For most people hopping on a train or bus takes little thought, but for those with limited mobility, who are in wheelchairs, on crutches or are unsteady on their feet, it can be a nightmare. Many European countries realize this fact and have created programs and more accessibility in travel to those with limited mobility and disabilities.
The Council of Europe created a means of monitoring national policy for the disabled, so that the country can be traveled more easily by everyone, not just those without disabilities. A site was launched, EuropeforAll.com, just for people who need accessibility information before they travel. The site provides information for foreign visitors with disabilities as well as for over 50 million disabled Europeans.
This informative site, developed with the backing of the European Commission, offers a destination finder for countries including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, Norway, Slovakia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The finder will also filter on cities, towns, regions, cafes, restaurants, Tourism offices, accommodations, shops, attractions, conferences and exhibitions that are all deemed handicap accessible. You may also choose to do a free text search to find specific details on a certain place or venue. The site is labeled with a Venue Assessment Level according to the degree of accessibility offered by each location in its database.
Not all European countries are on board for accessibility as of yet, but more and more are being added every year. Check on EuropeforAll.com, to see new countries, cities and towns that have been added. For now, plan to visit the countries listed above, which are already on board and can offer you the accessible services you require and deserve. The site will perform a full accessibility audit on enterprises that want to be certified, based on an exacting standard, once complete their information is then provided on the website for visitors to access. With this helpful resource you should be able to find your way around the countries in Europe that have proper accessibility.
When making your plans to visit Europe, be sure to add getting a travel insurance policy to your list. Even under the best of circumstances, accidents and injuries can happen. If you have limited mobility or a disability, it can be even more important that you are covered financially in the event that you fall or are injured during your trip abroad. A good travel medical insurance policy will cover your medical expenses and medical transport in the event you need to be evacuated to obtain additional medical services. Travel insurance will be the least of your travel expenses, but offer you the greatest peace of mind during your European vacation.