THE HUMILIATION OF NAVIGATING AN INACCESSIBLE WORLD: Progress in inclusion and what still needs to be done

BY G. GILLCHREST

Travel has always been something I’ve cherished. The excitement of visiting new places, meeting different people, and experiencing cultures beyond my own has been a lifelong joy. But as a 57-year-old wheelchair user, the way I experience travel now is vastly different from my earlier years. What used to be spontaneous and liberating has, over time, become a source of stress, frustration, and sadly, at times, humiliation.

Though I’ve seen some positive changes toward more inclusive travel, the road is still long. Too often, traveling with a disability can make you feel as though you’re not valued—or worse, invisible.

The Pain of Navigating an Inaccessible World

In my years of traveling with a wheelchair, I’ve had to deal with a multitude of barriers that most people don’t even think twice about. What should be simple—boarding a plane, checking into a hotel, or catching a bus—becomes a series of hurdles that can quickly turn a trip into a nightmare. Here are just a few of the ways travel has been humiliating for me and many others who live with disabilities:

1. Inadequate Facilities: One of the biggest sources of frustration is that, despite all the talk of inclusivity, many places remain woefully unequipped for people like me. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been stuck waiting for an elevator that’s out of order or non-existent, or forced to ask for help when a ramp is too steep, or a bathroom is too small to navigate. Asking for help feels like losing my independence—and every time, it’s a reminder that the world wasn’t built with people like me in mind.

2. Discrimination and Stereotypes: Perhaps even worse than physical barriers is the way people look at you or treat you when you’re in a wheelchair. On more than one occasion, I’ve been spoken to as if I couldn’t make decisions for myself. Sometimes, people talk over me to the person I’m traveling with, assuming I’m not capable of answering for myself. And if your disability isn’t obvious, the suspicion or outright disbelief when you ask for help can feel deeply dehumanising.

3. Mishandling of Mobility Devices: When you’re in a wheelchair, your chair is your lifeline—it’s not just a piece of luggage. But airlines don’t always see it that way. There’s a well-documented history of airlines damaging or losing wheelchairs, and I’ve unfortunately been one of the unlucky ones. On one trip, my wheelchair arrived with a broken wheel, and I had to wait days before it could be repaired. In those moments, you’re completely at the mercy of others, and that loss of autonomy is a constant source of anxiety whenever I fly.

4. Over-reliance on Others: Traveling alone used to be one of my favourite ways to explore the world, but now, I have to rely on others far more than I’d like. Whether it’s needing assistance to board a plane or help navigating a busy city street, I’ve had to come to terms with a dependence I never wanted. And when that assistance is delayed or begrudgingly given, it leaves you feeling like a burden—a feeling I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

5. Lack of Accessible Information: For people with disabilities, getting the right information—whether it’s about accessible routes or facilities—is often a guessing game. So many places don’t provide clear information on accessibility, and it’s frustrating to arrive at a location, only to realise it’s not as accessible as promised. You end up wasting time and energy—and in some cases, money—on accommodations that should have been avoided in the first place.

Examples of Inclusion: The Glimmers of Hope

Despite these challenges, I must admit that there have been moments that reminded me that inclusive travel isn’t just a dream. There are places, companies, and organisations that have taken accessibility seriously, and they offer a glimpse of what the future could hold.

1. The European Union’s Accessibility Regulations: Traveling in parts of Europe has been a breath of fresh air compared to other regions. Many countries in the EU are ahead of the curve when it comes to making transportation accessible. I’ve had positive experiences navigating public transport in cities like Vienna and Berlin, where buses and trains are equipped for wheelchair users. These places make me feel like I’m part of the world, rather than an afterthought.

2. Disney Theme Parks: I’ll never forget the first time I visited a Disney park after becoming a wheelchair user. I was blown away by the level of thought and care that went into making the parks accessible. The Disability Access Service (DAS) allowed me to enjoy the park with far less stress, and the staff were always respectful and accommodating. It made me feel like I was welcome, not just tolerated.

3. Specialised Tour Operators: Over the years, I’ve discovered companies that specialise in accessible travel, like Accessible Travel Solutions. These companies provide a level of care and attention to detail that makes travel feel possible again. Whether it’s finding wheelchair-accessible hotels or organising tours that take my needs into account, they’ve opened doors that might otherwise have been closed.

4. Progressive Airlines: While many airlines still struggle with accessibility, there are a few, like Virgin Atlantic, that have made meaningful changes. Their staff have been respectful and well-trained in handling mobility aids, and they offer pre-boarding assistance without making me feel like I’m asking for too much. It’s a start, but there’s still more that could be done.

What Still Needs to Be Done

While these examples of inclusion are encouraging, they’re not the norm. There’s still so much work to be done to make travel truly accessible for all. Here are a few things I believe would make a world of difference:

1. Global Accessibility Standards: One of the biggest issues is the lack of consistency across countries. What counts as "accessible" in one place might be very different in another. We need global standards that ensure accessible infrastructure everywhere—so I don’t have to guess whether I’ll be able to move freely in a new destination.

2. Better Training for Staff: There’s no excuse for staff at airlines, hotels, or tourist attractions to not understand the needs of people with disabilities. We need better training programs to ensure staff know how to assist without making us feel like we’re an inconvenience. A little empathy goes a long way.

3. Investment in Infrastructure: It’s one thing to put a ramp somewhere, but true accessibility means going beyond the bare minimum. We need more investment in making every part of the travel experience inclusive—from public transport to entertainment venues. We’re not asking for special treatment; we’re asking for equal access.

4. Accessible Technology: Technology offers so many opportunities to make travel easier for people with disabilities. Imagine apps that could give real-time information about accessible routes, or digital kiosks that offer options in formats that work for people with visual or hearing impairments. The technology exists—it just needs to be applied more broadly.

5. Encouraging Inclusive Tourism: The tourism industry could do more to promote inclusive travel. Governments and companies should work together to offer incentives to businesses that prioritize accessibility and highlight destinations that are genuinely inclusive. This would send a clear message that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to explore the world.

Conclusion

As a 57-year-old wheelchair user, I know firsthand how travel can be both uplifting and degrading. While I appreciate the freedom that comes with seeing the world, it’s hard to ignore the moments of humiliation that come with inaccessibility. Yet, I remain hopeful. The examples of progress that I’ve experienced show that inclusion is possible, and it’s a goal we should all strive for. With continued efforts and a focus on true accessibility, travel can one day be a joyful experience for everyone, no matter their abilities.