Traveling with Disabilities

Traveling with Disabilities in the Caribbean
By Danielle Mitchell

A trip to the Caribbean can be a challenge for someone with a physical disability, handicap, or injury that impedes mobility but that doesn't make it impossible. People with physical handicaps, age-related mobility problems, or injuries that make it harder to get around can enjoy a Caribbean vacation just as well as anyone else. With a little research and some thoughtful decision-making, handicapped travelers can make their dreams of paradise a reality.

The most common methods of reaching the Caribbean are airplanes and cruise ships. Most airlines and cruise ship operators have accommodations for travelers with physical disabilities but these can vary widely from company to company. It is generally recommended, therefore, that vacationers contact their airline or cruise operator before booking their trip to find out what kind of services and facilities are available for special needs travelers.

Choosing a Destination
Some countries in the Caribbean are more handicap-accessible than others. Due to the large numbers of travelers that arrive each year, many of the region's islands have recently been making efforts to improve conditions for vacationers with disabilities. By doing a little research prior to leaving, vacationers with physical disabilities can find an island that is perfect for their traveling needs. Here are some islands in the Caribbean that have made an extra effort in accommodating those travelers with physical handicaps:

*St. John : In the past, the Virgin Islands were notoriously difficult destinations for visitors with physical disabilities but all that has changed in recent years. St. John has been a pioneer for the island group in becoming more sensitive to the needs of handicapped travelers. Many businesses and attractions, including beaches, have added modifications such as ramps and other facilities to make it easier for those with physical disabilities to enjoy the island. St. John even offers a special all-inclusive package, which includes transportation, restaurants, hotels and activities for visitors with disabilities.

*Puerto Rico: Another island in the Caribbean that has been enlightened to the needs of handicapped travelers is Puerto Rico. The island enforces the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) just as much as the United States, and even has a handicap-accessible beach that has been equipped with wheelchair ramps. The Sea Without Barriers at Luquillo Beach on Puerto Rico has a ramp that goes from the parking lot to a platform on the beach, and also offers aquatic wheelchairs and other accommodations for the physically handicapped. The facilities at this beach, including bathrooms and shower facilities, have also been designed to be easily accessible by beachgoers with physical limitations.