Most disabilities shouldn't stop anyone from traveling. There are more options and resources out there than ever before. Larger hotels in the major cities of the region have adequate facilities for visitors with disabilities, though in rural destinations, specialized amenities are scant at best.
Many travel agencies offer customized tours and itineraries for those with disabilities. Among them are Flying Wheels Travel (tel. 507/451-5005; www.flyingwheelstravel.com), Access-Able Travel Source (tel. 303/232-2979; www.access-able.com), and Accessible Journeys (tel. 800/846-4537 or 610/521-0339; www.disabilitytravel.com). Avis Rent a Car has an "Avis Access" program that offers such services as a dedicated 24-hour toll-free number (tel. 888/879-4273) for customers with special travel needs; special car features such as swivel seats, spinner knobs, and hand controls; and accessible bus service.
Organizations that offer assistance to disabled travelers include MossRehab (www.mossresourcenet.org), the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) (tel. 800/232-5463; www.afb.org), and SATH (Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality) (tel. 212/447-7284; www.sath.org). AirAmbulanceCard.com is now partnered with SATH and allows you to preselect top-notch hospitals in case of an emergency.
For more information specifically targeted to travelers with disabilities, the online magazine Gimp on the Go (www.gimponthego.com) has destination reviews, travel tips, bulletin boards, and links to other sites. Also check out the magazines Emerging Horizons (www.emerginghorizons.com), published quarterly, and Open World, published by SATH.
