Tabifolk Talks: Exploring the World with Enable My Trip – Making Travel Accessible for All

Traveling is one of the greatest joys in life, but for many people with mobility challenges, it can feel like an overwhelming task. From inaccessible accommodations to transportation hurdles, planning an accessible trip requires extra effort. That’s where Enable My Trip comes in—a non-profit organization dedicated to gathering and sharing accessibility information to make travel more inclusive. In our latest episode of Tabifolk Talks, we had the pleasure of speaking with Simon Miller, the founder of Enable My Trip, about his journey and mission.

The Inspiration Behind Enable My Trip

Simon’s passion for travel started at a young age, leading him to a career in the travel industry. However, when he and his wife began fostering children with disabilities, he quickly realized the many barriers they faced while traveling. Inspired by his personal experiences and the desire to make travel more accessible, Simon created Enable My Trip—a free resource for travelers with mobility needs.

Enable My Trip is not just a travel directory; it’s a comprehensive database of accessible travel information, where users can find accommodations, services, and tips that suit their specific needs. Unlike many commercial travel platforms, Enable My Trip does not rely on paid listings, allowing all accessible properties and services to be included—regardless of financial backing.

The Challenges of Accessible Travel

While the travel industry has made strides in accessibility, there is still much work to be done. Simon highlighted several ongoing challenges, including:

• Lack of Clear Accessibility Information: Many hotels and airlines do not adequately list their accessibility features, making it difficult for travelers to plan their trips.
• Inconsistent Regulations: Accessibility standards vary by country, leading to unpredictable travel experiences.
• Booking Difficulties: Many platforms do not allow travelers to reserve accessible rooms online, requiring time-consuming phone calls and emails.
• Transportation Barriers: From airlines damaging wheelchairs to inaccessible airport transfers, mobility challenges persist throughout the journey.

Tips for Planning an Accessible Trip

Simon shared some valuable tips for travelers with disabilities:

• Do Thorough Research: Websites like Enable My Trip and community forums like Tabifolk provide real-user experiences and reviews.
• Check for Video Tours: If possible, find videos of hotel rooms and accommodations to see actual accessibility features.
• Contact Providers Directly: Speak with hotels, airlines, and tour companies to confirm accessibility details.
• Plan for Unexpected Situations: Always have a backup plan in case of last-minute accessibility issues.

Best Destinations for Accessible Travel

Simon highlighted several destinations that have made significant progress in accessibility, including:

• Barcelona, Spain – A city with excellent public transport accessibility, wheelchair-friendly streets, and a wide range of accessible accommodations.
• Tokyo, Japan – With an aging population, Japan has prioritized accessibility in its public transit and infrastructure.
• Cruise Travel – Many cruise lines now offer accessible cabins and excursions, making it a great option for travelers with mobility needs.

Watch

How You Can Get Involved

Enable My Trip is constantly expanding its database and welcomes contributions from travelers who want to share their experiences. Whether you’ve discovered an amazing accessible destination or encountered challenges that others should be aware of, your insights can help shape a more inclusive travel community.

Similarly, tabifolk is a great place to connect with other accessible travelers, ask questions, and share your knowledge. If you’re not already a member, we invite you to join the conversation at Tabifolk.com.

Visit Enable My Trip

If you or someone you know is looking for accessibility-focused travel resources, be sure to visit EnableMyTrip.com. The website is packed with valuable information to help you plan your next adventure with confidence.

Join the Discussion

We’d love to hear from you! Have you had positive or challenging experiences with accessible travel? Do you have recommendations for destinations that are doing accessibility right? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help build a more inclusive travel community!