Ask Karen : Disabled Travelers in France
Dear J. Ivery
Traveling with someone who is wheelchair bound is a challenge, but not an insurmountable one. However, it does require advanced planning.
The newer trains (such as the TGV) do have places where wheelchairs may be placed and they will also provide a SNCF representative to help your son on and off the train, but you must reserve in advance The number to call to arrange for these services is 0800-154-753. It is in French only, so if your French is not perfect have the hotel's concierge arrange this for you as traveling is stressful enough. Go to: http://www.voyages-sncf.com/info_resa/passenger_guide/available_services/passengers/home.htm?LG=FR&Rubrique=Available+Services&Theme=Passengers for information from the SNCF website.
Some buses on major lines are handicapped equipped with ramps that descend so that wheelchairs may be accommodated. On those buses, there are designated places for the handicapped where wheelchairs can be secured. The RATP website (http://www.citefutee.com/informer/reseau_surface.php) provides a list of which lines are available.
You might consider taking taxis. Although it is illegal for taxis to turn down fares for people who are handicapped, I would still call ahead and give them advanced warning.
Some drivers are more accommodating than others.
Regarding elevators, newer buildings (and train stations) have larger ones.
But, if you are staying in a hotel, please advise them of the precise dimensions of the wheelchair. In smaller hotels, many elevators have been retrofitted and are too small to accommodate them.
Take nothing for granted. The more planning and arrangements you make, the less hassle free your trip will be.
Paris is becoming more handicap-access savvy, but it has a LONG way to go.
Please read Lara Rogers' column "Traveling Impaired" on Bonjour Paris, which will provide you with some invaluable information on traveling with a disability.
http://www.paris-touristoffice.com
This is a great place to start to help you plan your trip to Paris
http://www.wheelsup.com/europe1.html
The basics on what to expect in hotels and hints on "improvising"
http://www.wheelsup.com/europe2.html
The basics on public transportation
http://www.wheelsup.com/europe3.html
The basics on seeing the sights
Rebecca's Adventures
http://rebecca576.tripod.com/rebeccastravels/id3.html
Rebecca is a teacher, writer, and etiquette consultant with multiple sclerosis.
Hope this is a help and good luck!
Best,
