The French Ministry of Tourism includes a branch called Tourisme et Handicap, 43 rue Marx Dormoy, 75018 Paris (☎01 44 11 10 41; www.tourisme-handicaps.com), which is devoted to providing information about access for disabled travelers at tourist sights and amenities in Paris and its suburbs. Disabled travelers can stay in France on a budget but may need to pay more than the average backpacker.
Those with disabilities should inform airlines and hotels of their disabilities when making reservations; some time may be needed to prepare special accommodations. Airports in France have published a guide for passengers with mobilité réduite (restricted mobility) that can be found at www.aeroportsdeparis.fr under the heading “ Départ.” Call ahead to restaurants, museums, and other facilities to find out if they are accessible en chaise roulante (wheelchair-accessible). Guide-dog owners should inquire as to the quarantine policies of each destination country.
Rail is probably the most convenient form of transport for disabled travelers in Europe: many stations have ramps, and some trains have wheelchair lifts, special seating areas, and specially equipped toilets. The French national railroad offers wheelchair compartments on all TGV (high-speed) and Conrail trains. All Eurostar, some InterCity (IC), and some EuroCity (EC) trains are wheelchair-accessible, and CityNightLine trains, French TGV, and Conrail trains feature special compartments. For those who wish to rent cars, some major car-rental agencies (e.g., Hertz) offer hand-controlled vehicles.
 |
 |
 |
 |
For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
Facebook
Twitter
You Tube
Foursquare
Newsletter
RSS Feed
Overview