Most disabilities shouldn't stop anyone from traveling. There are more options and resources out there than ever before, and Cuba has been very forward thinking in the recognition of the rights of people with disabilities. Still, overall, Cuba is not an easy country for them. While a few hotels are equipped for travelers with disabilities, these are far from the norm. Moreover, there's almost no private or public transportation service geared toward such travelers. The streets of Havana are rugged and crowded, and sidewalks, in particular, are often either totally absent or badly torn up. The Cuban people, however, are quite conscientious and embracing in their treatment of people with disabilities.
Asociación Cubana de Limitados Físicos-Motores (The Cuban Disabled Association), Calle 6 no. 106, between Avenidas 1 and 3, Miramar, Havana (tel. 7/209-3049; aclifim@infomed.sld.cu), is a Cuban organization charged with ensuring accessibility and lobbying for rights. The association is a member of the Disabled Peoples' International (DPI), and probably the best contact for travelers with disabilities in Cuba.
The Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (tel. 212/447-7284; www.sath.org) offers a wealth of travel resources for those with all types of disabilities and informed recommendations on destinations, access guides, travel agents, tour operators, vehicle rentals, and companion services. Annual membership costs $49 for adults, $29 for seniors and students.
For more on organizations that offer resources to disabled travelers, go to www.frommers.com/planning.
