I have written about San Antonio and the Riverwalk before (see here) so this is just an update on two particular points.
Firstly, I found an elevator just by the junction of St. Mary's St. and Houston St. I have rolled past this point at least twenty times before and never noticed this elevator (lift) so I thought I'd mention it!
Secondly, on this occasion I took a barge ride on the river. These barges have fairly level access (you might need to negotiate a level difference of a few inches) and there is space at the back by the guide to sit in your wheelchair. (Getting out of the chair into the main seating area is not really an option unless you can walk a little or are very dexterous). The downside is that you are sitting right by the diesel motor and the noise can drown out the guide's information. I found it a pleasant enough way to pass 30mins though and would recommend it. It is a good way to get oriented with the riverwalk also. I had the pleasure of doing it at Christmas time which, although cold, was well worth it for the lights!
Friday, December 18, 2009
San Antonio, TX, USA - Hotel (Holiday Inn Express, Nt Riverwalk)
Parking for the hotel is about a block away, but there is a single handicapped parking space at the front of the hotel. Since this was occupied, hotel staff allowed me to park in the 15-min registration space but the parking situation is far from ideal. (Although, at $10/day, it is a lot cheaper than other local options). There are many steps into the hotel, so the handicapped entrance is down the right hand side. You go up a long and treacherously slippy ramp to a door. You need a room key to open the door, but there is a bell that will alert the reception staff to your presence. Once inside everything is level. There is an elevator to upper floors, although this is at the back of the hotel so you have a bit of wheeling to do! Being a Holiday Inn Express there is no restaurant or bar, but the breakfast area is by the lobby and fully accessible.
My room (tow double beds, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable with adequate circulation space. I could just fit between the two beds in my chair but there was plenty of space at the end of the beds. The workdesk was a comfortable size. There was an electric socket in the desk lamp that was easy to reach. Wired Ethernet (free) was available and worked well. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. The coffeemaker easy to reach also. There was a fridge and microwave, all conveniently positioned for a wheelchair user. The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height. When we arrived the A/C unit was unplugged which would have required a call to housekeeping had I been on my own, but my walkie partner was able to stand on a chair and plug it in.
The bed was about wheelchair height and transfers in and out were easy. Bedside light could be reached (not easily) from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet at a comfortabe height. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath. The grab rails were not in the best position - being a little high for me. However it was usable. There was a shower seat supplied although I don't use them. The shower rose was hand-held type and mounted on a rail that could just be reached from the chair. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are acceptable. As an economic place to stay close to the San Antonio Riverwalk it is not a bad option. You can find some wheelchair and disabled access notes about the San Antonio riverwalk itself here.
Austin, TX - Hotel (Hilton Garden Inn Downtown)
The hotel is situated on 5th St so it is very close to the heart of Austin. There is valet and self parking (half the hotel's 18 floors are reserved for parking). There is level access from the street level to reception. Bar and restaurant space is on the 18th floor and is accessible. Although I should mention that these were closed for private functions during the two nights I was there. I think it is outrageous that a hotel that claims to have on-site bar and restaurant does not provide access to these for regular paying guests. But that's another argument, off-topic for this blog, and more suited to the general travel reviews on a site like travelocity.
My room (two doubles, non ADA accessible, bath) was moderately sized. There was enough room to navigate around in the chair, and the beds could be accessed. There was a lot of furniture but circulation space was ok. The work desk was a comfortable size. There were two electric sockets in the desk lamp that were easy to reach. Wifi Ethernet (free) worked great. The TV controls wereeasy to reach. Fridge and coffeemaker were easy to reach, but the microwave was too high to use. The air-conditioning controls were reachable.
The bed was high making transfers in and out a little difficult. The bedside light could be reached from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so, as always, remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet hang space was too high to reach.
The bathroom door was too narrow for the chair to get in so the bathroom was completely out of bounds for me.
Since this was not an adapted room, it is not surprising that it lacked most of the facilities that one would expect. If you are able to stand or walk short distances (enough to get into the bathroom) then this might work for you, but not for me.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
On paying grumpy taxi drivers who don't want to take a wheelchair
I needed to take a taxi from Bradley International Airport (Hartford, CT) to a local hotel (Holiday Inn Express) since they don't have an accessible shuttle. The taxi controller offered to call a handicapped accessible taxi but I opted for a car that was already there. Boy - did that guy not want to take me! He made every excuse, insisting that the chair would not fit etc. etc. But I forced the issue and off we went on a short, grumpy ride to the hotel. But then I had a dilemma - do I pay him well to show him that us wheelies reward service, or do I give him the fare and no tip because of his grumpy attitude and unpleasant manner?
I paid him well in the hope that he would change the next time he was faced with a chair. But did I do right?
I paid him well in the hope that he would change the next time he was faced with a chair. But did I do right?
Windsor Lock (Hartford), Connecticut - Hotel (Holiday Inn Express, Bradley Airport)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Holiday Inn Express, Bradley International Airport, 600 Spring St., Windsor Locks, Connecticut. These notes reflect my observations during a recent visit and are intended as a guide for other disabled or handicapped travelers.
The hotel is situated close to the airport (airport code BDL) but there is no handicapped accessible shuttle. You need to get a taxi from the airport (the usher offered to call a handicapped accessible taxi but I declined) for the short run - $14 fixed charge and a grumpy taxi driver.
The hotel is fine - level access from the parking lot, breakfast area accessible. The "business center" (computer and printer) is on a high counter and not accessible.
My room (king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable, with a sofa area. There was a lot of furniture but circulation space was ok. The work desk was a comfortable size. There were two electric sockets in the desk lamp that were easy to reach. Wifi Ethernet (free) worked great. The TV controls were left by the sofa and easy to reach. Fridge and coffeemaker were easy to reach, but the microwave was too high to use. The air-conditioning unit was the standard one mounted below the window, and the controls were located on it at a comfortable height.
The bed was high making transfers in and out a little difficult. The bedside light could be reached from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so, as always, remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were too high, but there was a fold up grab-rail which offered an option of grab-rails on both sides of the toilet. The toilet itself was low - perfect for those with dodgy balance. The sink had plenty of knee space underneath but was easy to use. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was a shower seat, although if sitting on the seat you cannot reach the shower controls. The shower rose was handheld and mounted just about reachable from the chair but not when in the bath. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all this was a fine room although the hotel is in need of updating.
The hotel is situated close to the airport (airport code BDL) but there is no handicapped accessible shuttle. You need to get a taxi from the airport (the usher offered to call a handicapped accessible taxi but I declined) for the short run - $14 fixed charge and a grumpy taxi driver.
The hotel is fine - level access from the parking lot, breakfast area accessible. The "business center" (computer and printer) is on a high counter and not accessible.
My room (king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable, with a sofa area. There was a lot of furniture but circulation space was ok. The work desk was a comfortable size. There were two electric sockets in the desk lamp that were easy to reach. Wifi Ethernet (free) worked great. The TV controls were left by the sofa and easy to reach. Fridge and coffeemaker were easy to reach, but the microwave was too high to use. The air-conditioning unit was the standard one mounted below the window, and the controls were located on it at a comfortable height.
The bed was high making transfers in and out a little difficult. The bedside light could be reached from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so, as always, remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were too high, but there was a fold up grab-rail which offered an option of grab-rails on both sides of the toilet. The toilet itself was low - perfect for those with dodgy balance. The sink had plenty of knee space underneath but was easy to use. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was a shower seat, although if sitting on the seat you cannot reach the shower controls. The shower rose was handheld and mounted just about reachable from the chair but not when in the bath. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all this was a fine room although the hotel is in need of updating.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Utah, USA - Zion National Park
These wheelchair access travel notes refer to Zion Canyon National Park, Utah and my experience visiting the park as a wheelchair user. Hopefully, they will be of some use to any other disabled traveler interested in visiting the park.
The US Parks service is generally pretty good at providing information about their parks and accessibility. Before visiting any national park I recommend checking out their web site (and gleaning as much information as you can).
Route 9 runs right through Zion National Park and there are two entrances - a South Entrance at Springdale and an East entrance. You can drive into the park ($25 charge per car) but traffic is controlled and during summer months only shuttle busses are allowed to take the Zion Canyon scenic drive. There is a lodge in the park with handicapped accessible rooms although I did not stay there myself, and there are accessible camping sites. There are also many accommodation options outside the park.
The visitor center is at the South Entrance and is fully accessible with accessible rest rooms. The shuttle busses run through peak season and are all fully accessible. Most of the trails are not wheelchair accessible. The Pa'rus trail runs from the Visitor Centre and is listed as accessible, although I did not try it myself. I was running low in energy having spent the previous day beating around Bryce Canyon Park! I did take the shuttle to the Riverside walk which is also listed as accessible. The Riverside walk takes you right into the canyon and is really beautiful. The path is fully paved but there are many inclines, some of them quite steep. A fit young wheeler could navigate the path without assistance, but I depended on the kindness of strangers to get me over the steepest gradients! It is no problem at all with a walkie for occasional assistance and is very worthwhile. It's about a 2mile (3.2km) round trip so give yourself plenty of time.
The restaurant in the lodge is fully accessible and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Definitely worth a day trip although once you have done the two trails there are really not many other options left to you as a wheelie.
The US Parks service is generally pretty good at providing information about their parks and accessibility. Before visiting any national park I recommend checking out their web site (and gleaning as much information as you can).
Route 9 runs right through Zion National Park and there are two entrances - a South Entrance at Springdale and an East entrance. You can drive into the park ($25 charge per car) but traffic is controlled and during summer months only shuttle busses are allowed to take the Zion Canyon scenic drive. There is a lodge in the park with handicapped accessible rooms although I did not stay there myself, and there are accessible camping sites. There are also many accommodation options outside the park.
The visitor center is at the South Entrance and is fully accessible with accessible rest rooms. The shuttle busses run through peak season and are all fully accessible. Most of the trails are not wheelchair accessible. The Pa'rus trail runs from the Visitor Centre and is listed as accessible, although I did not try it myself. I was running low in energy having spent the previous day beating around Bryce Canyon Park! I did take the shuttle to the Riverside walk which is also listed as accessible. The Riverside walk takes you right into the canyon and is really beautiful. The path is fully paved but there are many inclines, some of them quite steep. A fit young wheeler could navigate the path without assistance, but I depended on the kindness of strangers to get me over the steepest gradients! It is no problem at all with a walkie for occasional assistance and is very worthwhile. It's about a 2mile (3.2km) round trip so give yourself plenty of time.
The restaurant in the lodge is fully accessible and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Definitely worth a day trip although once you have done the two trails there are really not many other options left to you as a wheelie.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA - Riviera Hotel and Casino
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Riviera Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas.
Las Vegas is one of the most wheelchair accommodating cities in the US - I guess our money is as good as anyone else's when it comes to giving it away to the Casino! The hotel door personnel are fully au fait with wheelchair needs, and seem capable of getting a handicapped accessible taxi within minutes at any time of the day or night. I would feel confident booking any major hotel in Vegas. The Riviera is okay, but I would guess there is a lot better. The hotel is situated some blocks down from the main cluster of activity, not far from the Stratosphere. This is one of the older hotels on the strip, and it shows.
Like most Las Vegas Casinos, you end up wheeling long distances from the door to the registration to your room, over thick pile carpet. My room was in the Monte Carlo tower.
The room (king bed, accessible, bath) was not very big, with large furniture, and circulation space was tight. I could operaste only in a small track from the door, squeeze past the over-size cabinet with the TV on it, past the work desk and to one side of the bed, after moving an easy chair. The work desk was a comfortable size. There was an electric socket in the desk lamp that was easy to reach. I was unable to get the Wifi Ethernet to work. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. There was no coffeemaker - the hotel doesn't want you lounging around in the room having fun, you're supposed to be out on the floor giving them your money! The air-conditioning unit was the standard one mounted below the window, and the controls were located on it at a comfortable height.
The bed was height was fine and transfers in and out were no problem. The bedside light could be reached from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so, as always, remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use - no door, but comfortable rack height.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high for me to sit comfortable balanced. The sink had plenty of knee space underneath but was set back a bit which made it a little awkward for washing. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. The shower rose was too high to be reached from the chair or when in the bath. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
Although my room had been recently refurbished, this is an older hotel and feels like it. My only other experience in Las Vegas is with the Hard Rock Hotel, and that is far superior. However, the prices are also radically different - you get what you pay for I guess. The Riviera is fine, but if you can get somewhere newer, take it!
Las Vegas is one of the most wheelchair accommodating cities in the US - I guess our money is as good as anyone else's when it comes to giving it away to the Casino! The hotel door personnel are fully au fait with wheelchair needs, and seem capable of getting a handicapped accessible taxi within minutes at any time of the day or night. I would feel confident booking any major hotel in Vegas. The Riviera is okay, but I would guess there is a lot better. The hotel is situated some blocks down from the main cluster of activity, not far from the Stratosphere. This is one of the older hotels on the strip, and it shows.
Like most Las Vegas Casinos, you end up wheeling long distances from the door to the registration to your room, over thick pile carpet. My room was in the Monte Carlo tower.
The room (king bed, accessible, bath) was not very big, with large furniture, and circulation space was tight. I could operaste only in a small track from the door, squeeze past the over-size cabinet with the TV on it, past the work desk and to one side of the bed, after moving an easy chair. The work desk was a comfortable size. There was an electric socket in the desk lamp that was easy to reach. I was unable to get the Wifi Ethernet to work. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. There was no coffeemaker - the hotel doesn't want you lounging around in the room having fun, you're supposed to be out on the floor giving them your money! The air-conditioning unit was the standard one mounted below the window, and the controls were located on it at a comfortable height.
The bed was height was fine and transfers in and out were no problem. The bedside light could be reached from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so, as always, remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use - no door, but comfortable rack height.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high for me to sit comfortable balanced. The sink had plenty of knee space underneath but was set back a bit which made it a little awkward for washing. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. The shower rose was too high to be reached from the chair or when in the bath. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
Although my room had been recently refurbished, this is an older hotel and feels like it. My only other experience in Las Vegas is with the Hard Rock Hotel, and that is far superior. However, the prices are also radically different - you get what you pay for I guess. The Riviera is fine, but if you can get somewhere newer, take it!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Bryce Canyon City, UT. USA - Hotel (Best Western Bryce Canyon)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Best Western Grand Hotel at Bryce Canyon, just outside the gates of Bryce Canyon National Park. The park is just a mile from here, and during summer months an accessible shuttle runs to the park from nearby (charge).
The entrance to the hotel is level, as is access to the breakfast area.
My room (two queen beds, accessible, bath) was very large with excellent circulation space. However, the room had a coffee-maker, fridge and microwave that were all easily accessible. The work desk was large and easy to use, with easily accessible electric sockets in the desk lamp. Wi-fi (free) internet access was good. The air-conditioning controls were located on the wall, and also on the a/c unit itself. TV controls were left by the TV and easily accessible.
The bed was a little high making transfers in and out difficult. (Is it my imagination, but have all chain hotels raised the height of their beds over the last two years? Difficult transfers seem to be the norm now, or maybe I'm abnormal!). The bedside light was awkward to reach without hauling yourself up from the bed (or throwing a water bottle at it, which is what I did) but conversely, and easily reached switch on the wall turns off the door entrance light which saves you getting out of bed when you forget to turn it off (as I inevitably do). The closet space is designed for walkies and not usable for a wheelchair person.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was low and very comfortable to use. My room had a bath. The shower hose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was too high to be reached from a wheelchair or while sitting in the bath. The shower controls could be easily reached. Towels were placed at a perfect height. There was plenty of knee space underneath the sink and it was easy to use.
All in all a comfortable room, with a few niggles (e.g. closet, shower rail). Not a bad option if you are in the area. For further notes on Bryce Canyon National Park, see my review here.
The entrance to the hotel is level, as is access to the breakfast area.
My room (two queen beds, accessible, bath) was very large with excellent circulation space. However, the room had a coffee-maker, fridge and microwave that were all easily accessible. The work desk was large and easy to use, with easily accessible electric sockets in the desk lamp. Wi-fi (free) internet access was good. The air-conditioning controls were located on the wall, and also on the a/c unit itself. TV controls were left by the TV and easily accessible.
The bed was a little high making transfers in and out difficult. (Is it my imagination, but have all chain hotels raised the height of their beds over the last two years? Difficult transfers seem to be the norm now, or maybe I'm abnormal!). The bedside light was awkward to reach without hauling yourself up from the bed (or throwing a water bottle at it, which is what I did) but conversely, and easily reached switch on the wall turns off the door entrance light which saves you getting out of bed when you forget to turn it off (as I inevitably do). The closet space is designed for walkies and not usable for a wheelchair person.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was low and very comfortable to use. My room had a bath. The shower hose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was too high to be reached from a wheelchair or while sitting in the bath. The shower controls could be easily reached. Towels were placed at a perfect height. There was plenty of knee space underneath the sink and it was easy to use.
All in all a comfortable room, with a few niggles (e.g. closet, shower rail). Not a bad option if you are in the area. For further notes on Bryce Canyon National Park, see my review here.
Utah, USA - Bryce Canyon National Park
These wheelchair access travel notes refer to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah and my experience visiting the park as a wheelchair user. Hopefully, they will be of some use to any other disabled traveler interested in visiting the park.
The US Parks service is generally pretty good at providing information about their parks and accessibility. Before visiting any national park I recommend checking out their web site (and gleaning as much information as you can).
For Bryce, you can drive into the park ($25 charge per car). I stayed in the park lodge accommodation run by Xanterra (see this review). There are also many accommodation options outside the park (for example, the Best Western Bryce Canyon, see review here).
The park is set on the edge of a plateau, and an 18-mile road stretches along the edge with many lookouts to see the incredible scenery. Most of the main action takes place in and around the park lodge location.
The visitors center (at the entrance gate) and the lodge are both handicapped accessible and have accessible restrooms. There are also accessible restrooms at Sunset Point lookout. There are accessible campsite locations also.
There are not a whole lot of options for hiking (wheeling). There is a paved path between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point lookouts by the lodge. Unfortunately, unlike the Grand Canyon rim trail, this rim trail is raised at both ends and drops in the middle so there is no way of avoiding a climb. (The Grand Canyon rim trail falls from East to West, so if you are in a chair, start at the Eastern end of the trail). Sunrise point has a very steep incline to tech viewing platform that cannot be managed in a chair without assistance. This includes coming down as the path surface is gravelly and very slippy!
The rest of the viewpoints are accessible to wheelchairs only by car or shuttle. All are accessible to some degree although Sunrise, Bryce and Inspiration all have steep inclines that may need assistance. If you have time, see them all as each gives a different perspective on the park. However, if you don't want to haul yourself in an out of a car at every point, then the "must see" lookouts that are fully accessible to a lone wheeler are Rainbow (at the very end of the road), Natural Bridge (don't miss this if you visit!) and Sunset. If you have time for only one, then do Sunset point - it will give you a sense of the magic of this place.
There is a short paved path at Paria point that is also worth looking at.
During the summer season a shuttle runs through the park. I am told this is fully accessible although it was not running when I visited. If so, this is a good option for getting around.
The restaurant in the lodge is fully accessible and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (reservations required for dinner).
AS an aside, contrary to what you might expect, Sunrise Point is not the best place to watch the sunrise, and Sunset Point is not the best place to watch the sun set! (Try Bryce point for sunrise, although Sunset Point would be pretty good too, and Inspiration point for sun set. The sun set isn't such a big deal in this Eastward facing park).
There are various ranger led activities. I had a geology talk at Sunset Point, a ranger led rim walk and a night sky presentation by the "Dark Rangers". (Bryce has very little light pollution so it's a good place for star gazing). All of these are accessible although some may have problems looking into the telescopes for the star gazing session if you are small, or unable to lift yourself in the chair. If you are interested in this I would recommend doing what I did not do, and talk to the rangers in advance about your needs.
If you are one of the lucky ones who can ride a horse then a horse ride into the park would be spectacular (I imagine). Personally, I have tried horse riding but with my dodgy balance and lack of sensation I found the experience nerve-racking. I would definitely not recommend trying horse riding for the first time in this park - experienced riders only need apply!
Check out the park web site here, and prepare for a lot of hauling yourself in and out of your car and up and down rough paved paths, and wear old clothes because you are going to get covered in dust! And have fun!
Strongly recommended.
The US Parks service is generally pretty good at providing information about their parks and accessibility. Before visiting any national park I recommend checking out their web site (and gleaning as much information as you can).
For Bryce, you can drive into the park ($25 charge per car). I stayed in the park lodge accommodation run by Xanterra (see this review). There are also many accommodation options outside the park (for example, the Best Western Bryce Canyon, see review here).
The park is set on the edge of a plateau, and an 18-mile road stretches along the edge with many lookouts to see the incredible scenery. Most of the main action takes place in and around the park lodge location.
The visitors center (at the entrance gate) and the lodge are both handicapped accessible and have accessible restrooms. There are also accessible restrooms at Sunset Point lookout. There are accessible campsite locations also.
There are not a whole lot of options for hiking (wheeling). There is a paved path between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point lookouts by the lodge. Unfortunately, unlike the Grand Canyon rim trail, this rim trail is raised at both ends and drops in the middle so there is no way of avoiding a climb. (The Grand Canyon rim trail falls from East to West, so if you are in a chair, start at the Eastern end of the trail). Sunrise point has a very steep incline to tech viewing platform that cannot be managed in a chair without assistance. This includes coming down as the path surface is gravelly and very slippy!
The rest of the viewpoints are accessible to wheelchairs only by car or shuttle. All are accessible to some degree although Sunrise, Bryce and Inspiration all have steep inclines that may need assistance. If you have time, see them all as each gives a different perspective on the park. However, if you don't want to haul yourself in an out of a car at every point, then the "must see" lookouts that are fully accessible to a lone wheeler are Rainbow (at the very end of the road), Natural Bridge (don't miss this if you visit!) and Sunset. If you have time for only one, then do Sunset point - it will give you a sense of the magic of this place.
There is a short paved path at Paria point that is also worth looking at.
During the summer season a shuttle runs through the park. I am told this is fully accessible although it was not running when I visited. If so, this is a good option for getting around.
The restaurant in the lodge is fully accessible and open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (reservations required for dinner).
AS an aside, contrary to what you might expect, Sunrise Point is not the best place to watch the sunrise, and Sunset Point is not the best place to watch the sun set! (Try Bryce point for sunrise, although Sunset Point would be pretty good too, and Inspiration point for sun set. The sun set isn't such a big deal in this Eastward facing park).
There are various ranger led activities. I had a geology talk at Sunset Point, a ranger led rim walk and a night sky presentation by the "Dark Rangers". (Bryce has very little light pollution so it's a good place for star gazing). All of these are accessible although some may have problems looking into the telescopes for the star gazing session if you are small, or unable to lift yourself in the chair. If you are interested in this I would recommend doing what I did not do, and talk to the rangers in advance about your needs.
If you are one of the lucky ones who can ride a horse then a horse ride into the park would be spectacular (I imagine). Personally, I have tried horse riding but with my dodgy balance and lack of sensation I found the experience nerve-racking. I would definitely not recommend trying horse riding for the first time in this park - experienced riders only need apply!
Check out the park web site here, and prepare for a lot of hauling yourself in and out of your car and up and down rough paved paths, and wear old clothes because you are going to get covered in dust! And have fun!
Strongly recommended.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Bryce Canyon City, UT, USA - Hotel (Bryce Canyon Lodge)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Xanterra operated Bryce Canyon Lodge in Bryce Canyon National Park. This is the only accomodation within the park itself. The advantage of staying here compared to one of the numerous hotels and motels outside the park is that once you're here, you're here! You can park you car and never touch it again until you are ready to leave. Against that, it is pricey for what you get, and there is an additional $25 charge to bring your car into the park.
Arriving at the lodge, there is a sign for 15 minute registration parking. Don't park here if you use a wheelchair, as the accessible entrance is actually on the other side of the building from this parking area! I arrived in the dark and stumbled around for 15 minutes trying to get in. Park instead in the lot on the other side.
The lodge itself is accessible via ramp, The restaurant and shop by registration are all accessible and there are handicapped toilets. The lodge has four wheelchair accessible rooms. My room was located in Sunrise Lodge, and you will need to get back in the car and drive to it after checking in.
My room (two queen beds, accessible, roll-in shower) was a large with good circulation space. However, I could not get the wheelchair between the beds, and had to move the table to get access to any bed. These rooms are pitched at travellers interested in hiking and viewing nature so they lack some of the things you might expect such as a TV or internet access. However, the room had a coffee-maker that was easily accessible. The room had heating and the controls were located at a comfortable height, and a fan that was accessible. A small balcony off the room was also accessible (the small step was ramped) and offered a very pleasant vista of trees and quite nature ( though not of the canyon itself).
The bed was a perfect height and transfers in and out were easy. Bedside light could not be reached without hauling yourself up from the bed, and the room lights could not be turned off from in bed. The open closet space was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high but transferring on and off was easy enough. My room had a roll-in shower. There was a wall mounted shower seat (fold up type) and grab rails. The shower hose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was easily reached from a wheelchair and from the shower seat. The shower controls could be easily reached. The shower should have been good, even perfect, except for a design flaw that I have seen in many places and infuriates me. One grab rail was mounted on the wall, running along behind the shower seat. So when you are sitting in the seat, the grab rail is driving into your back and constantly pushing you off. For those of us whose condition leads to impaired balance, it makes the whole showering experience an uncomfortable one, with the constant impression that you are about to topple off the seat.
Towels were placed a little high for comfort but I was able to reach them at a push.
The sink was located outside the shower/toilet room. There was plenty of knee space underneath the sink and it was easy to use with towels conveniently located beside it.
The lodge is located just a short distance from the rim walk. However, the shortest path there is rough and difficult ot negotiate by chair (see other notes about Bryce Canyon Park here).
Bryce Canyon Lodge does offer usable accomodation for the lone wheelchair user. However the room (and the park itself) would be a lot more enjoyable and easy to use if you are travelling with a wlkie that can assist you.
Arriving at the lodge, there is a sign for 15 minute registration parking. Don't park here if you use a wheelchair, as the accessible entrance is actually on the other side of the building from this parking area! I arrived in the dark and stumbled around for 15 minutes trying to get in. Park instead in the lot on the other side.
The lodge itself is accessible via ramp, The restaurant and shop by registration are all accessible and there are handicapped toilets. The lodge has four wheelchair accessible rooms. My room was located in Sunrise Lodge, and you will need to get back in the car and drive to it after checking in.
My room (two queen beds, accessible, roll-in shower) was a large with good circulation space. However, I could not get the wheelchair between the beds, and had to move the table to get access to any bed. These rooms are pitched at travellers interested in hiking and viewing nature so they lack some of the things you might expect such as a TV or internet access. However, the room had a coffee-maker that was easily accessible. The room had heating and the controls were located at a comfortable height, and a fan that was accessible. A small balcony off the room was also accessible (the small step was ramped) and offered a very pleasant vista of trees and quite nature ( though not of the canyon itself).
The bed was a perfect height and transfers in and out were easy. Bedside light could not be reached without hauling yourself up from the bed, and the room lights could not be turned off from in bed. The open closet space was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high but transferring on and off was easy enough. My room had a roll-in shower. There was a wall mounted shower seat (fold up type) and grab rails. The shower hose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was easily reached from a wheelchair and from the shower seat. The shower controls could be easily reached. The shower should have been good, even perfect, except for a design flaw that I have seen in many places and infuriates me. One grab rail was mounted on the wall, running along behind the shower seat. So when you are sitting in the seat, the grab rail is driving into your back and constantly pushing you off. For those of us whose condition leads to impaired balance, it makes the whole showering experience an uncomfortable one, with the constant impression that you are about to topple off the seat.
Towels were placed a little high for comfort but I was able to reach them at a push.
The sink was located outside the shower/toilet room. There was plenty of knee space underneath the sink and it was easy to use with towels conveniently located beside it.
The lodge is located just a short distance from the rim walk. However, the shortest path there is rough and difficult ot negotiate by chair (see other notes about Bryce Canyon Park here).
Bryce Canyon Lodge does offer usable accomodation for the lone wheelchair user. However the room (and the park itself) would be a lot more enjoyable and easy to use if you are travelling with a wlkie that can assist you.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Salt Lake City, Utah - Hotel (Hilton Garden Inn)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Hilton Garden Inn, Salt Lake City.
The hotel is located in downtown Salt Lake City - about 10 minutes drive from the airport.
There are two handicapped parking spaces at the front and a few more around the back. However, you cannot enter the back of the hotel until you have checked in and have a room key. The front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accessible, as is the restaurant and bar. (Be aware that Utah law mandates that you must order food if you want to have a drink!)
My room (king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable with plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a comfortable size. There were two electric sockets in the desk lamp that were easy to reach and a further two on the wall just above the work desk. Wired Ethernet (free) was available and worked well. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. The coffeemaker easy to reach also. There was a fridge and microwave, all conveniently positioned for a wheelchair user. The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light could be reached (not easily) from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high for me to sit comfortable balanced, but these are now everywhere so I guess I'll just have to learn to live with them. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. The shower rose was hand-held type and mounted on a rail too high to be reached from the chair.Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
The hotel is located in downtown Salt Lake City - about 10 minutes drive from the airport.
There are two handicapped parking spaces at the front and a few more around the back. However, you cannot enter the back of the hotel until you have checked in and have a room key. The front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accessible, as is the restaurant and bar. (Be aware that Utah law mandates that you must order food if you want to have a drink!)
My room (king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable with plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a comfortable size. There were two electric sockets in the desk lamp that were easy to reach and a further two on the wall just above the work desk. Wired Ethernet (free) was available and worked well. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. The coffeemaker easy to reach also. There was a fridge and microwave, all conveniently positioned for a wheelchair user. The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light could be reached (not easily) from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were well positioned. The toilet itself was of the raised ADA type, a little high for me to sit comfortable balanced, but these are now everywhere so I guess I'll just have to learn to live with them. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. The shower rose was hand-held type and mounted on a rail too high to be reached from the chair.Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Wichita, Kansas - Hotel (Hilton Wichita Airport)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Hilton Hotel at Wichita Airport.
The hotel is located very close to the airport. The shuttle bus is not handicapped accessible. the hotel offered to send an accessible vehicle and perhaps they did. However, we got tired of waiting and realized that the hotel is literally a 300m (350 yd) walk across a car park area - so we walked (rolled) it. No problem if you don't mind negotiating a maze of parked cars. (Direction: Stand at hotel shuttle stop and look out across car park, you will see the Hilton. Go left, follow the footpath (sidewalk) to and through the car park, over as far as you can do. Turn left and follow the boundary of the car park, you will find a pedestrian path to teh road just opposite the entrance to the Hilton. Easy!) The location - being walking distance from the airport - is a big plus for this hotel.
The front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accessible, as is the restaurant and bar.
My room (two double beds, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a comfortable size. There was a single electric sockets in the desk lamp that was easy to reach. Wifi Ethernet (free) was available and worked well. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. The coffeemaker easy to reach also. The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light could be reached (not easily) from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use once I found it. I wandered around the room several times before finding it in the bathroom, cleverly placed so you could not see it with the bathroom door open. However, it was fine and had a rack at a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. There were two shower roses - one hand-held and one wall-mounted. The hand-held was positioned quite high although it could be positioned lower. You might need to call a walkie to set it up for you. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
The hotel is located very close to the airport. The shuttle bus is not handicapped accessible. the hotel offered to send an accessible vehicle and perhaps they did. However, we got tired of waiting and realized that the hotel is literally a 300m (350 yd) walk across a car park area - so we walked (rolled) it. No problem if you don't mind negotiating a maze of parked cars. (Direction: Stand at hotel shuttle stop and look out across car park, you will see the Hilton. Go left, follow the footpath (sidewalk) to and through the car park, over as far as you can do. Turn left and follow the boundary of the car park, you will find a pedestrian path to teh road just opposite the entrance to the Hilton. Easy!) The location - being walking distance from the airport - is a big plus for this hotel.
The front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accessible, as is the restaurant and bar.
My room (two double beds, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a comfortable size. There was a single electric sockets in the desk lamp that was easy to reach. Wifi Ethernet (free) was available and worked well. The TV controls were left in front of the TV and easy to reach. The coffeemaker easy to reach also. The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light could be reached (not easily) from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use once I found it. I wandered around the room several times before finding it in the bathroom, cleverly placed so you could not see it with the bathroom door open. However, it was fine and had a rack at a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath. The bath was a little high and the grab rails were not in the best position. However it was usable although some might need assistance. There was no shower seat, although one is available from house-keeping if required. There were two shower roses - one hand-held and one wall-mounted. The hand-held was positioned quite high although it could be positioned lower. You might need to call a walkie to set it up for you. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Laguardia, NY - Hotel (Marriott Laguardia Airport)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Marriott New York La Guardia Airport.
The hotel is located very close to La Guardia and offers a handicapped accessible hotel shuttle to and from the airport. Not all the shuttle busses are handicapped accessible. If arriving at the airport, you need to call the hotel and request that they send a handicapped shuttle. If at the hotel, going to the airport, give them 30 minutes notice so they can make sure it is available for you.
Front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accesible, as is the restaurant and bar.
My room (single king bed, accessible, roll-in shower) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a little small but usable. Electric sockets in the wall (4) were easy to reach. Behind the work desk is a break-out panel with plugs for electricity, Ethernet, phone, video, audio etc. (that I presume connect to the large flat-panel TV in teh room). Very convenient. Wired Ethernet (additional charge) was available and easy to reach. TV controls were on a low table and easy to reach. Coffeemaker easy to reach also. Easy to reach sockets located by the bed also.
The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height - but completely inaccessible behind a table, an easy chair and a lamp!
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use and had a rack at a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort and I found transferring on and off to be a bit difficult as a result. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a roll-in shower. The shower seat was one of the wall-mounted, foldaway types. Grab rails could have been better positioned for transfers but it was usable nevertheless. The shower rose was hand-held and wall-mounted. It was easy to reach when seated on the shower seat. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
The hotel is located very close to La Guardia and offers a handicapped accessible hotel shuttle to and from the airport. Not all the shuttle busses are handicapped accessible. If arriving at the airport, you need to call the hotel and request that they send a handicapped shuttle. If at the hotel, going to the airport, give them 30 minutes notice so they can make sure it is available for you.
Front entrance to the hotel is level. Lobby is level and fully accesible, as is the restaurant and bar.
My room (single king bed, accessible, roll-in shower) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a little small but usable. Electric sockets in the wall (4) were easy to reach. Behind the work desk is a break-out panel with plugs for electricity, Ethernet, phone, video, audio etc. (that I presume connect to the large flat-panel TV in teh room). Very convenient. Wired Ethernet (additional charge) was available and easy to reach. TV controls were on a low table and easy to reach. Coffeemaker easy to reach also. Easy to reach sockets located by the bed also.
The air-conditioning controls were located at a comfortable height - but completely inaccessible behind a table, an easy chair and a lamp!
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). The closet was easy to use and had a rack at a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort and I found transferring on and off to be a bit difficult as a result. The sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a roll-in shower. The shower seat was one of the wall-mounted, foldaway types. Grab rails could have been better positioned for transfers but it was usable nevertheless. The shower rose was hand-held and wall-mounted. It was easy to reach when seated on the shower seat. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, the access levels and comfort in this hotel are very good. Recommended.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Dulles Airport, VA - Hotel (Marriott Washington Dulles Airport)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Marriott Rooms and Suites at Dulles Airport, serving Washington D.C.
The hotel is the closest to Dulles Airport - you could walk (or wheel) from the hotel to the terminal if it was not for the American penchant for ignoring pedestrians when laying out roads and walkways. I'm not sure there is a footpath (sidewalk) that would bring you all the way. However, the hotel offers handicapped accessible hotel shuttle to the airport so you can swap independence for comfort.
Front entrance is level. Lobby is level and fully accesible, as is the restaurant. The bar is off the lobby and accessible via a ramp. The hotel is low (2 floors) but large which means you may have a long wheel to your room through thick pile carpet which can be exhausting.
My room (single king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a little small but usable. It had a pull out table that offered plenty of room for a computer at a comfortable work height. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. Wired Ethernet (additional charge) was available and easy to reach. TV controls were left on the bed in easy reach. Coffeemaker easy to reach also.
The air-conditioning controls were perfectly located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). There were two closets. Both usable, and a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort and I found transferring on and off to be a bit difficult as a result. The sink was located outside the bathroom, sort of in an alcove off the bedroom. Sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. The shower rose was hand-held and wall-mounted too high to reach when seated in the bath, or even when seated in your chair outside the bath. The grab rails around bath were fine, with different height bars at each end of the bath according to your preference. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible. The closet in the bedroom had a shower seat stored in it which saves having to ask reception for one - I liked that touch.
Not all the shuttle busses are handicapped accessible. If arriving at the airport, you need to call the hotel and request that they send a handicapped shuttle. If at the hotel, going to the airport, give them 30 minutes notice so they can make sure it is available for you.
Note that if you plan to stay in DC, Dulles airport is a good distance from downtown and poorly served by public transport. I would not recommend this Marriott for a stay in DC. However, although it can be pricey depending on time of week and year, this Marriott offers great convenience for handicapped travellers flying to or/from Dulles.
(Note: the hotel also offers park and fly rates including up to two weeks parking).
The hotel is the closest to Dulles Airport - you could walk (or wheel) from the hotel to the terminal if it was not for the American penchant for ignoring pedestrians when laying out roads and walkways. I'm not sure there is a footpath (sidewalk) that would bring you all the way. However, the hotel offers handicapped accessible hotel shuttle to the airport so you can swap independence for comfort.
Front entrance is level. Lobby is level and fully accesible, as is the restaurant. The bar is off the lobby and accessible via a ramp. The hotel is low (2 floors) but large which means you may have a long wheel to your room through thick pile carpet which can be exhausting.
My room (single king bed, accessible, bath) was large and comfortable. There was plenty of circulation space. The workdesk was a little small but usable. It had a pull out table that offered plenty of room for a computer at a comfortable work height. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. Wired Ethernet (additional charge) was available and easy to reach. TV controls were left on the bed in easy reach. Coffeemaker easy to reach also.
The air-conditioning controls were perfectly located at a comfortable height.
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). There were two closets. Both usable, and a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. The grab-rails by the toilet were a little too high for comfort and I found transferring on and off to be a bit difficult as a result. The sink was located outside the bathroom, sort of in an alcove off the bedroom. Sink was comfortable with plenty of knee space underneath. My room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. The shower rose was hand-held and wall-mounted too high to reach when seated in the bath, or even when seated in your chair outside the bath. The grab rails around bath were fine, with different height bars at each end of the bath according to your preference. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible. The closet in the bedroom had a shower seat stored in it which saves having to ask reception for one - I liked that touch.
Not all the shuttle busses are handicapped accessible. If arriving at the airport, you need to call the hotel and request that they send a handicapped shuttle. If at the hotel, going to the airport, give them 30 minutes notice so they can make sure it is available for you.
Note that if you plan to stay in DC, Dulles airport is a good distance from downtown and poorly served by public transport. I would not recommend this Marriott for a stay in DC. However, although it can be pricey depending on time of week and year, this Marriott offers great convenience for handicapped travellers flying to or/from Dulles.
(Note: the hotel also offers park and fly rates including up to two weeks parking).
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Restaurant (Bang Cafe)
Bang Cafe is located at 11 Merrion Row, just a short distance from Stephen's Green in the centre of Dublin. it is sleek, modern and fashionable and almost totally inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Access from the street is level, but the eating areas are either down a flight of stairs to basement level, or up about seven shallow, curving steps to the "street" level. Once in this area, space is very tight to manouvre a wheelchair. The toilets are up stairs and not accessible.
Access from the street is level, but the eating areas are either down a flight of stairs to basement level, or up about seven shallow, curving steps to the "street" level. Once in this area, space is very tight to manouvre a wheelchair. The toilets are up stairs and not accessible.
Dublin, Ireland - Pub (Legends at the Arlington Hotel, Temple Bar)
The Arlington Hotel Temple bar is located a few minutes walk from Trinity College down Dame street. Legends is the bar attached to the hotel, and it hosts a "traditional Irish night" of song and dance most every night of the week. This is one of a half dozen or so such shows that have popped up since Riverdance made Irish dancing cool (and sexy) again. The better ones are out of town (for example, Johnnie Foxes) but the Arlington Temple Bar (and it's sister hotel, the Arlington on Bachelor's walk) offer an opportunity to catch some vaguely traditional stuff at the very convenient location of centre city and just a few steps from the tourist hotbed of Temple Bar (see The Temple Bar Pub access here).
Legends offers a dinner and dance deal. The night I was there the band were good, very professional and the dancers talented although the dance show was very short and the choreography un-inspired. Or maybe I've seen too many of these shows. In any case, this entry is supposed to be about the wheelchair access, not the show so...
The bar has several levels. To get to the level where the dinner is served you need to enter via the middle door off Dame St. This door is normally closed, so you may need to go through the Legends main door and notify a member of staff.
The tables normally used for dinner are tall and too high to eat without a difficult transfer from the chair to a high stool. If you inform the management when making your reservation, they will provide a regular height table for you to eat at.
The handicapped toilet is downstairs and accessed by a lift (elevator). The night I was there the lift was bust, so the manager and a staff member carried me down the flight of stairs in my chair. The toilet (once I got there) was fine - a large, unisex, accessible toilet.
(As an aside, I can assure you that the toilet in the suite is not accessible as this was an option we tried due to the broken lift. The hotel has at least one accessible bedroom, but it was occupied so I did not get to see it!)
The staff went out of their way to meet my requirements so for that reason I give it a thumbs up despite the "difficult" nature of the access. It's not the best "Oirish" show out there, but in terms of convenience it is one of the handiest.
Legends offers a dinner and dance deal. The night I was there the band were good, very professional and the dancers talented although the dance show was very short and the choreography un-inspired. Or maybe I've seen too many of these shows. In any case, this entry is supposed to be about the wheelchair access, not the show so...
The bar has several levels. To get to the level where the dinner is served you need to enter via the middle door off Dame St. This door is normally closed, so you may need to go through the Legends main door and notify a member of staff.
The tables normally used for dinner are tall and too high to eat without a difficult transfer from the chair to a high stool. If you inform the management when making your reservation, they will provide a regular height table for you to eat at.
The handicapped toilet is downstairs and accessed by a lift (elevator). The night I was there the lift was bust, so the manager and a staff member carried me down the flight of stairs in my chair. The toilet (once I got there) was fine - a large, unisex, accessible toilet.
(As an aside, I can assure you that the toilet in the suite is not accessible as this was an option we tried due to the broken lift. The hotel has at least one accessible bedroom, but it was occupied so I did not get to see it!)
The staff went out of their way to meet my requirements so for that reason I give it a thumbs up despite the "difficult" nature of the access. It's not the best "Oirish" show out there, but in terms of convenience it is one of the handiest.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Sao Jose dos Campos, SP, Brazil - Restaurant (Mad Jack Steakhouse)
Mad Jack (Avenida Eduardo Cury, 100 – Colinas – São José dos Campos (SP)) is a large pub and restaurant on a sort of American theme - pizzas, steaks, burgers etc. It is within rolling distance of the IBIS Colinas and just across the road from Colinas shopping center.
Access from the car park is via a gentle ramp. There are several levels inside, but the door level has plenty of space and quite a few tables so there should be no problem. Toilets are accessible.
Access from the car park is via a gentle ramp. There are several levels inside, but the door level has plenty of space and quite a few tables so there should be no problem. Toilets are accessible.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Montreal, Quebec - Restaurant (Bistro L'Aromate)
These notes refer to the wheelchair access for the restaurant Bistro L'Aromate, 1410 Rue Peel, Montreal. If you want a food review there are plenty of websites where you can find them.
Access from the street is level. The restaurant has small, intimate tables on many levels. Only about 4-5 two seaters and maybe 1 four seater are on street level. It might be advisable to call ahead to explain you need one of these if you are a wheelie.
Space in the restaurant is a little tight, but okay. There is a large restroom on the ground floor. There are no grab bars, but the toilet is easy to manage and the hand-basin is at a good height. Should be no problem for most wheelies.
The food was truly excellent (ok - that's not a review, just an observation). Strongly recommended.
Access from the street is level. The restaurant has small, intimate tables on many levels. Only about 4-5 two seaters and maybe 1 four seater are on street level. It might be advisable to call ahead to explain you need one of these if you are a wheelie.
Space in the restaurant is a little tight, but okay. There is a large restroom on the ground floor. There are no grab bars, but the toilet is easy to manage and the hand-basin is at a good height. Should be no problem for most wheelies.
The food was truly excellent (ok - that's not a review, just an observation). Strongly recommended.
Montreal, Quebec - Hotel (Marriott Chateau Champlain)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Marriott Chateau Champlain, located in central Montreal just a few blocks from Rue St. Catherine. This is an older building and the rooms have a certain charm as a result.
The hotel is situated in an area with some fairly steep hills so be careful if you plan to do a lot of walking. But it is uphill to the main shopping/dining area so at least you have a downhill ride home!
There are many step to the front entrance. The wheelchair ramp is hard to spot, hidden off to the left and leading to a second door. Inside, the bar, restaurant and shopping mall are all on the ground floor and have level access. There is an elevator straight from the lobby to the metro - but that's not a whole lot of use since the metro is not wheelchair accessible (with the exception of 5-6 stations).
My room was medium sized, not large. Being older, it lacked some of the custom wheelchair touches you would expect, but it was perfectly adequate for me and rated 3.5 stars out of 5 for wheelchair friendliness.
There was plenty of circulation space.
The workdesk was a little small but usable. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. In room wifi (free) was good. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker and mini-bar easy to reach also.
The air-conditioning controls were difficult to reach because they were set high on the wall, but were usable.
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was a good size and a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was also high but with plenty of knee space underneath and it was comfortable to use. My room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. The shower rose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was too high to reach when seated in the bath (although would be okay with a shower seat). The bell-boy who .brought my bags up offered me a shower seat without being asked - the first time that's ever happened to me. I declined as I prefer to operate without one. The grab rails around bath are too high for comfort. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible. A nice touch is that the bath had an old-fashioned circular thermometer to tell you what temperature the water was at!
The hotel is a full-service hotel and welcoming. Definitely an option for a wheelchair user in Montreal.
The hotel is situated in an area with some fairly steep hills so be careful if you plan to do a lot of walking. But it is uphill to the main shopping/dining area so at least you have a downhill ride home!
There are many step to the front entrance. The wheelchair ramp is hard to spot, hidden off to the left and leading to a second door. Inside, the bar, restaurant and shopping mall are all on the ground floor and have level access. There is an elevator straight from the lobby to the metro - but that's not a whole lot of use since the metro is not wheelchair accessible (with the exception of 5-6 stations).
My room was medium sized, not large. Being older, it lacked some of the custom wheelchair touches you would expect, but it was perfectly adequate for me and rated 3.5 stars out of 5 for wheelchair friendliness.
There was plenty of circulation space.
The workdesk was a little small but usable. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. In room wifi (free) was good. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker and mini-bar easy to reach also.
The air-conditioning controls were difficult to reach because they were set high on the wall, but were usable.
The bed was a little high but transfers in and out were not difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was a good size and a comfortable height for hanging clothes.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was also high but with plenty of knee space underneath and it was comfortable to use. My room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. The shower rose was hand-held and mounted on a rail that was too high to reach when seated in the bath (although would be okay with a shower seat). The bell-boy who .brought my bags up offered me a shower seat without being asked - the first time that's ever happened to me. I declined as I prefer to operate without one. The grab rails around bath are too high for comfort. Towels were placed at a comfortable height and easily accessible. A nice touch is that the bath had an old-fashioned circular thermometer to tell you what temperature the water was at!
The hotel is a full-service hotel and welcoming. Definitely an option for a wheelchair user in Montreal.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Palmdale, California - Hotel (Holiday Inn) - revisit
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Holiday Inn in Palmdale, CA, a mid-range, fairly decent hotel which was previously reviewed here. On this occasion I was given a very different and slightly better room (ground floor - 107) which merits a new review. read the previous post though to get a feel for what options you may have.
This room was medium sized, not large. The furniture layout made it easy to move around although the bed was a little close to the far wall. Not a problem as there was plenty of room at one side for getting in and out.
The workdesk was small. This was better than the previous room where the large workdesk actually cut circulation space at the end of the bed. The desk was still usable though and comfortable to sit at. The electric sockets were in the wall below the desk and difficult to reach from a chair. There was no desk lamp. In room wifi was great. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker was on work desk and easy to reach also.
Air-conditioning unit was in the corner, set low and the controls were easy to reach.
The single queen bed was very high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was open (no door) and a comfortable height.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. The sink was not in the bathroom but in the bedroom area. Some may find this a little unusual. The under sink space was tight and almost touched my knees. I know for sure I would not have fit under the sink had I been using my spare chair which is slightly higher than my normal chair. Also the sink was set back making it a little awkward for washing. This room had a roll-in shower with a large wooden permanent shower seat. The seat positioning relative to the grab bars made transfers a little difficult. There were two shower roses - one fixed to the wall and one hand-held. Both were easy to reach from the shower seat. The handheld was on a wall bar and at a good height. Towel rack was at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, this room would be perfect for an ambulant disabled and better then the previous room for a wheelie travelling without a companion.
Staff at this hotel are exceptionally friendly and do make an effort to make you feel welcome.
This room was medium sized, not large. The furniture layout made it easy to move around although the bed was a little close to the far wall. Not a problem as there was plenty of room at one side for getting in and out.
The workdesk was small. This was better than the previous room where the large workdesk actually cut circulation space at the end of the bed. The desk was still usable though and comfortable to sit at. The electric sockets were in the wall below the desk and difficult to reach from a chair. There was no desk lamp. In room wifi was great. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker was on work desk and easy to reach also.
Air-conditioning unit was in the corner, set low and the controls were easy to reach.
The single queen bed was very high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was open (no door) and a comfortable height.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. The sink was not in the bathroom but in the bedroom area. Some may find this a little unusual. The under sink space was tight and almost touched my knees. I know for sure I would not have fit under the sink had I been using my spare chair which is slightly higher than my normal chair. Also the sink was set back making it a little awkward for washing. This room had a roll-in shower with a large wooden permanent shower seat. The seat positioning relative to the grab bars made transfers a little difficult. There were two shower roses - one fixed to the wall and one hand-held. Both were easy to reach from the shower seat. The handheld was on a wall bar and at a good height. Towel rack was at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, this room would be perfect for an ambulant disabled and better then the previous room for a wheelie travelling without a companion.
Staff at this hotel are exceptionally friendly and do make an effort to make you feel welcome.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Wheelchair Accessible Taxis at Montreal International Airport
On this visit to Montreal, I decided to find out if there really were wheelchair accessible taxis available at airport. I asked the guy marshaling the taxi line. He brought me outside at the front of the queue (saved at least 30mins waiting right there!). After a few minutes a van pulled up. This had a ramp installed and access was easy. The van is fully configurable internally, all seats could be removed and it had tie-downs for chairs. It seemed to me it could carry three wheelchairs easily. The charge was the same as for a normal taxi. This particular driver was with co-op taxi (www.cooptaxi.com - 514-636-6666). He siad call and ask for "Van adaptee" or an adapted van.
I stayed once again at the Hilton Garden Inn, previously reviewed here.
I stayed once again at the Hilton Garden Inn, previously reviewed here.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
San Diego, California - Hotel (Holiday Inn Rancho)
The property is in two parts. Access to the second block is up a long ramp and difficult to climb in a manual chair with luggage. I was sent there initially but the room I was assigned was not accessible. On returning to reception I was assigned an "accessible" room in the main block.
The room was a reasonable size for its two queen size beds. Workdesk was of a good size and height with one easily reached socket in the desk lamp. Wifi in the room.
The beds were of differing heights so I chose the one slightly lower than the wheelchair for ease of transfer (the other bed was slightly higher). Bedroom closet was usable but the rack was a little high. A/C controls were reachable but very high. The TV control was left on a high shelf and was barely reachable. The ice bucket and glasses were out of reach.
While the bedroom was fine, the bathroom was bordering on unusable. It was very small with no turning circle. The sink unit had a grab bar at the front which made it impossible to use the sink easily. The toilet had no room to place a chair beside it, forcing a tricky 180 degree transfer to use it. There was a grab rail mounted directly behind the toilet, above the cistern, which was utterly useless for anyone. The bath had one badly positioned grab bar. The shower was a hand held hose mounted too high on a rail.
Although not related to access, the room had a general unpleasant smell which made me nervous about cleanliness.
Not recommended, this hotel made it to my "3 worst hotels" list!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Pub (Paddy Cullens, Ballsbridge)
Paddy Cullens pub in Ballsbridge, Dublin, is a small, cost, very traditional style pub. There is level access from the street to the bar area. The bar area itself and the snug are wheelchair accessible. There is a back area that is up two steps.
There is a handicapped accessible toilet at the rear of the bar (between the bar and the associated lounge - Mary Macs). Although this is a large restroom with toilet, sink and grab-bars, the door opens inwards which makes it almost impossible to get a wheelchair in, and then close the door. It can be done but it may require assistance from a walkie. A pity, because otherwise this bar could be a great place to experience a real dublin bar.
There is a handicapped accessible toilet at the rear of the bar (between the bar and the associated lounge - Mary Macs). Although this is a large restroom with toilet, sink and grab-bars, the door opens inwards which makes it almost impossible to get a wheelchair in, and then close the door. It can be done but it may require assistance from a walkie. A pity, because otherwise this bar could be a great place to experience a real dublin bar.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
London, England - Heathrow Airport
Heathrow airport is a famously unpleasant airport to transfer through. However, it is unavoidable for many.
From a wheelchair point of view the biggest problem is the distances between terminals and the crowds. The airport itself is reasonably well supplied with handicapped restrooms, ramps, elevators (lifts) and the other paraphernalia required for us wheelies to get around comfortably. In addition, the airport staff engaged in transferring wheelchair passengers are, as a rule, well trained and professional. There is just not enough of them and I have been left waiting over 45 minutes to be taken from an aircraft, or to be placed on a shuttle bus to the transfer passenger area. Here are some hints to make your life easier if you need to transfer or arrive and leave through Heathrow.
From a wheelchair point of view the biggest problem is the distances between terminals and the crowds. The airport itself is reasonably well supplied with handicapped restrooms, ramps, elevators (lifts) and the other paraphernalia required for us wheelies to get around comfortably. In addition, the airport staff engaged in transferring wheelchair passengers are, as a rule, well trained and professional. There is just not enough of them and I have been left waiting over 45 minutes to be taken from an aircraft, or to be placed on a shuttle bus to the transfer passenger area. Here are some hints to make your life easier if you need to transfer or arrive and leave through Heathrow.
- Give yourself plenty of time. At least 2 hours for a transfer connection. Less and you will almost certainly miss your flight.
- Do your homework. Know which terminal you arrive at and which you leave from. Terminals 1 and 2 are reasonably close and you can wheel from one to the other (it's still along wheel). Terminal 3 is further and you may need a transfer bus - but see my note below.
- Terminal 4 is out on its own and you will always need a transfer bus or train.
- Terminal 5 (I have not been through it yet) is also on it's own and you will need a transfer bus or train. It's brand new so one hopes it is well thought out for wheelchair passengers but I have no personal experience of it.
- - If transferring from terminal 1 or 2 to 3 (or vice versa) I have found that it is often better to exit from airside, walk to the other terminal through the underground tunnels and go through security again! This means you are in control of your own destiny as opposed to sitting waiting for an air-side transfer bus with no idea when or if it will arrive. The staff are really over-worked and with the best will in the world, they are unable to efficiently transfer you from one place to another.
- There is an underground rail link between the terminals (free). Be very careful when using this, as it is very easy to take the wrong train and end up heading in for London! Baggage trolleys are not allowed on the trains, the the barriers to prevent this also prevent wheelchairs from going through. You need to find a staff member to open them for you. Near each barrier you will find an assistance booth with a button to press to talk to someone. It's a hassle but I have never been left more than a few minutes waiting to get through (frustrating though, when you can see your train pulling away from the platform as you wait!)
- The Hoppa hotel shuttle operates from all terminals except terminal 4.
Heathrow, England - Hotel (Holiday Inn Arial)
There are (at least) two Holiday Inn hotels adjacent to Heathrow Airport. This review refers to the Holiday Inn Arial and is intended to address only aspects of the hotel related to wheelchair accessibility and services for disabled travellers.
The hotel is very close to Heathrow and is serviced by the Hoppa shuttle bus system (if the previsou link does not work try the National Express website). All of these buses are wheelchair accessible and I have found the drivers to be extremely helpful and accommodating. A one way ride to the hotel from the airport costs about 4 pounds. Note that the shuttle runs only from terminals 1, 2 and 3, with a different numbered shuttle running from terminal 5. Terminal 4 is not serviced by the Hoppa buses - despite signs to the contrary in certain parts of the airport. If arriving in Terminal 4 you will need to transfer to one of the other terminals - which is an adventure in itself. See my notes elsewhere.
Access to the hotel itself is level, with level access to reception, the restaurant and the bar. The hotel provides hot food 24-hours, although the main restaurant closes at about 22:00. Elevators (lifts) are small but adequate.
The room I was given was large and sparsely furnished which made it near perfect for a wheelchair to get around. The work desk was large and easy to use. Sockets were easy to reach, although I had to choose to unplug either a desklamp or the TV to make room for my laptop. There is Wifi (extra charge). A/C controls were at an easily accessible height, but the TV remote controls were left in an unreachable location. I did not bother calling for someone to get them for me as I didn't need the TV. Clothes closet was easy to get to and clothes hung at a comfortable height for a wheelchair.
The bed was a little lower than the chair seat and easy to get in and out of. No ceiling hooks for a lift. All the lights in the room could be controlled by bedside switches.
The bathroom was very large. In my case I had a bath. There was a large platform at the end of the bath which could be handy for some as a transfer assist to getting in. Plenty of well positioned grab bars. The shower was hand-held with a slider bar mounting. Toilet was at wheelchair seat level with well positioned grab bars. The sink was at a perfect wheelchair height with plenty of knee space underneath.
All in all, because of the space and low, modern furnishings as well as the thoughtfully positioned light switches, this hotel jumped into my top three favorite hotels for wheelchair access.
The hotel is very close to Heathrow and is serviced by the Hoppa shuttle bus system (if the previsou link does not work try the National Express website). All of these buses are wheelchair accessible and I have found the drivers to be extremely helpful and accommodating. A one way ride to the hotel from the airport costs about 4 pounds. Note that the shuttle runs only from terminals 1, 2 and 3, with a different numbered shuttle running from terminal 5. Terminal 4 is not serviced by the Hoppa buses - despite signs to the contrary in certain parts of the airport. If arriving in Terminal 4 you will need to transfer to one of the other terminals - which is an adventure in itself. See my notes elsewhere.
Access to the hotel itself is level, with level access to reception, the restaurant and the bar. The hotel provides hot food 24-hours, although the main restaurant closes at about 22:00. Elevators (lifts) are small but adequate.
The room I was given was large and sparsely furnished which made it near perfect for a wheelchair to get around. The work desk was large and easy to use. Sockets were easy to reach, although I had to choose to unplug either a desklamp or the TV to make room for my laptop. There is Wifi (extra charge). A/C controls were at an easily accessible height, but the TV remote controls were left in an unreachable location. I did not bother calling for someone to get them for me as I didn't need the TV. Clothes closet was easy to get to and clothes hung at a comfortable height for a wheelchair.
The bed was a little lower than the chair seat and easy to get in and out of. No ceiling hooks for a lift. All the lights in the room could be controlled by bedside switches.
The bathroom was very large. In my case I had a bath. There was a large platform at the end of the bath which could be handy for some as a transfer assist to getting in. Plenty of well positioned grab bars. The shower was hand-held with a slider bar mounting. Toilet was at wheelchair seat level with well positioned grab bars. The sink was at a perfect wheelchair height with plenty of knee space underneath.
All in all, because of the space and low, modern furnishings as well as the thoughtfully positioned light switches, this hotel jumped into my top three favorite hotels for wheelchair access.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Washington DC - Hotel (Capitol Hilton)
The Hilton Capitol Hotel is a full service, pricey, hotel located just a couple of blocks from the Whitehouse in Washington D.C. Indeed, you have a pretty clear view of the Whitehouse from the street in front of the hotel giving you a great sense of being in the nation's capitol! These notes refer to wheelchair accessibility in this hotel.
The hotel offers (very expensive) valet parking only. There is a narrow kerb cut in one location in front of the hotel. Access from the pavement to the lobby is level. The lobby is large and level. The bar and restaurant are up two steps. There is a ramp.
Elevators are large. The room was a comfortable size and slightly over furnished. The web site states that the accessible rooms have a pull-out sofa. This is not true.
The work desk was a comfortable height, and sockets easily reached. Room lights could not be controlled from the bed. The bed was quite high but getting into it was not too difficult.
Bathroom was a comfortable size. Toilet was at wheelchair cushion height. Sink was acceptable, with plenty of knee room underneath. The bath had some badly positioned grab bars (better for ambulant disabled than a wheelchair user). The shower hose was of the hand-held type with the option of placing it on a rail or on a fixed mounting that was too high for a wheelie to reach. (Of course, the cleaning staff placed it on the high fixed mounting!)
A/C controls were at a reasonable height and TV controls in easy reach.
I felt the hotel was over-priced for the quality of accomodations but I guess you pay for location, location, location!
The hotel offers (very expensive) valet parking only. There is a narrow kerb cut in one location in front of the hotel. Access from the pavement to the lobby is level. The lobby is large and level. The bar and restaurant are up two steps. There is a ramp.
Elevators are large. The room was a comfortable size and slightly over furnished. The web site states that the accessible rooms have a pull-out sofa. This is not true.
The work desk was a comfortable height, and sockets easily reached. Room lights could not be controlled from the bed. The bed was quite high but getting into it was not too difficult.
Bathroom was a comfortable size. Toilet was at wheelchair cushion height. Sink was acceptable, with plenty of knee room underneath. The bath had some badly positioned grab bars (better for ambulant disabled than a wheelchair user). The shower hose was of the hand-held type with the option of placing it on a rail or on a fixed mounting that was too high for a wheelie to reach. (Of course, the cleaning staff placed it on the high fixed mounting!)
A/C controls were at a reasonable height and TV controls in easy reach.
I felt the hotel was over-priced for the quality of accomodations but I guess you pay for location, location, location!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Toulouse, France - Restaurant (Michel Sarran)
Restaurant Michel Sarran (21, Bd Armand Duportal - 31000 Toulouse)
This is currently considered one of the best restaurants in Toulouse. These notes are intended as a guide to a wheelchair user or disabled person who plans to visit (and I recommend you do!).
The restaurant is situated about halfway along Blvd Armand Duportal. Be careful wheeling along this route. Like most streets in Toulouse, it lulls you into a false sense of security as you wheel along well maintained and smooth path only to be ambushed by a trench bug across the way just big enough to trap the front casters, or a pothole, or a stretch of unfinished paving. Just keep one eye fixed on the road and you'll be fine!
Access to the restaurant from the street is completely level. The restaurant itself is spacious enough to move comfortably between tables. There is a courtyard at the back that is down four steps. Staff will carry you down if need be, but you can just as easily eat at street level.
There is no accessible toilet. However, the toilets are on the same level as the dining room and have sliding (pocket) doors which open to about 28" (70cm) or a little more. Although maneuvering was tight I was able to get my chair into the toilet enough to have access to the toilet and the sink which was sufficient for my needs. A power chair, or a wide or long manual, would have more difficulty.
The food was outstanding - an epic meal so I recommend you give it a try if you are in the area.
This is currently considered one of the best restaurants in Toulouse. These notes are intended as a guide to a wheelchair user or disabled person who plans to visit (and I recommend you do!).
The restaurant is situated about halfway along Blvd Armand Duportal. Be careful wheeling along this route. Like most streets in Toulouse, it lulls you into a false sense of security as you wheel along well maintained and smooth path only to be ambushed by a trench bug across the way just big enough to trap the front casters, or a pothole, or a stretch of unfinished paving. Just keep one eye fixed on the road and you'll be fine!
Access to the restaurant from the street is completely level. The restaurant itself is spacious enough to move comfortably between tables. There is a courtyard at the back that is down four steps. Staff will carry you down if need be, but you can just as easily eat at street level.
There is no accessible toilet. However, the toilets are on the same level as the dining room and have sliding (pocket) doors which open to about 28" (70cm) or a little more. Although maneuvering was tight I was able to get my chair into the toilet enough to have access to the toilet and the sink which was sufficient for my needs. A power chair, or a wide or long manual, would have more difficulty.
The food was outstanding - an epic meal so I recommend you give it a try if you are in the area.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Los Angeles, CA - Hotel (Crowne Plaza LAX)
The Crowne Plaza LAX is located just by LAX airport. They can arrange a handicapped accessible shuttle from the airport. Since not all the shuttle busses are accessible, you need to call the hotel from the airport to let them know you need an accessible one. In my case it took about 15mins for one to arrive.
Access from the street is level. There is no "low counter" at reception. There is level access to the bar, restaurant, a Starbucks and a Sushi bar. Toilets on ground floor are accessible.
My room (single king size bed) was large and easy to move around.
Workdesk was not very big, but very usable and a perfect height for me. Sockets (two) in the base of the desk lamp were easily accessible. There is wifi internet access.
The bed was slightly above wheelchair cushion height, but easy to transfer onto. There is a hook in the ceiling to attach a transfer harness. The main lights cannot be controlled from the bed, but the bedside light is easy to reach. Controls for the A/C and the TV were easily accessible.
Closet was easy to access and had a low rack for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was very large with plenty of turning space. Toilet is at wheelchair cushion height, grab bars well positioned. There is a hook in the ceiling above the toilet to attach a transfer harness if required. The sink has plenty of knee room underneath. Towel rack is at wheelchair height and easily reached.
My room had a tub with well-positioned grab rails. The shower hose is a hand-held but the bar on which it slides is too high to reach when sitting in the tub. Controls for water are easy to reach. However, for many people the shower would need the assistance of a walkie to use.
Overall, the room decor and fitting were a little "tired" and in need of a refurbishment. However, it was a perfectly comfortable room and functionally fine from a wheelchair access point of view.
Access from the street is level. There is no "low counter" at reception. There is level access to the bar, restaurant, a Starbucks and a Sushi bar. Toilets on ground floor are accessible.
My room (single king size bed) was large and easy to move around.
Workdesk was not very big, but very usable and a perfect height for me. Sockets (two) in the base of the desk lamp were easily accessible. There is wifi internet access.
The bed was slightly above wheelchair cushion height, but easy to transfer onto. There is a hook in the ceiling to attach a transfer harness. The main lights cannot be controlled from the bed, but the bedside light is easy to reach. Controls for the A/C and the TV were easily accessible.
Closet was easy to access and had a low rack for hanging clothes.
The bathroom was very large with plenty of turning space. Toilet is at wheelchair cushion height, grab bars well positioned. There is a hook in the ceiling above the toilet to attach a transfer harness if required. The sink has plenty of knee room underneath. Towel rack is at wheelchair height and easily reached.
My room had a tub with well-positioned grab rails. The shower hose is a hand-held but the bar on which it slides is too high to reach when sitting in the tub. Controls for water are easy to reach. However, for many people the shower would need the assistance of a walkie to use.
Overall, the room decor and fitting were a little "tired" and in need of a refurbishment. However, it was a perfectly comfortable room and functionally fine from a wheelchair access point of view.
Montreal, Canada - Hotel (Hilton Garden, Montreal Airport)
The Hilton Garden Inn at Montreal Airport is located just a few km from the airport. The airport shuttle is not wheelchair accessible so you will need to take a taxi (there is a minimum charge as this is a very short journey and you will have an unhappy taxi driver!). Although wheelchair taxis are available (I am told) I did not see any and took a regular car.
Access is level to lobby. I was given a free glass of champagne at check-in for some reason. Not complaining! THe restaurant and bar are off the lobby - also level access.
My room was on the ground (first) floor. It was a comfortable size with plenty of room to move around. The work desk was very comfortable to work at. Sockets were at a perfect height and position for accessibility. There is free wired and wireless internet. A nice touch is that there is a wired internet connection by the bed, so you can sit in bed and work on your computer if you so desire.
The bed itself wsas a little too high to transfer easily, but not a big problem. The lights were not particulalry well thought out or positioned. You can reach the bedside light with some difficulty, and cannot control the room lights from the bed.
The A/C controls are at a comfortable height, and the TV controls were left by the bed in easy reach.
There was a fridge, coffee maker and microwave in the room. The coffee-maker was difficult to reach and use and the micro-wave was out of the question (for me at least). You need a walkie with you if you want to zap something!
The bathroom was a comfortable size with a good turning circle for the wheelchair. Toilet seat is about wheelchair cushion height. Grab bars are well positioned. The sink had plenty of knee space and was easy to use. My room had a bath tub, low, well positioned grab bars. The shower hose was fixed to the wall and the spray control mounted on it could not be reached. You are at the mercy of whatever the previous guest left the setting at. Soap holder too high to use.
All in all a usable, even comfortable, room but a few details overlooked that would have made it perfect.
Access is level to lobby. I was given a free glass of champagne at check-in for some reason. Not complaining! THe restaurant and bar are off the lobby - also level access.
My room was on the ground (first) floor. It was a comfortable size with plenty of room to move around. The work desk was very comfortable to work at. Sockets were at a perfect height and position for accessibility. There is free wired and wireless internet. A nice touch is that there is a wired internet connection by the bed, so you can sit in bed and work on your computer if you so desire.
The bed itself wsas a little too high to transfer easily, but not a big problem. The lights were not particulalry well thought out or positioned. You can reach the bedside light with some difficulty, and cannot control the room lights from the bed.
The A/C controls are at a comfortable height, and the TV controls were left by the bed in easy reach.
There was a fridge, coffee maker and microwave in the room. The coffee-maker was difficult to reach and use and the micro-wave was out of the question (for me at least). You need a walkie with you if you want to zap something!
The bathroom was a comfortable size with a good turning circle for the wheelchair. Toilet seat is about wheelchair cushion height. Grab bars are well positioned. The sink had plenty of knee space and was easy to use. My room had a bath tub, low, well positioned grab bars. The shower hose was fixed to the wall and the spray control mounted on it could not be reached. You are at the mercy of whatever the previous guest left the setting at. Soap holder too high to use.
All in all a usable, even comfortable, room but a few details overlooked that would have made it perfect.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Restaurant (Fire)
Fire restaurant is located by the historic mansion house on Dawson Street, Dublin 2 - just off Stephen's Green. Access from the street is level, through some gates (use the pavement on the left hand side facing the building to avoid the cobblestones). There is a long but fairly gentle ramp to the entrance itself. One of the two doors is ramped. Inside, the restaurant is spacious and easy to get around. The toilets have a fully accessible cubicle.
This restaurant is very comfortable for wheelchair users. The service is excellent and the food is good. Recommended.
This restaurant is very comfortable for wheelchair users. The service is excellent and the food is good. Recommended.
Monday, May 25, 2009
San Antonio, Texas - Nightlife (Drink, Club Rive)
These notes are intended for wheelchair users visiting San Antonio Riverwalk district. They supplement more detailed notes recorded previously here.
Drink Cocktail Bar (200 Navarro St.)
A small, comfortable, contemporary bar serving wines, beers and cocktails. Friendly staff and clientele and (at least the night I was there) more locals than tourists.
There is a very large step from the street into the bar. However, there is an accessible side entrance. You may need to attract the attention of the bar staff to get someone to open the side gate for you (it is open only on some nights). Large, fully accessible toilet available.
Club Rive (245 E. Commerce St.)
The only barrier to entry here are the tough looking bouncers at the door.
This is a dance bar, a very popular spot at weekends. Fully accessible with fully accessible toilets. Loud, popular, and can be crowded.
Drink Cocktail Bar (200 Navarro St.)
A small, comfortable, contemporary bar serving wines, beers and cocktails. Friendly staff and clientele and (at least the night I was there) more locals than tourists.
There is a very large step from the street into the bar. However, there is an accessible side entrance. You may need to attract the attention of the bar staff to get someone to open the side gate for you (it is open only on some nights). Large, fully accessible toilet available.
Club Rive (245 E. Commerce St.)
The only barrier to entry here are the tough looking bouncers at the door.
This is a dance bar, a very popular spot at weekends. Fully accessible with fully accessible toilets. Loud, popular, and can be crowded.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
San Antonio, Texas - Hotel (Crowne Plaza Riverwalk)
This entry addresses the handicapped (wheelchair) accessibility of the Crowne Plaza Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas.
Access to the hotel from the street is level. Note that the self parking garage is in a different block from the hotel itself. If using the self-parking, take the elevator from the parking garage to lower level (LL) and connect to the hotel via an underground corridor. There is a handicapped parking area at street level (seperate from the "normal" entry to the garage). To access the elevator from this, wheel towards the corner of Soledad and Martin, and go throuh the pedestrian door to the parking garage (it's a heavy door!). Like all city centre hotels in San Antonio the Crowne Plaza charges an exorbitant daily parking fee (about $24/day at time of writing, and add $10 for valet parking). Another point about location is that this hotle is a block or two off the beaten path for the heart of the riverwalk action.
Breakfast and dining area is on the same level as reception. There are two step to the bar area, there is a ramp near the front door.
Hotel corridors have deep pile carpet that is tough to wheel through.
The room I had was large with two double beds. There is too much furniture, but the room is easy enough to get around. Work desk was a little low. Electric sockets and wired ethernet were very easily accessed (electrical sockets in desk lamp). There was wireless ethernet also.
Beds were at a comfortable height for transferring and bedside lights were easy to reach. It is not possible to control main room lights from bed.
TV controls were left by bed, and air conditioning controls were at a comfortable height.
Room closet had clothes hangers at a good height for wheelchair users.
Bathroom was large. Toilet was easily accessed and grab bars well placed. My room had a roll-in shower with large shower seat (floor-standing, not attached to the wall, adjustable height). The shower was hand-held with a mounting bar at perfect height. Shower controls and grab bars were well placed. Sink had plenty of room underneath, mirror was at a good height. Towels were stored at an easily accessible height.
One of the better rooms I have stayed in.
Access to the hotel from the street is level. Note that the self parking garage is in a different block from the hotel itself. If using the self-parking, take the elevator from the parking garage to lower level (LL) and connect to the hotel via an underground corridor. There is a handicapped parking area at street level (seperate from the "normal" entry to the garage). To access the elevator from this, wheel towards the corner of Soledad and Martin, and go throuh the pedestrian door to the parking garage (it's a heavy door!). Like all city centre hotels in San Antonio the Crowne Plaza charges an exorbitant daily parking fee (about $24/day at time of writing, and add $10 for valet parking). Another point about location is that this hotle is a block or two off the beaten path for the heart of the riverwalk action.
Breakfast and dining area is on the same level as reception. There are two step to the bar area, there is a ramp near the front door.
Hotel corridors have deep pile carpet that is tough to wheel through.
The room I had was large with two double beds. There is too much furniture, but the room is easy enough to get around. Work desk was a little low. Electric sockets and wired ethernet were very easily accessed (electrical sockets in desk lamp). There was wireless ethernet also.
Beds were at a comfortable height for transferring and bedside lights were easy to reach. It is not possible to control main room lights from bed.
TV controls were left by bed, and air conditioning controls were at a comfortable height.
Room closet had clothes hangers at a good height for wheelchair users.
Bathroom was large. Toilet was easily accessed and grab bars well placed. My room had a roll-in shower with large shower seat (floor-standing, not attached to the wall, adjustable height). The shower was hand-held with a mounting bar at perfect height. Shower controls and grab bars were well placed. Sink had plenty of room underneath, mirror was at a good height. Towels were stored at an easily accessible height.
One of the better rooms I have stayed in.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Hermosa Beach, CA - Hotel (Holiday Inn Express)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Holiday Inn Express in Hermosa Beach, CA, about 15 minutes from LAX airport.
There is level access to the main lobby. The reception desk has a low level surface at one end for easy check-in.
My room was large with plenty of space to manoeuvre.
Good workdesk. Comfortable to sit at. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. I room wifi and wired Ethernet is free and worked well. TV controls were left on top of TV, a little high, but could still be reached.
Air-conditioning unit was below the window and easy to reach.
The bed was about wheelchair cushion height and easy to transfer on and off. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed. Closet had sliding door and was a little difficult to get at.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was easily accessible. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was a comfortable height. This room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. Hand held shower rose could be fixed to a wall mounting or on a rail. Two sets of grab rails around bath suitable for both a wheelie and ambulant disabled.
Recommended.
There is level access to the main lobby. The reception desk has a low level surface at one end for easy check-in.
My room was large with plenty of space to manoeuvre.
Good workdesk. Comfortable to sit at. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. I room wifi and wired Ethernet is free and worked well. TV controls were left on top of TV, a little high, but could still be reached.
Air-conditioning unit was below the window and easy to reach.
The bed was about wheelchair cushion height and easy to transfer on and off. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed. Closet had sliding door and was a little difficult to get at.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was easily accessible. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was a comfortable height. This room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. Hand held shower rose could be fixed to a wall mounting or on a rail. Two sets of grab rails around bath suitable for both a wheelie and ambulant disabled.
Recommended.
Lancaster, CA - Restaurant (Fresco II)
Fresco II is a Greek/Italian restaurant in the Palmdale/Lancaster conurbation in California. These notes address the wheelchair access to the restaurant.
Level access from the street. Table furniture is quite close so navigating around the dining room is a little difficult. Large accessible toilet down a corridor, but the corridor is used for storage of chairs and so on so access is a little tight. Staff will move items if necessary.
Recommended.
Level access from the street. Table furniture is quite close so navigating around the dining room is a little difficult. Large accessible toilet down a corridor, but the corridor is used for storage of chairs and so on so access is a little tight. Staff will move items if necessary.
Recommended.
Palmdale, California - Hotel (Holiday Inn)
These wheelchair access and travel notes refer to the Holiday Inn in Palmdale, CA, a mid-range, fairly decent hotel.
There is level access to the main lobby. The bar and restaurant are just off the lobby, easily accessible. Restaurant furniture is comfortably spaced, no trouble navigating with a wheelchair.
The reception desk has a low level surface at one end for easy check-in, which is a nice touch.
My room was medium sized, not large. The space between the end of the bed and the TV furniture was a bit tight - about 36" (900mm). Past that bottleneck though, there was plenty of room.
Good workdesk. Comfortable to sit at. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. IN room wifi was very weak and effectively unusable. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker was easy to reach also.
Air-conditioning unit was in the corner and, although low, the controls were difficult to reach because they were partially blocked by the workdesk.
The bed was very high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was open (no door) and a comfortable height.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was also high and set back making it a little awkward for washing. This room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. There were two shower roses - one fixed to the wall and one hand-held. Unfortunately, the switch to direct water from one to the other is at the wall mounting and therefore out of reach for wheelies. Handheld on a wall bar and at a good height. Grab rails around bath too high for comfort. Towel rack was at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, this room would be perfect for an ambulant disabled but is not great for a wheelie unless travelling with a companion.
There is level access to the main lobby. The bar and restaurant are just off the lobby, easily accessible. Restaurant furniture is comfortably spaced, no trouble navigating with a wheelchair.
The reception desk has a low level surface at one end for easy check-in, which is a nice touch.
My room was medium sized, not large. The space between the end of the bed and the TV furniture was a bit tight - about 36" (900mm). Past that bottleneck though, there was plenty of room.
Good workdesk. Comfortable to sit at. Electric sockets in the desk lamp (2) were easy to reach. IN room wifi was very weak and effectively unusable. TV controls were left in easy reach. Coffeemaker was easy to reach also.
Air-conditioning unit was in the corner and, although low, the controls were difficult to reach because they were partially blocked by the workdesk.
The bed was very high and transfers in and out were difficult. Bedside light easy to reach from the bed, but the room lights could not be turned off from in bed (so remember to turn them off before getting out of your chair!). Closet was open (no door) and a comfortable height.
Bathroom was large with plenty of turning space. Toilet was of the raised ADA compliant type. The grab-rails were a little too high and far away for comfort. Sink was also high and set back making it a little awkward for washing. This room had a bath rather than a roll-in shower. There were two shower roses - one fixed to the wall and one hand-held. Unfortunately, the switch to direct water from one to the other is at the wall mounting and therefore out of reach for wheelies. Handheld on a wall bar and at a good height. Grab rails around bath too high for comfort. Towel rack was at a comfortable height and easily accessible.
All in all, this room would be perfect for an ambulant disabled but is not great for a wheelie unless travelling with a companion.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Las Vegas, Nevada - Hotel (The Hard Rock Hotel)
Revisited this hotel lately (first visit report is here).
Glad to report that not much has changed and this is still one of the most comfortable handicapped rooms I have stayed in.
Still recommended.
Glad to report that not much has changed and this is still one of the most comfortable handicapped rooms I have stayed in.
Still recommended.
Monday, April 27, 2009
The risks of air travel
Over my years of travel I have had several disasters. In one incident (with an airline, Sabena, now defunct) my chair was returned to me with the camber "reversed". In other words, due to a bent axle, the wheels were closer together at the bottom than they were at the top, the opposite of the way they are supposed to be! The unfortunate truth is that once you say goodbye to your chair and it heads for the hold, anything can happen. It is not practical to expect the staff to be able to bring it on board (especially a rigid chair like mine,which only partially folds) so it is a risk that comes with the territory once you decide to fly.
Recently I had a similarly devastating event on a flight from Dublin, Ireland to Dulles (Washington D.C.) with Aer Lingus. Although traumatic, the whole event was handled very well by Aer Lingus and certainly would give me confidence to fly with them again. Having said that, things would have been a lot worse had I not had access to a spare chair!
My wheelchair was taken, as usual, at the door of the aircraft in Dublin and carried in the hold. On being returned to me at the door in Dulles, the wheelchair was damaged beyond use. Although it looked normal, when I sat into it the left wheel collapsed. Upon examination it was clear that over half the spokes on that wheel had snapped. Furthermore, the axle of the wheelchair itself was cracked, as was the bracket used to mount the wheel to the axle. My chair is a Quickie and is pretty solid. The forces required to do this amount of damage are very high. I have no idea what event on loading or unloading could cause this. I transferred back into an airport supplied chair.
For a wheelie, being in any other chair than one's own is a very trying and unhappy experience. For someone used to independent transport, being in a chair which cannot be pushed independently is frustrating and unpleasant. However there was no option at this time other than to use the airport wheelchair and permit myself to be pushed to the terminal.
After passing through immigration I was met in the baggage hall by the Aer Lingus manager on duty. She was very apologetic and re-assured me that Aer Lingus would do everything possible to assist me. I was impressed that she already had a plan in place (not a very good one, but a plan nevertheless). Her offer was to put me up in a local hotel for the night, and then rent a wheelchair for me the next day until my own could be repaired. For the record, the flaws in this plan were that I was not able to independently operate in the airport wheelchair, so staying alone in a hotel would be difficult. Also, from previous experience, I know that finding a chair to rent in an emergency is not easy. However - I was impressed with the sincerity of her efforts to assist and I was impressed by the fact that she had thought about it and had a plan. I have previously (with other airlines - the Sabena incident comes to mind) been left to fend for myself completely when things have gone wrong in travel.
Luckily, I was staying within two hours of Dulles airport and have a spare wheelchair at my destination. All I needed was assistance to pick-up my rental car, and I could contact a friend to meet me at my destination and bring the spare chair to me. I explained this to the ground staff and they immediately offered to provide whatever assistance I needed. In the event, two people came with me on the Hertz bus. One pushing me in my borrowed chair. One bringing the remains of my own chair and my luggage. They came with me all the way to the Hertz lot, wheeled me to the car, packed my luggage in the trunk and saw me on my way. Of course, I made sure to have all the details ofthe incident logged and filed a damage report before leaving the baggage hall.
Later that evening I received a message on my answering machine from the ground service manager at Dulles reassuring my that Aer Lingus would pay for any damages to the chair. I admit to being a bit sceptical about this but nevertheless I took the information at face value. I repaired the chair myself, using parts purchased at discount prices on line. Even still, the parts cost more than $800. I sent the invoices and a short letter describing the incident to your customer service address. Within a few days I received a letter of apology and a check for the full amount. I was impressed with the speed of service, and the way it was delivered without a quibble.
I mentioned Hertz in here as they are my car rental agency of choice. This is a loyalty thing. Thirteen years ago, when I first travelled to the US, they were the only agency who offered me a car with hand controls. Even today they make life easy with hand controls offered explicitly on their website when making a reservation. The controls they install are also good quality - not the "thumb and grip" type offered by some budget rentals. I know Hertz cost more, but they have almost never let me down. (Okay - they let me down once in maybe fifty rentals with them, and I'll report it here if I have a problem with them in the future).
For the record, I have no connection with either Aer Lingus or Hertz (other than being a customer) and I will be as quick to complain about them as I am to praise them if the need arises!
Recently I had a similarly devastating event on a flight from Dublin, Ireland to Dulles (Washington D.C.) with Aer Lingus. Although traumatic, the whole event was handled very well by Aer Lingus and certainly would give me confidence to fly with them again. Having said that, things would have been a lot worse had I not had access to a spare chair!
My wheelchair was taken, as usual, at the door of the aircraft in Dublin and carried in the hold. On being returned to me at the door in Dulles, the wheelchair was damaged beyond use. Although it looked normal, when I sat into it the left wheel collapsed. Upon examination it was clear that over half the spokes on that wheel had snapped. Furthermore, the axle of the wheelchair itself was cracked, as was the bracket used to mount the wheel to the axle. My chair is a Quickie and is pretty solid. The forces required to do this amount of damage are very high. I have no idea what event on loading or unloading could cause this. I transferred back into an airport supplied chair.
For a wheelie, being in any other chair than one's own is a very trying and unhappy experience. For someone used to independent transport, being in a chair which cannot be pushed independently is frustrating and unpleasant. However there was no option at this time other than to use the airport wheelchair and permit myself to be pushed to the terminal.
After passing through immigration I was met in the baggage hall by the Aer Lingus manager on duty. She was very apologetic and re-assured me that Aer Lingus would do everything possible to assist me. I was impressed that she already had a plan in place (not a very good one, but a plan nevertheless). Her offer was to put me up in a local hotel for the night, and then rent a wheelchair for me the next day until my own could be repaired. For the record, the flaws in this plan were that I was not able to independently operate in the airport wheelchair, so staying alone in a hotel would be difficult. Also, from previous experience, I know that finding a chair to rent in an emergency is not easy. However - I was impressed with the sincerity of her efforts to assist and I was impressed by the fact that she had thought about it and had a plan. I have previously (with other airlines - the Sabena incident comes to mind) been left to fend for myself completely when things have gone wrong in travel.
Luckily, I was staying within two hours of Dulles airport and have a spare wheelchair at my destination. All I needed was assistance to pick-up my rental car, and I could contact a friend to meet me at my destination and bring the spare chair to me. I explained this to the ground staff and they immediately offered to provide whatever assistance I needed. In the event, two people came with me on the Hertz bus. One pushing me in my borrowed chair. One bringing the remains of my own chair and my luggage. They came with me all the way to the Hertz lot, wheeled me to the car, packed my luggage in the trunk and saw me on my way. Of course, I made sure to have all the details ofthe incident logged and filed a damage report before leaving the baggage hall.
Later that evening I received a message on my answering machine from the ground service manager at Dulles reassuring my that Aer Lingus would pay for any damages to the chair. I admit to being a bit sceptical about this but nevertheless I took the information at face value. I repaired the chair myself, using parts purchased at discount prices on line. Even still, the parts cost more than $800. I sent the invoices and a short letter describing the incident to your customer service address. Within a few days I received a letter of apology and a check for the full amount. I was impressed with the speed of service, and the way it was delivered without a quibble.
I mentioned Hertz in here as they are my car rental agency of choice. This is a loyalty thing. Thirteen years ago, when I first travelled to the US, they were the only agency who offered me a car with hand controls. Even today they make life easy with hand controls offered explicitly on their website when making a reservation. The controls they install are also good quality - not the "thumb and grip" type offered by some budget rentals. I know Hertz cost more, but they have almost never let me down. (Okay - they let me down once in maybe fifty rentals with them, and I'll report it here if I have a problem with them in the future).
For the record, I have no connection with either Aer Lingus or Hertz (other than being a customer) and I will be as quick to complain about them as I am to praise them if the need arises!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Solomons, Maryland - Restaurant (CD cafe)
CD cafe is one of the better restaurants on Solomons Island, that small village in Southern Maryland - about an hour and a half from Washington D.C. It's easy to miss, situated in a non-descript building called Avonmore, on the left hand side as you approach the town.
Wheelchair access is from the rear of the building (there is a parking lot with two handicapped spots at the rear also) since the front has a fairly large step. The rear is ramped. There is level access into the restaurant proper. The room is small, and it is difficult to navigate around between tables, so a table near the door is best. It is not possible to make a reservation - they operate on a first come first served basis. At peak times the wait can be an hour or more since the restaurant is small (I would guess about 30 places). If a walkie goes in to put your name down for a table, be sure to mention the wheelchair. It's a big help for the staff when deciding where to locate you. The food is good - the specials are usually very good - with interesting appeteizers and desserts.
There is a bar next door (appropriately enough called the Next Door Lounge) where you can have an appetizer or a drink while you wait. They also serve light food. Access to the bar is completely level although space is again tight.
Both restaurant and bar have a large accessible toilet.
Recommended
Wheelchair access is from the rear of the building (there is a parking lot with two handicapped spots at the rear also) since the front has a fairly large step. The rear is ramped. There is level access into the restaurant proper. The room is small, and it is difficult to navigate around between tables, so a table near the door is best. It is not possible to make a reservation - they operate on a first come first served basis. At peak times the wait can be an hour or more since the restaurant is small (I would guess about 30 places). If a walkie goes in to put your name down for a table, be sure to mention the wheelchair. It's a big help for the staff when deciding where to locate you. The food is good - the specials are usually very good - with interesting appeteizers and desserts.
There is a bar next door (appropriately enough called the Next Door Lounge) where you can have an appetizer or a drink while you wait. They also serve light food. Access to the bar is completely level although space is again tight.
Both restaurant and bar have a large accessible toilet.
Recommended
Monday, April 20, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Pub (Smyths of Haddington Road)
I last wrote about this pub last year - here.
On a recent visit I found the place changed. Thankfully, the refurbishment is very minor, more a botox injection than a facelift, and the old world feel is the same. The main difference in the bar area is the addition of a snug with wooden walls. Although this increases the homely atmosphere of the place, it makes it less friendly to wheelchairs as it very much limits the turning space at the front. No change to the access, or the toilets.
Still worth a visit - but maybe the lounge would be easier.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Restaurant (Mangetu)
Mangetu (Unit 1 Victoria House, Haddington Road, Dublin 4, Ireland) is a modern looking, asian fusion restaurant seating about 90 people. There is level access from the street. The interior is modern and minimalist.There is plenty of space between the tables so it is very comfortable to manuvre around in a wheelchair. Tables are comfortable height, and easy to pull in to. There is a large unisex handicapped toilet, seperate from the ladies and gents restrooms. Food is very good. Apparently the restaurant name is pronounced - man-get-tu.
Recommended.
Recommended.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Hong Kong - from 2002
This listing is getting a bit dated now, but if you are interested in handicapped and wheelchair access in Hong Kong you will find an early report I did at www.geocities.com/Paris/1502/hongkongmacau.htm back in the days before I had this blog!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Arlington, Virginia - Hotel (Crowne Plaza Washington National Airport)
Crowne Plaza, Washington National Airport (1480 Crystal Drive, Arlington, Virginia)
Level access from street. There is also parking available underground. The handicapped spots are right by the elevator (lift).
large lobby, level access to the bar/restaurant.
I stayed in a room on the 10th floor. Large room, plenty of space to move around. Sofa and coffee table in the room as well as a work desk. The workdesk was large, with a movable lower desk that fitted under it. Both were at a good height and could be comfortably used from a wheelchair. Socket in the desk light was easily accessible. Wired Internet, cable easily accessible from work desk.
TV controls were left by bed in easy reach. The A/C unit is under the window and the controls can be reached easily. The bed is a little high making transfers slightly difficult, but not a real problem.
Bathroom was a good size. The toilet was low. There was adequate room to position chair for a 90 degree transfer to the toilet. Sink had space for knees underneath. This room had a bath-tub. Water controls were easy to reach when in the bath. Shower rose is fixed to the wall and is high so the angle cannot be adjusted by a wheelie. There were no grab rails either by the toilet or in the bath. Towel racks were above the toilet and quite high although I could reach them from my chair.
Level access from street. There is also parking available underground. The handicapped spots are right by the elevator (lift).
large lobby, level access to the bar/restaurant.
I stayed in a room on the 10th floor. Large room, plenty of space to move around. Sofa and coffee table in the room as well as a work desk. The workdesk was large, with a movable lower desk that fitted under it. Both were at a good height and could be comfortably used from a wheelchair. Socket in the desk light was easily accessible. Wired Internet, cable easily accessible from work desk.
TV controls were left by bed in easy reach. The A/C unit is under the window and the controls can be reached easily. The bed is a little high making transfers slightly difficult, but not a real problem.
Bathroom was a good size. The toilet was low. There was adequate room to position chair for a 90 degree transfer to the toilet. Sink had space for knees underneath. This room had a bath-tub. Water controls were easy to reach when in the bath. Shower rose is fixed to the wall and is high so the angle cannot be adjusted by a wheelie. There were no grab rails either by the toilet or in the bath. Towel racks were above the toilet and quite high although I could reach them from my chair.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Restaurant (Cornucopia)
Cornucopia on 19 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2 is a small popular vegetarian restaurant/cafe. It is located to the main shopping area of Grafton Street, and not far from popular Temple bar area for nightlife.
This is a small place - 48 seats or so, and the tables are tightly packed. Access from the street is over a small, slightly ramped step. There is another step into the cafe area, again this has a small ramp. Neither should be a problem for wheelchairs.
Moving around inside the cafe is nearly impossible in a wheelchair. The staff are friendly and helpful but it's better if you have a walkie friend who can go to the self-serve counter for you.
At the time of writing there is a plan to expand into the adjoining building which might add some space.
There are no accessible toilets.
This is a small place - 48 seats or so, and the tables are tightly packed. Access from the street is over a small, slightly ramped step. There is another step into the cafe area, again this has a small ramp. Neither should be a problem for wheelchairs.
Moving around inside the cafe is nearly impossible in a wheelchair. The staff are friendly and helpful but it's better if you have a walkie friend who can go to the self-serve counter for you.
At the time of writing there is a plan to expand into the adjoining building which might add some space.
There are no accessible toilets.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil - Restaurant (Villa d'Aldeia)
The Villa d'Aldeia is an upmarket churrascaria by Colinas shopping centre in Sao Jose dos Campos, about 90km North East of Sao Paulo. It is a food lovers paradise, and offers rodizio service complete with a little dial on the table with a green side and a red side.
There is valet parking. A ramp leads from street level to the doors. Access from there is completely level. There are accessible toilets. The restaruant is large with plenty of space to move between the tables. The salad is a buffet. The staff will help you get your salad plate if required. My only advice is to avoid filling up on salad (hard to do as the selections and quiality is superb) to save room for the vast selection of meats that will be offered to you during the meal.
Strongly recommended.
There is valet parking. A ramp leads from street level to the doors. Access from there is completely level. There are accessible toilets. The restaruant is large with plenty of space to move between the tables. The salad is a buffet. The staff will help you get your salad plate if required. My only advice is to avoid filling up on salad (hard to do as the selections and quiality is superb) to save room for the vast selection of meats that will be offered to you during the meal.
Strongly recommended.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Sao Jose Dos Campos, Brazil - Hotel (IBIS Colinas)
IBIS Colinas - Av. Dr. Jorge Zarur, 81, torre I, Jd. Apolo, São José dos Campos, Sao Paulo, Brazil
There are steps up to the front door, with a steep ramp. It is easier to go to the entrance of the adjacent Mercure hotel and wheel the 20m or so back to the door of the IBIS.
There is level access throughout the lobby and breakfast area of the IBIS with large handicapped toilet off the lobby.
Handicapped room is on the first floor (the lift/elevator is of adequate size). Like all IBIS hotels, the room is compact with little space for maneuver but it is fine. There is enough room (~1m/3.3ft) between bed and wall and bed and built in furniture. Workdesk is at a comfortable height. Sockets are at chest height (sitting) but slightly difficult to reach. Closet has a bar at a comfortable height for hanging shirts etc. Light switches are by the bed and easy to reach.
The bed (queen size) is at a perfect height for transfers and is comfortable.
Air conditioning unit is operated by a remote control, but it is stored in a hanger that may be too high on the wall for some wheelies to reach. Once removed from the clip, of course, they can be used with ease. TV remote control stored by TV at comfortable height.
Bathroom is large with plenty of turn space. Ample knee room under sink. Slanted mirrors make for easy viewing when seated. Toilet is on a raised plinth and easily accessible for a 90° transfer. Grab rails well positioned.
The shower is a three-walled cubicle with a fold up, sturdy, shower seat mounted on the right hand wall as you face into the cubicle for a 90° transfer. Shower controls are easy to reach. The shower rose is mounted directly on the ceiling and cannot be adjusted for direction. The grab rails are placed in completely the wrong location, also on the right hand wall. This means that when you are sitting on the seat, the grab rail presses into your back making it very difficult to balance and move. When sitting on the seat it is difficult to position your body to capture the main flow of water from the shower. Unless you have a companion to assist, showering is a difficult affair. I found I had to sit at an angle on the seat and hang on to the grab rail with one hand at all times. Transferring to and from the chair is easy enough.
Buffet breakfast is fine, and the staff are very friendly and will help with carrying trays etc. There is no lunch or dinner service (although there is an accessible restaurant in the next door Mercure) but there is a bar and snacks and limited range of sandwiches are served all day. The nearby Colinas shopping centre has shopping, food and an excellent chascurria, all with good wheelchair access. It is possible to walk to the shopping centre although you have to cross a few busy roads to get there (pedestrian crossings are plentiful).
Despite the difficulty of showering this IBIS is more comfortable from a wheelchair access point of view than the alternative IBIS in SJC. If you are ambulant disabled then it is fine.
The IBIS hotels are the only hotels I know of in SJC with handicapped rooms available. If anyone knows otherwise please leave a comment to let me know!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - restaurant (L'Ecrivain)
L'Ecrivain is one of the top Dublin restaurants. Unfortunately, if you are in a wheelchair you will not get to enjoy it. Although the front entrance is ramped, the main dining room is up a flight of stairs. The staff have offered to carry me up but this is the 21st century and I'm really kind of past that level of risk and embarrassment. with so many other dining options available.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Restaurant (Mint)
Update (June 3 2009):
This restaurant is now gone out of business. Not surprising given it's high costs and the economic downturn. A pity though!
Mint is widely recognized as one of the finest restaurants in Dublin in 2008 and earned a Michelin star in that year.
It is located in Ranelagh, Dublin, in a simple small room. Access from the street is level, with a gentle internal ramp to the dining room. The small dining room has tables closely positioned with a wide walk way in the middle so negotiating to your table is not difficult. There is a fully accessible, large unisex toilet. However, getting to the toilet may involve negotiating an obstacle course of chairs and miscellaneous item of furniture placed in the corridor. The helpful staff will move anything that needs moving however.
Normally I confine my notes to the wheelchair accessibility of a restaurant - I am not a food critic after all. However, I feel compelled to add that the meal we had there was exceptional. An epic culinary masterpiece that I can still taste. The prices are astronomical (but you can visit their website and view the menu so you don't get too much of a shock) but this is theater, art and first class food all in one. We had the tasting menu with wine and were blown away by each course. Prior to this the best meal I had ever eaten was in Petrus in Hong Kong in 2001 (see here for my access notes from that trip) but Mint has surpassed it.
Accessible and fabulous - highly recommended.
This restaurant is now gone out of business. Not surprising given it's high costs and the economic downturn. A pity though!
Mint is widely recognized as one of the finest restaurants in Dublin in 2008 and earned a Michelin star in that year.
It is located in Ranelagh, Dublin, in a simple small room. Access from the street is level, with a gentle internal ramp to the dining room. The small dining room has tables closely positioned with a wide walk way in the middle so negotiating to your table is not difficult. There is a fully accessible, large unisex toilet. However, getting to the toilet may involve negotiating an obstacle course of chairs and miscellaneous item of furniture placed in the corridor. The helpful staff will move anything that needs moving however.
Normally I confine my notes to the wheelchair accessibility of a restaurant - I am not a food critic after all. However, I feel compelled to add that the meal we had there was exceptional. An epic culinary masterpiece that I can still taste. The prices are astronomical (but you can visit their website and view the menu so you don't get too much of a shock) but this is theater, art and first class food all in one. We had the tasting menu with wine and were blown away by each course. Prior to this the best meal I had ever eaten was in Petrus in Hong Kong in 2001 (see here for my access notes from that trip) but Mint has surpassed it.
Accessible and fabulous - highly recommended.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Dublin, Ireland - Pub (The Temple Bar)
The Temple Bar Pub is located, not surprisingly, in Temple Bar in Dublin city centre.
The Temple Bar area is difficult to get around in a wheelchair. The streets are old and mostly cobbled, and the sidewalks are broken and have many lob-sided and ill fitting slabs. Although this is all part of the charm, it means that us wheelchair users have to travel slowly and take great care.
The Temple Bar Pub is centrally located and is a good venue for fine Guinness and live music. It is immensely popular with both locals and tourists so is usually crowded. There are three doors from the street and each one is accessible. Getting around inside the pub is fine if there are not too many people but on a Friday night it is near impossible. If you have not experienced an Irish pub in full swing then you should consider visiting at off-peak times.
There is a large handicapped accessible toilet but it is not well marked and is separate from the other toilets (which are downstairs). In addition, the handicapped toilet is sometimes locked to prevent abuse. So the best bet is to ask a staff member to point it our to you.
Recommended.
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