Disabled Holiday

Türkiye is one holiday destination that has something for everyone. For beach lovers, there are the warm waters of the Aegean and the Mediterranean and miles of sparkling coastline. Vacationing in Turkey can be challenging for travelers with disabilities, but with the prior knowledge you can choose where to go.

DISABLED OPPORTUNITIES AT BEACHES :

In accordance with the Blue Flag criteria, at least 1 Blue Flag beach in a town must have facilities such as toilets and access ramps for the disabled(z). According to the criteria; Availability of a ramp and a road suitable for disabled vehicles to pass from the toilets to the beach on the beach. It is a must to have a toilet on the beach or in the facility close to the beach in standards suitable for the use of the disabled. In addition to this mandatory criterion, our Foundation recommends that the following facilities be provided at the beaches as much as the geographical conditions of the beach allow (some beaches are not suitable for disabled users due to their rocky structure and high slope).

Some of the big cities in Turkey have the following facilities and services for the disabled:

Antalya

Konyaaltı Beach:

The barrier-free beach, located on the Konyaalti beach, has been renovated, maintained and repaired and is accessible to disabled. citizens. The beach has a walking platform, an elevator system, sun loungers and special changing cabins that will allow physically disabled individuals to meet with the sea.

Disabled individuals can easily meet the sea with the help of lifeguards and staff, with the elevator system or a special ramp platform. Disabled people of all age groups can use the beach free of charge.

Alanya:

For the first time in Turkey, an independent elevator that allows disabled people to enter the sea without the need for support has been successfully installed. The sea chair lift is designed to be detachable so as not to disturb the natural structure of the beach, and the prepared platform can be installed before the summer season and removed in the winter season.

Accessible Cruising:

Disabled Friendly Cruises: A Guide for Beginners

Whether you are traveling with someone who requires special assistance or are among one of the first time cruisers on a ship who has a disability, you will find the following information helpful. Disabled friendly cruises make it possible for disabled people to enjoy travel that is both convenient and accessible.

Complete a Medical Form for the Cruise Line

When reviewing the booking information for disabled friendly cruises, you need to inform the travel agent about your medical or mobility needs. The cruise line will also need you to fill out a medical form. This is done so that you can receive the best cruise experience possible.

Inform the Airline about Your Mobility or Equipment Needs

You need to communicate with the airline about your mobility needs as well. If you require specific equipment such as a medical fridge, inform the airline in advance. To obtain a disabled access cabin, travel experts advise that you book early.

How to Select a Ship

Once you have communicated your needs, it will be easier to choose a ship from the disabled friendly cruises that are featured by travel agencies. Because accessibility varies from one cruise line to the next, you need to review your choices scrupulously.

The Following Tips can Help you Make a Decision:

• Generally, it is best to select a newer ship. However, it is still okay to choose an older ship that has been refurbished. Normally, renovated ships are made more accessible for cruisers with disabilities.
• Ask about the width of the doorways to confirm the accessibility level.
• Search on the Internet and review the available cruise lines by adding the words, “accessibility” or “special needs” in the browser. Many cruise lines feature a department that can assist special needs passengers.

Once you receive this information, you can better communicate your needs and your trip interests with a travel agent. Even if the travel agent can handle most, if not all, of your requests, if still is a good idea to learn more about the different cruise lines and disabled friendly cruises.