Tourism

WHAT WOULD YOU DO? SCENARIO #4

Each month we try to address various accessibility issues that may arise with the TravelAbility community. 

A group from the Blind Seniors Association will be attending a conference in your destination and have inquired what there is to do for them on their free day. How would you go about researching and finding this information?

Responses:

Tom Babinszki, blind travel blogger

This can get quite time consuming, as I’m finding that accessibility information is often not available. I would look for events, exhibits, concerts, museums, etc. I would check if the venue has accessibility information on their site, and if it is sufficient. Otherwise, I would just contact the places I find interesting. Oftentimes you may be surprised that there is more accessibility than what they tell you about on the web site.

Natasha Dillinger, Seattle-based mom and content creator

Be proactive and hire a local blind person, or content creator, to work with you on accessible itinerary options, like this Seattle site.

Tami Reist, President/CEO, Alabama MountainLakes Tourist Association

1. Outdoor experiences

Lake Guntersville State Park:Offers accessible trails and sensory experiences, such as the sounds of birds and water.

Monte Sano State Park:The park has accessible picnic areas and sensory gardens where the textures and scents of plants can be enjoyed.

  2. Music and Cultural Events

Alabama Music Hall of Fame (Tuscumbia): Enjoy guided tours with descriptions of music history and audio experiences.

    Helen Keller Birthplace: Experience the history of Helen Keller through tactile exhibits and guided storytelling.

 3. Dining and Social Experiences

   Local Cafés and Restaurants: Enjoy the rich Southern cuisine with friends or family. Many establishments are happy to accommodate special needs.

   Farmers Markets:These provide an opportunity to enjoy the fresh smells and textures of locally grown produce.

4.Community Centers and Clubs

  Senior Centers

Many offer social activities, like music nights, storytelling sessions, and group outings, specifically designed to be inclusive for people with disabilities.

   Church Groups: Many churches in the area have programs and gatherings that cater to seniors, providing a sense of community and belonging.

5. Historical Tours

   Guided Audio Tours: Many historical sites in North Alabama offer audio tours, allowing a blind person to enjoy the rich history of the region through detailed descriptions.

6. Art and Craft Workshops

   Tactile Art Classes:Some community art centers offer classes where participants can create art through touch, such as pottery or textile crafts.

 These activities can provide an enriching and enjoyable experience for a senior blind person, allowing them to connect with the beauty and culture of North Alabama in a meaningful way.

Hilda Dunford, blindness advocate and mom

We call each place we hope to visit and ask what accommodations they have for someone who is blind.

Jason Holic, CDME, Sr. Vice President of Operations & Community Engagement, Experience Kissimmee 

I would reach out to Lighthouse Central Florida (https://lighthousecfl.org/). They are a non-profit partner of Experience Kissimmee that specializes in teaching independent living skills to those with vision loss or low vision in the Central Florida area, including Osceola County. Tapping into their network of resources would provide plenty of insights and ideas. I would also reach out to the Greater Orlando Council of the Blind (https://www.fcb.org/GOCB) for additional thoughts.