Tips and FAQ's

The US is so refreshing to visit as a disabled person, they just seem to make
life easier and more dignified than we do in Europe. Disabled parking bays
are huge, people talk to you and not the wheelchair, everything is accessible.
In short don't worry if you haven't been before. If you have any queries
then get in touch

The Flight Over

Both British Airways and Virgin offer direct scheduled services to Orlando International. In addition many of Europe's charter airlines offer direct flights to Orlando Sanford. Normally you will be able to take your chair to the door of the aircraft at which point you can if you wish be lifted by two big guys (provided by airline) to the special narrow aisle chair which takes you to your seat. At this point they will lift you into the seat. The chair is loaded directly into the hold after being taken down from the aircraft door. The aeroplane crews are generally very helpful whilst you are flying.

Getting about in Florida

If you are able to drive using hand-controls then all the major car hire companies can provide you with a suitable vehicle. If you are unable to drive then it is easy to rent wheelchair accessible vehicles to be driven by able bodied members of your party. For accessible van hire we recommend Wheelchair Getaways

Are Disney World and other theme parks accessible?

Absolutely, more than you could imagine. Many of the rides take wheelchairs, even electric wheelchairs, although if you wish to ride on the really high energy crazy roller coasters then you will need to transfer to the ride vehicle. Another benefit is that disabled visitors are ushered past the ordinary queues and put on rides straight away! Disney publishes a useful disabled visitor’s guide for each of its parks.

Where exactly is the house and is it close to Disney?

We are reluctant to give the street address for security reasons; however the villa is between Devanport and Champions Gate development near the I4. Kissimmee is an honest 15 to 20 minutes from the house (192 is around 5 minutes).

What is the booking and arrival process?

After we have agreed dates, you will be sent the booking form to complete, sign and return with the booking deposit of £150 per week. Confirmation of booking will then be given. Remaining payment must be made prior to 60 days before arrival. When you send in the final payment we will send out driving directions for finding the villa and the key combination for the main gate and the front door. Remember that if you cancel at short notice i.e. less than 5 weeks before arrival, whatever the reason, you will be charged in full.

Mobile Phones and other electrics?

The latest European Tri-band phones work in the US. Most mobile phone chargers work at both UK and US voltages, you just will need a travel adapter. Check the back of your charger. It should say something like 110 to 220 volts. US voltage is 110v.

When is the best time to visit?

Any time! With Spring, Summer and Autumn temperatures in the eighties and winter months in the seventies the climate is great. Expect brief but heavy rain on summer afternoons – it doesn’t cause a problem. The parks are busiest during US holiday periods.

Which parks are best for wheelchair users?

Everybody has their own favourites but we find the Disney parks, Seaworld and Busch Gardens to be the best for a wheelchair user. Universal Studio’s is more high energy ride orientated with most attractions requiring transfers.