Monday, October 4, 2010

Access for Everyone

Good morning,

Recently I was asked about the possibility of people in wheelchairs being able to cruise.  It is fantastic that cruising is for people of all ages and abilities.
 
 As I walked from bow to stern on deck 12 of Freedom of the Seas while entering the harbor at St. Thomas, U.S.V.I., I saw three people in scooters who were obviously having a grand time enjoying the view.
 The new cruise ships are built with ample space for scooters and wheelchairs and there are plenty of elevators and ramps so everyone can enjoy the ship, the shows, and many of the shore excursions.

On a personal note, some years ago we took my father on a cruise to celebrate his 90th birthday and he had a fantastic time. He was not confined to a wheelchair, but when we had long distances to go while arriving and departing the ship the crew quickly appeared with a wheelchair and offered to help.   At first he said with his usual dry humor and a grin, "What makes you think I need a wheelchair?"  A few days later he smiled and gladly accepted the chance to sit down ride to the next destination.  It was a wonderful experience to cruise with him and now that he is gone, I would give anything to be able to do it again.

Very best,
Lois

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9 comments:

  1. ~*~ saskia ~*~October 4, 2010 at 8:42 AM

    Some day, some day I will go on a cruise... your pictures are always so charming, Lois.
    Thank you for entering my giveaway, I threw the Lois-notes in the big bowl, fingers crossed for YOU!
    Have a happy Monday xxx

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  2. Diane at Crafty PassionsOctober 4, 2010 at 9:50 AM

    Love the photos,I admire people who don't let a disability hamper them.
    At 90 your Dad deserves a helping ride !
    Diane

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  3. MontanagirlOctober 4, 2010 at 10:39 AM

    Great shots as always, and your explanations and narratives are very informative and fun.

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  4. CherylOctober 4, 2010 at 4:40 PM

    Very informative post and am so very pleased that everyone who wishes to can take a cruise. I would love to one day!

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  5. Beatrice P. BoydOctober 4, 2010 at 8:15 PM

    Lois, thanks for providing this information and it is wonderful that many people do not let a handicap hamper their ability to enjoy life. And, that some companies will go he extra miles to help them.

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  6. AnonymousOctober 4, 2010 at 10:58 PM

    One of our good friends, who is wheel chair bound had a great time aboard a cruise ship!! ...debbie

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  7. Lois EvensenOctober 5, 2010 at 7:21 AM

    Good morning,

    Yes, it is wonderful that those who need a little help getting around can do so on a cruise. There is a mistaken idea that only old people cruise, but there are people in all age groups and plenty of activities for each of those groups.

    Thank you, everyone, for stopping by.

    Very best,
    Lois

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  8. Melbourne Australia PhotosMay 20, 2012 at 4:26 PM

    What a great idea, Lois! I am sure that many disabled people will now take this up and enjoy cruising.

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  9. Melbourne Australia PhotosMay 20, 2012 at 4:26 PM

    What a great idea, Lois! I am sure that many disabled people will now take this up and enjoy cruising.

    ReplyDelete

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