Tips for Traveling Independently When You're Disabled
These days, more and more individuals with disabilities are deciding to travel alone, and the travel industry is paying attention, especially in Florida. Almost all hotels, restaurants, modes of transportation, and attractions in Orlando comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and make certain those who need the help of wheelchairs and scooters are able to get where they need to go and do what they need to do safely and easily.
In a perfect world, you wouldn't have to wonder if the particular hotel or rental car offers these accommodations, but it's important that you don't simply assume they do. By taking the following steps, you can ensure you can have the independent vacation you've always wanted.
Tips for Traveling to Florida Independently
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Always Call Ahead- While the ADA may make it a requirement for places in Florida to accommodate your disabilities, some of these locations will need to make arrangements beforehand. Call ahead of time, preferably when you're making the reservation and about 48 hours before you're expected to arrive, to confirm that the accommodations you need will be available.
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Be Specific- Keep in mind that not all service providers in Florida are going to know the lingo of traveling with a disability- or medical terms. Describe your condition in simple terms and explain it as thoroughly as possible so they know exactly what you'll need. Never downplay your issues.
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Your Doctor- Always inform your doctor about your trip, and be sure to get a note and a phone number from him or her before you leave. The note should include information about your disability or injury, any medications you are on, and special needs you may have.
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Choose a Scooter- While you may get around fine at home with the help of a regular wheelchair, when you're visiting Florida, consider an Orlando scooter rental. Scooters are powered, so you won't wear out as quickly, and you'll be able to enjoy the many adventures you plan to have. Scooters also allow you to remain completely independent. If you become tired halfway through a theme park, it will be easy for you to navigate your way out because you won't have to do any pushing.
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Don't Forget Transport- If you've made arrangements for your Orlando scooter rental to be delivered to your hotel, make sure you didn't forget about transport to and from the airport. If your disability or injury is severe enough that you cannot walk at all, you might need the help of your own wheelchair for transport or may need to rethink your arrangements for the Orlando scooter rental.
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Carry Medical Information- Medical information should always be on you at all times, and should be in a location where it will be easily seen by a medical professional who may have to help you. This information can be in the form of a necklace, bracelet, or even a wallet card.
Want to maintain your independence while traveling to Orlando, Florida? Always call ahead, use a scooter, and don't forget to think carefully about how you'll get from one place to another as soon as you plane lands.
Want Fun in Orlando Outside a Theme Park? 4 Attractions You'll Love
In the past, we've talked a lot about having fun during your Florida vacation when you're renting an Orlando mobility scooter. Most of that fun has been centered around the many different theme parks in this area, and why shouldn't it be? Many families who visit consider these parks to be the best of the best, and individuals travel from all around the world for the opportunity to experience their excitement.There's much more to Orlando than just theme parks though. You and your family can have plenty of fun when you're done riding roller coasters and taking pictures with your favorite cartoon characters, (and of course getting their autograph.) There are a variety of fun opportunities in and around Orlando that are readily available and completely accessible for those who use electric scooters.
Fun Outside the Theme Park
So, what fun can you expect outside a theme park?
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Slueth's Mystery Dinner Shows- Enjoy a comedy mystery show where you and your family can become detectives and solve crimes. This dinner show lasts for 2 and a half hours and is performed live while you enjoy a delicious dinner. You'll be given clues about the crime, be given the opportunity to interrogate the suspects, and you may even be chosen to play a cameo role in the mystery! Every aspect of the show is completely accessible to your electric scooter, so you'll be able to completely enjoy the show without worrying about anything at all.
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La Nouba- You may have seen the movie, but there's nothing like experiencing Cirque du Soleil in real life. Each performance contains mesmerizing feats and breathtaking acrobatics, all choreographed perfectly for a magical experience you'll only find in Downtown Disney. The theater is accessible to Orlando mobility scooters, and, if you're staying at the Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, you can reach the theater by boat or bus so you don't have to worry about parking.
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Gray Line of Orlando- Eager to swim with the dolphins? Visit the Kennedy Space Center? See a real alligator? The Gray Line of Orlando is a sightseeing company that will help you truly experience Florida. Pickups are available in all areas, and wheelchair accessible vehicles are used so you can truly enjoy the tour.
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Brevard Zoo- There's nothing quite seeing nature in all its beauty, especially when it comes to the unique and beautiful wildlife found at the Brevard Zoo. Here you can feed a giraffe, make contact (safely) with a colossal rhino, and even stoke a baby gator's scales. It will be like nothing you've ever experienced before, and it's entirely accessible to your electric scooter.
Want to enjoy some fun in the sun in Florida, but don't want to spend every waking moment in a theme park? No problem! There are plenty of exciting and Orlando mobility scooter friendly attractions you can take part in that will completely change the way you think about Florida and your vacation.
Kennedy Space Center Accommodations for Mobility Scooters Users
Planning your vacation to Orlando? If you're interested in seeing everything this locale has to offer, one of the most exciting places you can visit is the Kennedy Space Center. Since the 1960s, this spaceport has hosted a number of manned spaceflights, and while the shuttle program ended in 2011, it remains an unmanned flight center with three pads at the Air Force Station in Cape Canaveral. Its visitor's complex plays host to 1.5 million visitors each year and offers a range of films and exhibits that make history come alive.
The visitors complex is what you'll enjoy when you plan a trip to the Kennedy Space Center, and it can be quite exciting. If you're using an Orlando scooter rental, though, you may be wondering if you'll be able to take part in everything the center has to offer. The short answer is yes. Kennedy Space Center's visitor complex provides a number of ADA services that will make your visit an enjoyable one.
Kennedy Space Center and Your Mobility Scooter
So, what all does the visitor complex offer for those using mobility scooters?
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Accessible Parking- For a small fee, ($10 for most vehicles,) accessible parking is readily available. As a guest with disabilities, you will still need to pay this fee, but you can visit any ticket window for a temporary disabled parking permit. This will provide you with more accessible parking options.
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Transportation- Tour buses at the Kennedy Space Center are all equipped with lifts that are wheelchair accessible. You can request to use these lifts at the ticket window or when at the boarding location. In addition, you also have the option of transferring out of your mobility scooter and onto the bus, then picking up your scooter at the destination.
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Theater Access- Visiting the IMAX Theater within the visitor center is an amazing experience, and easy to do, even in a mobility scooter. Ground level entrances are available, and lifts are also in place if you would like to watch the even from an upper seating location. Companion seating is available as well.
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Restrooms- Accessible restrooms are available at the visitor complex for those using Orlando scooter rentals and any guest with disabilities. If you need assistance from your family, the visitor guide will also help you find family/companion restrooms.
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Shuttle Launch Experience- You don't have to miss out on the fun and experience of the Kennedy Space Center just because you're in a mobility scooter. The Shuttle Launch Experience, for instance, is open to guests who use wheelchairs or scooters. Each seat on the simulation is ADA equipped with a pivoting grab bar that makes transferring to the seat easy. If you aren't able to transport to the seat, another room right next door will allow you to experience the launch without the simulation so you don't have to exit your mobility scooter.
Thinking of visiting the Kennedy Space Center when you're vacationing in Florida? If you're using an Orlando scooter rental, you can rest assured that this attraction will provide you with plenty of options for fun and excitement.
Top Tips for Visiting the Harry Potter Theme Park
In 2010, when the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened its doors at Universal Orlando, fans from all over the country flocked to the opening. Even now, when every book has been read and every movie has been watched, (several thousand times over,) the chance to see Hogwarts up close is still as exciting as ever. In fact, with Diagon Alley opening this summer, it's more popular than ever.
If you have a child who's a fan of the Harry Potter series, or you're a fan yourself, you might consider visiting this exciting theme part. However, if you're using an Orlando mobility scooter rental, you might be curious about what you need to know before entering the park, and whether Universal will be accommodating to your specific physical needs.
Using Your Mobility Scooter at the Harry Potter Theme Park
Universal Studios, where the Harry Potter theme park is located, is extremely accommodating to individuals using mobility scooters and wheelchairs. All shopping and dining facilities are wheelchair accessible. Outdoor stage shows are as well, with areas that are specifically marked with the “International Symbol of Accessibility” that are reserved for individuals with disabilities.
In addition, you'll find that all lines within the magical world of Harry Potter are accessible to wheelchairs. It's important to note though, that there are specific rules regarding boarding these rides when you are using an Orlando mobility scooter rental.
- You may have to actually transfer out of the mobility scooter onto the ride vehicle's seating. If you're capable of transferring by yourself, this will be allowed. If not, another person in your party can help you.
- No rides within the Harry Potter theme park will accommodate the use of your mobility scooter. However, some will allow riders to board the ride with a standard wheelchair. You can transfer from your mobility scooter to a wheelchair for these attractions. These are located at all rides for your convenience.
Visiting The Harry Potter Theme Park
Once you understand what your abilities will be once you're inside the Harry Potter theme park using your mobility scooter, you need to know how to best navigate the attraction and get the most out of your visit. Here are a few tips.
- Get to the park as early as possible. This may be a little difficult, as getting the kids ready and to the entrance gates by nine o'clock in the morning isn't an easy feat. Getting there early will provide you with a few hours of uncrowded time in the park, though, making it easier to enjoy the shops and rides without waiting in line. In addition, entrances are sometimes closed during peak hours when the park is full.
- Check the lines. Some rides have two lines. One is for guests that need to store things in a locker before they get on the rides. The other line is for guests who can go straight to the ride. The second line generally moves faster. Also, check with attendants to see if a separate line is available for you if you're using a mobility scooter. Sometimes a few people in your party can join this line with you.
- While waiting in line isn't how you want to spend your day, don't skip the line when waiting for the Forbidden Journey ride. Once you get inside the castle, the line turns into a tour of Hogwarts, with talking portraits, a filmed introduction to the ride by the three stars of the Harry Potter movies, and special effects appearances by many characters, including Dumbledore.
- Want to buy a wand or two for the kids? Don't make the mistake of standing in the long line at Ollivanders. You can't actually buy a wand here. The line is for a live-performance, and because only about 24 people can fit in the shop at a time, the line is very slow. If you want to buy a wand, visit the Owl Post next door or the cart right outside Hogwarts Castle.
- You'll no doubt want to visit many of the shops you've become familiar with when reading the books or watching the movies, like Zonko's Joke Shop and Honeydukes, but when you're using an Orlando mobility scooter rental, these shops can be difficult to navigate. They are rather small and tend to be hotspots, which means they are crowded. If you want to go shopping and need a little elbow room, visit Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods or the Port of Entry shop.
Wheelchair vs Mobility Scooter: Which one is Better?
A few months ago, we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a mobility scooter vs. a power wheelchair, or power chair. Both have their benefits, but for the majority of individuals visiting Florida on vacation, and Orlando scooter rental is the best option.
But what about regular wheelchairs? It makes sense that some might consider renting a regular wheelchair instead of a mobility scooter on their Orlando vacation. After all, if they plan on visiting Disney World, some of the rides will require them to transfer from their scooter to a wheelchair in order to get on the ride. Is this small time-saver really worth giving up a mobility scooter, though?
Disadvantages of Using a Wheelchair for Your Orlando Visit
When you're trying to determine what type of mobility device to use, consider what you'll be giving up when you choose a wheelchair.
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They Might not be as Comfortable- When you're on vacation, you want to spend every moment possible enjoying yourself. In Florida, this often means visiting theme parks, dining at restaurants, and seeing the sights. While some heavy duty manual wheelchairs can offer a comfortable place to sit, light duty wheelchairs often provide no comfort or support for the buttocks and back. Mobility scooters have cushioned seats and back supports that will offer more support and comfort.
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Weak Upper Body- Do you have limited upper body strength? If you're pushing a manual wheelchair throughout the Disney theme parks, you're likely going to become tired and sore before you even get halfway through the attractions. This means you'll either have to go back to the hotel and rest before you can have fun again, or give up your independence and allow someone to push you through the parks. An Orlando scooter rental will allow you to enjoy the entirety of your day without help and without hurting.
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Injury- If you're experiencing a temporary injury or illness that requires you to obtain mobility help while you're on vacation in Florida, there's a good chance you haven't spent much time in a wheelchair. As a result, your arms and shoulders may not be prepared for the manual labor they must undertake when moving you from place to place. This can result in injuries to your muscles and can ruin your vacation.
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Speed- Orlando scooter rentals can travel at speeds of about 5mph; a wheelchair can only travel as fast as you can push it. In some cases, using a wheelchair may make it difficult for you to keep up with your loved ones as they enjoy their Florida vacation.
Despite their disadvantages, manual wheelchairs do offer a variety of benefits. They promote physical fitness, increase maneuverability, are easy to operate, cost less, and are easy to take anywhere you need to go.
If you're trying to decide whether or not to rent a manual wheelchair or an Orlando scooter rental, consider the way it will be used. Do you want something with more support? Choose a scooter. Want a transportation option that maneuvers well? Choose a wheelchair. Select the best option for your particular needs.
Disney Hollywood Studios: Must Have Tips
One of the most popular attractions in Disney is Hollywood Studios. Here you can enjoy rides, watch shows, and experience the movies you love up close and personal. Access is readily available for anyone to enjoy this attraction, even those who need the assistance of a mobility scooter rental.
If you're going to use an Orlando scooter at Hollywood Studios, however, there are a few tips and tricks you should know.
Tricks for Getting the Most out of Hollywood Studios
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For Most Rides- Get in the regular line if you don't immediately see a handicapped entrance. The Disney cast member will direct you where to go. If you do see a handicapped entrance, which are most often on the left, you can bring up to five members of your party with you through the entrance.
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For Most Theaters- The theater presentations at Hollywood Studios are spectacular, and it's easy for those with mobility scooter rentals to get a good seat. When you enter, most theaters will have seating at in the top row. Your family will be able to sit with you.
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When Leaving the Theater- Wait for the crowd to thin out before attempting to leave the theater. Many attendees will attempt to rush out to 'beat the crowd.' If you try to leave first, you'll most often find your way blocked.
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Use the Restroom- Before any show you see. You'll be seated first, and getting back out of the theater to use the restroom can be a pain and will mean you'll have to fight oncoming traffic. Use the restroom first so you avoid any troubles.
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Watch for CMs- The cast members, or CMs, are there for a reason. They can help you get to where you need to go and will know the best way to do so. Trust them and allow them to do their jobs.
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Switching Out- Some rides will accommodate your mobility scooter rental. Others will not. The cast member in charge of the ride will let you know whether you'll need to transfer directly onto the ride or into a wheelchair that the ride will support.
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Restaurants- All of the restaurants in Hollywood Studios are accessible to your Orlando scooter, but that doesn't necessarily mean you should use it. Some of the lines are rather narrow, and it may be best to have someone order and pick up the food for you.
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Arrive Early- As with anything, always try to arrive as early as possible. Rides, theaters, and restaurants will be much less crowded if you get there early instead of waiting until it is prime dining time or time for a particular ride to open up.
Are you thinking of enjoying Hollywood Studios while on vacation in Orlando? Use these tips to make the most of your time and enjoy everything this attraction has to offer. With a few tricks up your sleeve, you'll be able to use your mobility scooter rental without any trouble at all
Pros and Cons to Using a Sunshade With Your Scooter
There's a reason that Florida is called the sunshine state. The sun is shining down the majority of the time. It's for that reason that many people who decide to opt for a scooter rental in Orlando consider using a sunshade to protect themselves from the harsh UV rays while they are out and about enjoying the theme parks, shops, and restaurants. The question is: should you?
Pros and Cons of Sunshades
Pros
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When you leave the scooter parked to go into a restaurant to eat or to ride an attraction, sunshades protect the handles and seat of the scooter from taking on the full heat of the sun. This means that when you return to the mobility scooter, the seat and handles won't be so hot to the touch.
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A sunshade can protect you from the harsh rays of the sun and offer shade. When you're out and about on your vacation, you may not have to worry about getting sunburned.
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The sunshade will keep you cooler while you're using your scooter rental in Orlando. It will provide you with the necessary shade you need to enjoy your time outdoors.
Cons
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The sun continually moves throughout the day, and that means when you're riding your scooter rental in Orlando, the probability that the sunshade is able to protect you fully at all times is very low.
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Sunshades can get in the way and become a hindrance when you're enjoying your vacation. They may become caught on items sticking out from shelves in a shop or become caught on items that are hanging nearby. This not only leaves a trail of destruction behind you, but it may be a trail of destruction you have to pay for.
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Sunshades are often screwed directly to mobility scooters, and this may not be possible when you're renting. You could be asked to pay for the damage caused by the screws. In addition, if you need to transport the mobility scooter, you'll need to unscrew the sunshade and screw it back again each time. This can be tedious and may not be worth the effort.
So What Should you do?
While sunshades do offer a few benefits, their disadvantages outweigh their advantages. Instead of purchasing or renting a sunshade for your vacation in Florida, consider other options instead. Carry sunblock with you at all times to prevent sunburns, wear a heat to protect your face and keep your head cooler, and spend as much time as possible in the shade. In addition, if you're going to park your scooter and walk anywhere, be sure to park it in the shade so the seat and handles aren't as hot when you return. If this isn't possible, consider investing in a cover for the scooter to keep it out of the sun.
Looking for your next scooter rental in Orlando? Florida Mobility Rentals has exactly what you need for a relaxing and fun vacation. Check out our scooter rental options today and give us a call to see which one will be the best option for you.
