The Columbia telephone directory contains a special section of "Community Service Numbers." It's quite comprehensive and includes services for most of these groups.
Travelers with Disabilities -- South Carolina has numerous agencies that assist people with disabilities. For specific information, call the South Carolina Disability Resources (tel. 843/795-3951; www.sciway.net). Two other agencies that may prove to be helpful are the South Carolina Protection & Advocacy System for the Handicapped (tel. 803/782-0639) and the Commission for the Blind (tel. 800/898-8800; www.sccb.state.sc.us). For transportation within South Carolina, individuals with disabilities can contact Wheelchair Getaways, Inc. (tel. 866/288-8118 or 864/271-3127; www.wheelchairgetaways.com).
Gay & Lesbian Travelers -- Homophobia is rampant. The most important information center in the state is the South Carolina Pride Center, 1108 Woodrow St., Columbia 29205 (tel. 803/771-7713; www.scglpm.org). It's open on Wednesday and Sunday from 1 to 6pm, on Friday from 7 to 11pm, and on Saturday from 1 to 8pm. On the premises are a library, an archives, a "gay pride" shop, an inventory of films, and a meeting space.
Senior Travelers -- Seniors may want to contact the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (tel. 803/252-7734; www.seniorresourcesinc.org). When you're sightseeing or attending entertainment events, always inquire about senior discounts; they're plentiful.
Family Travel -- A great vacation idea is to rent a cabin in one of South Carolina's 34 state parks. Rates range from $44 to $172 per night. Cabins accommodate anywhere from 4 to 12 people. For details on advance reservations and on accommodations at the 34 other state parks, contact South Carolina State Parks, 1205 Pendleton St., Columbia, SC 29201 (tel. 803/734-1056).
