Emerging Horizons Accessible Travel News

Featured StorySummer 2010

Lake Erie Nature Break

Perched on the Lake Erie shore, Maumee Bay State Park is a nature lovers dream; featuring a bounty of accessible trails, lodging options and recreational offerings. (read a sample from this article)

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Ask The Expert!

Access on Carnival Elation

I'm thinking about taking a cruise on the Carnival Elation with my son who uses a power wheelchair. It's a good choice for us because we can drive to the port in Mobile, instead of having to hassle with air travel. Can you tell me anything about access on the ship? Read the answer...

Know Before You Go

Florida Bound? Free Cruise Parking and Toll Exemptions Available to Disabled Visitors

Many states offer a variety of free parking options for people that have disabled license plates or parking placards. And although the exemptions vary by state, most include free parking at meters and in no parking zones. Florida goes one step further in this respect, and extends free parking privileges to include airports and cruise ship piers, and even exempts qualified disabled drivers from toll road charges. That’s good news for anyone planning a vacation to the Sunshine State, as these exemptions are also available to visitors. And although the required paperwork is minimal, it’s essential to know the rules and regulations, in order to take advantage of these money-saving programs.

In The News

Kids Activities Abound at Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge

If you're looking for some fun and educational nature activities for your toddler this summer, then look no further than Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. Located on the southern edge of Lake Erie in Northern Ohio, this wetlands refuge is also home to the very popular Nature Tots program.
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Barrier Free Travel Blog

27 July 2010, 11:43 am
New ADAAG Nixes Snakes, Monkeys and Emotional Support Animals As predicted, the revised ADAAG was released yesterday, on the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). And although the new regulations are full of new scoping requirements and a number of Title II revisions, they also include several Title III revisions, which will affect travelers. In particular, the Department of Justice (DOJ) limited the definition of a service animal to exclude all but traditional service dogs. An exception was also included for properly trained miniature horses; however the new regulations totally disallow exotic animals and those animals that solely provide emotional support. It's seen by many as a step forward, as in some cases the ambiguity in the previous regulations left a lot of latitude fore abuse. Additionally, it gives folks in the hospitality industry a black-and-white definition of what does (and what doesn't) qualify as a service animal. Here's what the new law has to say. Continue reading "New ADAAG Nixes Snakes, Monkeys and Emotional Support Animals"

22 July 2010, 6:58 am
The Redhead's New Shoes As you can imagine, I get a lot of products and gadgets to review. Admittedly, some are more appropriate for travel than others. Which was why I was taken a little bit aback when I received a sandal in the mail with the message "For a pair in your size, e-mail me today" attached. The mailing was creative, the offer intrigued me, and hey I was about to set out on a long road trip, so I figured it was a good opportunity to test drive the shoes. What gal in her right mind could refuse? Continue reading "The Redhead's New Shoes"