Visually Impaired Summer Travel Tips for Stress-Free Holidays
Summer is a fantastic time for a getaway! If you are part of the MyVision community, planning your travels with a few extra considerations can make all the difference. These visually impaired travel tips will help you navigate your summer holiday with confidence and ease.
MyVision summer travel tips for visually impaired people
Getting There: Making Travel Accessible for Blind and Partially Sighted People
Reaching your destination should be a smooth experience. Here’s how to make travel accessible:
- Assistance at Transport Hubs: You can get assistance in both airports and train stations. Staff are there to guide you where you need to go. Don’t hesitate to ask for support.
- Free Seat Reservations: You can also get free booking of seats in advance. This ensures a comfortable spot for your journey.
- Quicker Security Access: You can use the disabled access through security. This means you won’t need to queue for as long.
- Airline Support Onboard: Airline staff will give you a tour of the plane. They will also explain important safety guidelines.
- Priority Boarding: You can board the plane first. This allows you to get acquainted with your surroundings before it gets busy.
- Extra Baggage Allowance: You can get extra baggage allowance. This is useful for medications and essential equipment.
Enjoying Attractions: Accessible Sightseeing for Visually Impaired Travellers
Exploring new places is a highlight of any trip. Here’s how to make the most of attractions:
- Accessible Entrances: You can use the disabled entrance to access attractions. This often means less queuing and a shorter distance to walk.
- Sensory Rich Experiences: Shows and museums can often offer touch tours. They may also provide audio descriptions and knowledgeable guides.
Saving Money: Travel Concessions for Visually Impaired People
Travel can be more affordable with these concessions:
- Rail Travel Discounts: Disabled persons railcards offer discounts. These discounts apply to both you and a companion. For more information, visit the Disabled person railcard website.
- Free Entry for Companions: Companions can often go free to shows and attractions. This can save you a significant amount of money.
- Free Entry for Visually Impaired Visitors: Some attractions even offer free entry specifically for visually impaired people. Be sure to enquire beforehand.
- Blue Badge Parking: Remember to use free parking available for blue badge holders. This can make getting around much easier.
Tips for Comfortable Stays for Visually Impaired Guests
Your accommodation should be a relaxing base. Consider these helpful tips:
- Accessible Hotel Rooms: When booking, ask for an accessible room. Request a room on a floor that is easier to get to.
- Request Adjoining Rooms: If you’re travelling with others, you can request adjoining rooms. This offers extra convenience.
- Tactile Door Markers: Put a rubber band on the door handle in your hotel room. This will help you easily know it is yours.
- Lift Button Navigation: Ask hotel staff if you can put bumpons in the lift. These can help you locate buttons quickly.
Useful Apps for Blind and Partially Sighted Travellers
Technology can be a great aid during your travels:
- SeeingAI and Google Lookout: Use apps like SeeingAI or Google Lookout. These are fantastic for recognising text and identifying items around you.
- Be My Eyes for Assistance: Be My Eyes connects you with sighted volunteers. They can provide real-time visual assistance when you need it.
- Navigation with Maps Apps: Use your preferred maps app for getting around. These apps can help with navigation in new places. For more information on using technology to help with travel, see this article on the Meta Smart Glasses, and how they could help you.
- Safe Money Management: Use travel money apps like Revolut. These apps help you access money and make payments safely.
With these visually impaired summer travel tips, you can look forward to enjoyable and stress-free holidays. Have a wonderful trip!
The Future of Travel: Meta Smart Glasses for Visually Impaired People
The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses offer an exciting way to transform how visually impaired people interact with the world. These glasses allow users to capture photos and record videos using simple voice commands. The open-ear speakers deliver clear audio while ensuring the wearer remains aware of their surroundings. AI-powered visual assistance can describe the user’s surroundings through audio feedback. Staying connected is easier than ever with voice-activated calling and messaging. Their lightweight design helps users feel more confident, ensuring that accessibility doesn’t compromise personal style.
Watch the Meta Smart Glasses in action.
You can also watch the video on these platforms below.
