As most Southest Asian countries, Vietnam is not the easiest of places for travellwes with accessibilities ( physical disability or handicap ). Despite being amongst the countries with the highest rate of disabled people, infrastructures and facilities for disabled people are rather limited in Vietnam. Other tactical problems such as chaotic traffic and sidewalks blocked by motorbikes and food stalls are major challenges for disabled people to stroll around. Yet it is not impossible for accessible travellers to visit Vietnam, with some careful planning, your journey to Vietnam would still be as exciting and memorable as it should be
The easiest way to arrange your Vietnam trip is contacting a reliable travel company, especially those who include accessible tours in their profile. Not only have they known best about things you might need during your trip such as ( hotels, transportation and places to visit). Also it is very likely that they can offer different alternatives and tailor-made tours that are crafted to your need and ability, so you can travel with ease and comfort
At big cities like Saigon and Hanoi, the chaotic traffic night be terrifying for you at first. When crossing the street just stay calm and go with the flow, it’s in their nature that people will go around you. It might take a couple of trials, but you will eventually get used to it. Also, you might find shops or stores that have steps but do not afraid to ask because people are willing to to lend you a land, or they will bring you the items that you can to look or buy. A big smile will help you!
If you get tired of the bustling cities, an escape to Halong bay will heal your spirit. There’s nothing stopping you from witnessing the marvellous beauty of Halong bay because there is a five star cruise equipped with a light and accessible rooms are available at some midrange and top end hotels and resorts. Do not afraid to double check and send requests for additional support for extra convenience !
Her are some extra travel tips for you
- Manutal chair is needed for easiest travel
- Have a travel buddy
- At some occasions, you might find people staring at you. In most cases, it’s due to curiosity and not due to insult
- Know they words for your condition or disability in Vietnam ( e.g. “ i can’t walk). You can also carry a paper with you where these words are written down as you may find the pronunciation difficult. This will help people realise what kind of help you may need
- Train travel is not really heard for travellers with wheelchairs, but open tour buses are doable. If you can afford to rend a private vehicle with a driver, almost anywhere becomes instantly accessible
- If you plan to rely on taxis a lot of the time, it’s better to ask your hotel to organise a 7 seater. Get your driver’s name and number so you can call him as and when you need - you can ask anyone in the shops or restaurants, hotels, resorts, eat to call him on your behalf - you’ll never be charged for the call
- Please be noted that bathroom doorways can be very narrow at some hotels; If the width of your wheelchair is more than 60cm you may struggle to get inside
- When planning your trip, make sure that you know he policy and procedures for bringing equipment onboard of all the transport vehicles.
Nothing is impossible! Tha’s the last thing and the spirit you can shall pack in your suitcase to enjoy the most of your trip in Vietnam
Read more at www.wheelchairtraveling and www.rollingvietnam.org
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