Peter Greenberg: Accessible Second Honeymoon
By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2009-05-20
'Don't Go There!'
Peter's newest book, "Don't Go There! The Travel Detective's Essential Guide to the Must-Miss Places of the World," is about all the places you should avoid—from high-crime areas to polluted vistas. Is there any place you'd like to warn people not to visit? Send Peter a message here. And order the book now—AARP members save 10 percent at Borders.
Peter,
I am trying to find a travel company that caters to people with medical disabilities. My mom has a bad knee, and my dad has cardiomyopathy. They are restricted on the walking, due to my father's heart condition. I want to send them someplace wonderful for a second honeymoon. I would like everything taken care of—the tours, the food, etc. Is there any such company? We have used Mountain Travel Sobek in the past, and that is what I am looking for basically, just without the adventure.
–Stacey, Columbus, Ohio
A: America’s population is aging, but that’s not stopping folks from traveling. As a result, hundreds of tour companies and travel agencies have sprung up over the years to cater to the needs of mobility-impaired travelers. To narrow down the list, I contacted a representative from Emerging Horizons, a magazine aimed at travelers who are disabled and less mobile.
They highly recommended two travel agencies that can plan customized tours. Undiscovered Britain and Ireland offers group or individual trips to the British Isles and Europe. Luxury is the company’s specialty, and the staff seem to understand the needs of people with access issues.
Nautilus Tours and Cruises can book cruises or tours around the world. This company can also help you make independent arrangements if that’s what you prefer.
Other companies I have recommended in the past include Pennsylvania-based Connie George Travel, which arranges vacations and cruises for slow walkers or those in wheelchairs, and Grand European Tours, which offers a special set of “super leisure” tours that appeal to slow walkers. If you have always wanted to take a trip to South Africa, Cape Town-based Titch Tours arranges safaris for travelers with limited mobility.
If you’re vacationing in the United States and are worried about getting around easily, you could also consider renting a mobility scooter. Scootaround is a company that offers short- and long-term rentals in 500 locations nationwide.
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