TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Hotels

Rosie Roaming: Learn Through Real Travels of Disabled Content Creators

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By Rosie Dunn

Rosie Dunn smiling and holding up a U.S. passport, wearing a black tank top and gold necklace against a pink background.

Rosie Dunn is a content creator and travel writer who shares online about her travels and experiences as a full-time manual wheelchair user of over 20 years. Rosie has been to 39 states and 20 countries. Her passions include inclusive and stylish design, hotel and resort accessibility, connecting with other disabled women, exploring new places, travel photography, and disability representation. She has earned a B.A. from The University of Notre Dame and a MSc in Disability Studies from University College Dublin. Rosie is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Belmont University in her hometown of Nashville, TN. She will be doing her doctoral capstone in inclusive design. 

@RosieRoaming

Wheelchair Travel Tips

✈️ navigating life & travel on wheels

🗺️ 20 countries, 39 states & counting

My Best & Worst Experiences In Europe So Far

I’ve traveled to 16 countries in Europe in my wheelchair- here are some of my best and worst experiences so far. There are so many great things to see in Europe, so picking “bests” can be subjective. Also, my bad experiences don’t mean the cities aren’t necessarily worth visiting if you’re a wheelchair user!

Worst “Shower Chair”: Hotel Zermama

Reclined lounge-style chair placed inside a hotel shower stall, positioned away from the controls and illustrating an inappropriate and unsafe substitute for a proper shower chair.

My mom and I stayed at Hotel Zermama in Zermatt, Switzerland. We enjoyed our stay, except for their shower accommodations. As a “shower chair”, the hotel provided me with what was clearly a lounge chair. It was in no way appropriate for me to use as a shower chair – it was reclined and the only orientation that it could fit in the shower was facing away from the controls and soaps. When I got to the hotel and saw the monstrosity that they put in my shower, I hopped in to take photos to send to my friends and share with my followers, because it looked absolutely ridiculous. When I was transferring back into my wheelchair, the “shower chair” tipped over and I fell to the ground. Thankfully, I was not injured. I have been using a shower chair for over a decade and this is the first time I’ve ever fallen in the shower. Later that night, I had to take a shower, and had no other choice but to use the shower chair. I did not fall, but I had to have my mom’s assistance with showering because I couldn’t reach anything or transfer safely without her help. This is nowhere near the first time I have encountered an inadequate shower setup when traveling, but it is the most ridiculous.  

Simple shower chairs with a back are easily available for purchase for $60 on Amazon. I do not see an excuse for every hotel to have at least 2 of these for their guests to use. I am a paying customer and should be able to safely take a shower at a hotel! I am tired of poor design and a lack of consideration preventing me from showering independently when I travel. I shouldn’t have to have the help of my mom when a design change (or $60 purchase for a hotel) could completely prevent this outcome and give me some dignity back. Thankfully, I am comfortable with my mom helping me (although it is incredibly frustrating to need her help)- but if I was traveling with anyone else, or alone, I wouldn’t be able to shower safely…

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From the Castle to the Galaxy: The Florida Rental Redefining Accessible Travel

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A collage showcases an accessible vacation rental with Star Wars-themed rooms, including adaptive equipment beside twin beds inspired by the franchise. Additional images show the home’s pool area with a lift, exterior entrance, living room, and entertainment room.

According to Vermont’s Short Term Rental Alliance, over 40% of all travelers prefer to use platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com for accommodation versus looking for a traditional hotel. Unfortunately, even with the rise in preference, accessibility tends to lag behind. Short term renters are often leery of mislabeling their home as accessible, or they don’t understand what that label should mean. The result is an extreme deficit in the availability of accessible short term rentals. Finding an accessible home can feel like wishing upon a star, but this Disney-themed fully accessible Florida home is where the wish actually comes true.

WarHorse by FunStay Homes at Windsor Hills is the perfect destination for all families, especially those seeking affordable, handicap-accessible accommodations for a group of 8 or fewer. Less than three miles from Disney World, and filled with fun surprises like a Star Wars laser tag and game room and a Mickey bathroom, the home is fully wheelchair accessible and includes amenities like:

• Wheelchair ramp into game room

• Custom-built laser tag games designed to accessible standards

• Private, heated pool/spa (equipped with ADA Scout 2 lift and pool lift chair)

• ADA-compliant concrete ramp leading to the 36” front door

• ADA wet bath with roll-in shower

• ADA-height oblong toilet with two drop-down grab rails

• ADA bathroom sink

• 36” swinging “butler” door for bedroom access (from hall)

• 36” swinging “butler” door for bathroom access (from bedroom)

• Tile floor in accessible bedroom

• Flexabed 185 Hi-Low Series SL twin beds – fully adjustable bed with head, foot, and hi-lo height adjustability from 16.5” to 27”

• Threshold ramp for outside access to pool area

• Scout 2 ADA pool/spa lift

• Golden Technologies Cloud PR-515 MaxiComfort with Twilight infinite position lift chair

• Battery-operated Hoyer Advance e340 patient lift (must bring own sling)

• 36” doors for garage access

• Threshold ramp for access to garage Star Wars arena

Even better than accessible magic? All of this information is available right on their website, along with plenty of pictures to help you determine if the accessible amenities meet your needs.

Sweet Home Alabama: Discovering Wheelchair Accessible Gulf Shores

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When I arrived in Gulf Shores for the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism, I knew I’d be talking about accessibility — but what I didn’t realize was how much Alabama itself would teach me about hospitality, community, and joy.

From start to finish, this trip was an incredible blend of meaningful conversation and unforgettable coastal adventure.

The Heart Behind Alabama Tourism

It’s impossible to talk about this trip without mentioning Patti Culp, whose warmth and leadership set the tone for the entire conference. Patti embodies Southern hospitality — thoughtful, genuine, and deeply committed to moving Alabama tourism forward in a way that includes everyone.

And then there’s Kay Maghan from Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, who created an itinerary that showcased the very best of the Gulf Coast. Every stop was intentional — not just beautiful, but accessible and inclusive. You can see our full itinerary here.

The Lodge at Gulf State Park: Where Accessibility Meets Sustainability

Our home for the week, The Lodge at Gulf State Park, is more than a hotel — it’s a model for what modern, accessible, and sustainable travel can be. Wide pathways, accessible rooms, and thoughtful beach access meant I could fully participate in every experience.

There’s something special about watching the sunrise from a place that feels designed with everyone in mind.

Accessible Adventures in the Sand

One of my favorite parts of the trip was exploring the beach with my Freedom Trax, and of course, my service dog, Gulliver, by my side. We built sand sculptures, made new friends, and even tried our hand at fishing (Gulliver was very interested in the catch!).

These moments capture what accessibility is really about — participation, joy, and choice. It’s not just being there; it’s being part of it all.

Creative Inspiration at The Hot Shop

Another highlight was our visit to The Hot Shop in Orange Beach — a glassblowing studio where we got to design and create our own pieces. Accessibility here wasn’t just physical; it was creative. Everyone was welcomed, encouraged, and guided through the artistic process. Watching my son, Timothy, focus intently on his colorful creation was one of those proud mom moments I’ll treasure.

Wild Encounters and Wonderful People

At the Coastal Alabama Center for Ecotourism, Timothy met an owl — and judging by the smile on his face, I’m pretty sure that moment made his whole trip. Experiences like these make travel not only educational, but transformative.

I had the chance to meet Miss America during the conference! Her grace and kindness were the perfect reminder that leadership and advocacy come in all forms — and that inclusion is beautiful at every level.

Reflecting on an Accessible Gulf Coast

This trip reminded me that accessibility doesn’t take away from the experience — it enhances it. When destinations make inclusion a priority, they don’t just open doors for travelers with disabilities; they enrich the entire community.

Thank you, Alabama, for showing what’s possible when hospitality meets heart.

Thank you, Patti, Kay, and everyone who made this trip unforgettable.

And thank you, Gulf Shores — for the sunshine, the memories, and the hope that every beach can be for everybody.

Practical Hack from the Accessibility Playbook: Welcoming the Aging Traveler

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The needs of the aging traveler often mirror those of disabled travelers, yet many older adults are less likely to ask for assistance or identify as disabled. This excerpt from the Accessibility Playbook goes over how to welcome the aging traveler. Before moving on, take this 3 question quiz to test your knowledge!

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To better support this growing segment, keep the following principles in mind:

Recognize diverse needs: Consider mobility, hearing, cognitive, and visual changes that may arise with age.

Prioritize respectful communication: Train staff to offer assistance without making assumptions and to recognize signs of anxiety or confusion.

Be transparent about accessibility: Clearly communicate which features are available and use visible signage and intuitive wayfinding.

Offer simple, supportive tools: Ensure digital tools are user-friendly and secure. Provide low-tech options and human assistance for travelers who may hesitate with technology.

Focus on empowerment, not special treatment: Thoughtful, simple accommodations improve satisfaction and strengthen your reputation.

Design for dignity: Move away from one-size-fits-all experiences. Encourage planning ahead, suggest shorter and well-structured itineraries, and promote airport “meet-and-assist” programs.

55% of older travelers are interested in curated travel experiences once they learn about them

The Aging Traveler: Obstacle’s and Solutions

Planning

ObstacleSolution
Unclear accessibility information makes older adults less likely to travel.Provide clear, detailed information about accessibility (steps, elevators, seats, bathrooms).
Uncertainty about airport help deters some from flying altogether.Provide information on the time it takes to travel from check-in to the gate at the airport, as well as the services available.
Uncertainty about refunds makes booking in advance a risk.Provide cost comparisons across platforms and clear, easily accessible cancellation/refund policies.
App-centric booking can be a barrier for older adults who prefer websites.Provide user-friendly interfaces with simple navigation and clear instructions on where to click and book.
Aversion to technology due to concerns about scams and data breaches.Provide education about online safety, clear fraud safeguards, and phone support.
Challenges using online platforms to book transportation and activities.Develop and promote curated travel experiences tailored to their preferences and needs.
Difficulty finding hotels that match specific needs and preferences.Provide enhanced search and filter options (pet-friendly, ground-floor room, grab bars in bathrooms).

94% of older travelers who have used AI for travel planning have found it useful.


Flying

ObstacleSolution
Difficulty getting through security (33%)Improved workforce: provide special TSA lines and allow more time (60%).
Difficulty getting from parking to the airport (33%) or to the gate (32%)Greater access to wheelchairs/motorized carts (52%).
Difficulty understanding announcements (21% among the 65% with hearing loss)Provide designated assistance desks where travelers can check for updated information and receive personalized help.
Difficulty waiting to board at the gate (15%)Offer check-in assistance (43%).

It’s hard for us to fly without precheck – it’s tiring to take off shoes and unpack bags. We’ve forgotten our suitcases after the hassle of putting our shoes back on.

Hotels

ObstacleSolution
Difficulty handling luggage (36%)Offer assistance (44%).
Difficulty entering the establishment (18%)Ensure step-free entry and automatic doors; offer porter assistance.
Difficulty getting in and out of the bathroom (17%)Install grab bars, walk-in showers, and non-slip flooring in accessible rooms.
Difficulty bathing (20%)Provide special rooms with accessible bathrooms and safety features (47%).
General discomfort due to age-related sensitivitiesOffer early check-in and room features that prioritize comfort such as ergonomic bedding and adjustable climate control.
Gaps in staff preparedness to accommodate older travelersTrain staff on how to identify and support guests who require accommodations (36%).

The biggest challenge is comfort. As we’ve aged, our bodies are less tolerant of discomfort and the resulting aches and pains. It can really ruin your travel

Community News

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New Wheel the World verifications, accessibility awards, and TravelAbility partners highlighted as they lead the way in welcoming through accessibility

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