Besides WDW, where do you vacation?

[MightyMom]

I was talking to a group of friends the other day and they simply could not believe that we had been to WDW two summers in a row.... and they nearly fainted when I told them we would probably be going back in 2007.

One said, "If you can afford to go to Disney World every summer... why don't you go somewhere else."

I asked where.

Someone said, Niagra Falls. I said, "Yeah! I'm sure the kids would love that!" (Insert a healthy dose of sarcasm)

Someone said, A beach. I said, "Try pushing a wheelchair in the sand.... and besides that what is Jordan (my son) going to do when we get there?"

Someone said, camping. I said, "Not my cup of tea..... but assume we did go.... what will Jordan be able to do?"

Perhaps I'm wrong, but you'll never be able to convince me otherwise. Our family outings always center around what we can do as a FAMILY..... not what we can do and Jordan can just sit in his chair and watch us.

I don't want Jordan to sit on the sidelines watching us have fun..... When I take a FAMILY vacation I want to know my whole FAMILY is going to be able to enjoy it.

Some of my friends disagree. They don't think I should deprive the family from doing something simply because Jordan can not do it. I say because they don't have a child with a disability they don't get to make judgements on how we spend our vacation time.

If there is one thing our family loves.... it's WDW.

It's the one place (besides our home) where Jordan feels and acts like a kid.

So..... if you have a disability.... or a family member with a disability.... where do you vacation besides Disney World. Do you have any recommendations?

 

[Dina]

My son has mild high functioning autism, and we vacation every summer in Rehoboth Beach, DE (my parents live there), and usually in the winter we do Disney. We actually made a Disney trip this summer as well, my son really had a hard time on that trip (heat and crowds) so we won't do that again.


Editing-- I'm so sorry, I didn't read this as well as I should have, my youngest son was sitting on my lap-- you already said the beach wasn't a good idea, and our situation (autism rather than a physical disability) is alot different. I hope you don't mind that I replied-- I was going to just delete.

 

[disney-super-mom]

How about Disneyland?

Actually, I think WDW is the best place for your family, and there's a large variety of types of vacations that WDW can offer for you, including camping, which both you and Jordon would probably love! What's not to love about roasting marshmellows and singing songs around a campfire? Getting a visit from Chip and Dale would be an extra bonus! So..........

If you want a camping vacation - go to WDW.
An educational vacation - go to WDW.
A theme park vacation - go to WDW.
A relaxing spa vacation - go to WDW.
A golfing/sporting vacation - go to WDW.

You want to experience a little bit of Hawaii, New Orleans, Florida, Africa, the Rocky Mountains, New England, Atlantic City, the Carribean, Mexico, or Martha's Vineyard, or even a little trip around the world? You can at WDW.

You already know all the wonderful things that WDW can offer for your family. I just thought that it would be a good way to explain it to your friends and family so they can get a better understanding of your position.

 

[BillSears]

As a wheelchair user I find WDW to be the best place I've ever vacationed. I may not be able to do 100% of everything there but I can do 90% or more.

Sometimes I'd love to try other places but I can't see them working out for me. Sand and wheelchairs don't mix well. Mountains, forests, camping and most nature trails aren't designed for the wheelchair user. Historic buildings are usually preserved in thier non wheelchair accessible original form. I have a feeling Europe, Asia and Africa are all rough to get around in a wheelchair. Cruises are a problem since the excursions and pools are not wheelchair accessible plus the small rooms, hallways and elevators would be a problem.

I'd be happy to find a place I'd enjoy going to that works as well as WDW. But for now I'll stick with visiting the Mouse.

 

[samkj]

One idea that we haven't tried yet, but I have talked to the owner is a "dude ranch" that specializes in disabled people. http://www.stagecoachtrailsranch.com/ One of these days I would love to try something like this, I know my kids would love it! We only hesitate now because my daughter isn't able to hold herself up on a horse (yet, she has weekly horse back riding sessions with a physical therapist)

Bill, you voiced our reasons for always going to Disney very well. Our kids love it, and its the one place we've been where our daughter can be a (almost) regular kid.

 

[BillSears]

There is one place I've heard of that's supposed to be wheelchair friendly that I'd like to try one day. Las Vegas.

Las Vegas sounds like it might be fun for adult wheelchair users. I've never been there but it's on my list of places to visit.

 

[MightyMom]

There is one place I've heard of that's supposed to be wheelchair friendly that I'd like to try one day. Las Vegas.

Las Vegas sounds like it might be fun for adult wheelchair users. I've never been there but it's on my list of places to visit.

I think you'll love Las Vegas. I used to live there and I still love going to visit....... unfortunately it's not the most kid friendly place.

 

[MightyMom]

How about Disneyland?
If you want a camping vacation - go to WDW.
An educational vacation - go to WDW.
A theme park vacation - go to WDW.
A relaxing spa vacation - go to WDW.
A golfing/sporting vacation - go to WDW.

Disneyland!!!! LOL!

Very good points! My husband and I decided the only repeat restaurant we would eat at would be Crystal Palace for breakfast (best puffed french toast on the planet!).... aside from that we would try to make this next WDW vacation completely different from the others. We will eat at new places, ride on new rides, shop in different shops, see new shows.. etc.

See.... I knew I would feel validated after posting here!

 

[Juliah]

I once gave into the pressure that we were cheating the kids, especially our non-disabled DS, out of traveling to other places by going to WDW every year. So we went to Chicago for a week to see the museums. What a nightmare. When we arrived at our hotel, we found out the accessible room with two double beds that we booked didn't exist. All the accessible rooms only had kings, which of course wouldn't work with two near-total care young kids. We finally ended up on a smoking floor (DD has asthma) in a non-accessible room.

We went to Shedd Aquarium because I remember it being really cool when I was a kid. It was being remodelled or expanded, and the place where the accessible parking had been was fenced off . After driving around and around, we finally found someone who directed us to a parking lot across the street. We ended up walking a long way through the lot. I don't mind walking, but we had to be super careful to keep from getting hit in the lot (kids in power chairs can't exactly jump out of the way when a car barrels through) and then while crossing the street without a light. Once inside, we found there was only one small elevator for a multi-level facility with lots of people with kids in strollers. We didn't end up seeing much at all.

I don't remember all the other things that went south that week, but I decided I was a fool to listen to the guilt, and we've gone back to taking WDW vacations. (BTW, we did go to one place in Chicago that was great for us--the Botanical Garden had just opened a garden for people with disabilities, with fountains at wheelchair height, hanging plants on pulleys that pulled down, and other cool stuff).

Also, I realized later that my kids had been to more places and done more things than I ever did as a child. When we traveled out of town for medical appointments, DDs went to art museums, science museums, children's museums, historic sites, the St. Paul Winter Carnival, practice sessions for the World Figure Skating championships, the Paralympics, the Mall of America, etc.

DS got to go with his dad on a business trip to San Francisco, went to Washington, D.C. and Europe in H.S., Colorado in college, and spent a year at Cambridge University. So I guess he didn't get so ripped off after all.

For a family vacation, there is still nothing to compare to WDW given our situation with two DDs in power chairs. We'll keep going back as long as we're able and the kids still want to travel with us.

 

[MightyMom]

I once gave into the pressure that we were cheating the kids, especially our non-disabled DS, out of traveling to other places by going to WDW every year.

In the summer of 2004 we went to Houston for vacation. We visited the Galleria mall.... and my son just sat on the sidelines watching the other kids ice skate. An employee at the rink asked if Jordan wanted to go for a spin. Of course, Jordan said YES! They took him out onto the ice in his wheelchair. He had a blast..... but as soon as he got off his first question was, "Do you think I'll ever be able to ice skate like them?"

That same year we went to Houston Space Center. That was also a lot of fun. We spent hours exploring.... but again.... there were lots of things Jordan wanted to participate in and it just wasn't possible. There is a three story indoor gym.... the kind at McDonalds with the tubes and slides. Jordan was dying to go in it..... so I took him in! NIGHTMARE! We were trampled on by a million kids!

So we decided to go to Disney World for the first time in 2005. We were ready for all the hassles and headaches. I was prepared for the worst case scenario. But everything went off without a hitch. Perhaps it was first timers luck...... but we honestly had an incredible time. So we went back in June 2006.... this time we wanted to share the magic with my neice. And again it was WONDERFUL!

So.... it's no wonder we want to go back next year.

 

[steffali]

If it works for you and your family then that is all that matters. Vacations are about family, friends, fun and of course good food All of which WDW has plenty of.
We usually do a few trips to other places but nothing is accessible like WDW is and that is why we try to go as much as we can

 

[SueOKW]

I've had those same conversations with my family and friends - - -what are these people thinking???

WDW is so perfect for us we joined DVC after one trip. We tried Cedar Point and while the girls loved it, my son didn't REALLY enjoy it. It's a lot hotter and significantly less handicapped friendly.

My brother-in-law was talking about his fishing trips in Canada, and skiing trips and camping trips... "we just throw the kids in the car and off we go. You should do something like that."

I'm assuming he wasn't referring to the fishing as much as the throwing the kids.. etc. I said...hm... Kevin, wheelchair, food, aerosal machine, meds, bath chair, shaky vest (at this point i was being dramatic)... THROW all that in the car.. I told him, when we go somewhere, it requires significant planning... including non-stop flights. (They are famous for flying all over America to save $200.)

After that - I stopped talking about our vacations.

How people can be so blind..........

 

[twinmum]

Hello! I reaaly feel that I can relate to the postings here. While we are jsut preparing for our first family vacation to WDW, I have already been thrilled with how easy the folks who answer the special needs line are making things for us.

We live in Canada and each summer we do the exact same things, because they have worked for the last 4 years (our twins sons will soon be 8). There are lots of people who tease us a bit about not trying anything new. Well, when I know something works, I stick with it. When I know I can relax and not worry about our disabled son having fun, that's one of the best parts of the vacation!

Every other year or so, either my DH or I each take one of the boys in turn for a little trip. Last time I took our son with CP to Montreal and we did museums and visiting friends and family. Being quite the scientist, he loved it! Next I took his able-bodied twin and we went skiing. Other than feeling guilty about enjoying how easy it was with only 1 child - - who walks...we had a great time for each trip.

I'd love to find a family who has travelled to the UK (specifically London) with a child with a physical disability (w/c for long distances but walker otherwise) and had success...is there anyone out there?!?

 

[Selket]

I just love going to WDW - and how long are our kids going to be kids anyway? Of course we're adults and we like it but still!

We don't have the mobility issues you mention but our younger one has a severe peanut allergy along with type 1 diabetes (he is 4) and WDW is about the only place we can go where we can eat in any of the restaurants and there are tons and tons of choices.

Of course there are lots of folks here that going more than once a year to WDW just because they like it so much. I don't think you need any other reason than that!

 

[mlwear]

I was hesitant to take my autistic DS to WDW. We put it off for years. When we finally got up the nerve to try, I regretted not doing it sooner.
The past two summer vacations have been WDW. My son is so happy there. When I look at the pictures, I want to go back. I think some family thought we were crazy for doing Disney two years in a row, but when they received copies of the pictures, almost all say that they have never seen him look happier! How can pass up those moments? Most vacations after three nights, we really need to leave. DS has had enough and it isn't fun for anyone beyond that point. We usually make the mistake of staying five nights. It isn't like that Disney. 8 nights on our last trip and no one wanted to leave!
So, I certainly understand why you are reluctant to find an alternative vacation spot.
As far as the museum and sight-seeing trips, about one day of that is enough for everyone.
Our primary other family vacation spot is the beach. We do not face the physical limitations that you do, though. We go to a rather remote location as the crowds present several problems. The "plan" is a less expensive beach vacation next year. We'll see... Honestly though we went for a one day beach trip a couple of months ago and someone had to stay right next to DS the whole time. He loves the water and has no fear. He is a decent swimmer and will go far out. It's scary.
An alternate idea: San Antonio. We have been debating this one. We lived there at one time, but it is before I became aware of the need to look for problems for those with disabilities. You would need to investigate it first. The RiverWalk is really neat and I believe most walking paths would accomodate a wheelchair. I would guess that the boat ride could manage a wheelchair transfer (excuse my ignorance, if I don't know what I am talking about). They have a really nice zoo. There are a lot of touristy things to do. Of course, the BEST Mexican food

 

[MightyMom]

San Antonio. We have been debating this one. We lived there at one time, but it is before I became aware of the need to look for problems for those with disabilities. You would need to investigate it first. The RiverWalk is really neat and I believe most walking paths would accomodate a wheelchair.

I live in South Texas. We go to San Antonio several times a year for doctors appointments and stuff like that. We love San Antonio... and it is our home away from home..... not really a vacation for us.

 

[SueOKW]

I love London, but it's not easy with a wheelchair. Sidewalks can be narrow and bumpy - lots of steps to get into places. Horse Guards has gravel that is hard to push on.........

It's better than it was - and what's really cool that for places that charge admission - ex: Queen's gallery, the person pushing the chair gets in free!

It CAN be done.

If my son could appreciate art and science, I would take him to Washington DC - - they are doing fairly well there!

 

[BillSears]

It's better than it was - and what's really cool that for places that charge admission - ex: Queen's gallery, the person pushing the chair gets in free!

So I'd get in free since I push my own wheelchair??? Sorry couldn't resist.

If my son could appreciate art and science, I would take him to Washington DC - - they are doing fairly well there!

I go to DC a few times a year. But for me it's just a day trip since I live 40 miles from downtown DC. The museums are great for wheelchair access. It's a place I go for a fun day since I'm a geek type of guy.

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

San Diego was a fun vacation for us (3 electric wheelchairs). We went to Sea World and the San Diego Zoo. San Francisco is another fun place to go. If you don't have respiratory/breathing problems, the Grand Canyon and Yosemite are nice. We did them with oxygen butt that requires a lot more planning. I really like Muir Woods (about 30 minutes from San Francisco).

An alternative fun vacation spot would be the San Francisco area. You could go to the Science Museum at Golden Gate park (very accessible and has a Planeterium show), Pier 39 (walruses, aquarium, wax museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, cool shops, boat ride around Alcatraz), Muir Woods, Yosemite (about an hour away), Body Ghost Town (about an hour away-roads rough and can't get into all the buildings but still fun), FAO Schwartz, Jelly Belly factory, and Hard Rock Cafe.

Still I prefer Disney World over any vacation!

Christamae

 

[kimbac3]

This is interesting for me. I'm the one who needs the chair not my kids. We are "talking" about going somewhere "other than Disney" next year. So we ordered travel guides from various places and as I'm looking through these I'm thinking..."wow, there's alot of walking there and also alot of cobblestone type streets" or "wow what a cool historic building...bet that's not handicapped accessible". I'm struggling with feeling guilty about this. Like I'm holding the rest of the family back from new places and good times. Ok so going to WDW every year is fun..but I think you all get my drift. We were thinking Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine...that type of thing. I can walk for short periods...forget standing though. I guess I'll have to do some more thinking. I'm am glad to see that I'm not the only one who struggles with this.
Kimba