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Have you ever felt exhausted, and intimidated by being in a crowd? Many people with mobility, medical or emotional challenges are very overwhelmed by being in tight, or compact places. If you add in a walker, scooter, cane, or wheel chair the anxiety goes even higher. People who have ADHD, early Dementia, and other “invisible” conditions are also effected. This is sometimes part of traveling, whether it’s in an airplane, bus, or amusement park.
Here are some ideas to avoid crowds while traveling:
1. Schedule your vacation in a purposeful manner. If you are trying to avoid the throng of people visiting Orlando theme parks in the summer then plan a vacation in early December, or January
2. Stay in a vacation home instead of a hotel room. This gives much more space to stretch out, swim, and eat.
3. Think about starting an activity before 10:00 am.
4. Set up dining reservations ahead of time to avoid the 2 hour wait for dinner.
5. Be flexible, and consider joining alternative celebrations… like join Mardis Gras in a neighboring town where the parade is fun, the hotels are available, and the people are more manageable.
Sometimes it is not possible to avoid the crowds totally. If this is the case, here are some more keys to succeed:
1. Wear bright shirts when touring. That makes people easier to locate.2. Plan to eat during “off” hours
3. Have cell phones and buddy team set up before going.
4. Know ahead of time that it does take effort to be in crowds, so plan shorter activities when crowded.
5. Communicate ahead of time what your needs are. Many theaters. Sporting events, and theme parks have special seating for a variety of special needs.
6. Use the on and off day system. One day you do an activity, and the next day you hang out at the hotel, or the pool. This can also be helpful for dinner options.
7. Be sensitive to confusing situations, and bring your sense of humor.
Remember, Special Needs Vacation By V can help turn your dream vacation into a reality!
Vicky Spencer Rouse
Special Needs Vacation By V
vicky@ vacationbyv.com
August 22, 2023
