Before embarking on our cruise, I worried about how I’d be
able to get around on the ship. With a bad back, I’m not able to walk far
without pain. I checked with our travel agent about bringing my rolling walker
aboard. No problem. Without my asking, he registered us for a handicap stateroom.
WOW.
The stateroom aboard our first cruise back in 2008 was tiny—barely
room to get between the end of the bed and the cabinets. On this cruise, we had
LOTS of room. An automatic door stayed open more than long enough to get inside
with a walker, wheelchair, or scooter. Same with leaving. In fact, it was
almost too long for me. Not complaining, mind you. I was concerned that our
room was at the very back of the ship. Next stop the ocean. But with my walker,
I was able to get from aft to forward with little problem. Maneuvering down
narrow corridors was a challenge, but gracious guests made sure I had room—and didn’t
run over their feet.
The bathroom was huge. No threshold shower with a bench and
plenty of grab bars, a high toilet (again with grab bars), and plenty of room
to maneuver a wheelchair or scooter.
Our luxurious room had a drop-down bunk and the sofa converted
into a single bed (same as the other staterooms). One evening, we took the
grandkiddies so daughter and SIL could have a “date” night. After grandson and
Hubs finished a detective adventure (requiring walking from one end of the ship
to the other on multiple decks) and granddaughter and I watched a musical
performance, the kids slept in our room with plenty of room to spare. Note the towel monkey. Loved the different ones each night.
I was so fortunate that Disney Cruise Line made accommodations
for the handicapped. Beyond that was the courtesy of the staff. I can’t tell
you the number of times a staff member offered assistance, especially in the buffet
line for breakfast and lunch. “May I help you?” or “May I carry your plate?”
etc. I know, smiling service is a Disney trademark. The courtesy of the guests
was a bigger surprise. Many times Hubs and I waited for an elevator, only to
find it almost full. So we’d say we’ll wait for the next one. Gentlemen, true
gentlemen would say “we can make room. C’mon, folks, move back.” Some even got
off with their kids to make room. I saw this happen to others in wheelchairs or
on scooters. Maybe the Disney staff kindness rubbed off or maybe there still
are considerate people.
Too often, we see rude people—shopping, at tourist venues,
on the street. The vast majority of passengers on our cruise not only had good
manners but were truly kind.
As much as I wish I didn’t have a disability, I am truly
grateful that it didn’t keep me from having a wonderful time on the cruise.
