ACCESSIBILITY

Mexico Connect Forum Discussion Threads

Posted by Michael Evans on May 18, 2000

I am a person who uses a wheelchair and I am wondering if the hotels, streets and places of business are accessible. Thank you, Michael

Posted by John Cummings on May 19, 2000

As others have stated, generally Mexico is not wheelchair friendly. The sidewalks are often broken with holes etc. and the curbs are very high. Also many streets are cobblestone. There are exceptions of course to this general rule. On the other hand the Mexican people are very helpful and quite sympathetic. I have traveled in Mexico with my mother many times. She is often confined to a wheelchair. If the route was impassable, usually somebody would simply pick her up and carry her. John

Posted by Don Albert on May 18, 2000

Well Michael, I can't say by your note about where you are referring to. I am also in a wheelchair and have been going to Ixtapa for the last 20 years mostly NOT in a wheelchair but the last 8 years I am using a wheelchair to get around. Ixtapa is very wheelchair friendly, the curbs at street crossings are slanted, 97% of the restaurants are accessible, those that are not will certainly do everything to look after you.

 We go to a restaurant, which is not accessible, but when they see us coming 4 or 5 waiters jump at the chance to lift me and the chair up a flight of stairs, they haven't dropped me yet. Another restaurant moves a table and chairs from the regular eating area to the patio for me.

 The Mexican people are very sympathetic to disabled people and I've never encountered any problems in Ixtapa. The Hotel where we go also allowed us to install grab bars in the bathroom because I didn't want to use their handicap room, I wanted the top floor. Regards..... Don

Posted by jennifer rose on May 18, 2000

It all depends upon where you are. The ADA isn't part of Mexico, but there is a growing realization here that accessibility's important. Mostly it's done on private initiative instead of by government mandate. Newer versions of chain hotels such as the Holiday Inn and the Camino Real are incorporating handicap access, but older properties and historic places don't. Some remodeling jobs have included ramp access, and ramps occasionally are cut into sidewalk access to the street when repairs are made. Most places of business simply can't afford to make those modifications, but megastores such as Wal-Mart, Aurrera and Costco have motorized wheelchairs available for customers. There is a greater willingness among service workers, and even passersby, to accommodate the needs of disabled people, by simply lifting the wheelchair up a few steps or bringing merchandise to the individual.

Posted by Jeff Pearson on May 18, 2000

To fill in a bit more detail to Jennifer's post, I would add that frequently sidewalks are narrow and curb heights can be relatively high. Store owners and street vendors frequently display their wares on the sidewalk as well, restricting the area. A lot will depend upon where you're traveling and your ability to handle the more challenging terrain. One frequently sees Mexicans with disabilities in public, so I think that it can be done. If you don't speak Spanish, you might learn a few phrases that will help you to get an assist from passers-by if necessary.

Posted by W. L. Masterson on May 18, 2000

Jennifer is correct in saying that it depends upon where you are. But, really, Mexico is not an easy place for someone in a wheelchair to get around. The general public is very helpful, and considerate, but streets and sidewalks are, generally, in disrepair and of uneven grade, often marked with holes and/or obstructions. Door sizes are irregular, and many structures have no elevators. Public transportation is off limits to you, in most places. Public and residential restroom facilities are not comparable to U.S. standards. And, more important than anything, pedestrians and drivers will not, generally, respect your right of way. You can certainly vacation in certain towns that are easier to maneuver than other towns. Long-term stays are more difficult than the short-term ones.

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