to improve this historic area, time has taken its toll on a few sections. Tree roots have lifted up portions of the sidewalk, and some sections now slope downward to the river. And then there are some parts which are just old and crumbling. But there is good news on the access horizon. In fact, San Antonio contractors have been working hard to eliminate Riverwalk access obstacles since January 2009.