My accessible travel experiences with Wheel the World

I've required accessible travel for 42 years, living as a C6 quadriplegic. Initially, I travelled the world for wheelchair racing. Now, I travel leisurely with my wife, Joy, of 26 years.

- Bert Burns

As my disability changes, my need for specific accessible accommodations and transportation increases. Following a 2022 trip to Chile with Curb Free with Cory Lee, Joy and I discovered Wheel the World (WTW). As a result, our travel life is now drastically different - in the most positive way. No more endless internet research. No more disappointment upon arrival. We simply pick the destination, pack our bags, and show up. The rest is handled by WTW.

In 2022, my family and I went on several trips with WTW. In planning our adventures, WTW considered several and various aspects of accessibility hotels, activities, tours and transportation. I completed my travel profile, which takes into account personal accessibility needs, ensuring WTW knows precisely what I require every time. They made sure I always had a room with the right bed height and a roll in-shower with a bench. Additionally, I expressed my preference for accessible transportation and accessible tours. This saved us so much time and effort preparing for the trips! 

AN ACCESSIBLE TRIP TO ROME, ITALY

Rome was a favorite for Joy and me. I love the food and she loves the culture! WTW was able to coordinate adapted transportation for us to attend a once in a lifetime Andrea Bocelli concert and gave us a private tour of the Colosseum. The guide knew the special entrances and was so knowledgeable of accessible restaurants and restrooms in the area. But, one of the most unique aspects WTW facilitated was a day trip to San Gimignano. This historic and hilly town posed a challenge for me as a manual wheelchairuser. This is why WTW offered a scooter rental, which enabled me to be independent and enjoy the medieval city to its fullest. Well, that is until the rain poured, but I suppose they can't control everything!

HEADING NORTH TO FLORENCE