In this day and age of universal design and barrier-free access, a certain level of access is almost expected. But what about those unexpected access surprises?  You know, the ones that make you step back and say, “Wow, I can’t believe they made that accessible.” We all have those moments, even me; in fact, here are a few access surprises that triggered some of my own “wow” moments.

Wheelchair Accessible Helicopter
First stop -- Hawaii, where I discovered a wheelchair accessible helicopter. Generally speaking, helicopters are pretty inaccessible; however the folks at Sunshine Helicopters found a way for many wheelers to enjoy their scenic tours. 

Wheelchair users are first transferred to a portable wheelchair lift on the tarmac. The lift is then raised up to the helicopter door, and passengers are transferred to the helicopter seat for the tour. Flights vary from 30 minutes to an hour, and tour choices include West Maui, Hana/Haleakala or a Circle Island tour. The Sunshine Helicopter staff also gets high marks for service, and they will do whatever they can to make your flight more pleasant. It’s a great way to see Maui!

Wheelchair Ramp Treehouse
Back on the mainland, I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw my first wheelchair accessible treehouse. Towering above the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Virginia, the enormous treehouse features wheelchair ramp access, with an accessible connecting bridge leading all the way up to the top.

The treehouse is located on the edge of the lake and features dramatic views of the Conservatory and the Rose Belvedere, so it’s as much fun for adults as it is for kids. It was designed by Forever Young Treehouses a non-profit organization that specializes in building accessible treehouses. And the good news is, this isn’t their only creation. Visit www.treehouses.org for details about their other projects.

Accessible Deep Sea Fishing
For a very accessible deep sea fishing experience, head on down to Los Barriles, Mexico. That’s where Larry Cooper’s accessible En Caliente  is docked.

This sportfishing boat is equipped with removable lockdowns and harnesses, hoist access to the flying bridge, and custom fishing tackle designed for anglers of all abilities. And if you’re looking for an accessible place to stay, then look no further than Larry’s own villa. Not only does this Cabo San Lucas property boast barrier-free access, but it also comes equipped a wheelchair-accessible golf cart – another one of Larry’s designs.

Wheelchair Users On Safari
Last but not least, if you’ve ever dreamed of an African Safari, then check out what the folks at Endeavour Safaris have to offer. Wheelchair-users can stay in their own wheelchair or transfer to a vehicle seat in a wheelchair ramped Toyota Landcruiser, for safaris in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and South Africa.

Overnight accommodations are provided in accessible tents with level access, ensuite toilets and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair. Personal care attendant services are also available. It’s a great (and very accessible ) way to see the big five. And it’s a true “wow” experience.

Candy Harrington is the editor of Emerging Horizons and the author of 101 Accessible Vacations; Travel Ideas for Wheelers and Slow Walkers. She blogs regularly about accessible travel issues at www.BarrierFreeTravels.com.

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Discover other disability-accessible destinations, in Accessible National Parks: Camping Info for People with Disabilities.

For more information about an accessible vacation in Hawaii, see Accessing Hawaii: Four Islands of Fun, Part 1: Maui.