Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A lack of mobility should not deter you from traveling to Vancouver and Victoria, but you
should definitely do some research before leaving home.
If you haven't traveled extensively, start by doing some online research.
Flying Wheels
Travel
(507/451-5005 or 877/451-5006,
www.flyingwheelstravel.com
)
caters solely to the
needs of travelers with disabilities. The
Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality
(212/447-7284,
www.sath.org
) supplies information on tour operators, vehicle rentals,
specific destinations, and companion services. For frequent travelers, the annual mem-
bership fee (adult US$49, senior US$29) is well worthwhile.
Emerging Horizons
(
www.emerginghorizons.com
)
is a U.S. quarterly online magazine dedicated to travelers
with special needs.
Access to Travel
(800/465-7735,
www.accesstotravel.gc.ca
) is an initiative of the Ca-
nadian government that includes information on travel within and between Canadian cities,
including Victoria. The website also has a lot of general travel information for those with
disabilities. The
Canadian National Institute for the Blind
(800/563-2642,
www.cnib.ca
)
offers a wide range of services from its Vancouver office (604/431-2121). Finally, the
Ca-
nadian Paraplegic Association
(613/723-1033 or 877/324-3611,
www.canparaplegic.org
)
,
with a chapter office in Vancouver, is another good source of information.
Regardless of whether you're traveling with toddlers or teens, you will come upon decisions
affecting everything from where you stay to your choice of activities. Luckily for you, Van-
couver and Victoria are very family-friendly, with a variety of indoor and outdoor attrac-
tions aimed specifically at the younger generation.
Admission and tour prices for children are included throughout the destination chapters
of this topic. As a general rule, these reduced prices are for children aged 6-16 years. For
two adults and two or more children, always ask about family tickets. Children under 6
nearly always get in free. Most hotels and motels will happily accommodate children, but
always try to reserve your room in advance and let the reservations desk know the ages
of your kids. Often, children stay free in major hotels, and in the case of some major
chains—such as Holiday Inn—eat free also. Generally, bed-and-breakfasts aren't suitable
for children and in some cases don't accept kids at all. Ask ahead.
As a general rule when it comes to traveling with children, let them help you plan the
trip, looking at websites and reading up on the province together. To make your vacation
more enjoyable if you'll be spending a lot of time on the road, rent a minivan (major rental
Search WWH ::
Custom Search