Re: Travelling in Europe

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I have family that live in Europe (Germany, Netherlands, England,

Switzerland, and Austria). My husband and I travel to Europe at

least two times a year. I too wear AFOs and find stairs difficult.

I was nervous a couple of years ago when I traveled to Paris by

myself for a week. How would I get around with all the stairs? How

could I do it?

I found out that it was much easier than what I thought. I found

myself using the hand rails on ALL stairs. If someone was in my way, I just

held my position at the hand rail and waited for them to

move. I've learned that if you hold your ground, people will go

around you. On the trains, I would always stay close to the wall.

If I ever found myself in the middle of the group with nothing to

hold onto, I just pushed my way through to find a hand hold. People

move. Also, don't be afraid to ask for a seat to sit down. Most

people are willing to give up their seats on the train, bus, etc, if

you just mention " could I please sit down, as my leg braces are

hurting my feet " . Don't say things like " AFOs " . They don't know what those

are.

Oh, be prepared at the airport security. I never take my shoes off

because I can't walk without my AFOs. Instead I politely pick up my

pant leg so the screener can see I wear leg braces. They are very

curtious and friendly if they know you can't take your shoes off, and they're

willing to work with you.

I'm not sure if you wear shorts or not. But I can tell you, if you

do, be prepared for some very unusual looks. The majority of people

don't know what they are and are very curious. Unlike the U.S., were people

look the other way, Europeans are very curious and want to know more. Be

prepared to explain why you have leg braces. You'll be amazed how many new

friends you'll meet. If I really don't want to get into the details, I usually

say something like " I was mountain biking in Canada and had a bad accident " . Of

course, anyone who knows me, knows that I do mountain bike in Canada, so at

least if I get quetioned about the kind of bike I ride, at least I can continue

on with the conversation.

Pack light. If nothing else, remember to pack light. If your going

to be hauling a suit case around, make sure it has wheels and you can pick it

up. If you have to board a train/subway use the side of the car as leverage (or

to lean against) when hauling your bag onto the train. I usually use what's

called a " 3 point contact " . Meening, three parts of my body are in contact with

something stationary when lifting my bags.

AFO repairs, make sure you have your own tool kit and extra screws,

etc for repairing your AFOs. Carry this with you at ALL times. I

also carry a small piece of wire about 12 inches long. Just in case

the plastic breaks, I can wire my AFO back together. Hasn't happened yet, but

I'm ready if it does.

One other big tip is, Spain can be rather warm. AFOs and warmth

really don't go well together. I have found out that if I have extra socks in

my backpack, I can quickly put on a new pair to cool my feet down. If it's

really warm. Take your bottle of water and slip it into your clean sock. The

sock will help insulate the water to keep it cool, and your sock will be cool

when you put it on. We did this when we here hiking around the Australian

outback. The cool water was refreshing and the cool socks were like heaven.

If you haven't all ready, get out and start walking. Eurpeans walk

every where. And I mean everywhere. So if your not used to walking, start now.

It will also help strengthen your upper legs and retrain your brain for balance.

If you'll be carrying a back pack in Spain, carry one while training.

Probably the biggest hurdle will be keeping a smile on your face, and positive

attitude. I know you can do it, because I have done it. And I've been in some

wild places on this here planet (Austrailia, New Zealand, Brazil, Thailand,

China, Mexico, and all over Europe).

Take your time, even if everyone else is in a rush. Remember your

there to live the experience, not blow through it like a freight

train.

I eager to hear all about your trip. Feel free to drop me a line.

I'd love to answer any more questions, and help you get ready for a

chance of a lifetime.

Jean

[Guest guest]

I have just recently returned from a two week trip to Chester, England. Funny

how this little disease changes your perspective. How a cobblestone street is

now an invitation to a twisted ankle and how there are stairs and uneven

surfaces everywhere.

Encourage her to go, but with the very real expectation that there will be

challenges.

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

I am thrilled to hear Nora is not only a senior (!) but wants to do

a semester abroad! I haven't been to Spain, but have traveled

elsewhere and found that the Lonely Planet guidebook series are an

excellent resource. Those books have sent me around the world

and I'm not done yet.

When I studied in Kusnacht and Einsiedln, I asked for a room on the

first floor/ground - I pack too much and didn't want to carry the

bag UP! lol I got there and discovered there were elevators! Stairs

are OK for me, but I did notice all over Europe they seem to be

shaped steeper than ours in the USA.

No doubt Nora could ask for a room in a dorm or pensione on the

first floor/ground and perhaps connect with medical support

personnel prior to her arrival, who would be made aware of her using

AFOs and other needs she may have. gave you some good advice on

preparing for an AFO break - I'd also suggest a complete AFO check

before Nora heads off. No doubt she'll needsome immunizations as

well. This website may be a good resource

http://www.independentliving.org/studyworkabroad/ES/

I am so happy she wants to go! How exciting! I can't believe she's a

senior, though, seems like she was just 14 a few months ago, lol

All the best,

Gretchen