National #AccessAbility Week is from May 30 to June 5, 2021.
Western Newfoundland is a wild and rugged landscape full of inspiring experiences and attractions. For those with disabilities, this ruggedness may mean that many aspects of Western Newfoundland simply are not accessible. We hope this blog post inspires you to take a look at your business and community, and to start thinking about #LeavingNoOneBehind.
Here are a few of the awesome initiatives that operators and municipalities in Western Newfoundland are undertaking to be more inclusive:
Gros Morne National Park has made many upgrades to some of their trails for improved wheel chair accessibility. They also have a rustic cabin equipped for visitors with sensory needs. Learn more about accessibility in Gros Morne National Park.
Hotel Port aux Basques is the first Autism Friendly hotel in North America. This includes the addition of a sensory room, picture menus in the restaurant, extra safety and security features in the hotel rooms, and more!
Both Deer Lake Beach and Pasadena Beach have installed accessible matting to the water's edge — The Town of Pasadena even offers floating beach wheelchair rentals.
Under The Stump's guided cultural tour, Take a Gock at That, is a smooth and relaxing UTV trip in Gros Morne for those with limited mobility or breathing issues.
The Town of Channel-Port aux Basques keeps an all terrain wheelchair onsite at the seaside Grand Bay West Trail.
For insight into the life of individuals living with disabilities in Newfoundland and Labrador, visit the Damsel in a Dress Blog or Access YYT.
For more resources and to learn more about improving inclusiveness in the province, visit the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities' website.
Did we forget anyone on this list who offers accessible tourism experiences? Tell us in the comments.