What to Pack for Your Next Cruise: Essential Packing List and Tips
Congratulations on booking your cruise! As you prepare for your adventure on the high seas, the big question is: what should you pack? In this blog, I’ll share a comprehensive packing list filled with cruise essentials and Amazon must-haves. Plus, stick around for two bonus tips—one about what you should never pack and another packing tip for embarkation day! Cruise Packing Essentials Let’s dive right in with five essential items you’ll want to include in your cruise packing list: 1. Magnetic Hooks If you’ve done any research on cruise essentials, you’ve likely heard about the wonder of magnetic hooks. These clever little devices are invaluable for keeping your cabin organised since most cruise cabins feature metal walls, ceilings, and doors beneath their decorative finishes. As someone who values organisation – as my regular readers will know – I can’t recommend them enough. Just be sure to select strong hooks! For example, the magnetic hooks I use have a capacity of 110 pounds (approximately 50 kg). However, bear in mind that their weight-holding ability decreases when attached to walls compared to ceilings. You can utilise these hooks in numerous ways—hang bags, caps, wet swimmers, and even backpacks. They also work well for drying clothes or hanging over the door organisers. Additionally, consider using them to manage electrical extension cords or even hang blackout curtains! The potential uses are nearly limitless. I also suggest packing magnetic clips, which can be lifesavers for organising important documents such as the daily cruise schedule. 2. Your Cruise Card Your cruise card is another vital item. It functions like a credit card: serving as your cabin key, identification, and your method of spending money or using your drinks package while onboard. It’s crucial to keep this item with you at all times! Many cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, have begun using medallions instead of traditional cards. However, for now, let’s focus on the classic cruise card. It fits conveniently in your pocket, but for those prone to misplacing it, a lanyard is a practical solution. You can easily find lanyards with clips or protective sleeves. Because lanyards irritate my neck (autism = sensory issues), I prefer a magnetic iPhone card holder that also works as a phone stand. This dual-purpose item means I always have my phone handy while keeping my cruise card secure. If you’re using a Princess medallion, there are various fun accessories available, including Air Tag holders that can help you keep track of your items. I use an Air Tag holder with a round carabiner, which I clip to my phone case – it has loops for a cross body strap, another travel essential! 3. Travel Medication Kit Next up is the all-important travel medication kit. While taking over-the-counter medicines is a wise decision for any trip, it’s especially crucial on a cruise. Two key reasons for this: When packing, consider including the following items: painkillers, antihistamines, antacid tablets, seasickness medication, Band-Aids, anti-diarrhoea pills, extra prescription medications, blister patches, antiseptic spray, and even hydration sachets. I store my travel pharmacy in a folding jewellery organiser to keep things neat and easy to access while taking up minimal luggage space. 4. Dress Code Considerations There’s often a misconception that formal attire is a must for cruise evenings. While some cruise lines maintain dress codes requiring tuxedos or evening gowns, this is not universal. Always check your cruise line’s website for specific dress codes as many casual venues still welcome guests in relaxed attire. If dressing up is part of your cruise experience, ensure you pack a nice outfit that you feel great in. Personally, I prefer not to lug around an evening gown—I dress up a nice outfit with accessories and appropriate shoes. Dressy flats or wedge heels are my go-to shoes for added stability on the ship, particularly when the ocean gets choppy. Depending on your cruise itinerary, there may be themed parties, such as “White Night” or “80s Night.” These events can often catch guests by surprise, so checking forums like Cruise Critic for insider information can be helpful. 5. Drinks Policy A delightful surprise for many first-time cruisers is that several cruise lines permit guests to bring their own wine and soft drinks onboard! Typically, this involves a restriction of one bottle of wine per adult. Make sure to check the specific policy of your cruise line to avoid issues. Always pack any drinks in your carry-on luggage since security will be inspecting all bags. Steer clear of trying to sneak spirits onboard; if caught, you risk confiscation and potential fines. Bonus Tip #1: Items You Should Never Pack Now for a critical piece of advice: one item you should absolutely avoid taking on a cruise is a power board with surge protection! These devices can interfere with a ship’s electrical systems and could potentially lead to fires in extreme cases. If you attempt to pack a surge-protected power board, it will likely be confiscated during security screening, and there’s a chance you won’t get it back. Instead, look for power adapters that allow multiple devices to plug in; these are typically permitted on board. Always double-check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items, as you may be surprised by what else might be included! Breaking news September 2024: Royal Caribbean have just banned multi-socket adapters. Having multiple USB A or C ports appears to be fine but not having multiple electrical sockets. Bonus Tip #2: Strategic Packing for Embarkation Day As for the second bonus tip, let’s discuss embarkation day packing. Just like when flying, you’ll have options for checking in luggage that will be taken to your cabin for you. However, if you choose to check your bags, ensure that you don’t pack anything you may need during the first few hours onboard the ship. Often, you won’t see your luggage until after dinner, and there might be times when you don’t have immediate access to your cabin upon boarding. Therefore, pack your carry-on strategically to
Unlocking the Secrets to Your Dream Cruise Vacation
Have you ever dreamed of booking the perfect cruise but felt overwhelmed about where to begin? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll reveal all the secrets to crafting your ultimate dream holiday at sea. Understanding the Cruise Lines When I first booked a cruise, I was utterly bewildered by the multitude of cruise lines. I once thought they were all just big ships sailing the ocean! That couldn’t be further from the truth. Cruise lines generally fall into three categories: mass-market, premium, and ultra-luxury. I’ll focus primarily on ocean cruising for this post, but it’s worth noting that there are also river and expedition cruises. Each cruise line features various ships, some accommodating just over 2,000 passengers, like the Grandeur of the Seas, while others, like the colossal Icon of the Seas, can host around 7,500 adventure seekers. The newer ships are often larger and packed with thrilling activities and venues! Choosing the Right Cruise Line So, how do you decide which cruise line is right for you? It all boils down to your holiday style and your group’s preferences. My top tip? Narrow your choices to two or three lines, then explore YouTube for real reviews. Search phrases like “MSC cruises for families” or “Viking Voyages for older travellers.” Understanding Cabin Options Next up: cabins! When I first heard “inside cabin,” I assumed all cabins were inside the ship. Wrong! This term refers to cabins without windows. Most ships offer six cabin types: Choosing the right cabin depends on your budget and preference. If you enjoy fresh air, a balcony is perfect. However, if you’re cruising somewhere cooler, you may want to rethink that decision. Destination and Itinerary Considerations Now that you have cabin options in mind, it’s time to consider your destination and cruise duration. Are you seeking a quick getaway or a grand adventure? To save costs, look for cruises departing from your home port or a nearby location. Once you have your port, check available itineraries for your desired travel month. Ideally, aim for at least five days at sea, as anything less might leave you wanting more! However, if this is your first cruise, stick with shorter options so you know it’s the right fit for you. Additional Packages and Shore Excursions Most cruise lines offer add-on packages for WiFi, drink packages, daily gratuities, and more. Be sure to explore the cruise line’s website for the full breakdown of optional offerings to understand the total costs involved. Considering shore excursions? You can often book through the cruise line for convenience but independent providers may offer similar trips at lower prices. Platforms like What’s in Port and Viator are excellent resources for exploring alternatives. Independent excursions can offer smaller groups and unique experiences, but do keep in mind that booking through the cruise line ensures the ship won’t leave without you! Onboard Activities One of the biggest surprises for first-time cruisers is the staggering number of onboard activities available! Your bonus tip: thoroughly research what’s happening on your ship! Even quieter vessels boast hidden gems and exciting activities just waiting to be discovered. Some ships offer so many dining options and venues that you could spend an entire week onboard and still not see everything. Be sure to look up ship reviews, deck plans, and YouTube videos to make notes on what you’d like to experience during your time at sea. Once onboard, don’t forget to check the daily activity newsletter to stay updated on everything happening—many cruise lines now have apps for this purpose! Final Thoughts As we dock, I encourage you to explore even more of our travel tips and share your favourite cruise secrets in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting travel content! Until next time, happy sailing! Products used in this post These may be Amazon affiliate links. Sunrise alarm clock https://geni.us/QguI Sunrise alarm clock alternative – Philips Hue 2 bluetooth https://geni.us/3KW0C Drink package calculators Port Planner (Carnival Cruises Australia, P&O Australia, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.portplanner.com.au/dpc Cruise Mummy (Ambassador, Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Fred. Olsen, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.cruisemummy.co.uk/cruise-drinks-package-calculator/ Cruzely (Carnival, Celebrity, MSC, Norwegian, Princess, Royal Caribbean) https://www.cruzely.com/cruise-line-drink-package-calculator/ What’s in Port https://www.whatsinport.com/ Viator (affiliate link) https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link Cruise Critic Forum https://boards.cruisecritic.com Even more links We use the following for our travel and YouTube needs. These may be affiliate links that will earn us a small commission. Viator (affiliate link) https://www.viator.com/?pid=P00213240&mcid=42383&medium=link Alosim eSims use code 7NBZZYI to get $3 off your first purchase https://alosim.com/ NordVPN to protect our data and equipment https://refer-nordvpn.com/TzKdKQRYawt ClickUp to organise our filming projects https://app.clickup.com/signup?utm_source=in-app&utm_medium=owned&utm_campaign=inapp_owned_ar_ref_x_promo_all-devices_x_lp_in-app-referral_all-departments_x_settings&utm_term=9016429597_96844571&promo=SHARE10
Discovering New York in November: Five Must-Do Activities
As the sun dips below the horizon on a crisp autumn day, New York transforms into a dazzling wonderland. While many believe that the excitement fades after Halloween, they simply miss out on the vibrant experiences, hidden gems, and unforgettable adventures awaiting exploration during this magical month. Having visited the city together ten times, we can confidently say that November holds a special place in our hearts. The atmosphere is electric, the decorations are stunning, and there’s a delightful buzz in the air. Here are our five favourite things to do in New York in November. 1. Marvel at the Holiday Shop Windows One of the most enchanting experiences in New York during November is witnessing the breathtaking holiday shop windows that come alive at this time. Iconic stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue go all out for the season, competing to create stunning and often whimsical displays that celebrate joy and festivities through classic tales, holiday symbols, and vibrant colours. These windows are not only captivating for children but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for adults who may have fond memories of visiting them in their own childhood. Fifth Avenue transforms into a sparkling spectacle, drawing countless visitors. Just remember to bundle up because it can get quite chilly, especially as the sun sets. Be prepared to spend several hours soaking in the festive spirit—it’s an experience that’s nothing short of magical. 2. Enjoy Central Park’s Squirrel Spectacle As the temperature drops, Central Park becomes a lively hub of squirrel activity. These playful creatures can be seen frolicking about, busily burying their acorns in preparation for winter. Their antics add a light-hearted charm to the park, making it a delightful spot to enjoy the crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage. During your stroll, keep in mind that the park’s fountains are turned off for winter, creating a different vibe from the warmer months. Central Park also comes alive with street performers showcasing their talents, including the whimsical bubble-makers who craft giant bubbles that float enchantingly in the air. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the rare black squirrel—spotting one is a fun photo opportunity and a unique part of any visit! 3. Experience the Rockefeller Christmas Tree No visit to New York in November would be complete without seeing the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree. This towering symbol of the holiday season lights up the plaza, captivating visitors with its grandeur. However, be warned—the crowds can be overwhelming, especially during the tree lighting ceremony. For a more serene experience, consider ice skating at Bryant Park. This beautifully situated rink offers a cosy winter wonderland atmosphere that is much more intimate than Rockefeller Centre. Bryant Park also hosts charming winter markets, perfect for shopping for unique gifts and indulging in seasonal treats while sipping on hot chocolate. 4. Celebrate Thanksgiving Day Bliss Fourth on our list is the spectacular Thanksgiving Day Parade. This iconic event showcases giant balloons, lavish floats, and captivating performances that delight audiences of all ages. The parade runs from 77th Street down to Macy’s Herald Square, providing the perfect opportunity to secure a good viewing spot early in the day. After the parade, treat yourself to an extraordinary Thanksgiving dinner at a fabulous restaurant like Manhatta, where you can savour a gourmet meal with breathtaking skyline views. A leisurely stroll through the Financial District afterward offers a surprisingly quiet atmosphere, providing a stark contrast to the holiday hustle and bustle. Be sure to stop by the famous Charging Bull statue—it’s a testament to the energy of Wall Street and a must-see! 5. Soak in the Views from Tall Buildings To truly appreciate the essence of New York, head up to one of its many towering buildings. We’ve explored them all, from the World Trade Centre and Empire State Building to Rockefeller Centre and the Summit. Our top pick? The Summit, located adjacent to Grand Central Terminal on Vanderbilt Street. This new viewing platform offers an immersive experience with multiple levels and interactive exhibits, making it a warm and engaging place to relax while taking in stunning panoramic views of the city. From the Summit, you can see all four corners of Manhattan, as well as the surrounding rivers, with breathtaking views of iconic buildings like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Centre, World Trade Centre, and the Chrysler Building—our personal favourite. Bonus Tip: Prepare for Winter Weather As a final note, remember that the weather can be unpredictable in late November—it’s not uncommon for the city to experience snow. With ten visits under our belt, we’ve encountered snow three times, so be prepared by layering your clothing to stay warm. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking. When you feel the chill, take refuge in warm stores or cafes for a breather, hot chocolate, or a freshly baked pastry. These cosy spots are perfect for recharging before heading back out into the crisp city air. See other videos like this one. Conclusion There you have it—our top five unforgettable experiences in New York this November! We hope this inspires you to explore all the magic the city has to offer during this vibrant season. Whether it’s the holiday shop windows, playful squirrels in Central Park, the glittering Rockefeller tree, the joyous Thanksgiving parade, or stunning skyline views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Safe travels, and happy adventures! Until next time—let’s make some unforgettable memories together! Check out our New York Blog here.
Ten Tips For First Time Visitors to New York
Arriving in Style: Whether you’re budget-conscious or seeking convenience, consider the LIRR from JFK for a seamless transit to midtown Manhattan. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) not only offers a fast ride—taking about 35 minutes to reach Penn Station—but also provides a comfortable and reliable option for travelers who want to avoid the stress of traffic. Make sure to check your train schedule ahead of time, as frequencies can vary. Once you arrive at Penn Station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Manhattan, with easy access to the subway, buses, and a range of taxis that can take you to your final destination. Taxi Tales: Opting for a taxi? Remember, fixed fares from JFK to Manhattan ensure a smooth ride without the fare surprises of ride-shares. Taxis provide a classic New York experience as you cruise through the bustling streets, passing landmarks along the way. One of the perks of taking a taxi is the ability to easily transport luggage, which can be awkward on public transportation. Just keep an eye out for the yellow cabs, and be prepared to tip your driver as a courtesy for their service, typically around 15-20% of the fare, depending on the quality of the ride. Times Square Truths: Dive into the Times Square frenzy but beware, nothing comes free amidst the glitz and glamour. While the bright lights and the vibrant atmosphere are a must-see, be mindful of street performers who often expect tips for their shows. Additionally, many of the attractions in the area come with a hefty price tag, so it’s wise to plan your budget accordingly. Instead, consider visiting nearby spots like Bryant Park or the New York Public Library for a more relaxed experience, which offer plenty of photo opportunities without the chaos of Times Square. Navigating Crowds: Respect the New York hustle; avoid halting abruptly for photos and selfies to keep the pedestrian flow unhindered. New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyles, so when you’re walking in busy areas, stay to the right and keep moving whenever possible. If you want to take pictures, look for designated areas or quieter streets nearby where halting won’t disrupt the flow of foot traffic. This simple courtesy will make your visit more enjoyable and help you blend in with the local rhythm. Lodging Logistics: Midtown may be pricey; consider cozy apartments for longer stays or explore alternatives in downtown or Brooklyn. Platforms like Airbnb and other vacation rentals offer a more localised experience, where you can have access to kitchens and living space, making your trip more comfortable. Additionally, staying in neighbourhoods like Williamsburg or Park Slope in Brooklyn provides a chance to experience different cultures and local dining – plus, it’s only a subway ride away from the main attractions. We do stay in midtown, but our choice is not a hotel. We’ve been staying at the AKA Times Square since 2010 and it is ideal. As you would know, Mardi is neurodiverse and I am vision impaired. So a strategy we use is familiarity. Midtown and the AKA gives us that. It is very easy to navigate away from midtown using a number of subways stations nearby and it allows me to independently travel. Plus the AKA is just awesome. We’ve stayed with them in Washington DC as well and on our recent trip to London we stayed at the AKA Marylebone Check them out here. Check out my five tips on travelling with a vision impairment here. Feast Like a Local: You don’t need to eat at a sit down restaurant every night. New York is expensive. Skip pricey eateries and savour the city’s flavours at bodegas, delis, and food carts across Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Each borough boasts its own culinary gems, and Queens, in particular, is known for its incredible diversity. From authentic ethnic cuisines to mouthwatering food trucks, exploring these casual dining options not only saves you money but also allows you to taste the true essence of New York City. Make sure to try iconic foods like bagels, pizza, and the famous halal carts for a truly local experience. Tipping Etiquette: Tips made simple—double the tax for a hassle-free dining experience and beware of pre-included gratuities. In addition to dining, remember that tipping is customary for various services, including hotel staff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. It’s a way to show appreciation for good service. For larger groups, always check your bill for any automatic gratuity fees, as some restaurants include it when you have a certain number of guests—a detail that can save you some confusion when calculating your total bill. Statue of Liberty Sneak Peek: Embrace the iconic symbol of freedom for free aboard the Staten Island Ferry—no tickets needed. This iconic orange ferry runs every 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty as it glides across New York Harbor. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride; it’s as much about the journey as the destination. While you won’t be able to step foot on Liberty Island without a ticket, you can still appreciate one of the most recognizable landmarks from the comfort of the ferry. Smart Subway Moves: Embrace convenience by paying for subway rides with your phone or watch, eliminating the hassle of metro cards. This modern feature allows you to easily tap your device at the turnstile, making it a time-efficient way to navigate the city. Familiarize yourself with subway maps and apps that can direct you on the quickest routes to your destinations. Additionally, remember to check for platform signs that indicate if your train is local or express, which can save you valuable travel time. Comfort First: Pack comfy shoes to seize every moment in the city that demands exploration on foot, uncovering hidden gems with every step. New York City is best experienced by walking, where the sights, sounds, and smells create an unforgettable atmosphere. Consider choosing
How to Step Away from the Crowds in New York
Today, we invite you to step away from the hustle and bustle of Times Square and delve into the authentic, lesser-known attractions that truly embody the spirit of New York City. So buckle up and get ready for an adventure that reveals the real NYC!
Top Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Flights
Picture this: You’re staring down the barrel of another long-haul flight. The dread creeps in, but fear not! I’ve got your back. With years of jet-setting under our belts (thanks, Australia, for being so far away from everywhere!), I’ve compiled the top five items to take on board with you to make your journey a breeze. Stick around till the end, because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on the game-changer waiting for you at number five! Welcome aboard the Linke Lifestyle Express! Buckle up, fellow travellers, as we take you on a whirlwind of travel experiences, insider tips, and a sprinkle of entertainment magic along the way. I’m Mardi, joined by my partner in crime, Michael, and together, we’re here to revolutionise your travel game! The Five Travel Essentials for Long-Haul Journeys Imagine this: a throbbing headache, a blocked nose, or aches and pains creeping in. It’s a nightmare! That’s why I always bring an emergency medication kit. My go-to lifesavers include: I keep these organised in handy zip lock bags for easy access and peace of mind. Why let minor discomfort ruin your flight? In the world of long-haul flights, hydration is your best friend. Whether the airline hands you a water bottle or not, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your trusty companion by bringing your own reusable water bottle onboard. Stay refreshed, stay hydrated, and hey, it’s perfect for washing down those painkillers too! The secret to surviving the dry, recycled air of the cabin? Always have lip balm and a moisturiser! Keep your lips soft and your skin glowing with your portable arsenal. I recommend using a sample-sized bottle of moisturiser or transferring it into a tiny pot to save space while keeping your skin replenished throughout the flight. When the cabin feels like a sauna, you need a cool down companion! Beat the heat with your trusty handheld fan. Compact and USB-chargeable, this multitasking champ not only keeps you cool but also provides charging for your devices. Say goodbye to stuffy flights and hello to a breath of fresh air! In-flight entertainment is your savior for those endless hours, so say no to uncomfortable airline headphones and embrace the cozy comfort of your own over-ear headphones. I love my Bose QuietComfort headphones. Immerse yourself in your favorite movies or shows with their outstanding noise-canceling feature. For added convenience, consider pairing them with an AirFly for a seamless entertainment experience. Conclusion Thanks for journeying with us today! If you have your own go-to travel essentials, share them in the comments below. And hey, if you’ve enjoyed this adventure with us, hit that subscribe button and join our ever-growing travel tribe. Let’s spread our wings together and explore the world in style! Until next time, safe travels and happy adventures! Paracetamol/Acetaminophen Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4bpv7wB Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLxZ82 Melatonin Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4elQz8u Amazon Australia: Not available Tylenol PM Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4b2Q0xw Amazon Australia: Not available Zyrtec Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cLrgLm Chewable antacid tablets Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eJm9xd Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RSbHtg Little zip lock bags Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3XKxJ52 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4cGGJfK Collapsible water bottle Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4eo3J4H Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3z2NnhY Lip balm Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xK6SeT Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RPkagZ Moisturiser Amazon US: https://amzn.to/4cACQsO Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/45MNvOG Travel skincare pot Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RQoj48 Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4eEmi4S Handheld fan Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RsuVFD Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3RrncYu Bose QuietComfort headphones Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3RtxYgX Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/3KJHOaH Airfly Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3xjl2Du Amazon Australia: https://amzn.to/4aYeW9q
Traveling with Low Vision: Five Essential Tips
Sometimes our eyesight lets us down. In my case, my vision has been a challenge since I was born. For over 50 years, I’ve experienced low vision, and through extensive worldwide travel and experience, I’ve developed five tips that have helped me navigate the world. I’m confident they can assist you as well. Is Traveling Difficult for You? Do you find it challenging to read departure and arrival boards at airports? Are the indicator boards at train stations and bus terminals hard to decipher? Have you struggled to locate a restaurant where you’re meeting a friend or arrived late for a sporting event or concert you’ve been eagerly anticipating? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then these five tips are for you. 1. Do Your Research Before heading to your destination, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. Whether you’re traveling to Japan, New York, or somewhere in Europe, familiarise yourself with the area. Find out the locations of the shops, shows, or museums you want to visit, and understand the transportation options available. For instance, during my recent trip to Japan, I wanted to buy a quality Japanese knife for cooking. I researched knife shops in Tokyo and Kyoto to find a couple of promising options. I searched their websites, located their addresses, and explored public transport routes to get there from my hotel. I noted how long it would take and their opening hours. By doing this research, I was able to easily and stress-free get to the knife shop and purchase the knife I wanted. 2. Book Meet and Assist Services My second tip is to utilise “meet and assist” services, which many airlines and airports offer. Whenever I’m traveling to an unfamiliar airport, I always book this service, even at familiar ones. My wife, Mardi, is autistic, and mixed with low vision, airports can be overwhelming. Consider major international airports like Frankfurt, JFK, or Heathrow, which can be particularly confusing. The meet and assist service alleviates the stress by providing an escort from check-in to your gate or on to the aircraft. Upon arrival, they can guide you through immigration, customs, and baggage claim. For example, the Quant team took wonderful care of us in New York, making our experience easy and stress-free. 3. Pre-Book Tactile Tours The third tip is to plan ahead regarding experiences you want to enjoy, such as concerts or museum visits. Call or email ahead to inquire about accessibility features for individuals with low vision. Ask if they have audio guides, large print materials, or tactile experiences available. When I visited Lord’s Cricket Ground in St. John’s Wood, London, I had the opportunity to feel the grass and walk on the pitch because I reached out ahead of time. A similar experience occurred at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., where I sat in the cockpit of a space shuttle. Many venues are more than willing to provide assistance to people with disabilities when you simply ask. 4. Allocate Extra Time The fourth tip is to allocate extra time for your activities. As someone with low vision, I often find that things take longer than expected. Therefore, I make sure to build additional time into my schedule so that I don’t miss out on exhibits, experiences, or connecting transportation. For instance, when traveling from our hotel on 44th Street to a concert at 34th Street, Google indicates it’s a 12-minute walk. In reality, navigating large crowds, traffic lights, and locating concert hall entrances can extend this time significantly. By allowing 10 to 15 extra minutes in your itinerary, you reduce the chances of disappointment and give yourself flexibility to enjoy your surroundings even if you arrive a bit early. 5. Bring Your Accessibility Tools Finally, my fifth tip is to pack your accessibility tools. At home, I use various magnifiers, but on the road, I prefer more portable options. I carry handheld and pocket magnifiers to assist me while traveling, especially when I need to read a menu on a train or airplane. In addition, I always have a monocular handy to help me spot landmarks if I get lost. For example, if I find myself stuck in a grid like New York City and need to identify street signs, my monocular serves as a useful tool. I recommend visiting websites of vision agencies to discover accessible magnifiers that suit your needs and to pack several for your travels. Here’s my favourite: www.visionstore.com.au Bonus Tip: Don’t Underestimate the Cognitive Load of Travel Travel can add significant cognitive load, especially when navigating airports with low vision. It’s essential to be aware of the extra stress that comes with travel and to adopt at least one of these tips to reduce that burden. By preparing properly, you’re more likely to have enjoyable and rewarding travel experiences. I’ve travelled the world and enjoyed countless opportunities, many of which are enhanced by my commitment to preparation and accessibility. I’d love to hear your tips on traveling with low vision or any other disabilities. What strategies have you found effective in making your travels easier? Drop a comment below! Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips and insights from Linke Lifestyle. Safe travels!
