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August 2011 |
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THEME PARKS IN THE OFF-SEASON: AN EASIER TIME TO NAVIGATE
Summer is practically over, the lines are shorter, and it’s a great time to visit a theme park. For individuals with special needs, the off-season is a prime time to enjoy theme parks to the fullest, as small crowds equal easier navigation.
Whereas in the past, even in the off-season, many individuals and families with children with special needs skipped theme park vacations because they didn’t feel comfortable with the facilities and services; today, there are many more options for them. Thanks to the American Disabilities Act in 1990, many theme parks around the country are more accessible than ever, and just as fun for individuals with special needs as they are for everyone else. In fact, the major parks such as Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Studios, etc. are very accessible.
Although many attractions do provide additional facilities and services for those with special needs, it’s very important for individuals and families to properly prepare and ask many questions to ensure they experience a pleasurable trip. Following are a few tips: – Bring a doctor’s note or certificate of medical necessity. At some parks, it’s required to have this to acquire special assistance passes. Read More.
CITY OF HIGHLIGHT: ORLANDO, FLORIDA
Orlando is one of the world’s premier travel destinations. More than 50 million people visit the area every year as over 100 attractions lure visitors and keep them coming back for more. Although best known for its theme parks, Orlando also has a lot to offer in terms of museums, beaches, shopping, shows and unique events that make the city a great place to visit. Because Orlando brings visitors from all over the world of many backgrounds and abilities, many places in Orlando are accessible and welcoming to visitors with special needs.
Walt Disney World
The famous Disney World – including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom – needs no introduction. What does need recognition is Disney World’s same impressive level of hospitality and services to guests with special needs as to every other guest who visits the parks. Guides for guests with disabilities and park guide maps are especially helpful to ensure that individuals with special needs enjoy a magical visit. Also available is a Guest Assistance Card (GAC) for guests with hidden disabilities which let the Disney cast members know of one’s disability. Guests should ask for it at the Guest Relations window. Many Disney attractions, restaurants, shops and shows are accessible to all guests. In some cases, guests may need to transfer from their wheelchairs onto an attraction vehicle. Individuals with disabilities get prime seats (first-come, first-served) on all parade routes, and some show areas have designated viewing places for guests with disabilities. Many of the transportation systems at the Disney parks are accessible to guests with disabilities. Read More.
Interesting Fact: Orange County – the county in which Orlando is in – was formerly called Mosquito County. In 1945, when Florida became a state, Orange County was renamed from Mosquito County for the fruit that constituted the county’s main product. |
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UPCOMING WEBINARS
How to Make More Money Tapping Into the Special Needs and Slow Walker Travel Niche Wednesday, August 24 at 2:00 PM EST
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Travel Agents Earn Commission on Every Rental.
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Toll Free: 1-800-513-4515 | International: 954-585-0575 2860 West State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 |
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About Special Needs at Sea and Special Needs Group…
Special Needs Group, Inc. is a one-stop resource for special needs travel around the world. We offer a broad range of special needs equipment for purchase and rental including wheelchairs, scooters, power chairs with capabilities to support 500 pound or more; oxygen (liquid, cylinder, and concentrator); hearing impaired equipment, Braille printing, baby cribs and more. Recommended by the world’s major cruise lines and hotels for superior service and value, we also provide consultation services regarding special needs policy and new-build design. Special Needs Group, a U.S. company, is not a travel agency; we do not compete in any way with travel agents. |
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