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There’s some good news for anyone who is disabled: holidays to Spain just became significantly more disability-friendly. For a while now, the country has been a forerunner for inclusive tourism – and now Malaga is hopping aboard the wheelchair-accessible train as well. The city is adjusting to fit the needs of those with mobility issues. From adapting landmarks to removing barriers to changing standards, Malaga is doing everything in its power to help people with disabilities enjoy their visit and experience everything that non-handicapped people can. Malaga Accessible One of the best initiatives created by the municipality is ‘Malaga Accessible’, a movement that has implemented changes and made a significant effort to make the city as accessible for disabled tourists as it is for those who have no handicaps. For example, the city offers trips to 13 main attractions (such as the Botanical Garden, Cathedral, English Cemetery and a multitude of main museums). Known as ‘adapted visits’, they have information available in Braille and are conducted using sign language. Disabled tourists who partake in these ‘adapted visits’ are encouraged to voice any specific concerns so that the tours can be tailored to fit each individual’s needs and abilities. Getting Around If guided tours aren’t your thing and you’re looking to be as independent as possible on your trip, Malaga has got those with disabilities covered. If you stop by the Tourist Information Office, you’ll be able to find all the maps you could possibly need, with everything from Braille city maps to maps of disabled parking to maps of audible street crossings. With those in hand, you’ll find it much easier to manoeuvre your way around the city. Malaga’s transportation, both public and private, is notoriously handicap-friendly as well. • Trains have a free service for those with reduced mobility, and a majority of Spanish stations are fully adapted. • Buses have a designated space for those with wheelchairs, and electric ramps. • Metro train stations have escalators and lifts, and both trains and stations lack architectural barriers. Customised systems are in place for those with sensory impairment and reduced mobility. • Taxis are adapted to special needs (call ahead first to make sure you get an adapted vehicle). • Boats and the ports they embark from are fully adapted. Make use of Malaga’s transportation system to get to one of their many accessible activities, such a restaurant with adapted toilets, Braille menus and building ramps or a wheelchair-accessible shopping centre. For those planning disabled holidays, Spain has been the ideal destination for quite some time – and now, with the Malaga Accessible initiative in place, Malaga is arguably the best city to visit on holiday if you have a disability. From personalised guided tours to adapted and accessible transportation, the municipality are proving they care about making their city safe and fun for everyone, no matter their level of ability and mobility. Author Plate Philip Scott is the owner and founder of Can be Done, a fully licensed UK tour operator specialising in disabled holidays across the world for individuals and groups who are travelling with a handicap. With over 31 years’ experience organising long and short breaks for disabled travellers, Philip has built a reputation for helping his clients select hotels and accommodation that offer high standards of accessibility to ensure that those with special needs can experience truly relaxing and carefree holidays.
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