Disabilities, whether physical or mental, should not inhibit people from traveling to their dream destinations. While those who are deaf or hard of hearing might find travel difficult, with proper planning, anyone can safely embark on an international vacation.
Best Destinations for Deaf Vacations
While specific cruises and resorts cater to the needs of deaf people, those with hearing disabilities can enjoy the same destinations as anyone else.
The European Union is proud to host some of the most accessible countries in the world, making it one of the best destinations for deaf travelers. Here are the three best countries for people with hearing disabilities.
Spain
In addition to being one of Europe’s most stunning offerings, Spain is also a highly accessible country for people of all disabilities. Deaf travelers can enjoy the stunning beaches of Tossa de Mar, Marbella's world-class restaurants, and Madrid's unforgettable sites.
One deaf traveler regards Spain as one of the most deaf-friendly places in the world, citing the dignity and respect she was treated there. In addition to the accommodating nature of Spanish people, most hotels in Spain have significantly improved their accessibility.
Tours for Deaf People in Spain
While deaf people can enjoy museums and historical sites as much as anyone else, tour accessibility can be limiting. Unfortunately, many of Europe’s most popular sites, including Spain’s Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia and La Alhambra, do not offer tours catered to the deaf community. There are, however, several private companies that provide such a service.
Deaf Europe provides ASL-guided tours of such Spanish cities as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Cordoba, and Zaragoza. Tours are custom-built to include every site the client wants to see. Furthermore, each tour guide is guaranteed to be fluent in ASL and deaf culture.
Switzerland
Switzerland’s unparalleled beauty is something travelers of all faculties can enjoy. From quaint mountain villages to beautifully preserved cities, Switzerland is surrounded by the jaw-dropping mountain range of the Swiss Alps. Tourists from around the world marvel at the dramatic mountainscape as they stroll through cobblestone streets and dine at some of the world’s most luxurious restaurants.
On top of its physical beauty, Switzerland is a highly developed country that accommodates people of all accessibility needs. People with hearing disabilities will have no issue feeling at home in Switzerland.
All-Inclusive Trips for Deaf Travelers in Switzerland
An excellent option for deaf travelers is to join a guided, all-inclusive trip from Hands On Travel. This company provides the services of a deaf Tour Leader on call 24 hours a day and local deaf guides. Among a wide range of vacations available throughout Europe, Hands On Travel provides a Swiss getaway that includes:
- 12 nights in 3-star accommodations.
- 15 meals: Breakfast (12), Dinner (3)
- All transportation expenses.
- All admission fees for attractions and museums are mentioned in the itinerary.
- Pre-tour and post-tour itinerary consultation.
Other European destinations include Germany, Poland, Czechia, Italy, Spain, France, and Greece.
Sweden
As the first country to recognize deaf people as bilinguals, Sweden holds a pivotal role in the history of deaf people. Sweden continues to be a leader in deaf accessibility, making it one of the best locations for deaf vacations. Another feature of Sweden that makes it an excellent option for deaf travelers is the abundance of natural beauty.
Deaf travelers can enjoy the vibrant Old Town of Gamla Stan and the salvaged 17th-century warship in the Vasa Museum. Further North, travelers can be awestruck by the Northern Lights–a site that is truly beyond words.
Deaf-Oriented Cruises
A popular vacation option for deaf travelers has cruises that cater to hearing disabilities. This guarantees accessible tours and accommodations and gives deaf travelers a community of other deaf people to share their experiences.
Deaf Vacations offers numerous cruises, including a cruise through the Baltic Sea. Departing from Stockholm, this cruise docks in European cities like Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Berlin, Copenhagen, and Oslo.
In addition to ASL interpreters on board and at every destination, passengers can enjoy an abundance of dining and entertainment options on the luxurious cruise liner.
How Should Deaf Travelers Prepare for a Vacation?
Any vacation requires a significant amount of planning and education. Like any traveler, deaf travelers should make an itinerary of what they want to experience during their vacation. If such activities as museums or historical sites are on that list, contact the facilities to confirm what accommodations they offer deaf visitors.
Additionally, European cities host deaf advocacy groups that may provide resources to deaf travelers. One such group is the European Union or the Deaf, which includes 31 member countries. In addition to various resources and information on policies, the EUD also provides several contacts.
It is also essential for deaf travelers to understand their rights. The Air Carrier Access Act outlines all disabled U.S. citizens' rights during domestic and international travel. These rights include:
- The Right to Be Treated with Dignity and Respect.
- The Right to Receive Information About Services and Aircraft Capabilities and Limitations.
- The Right to Receive Information in an Accessible Format.
- The Right to Accessible Airport Facilities.
- The Right to Assistance at Airports.
- The Right to Assistance on the Aircraft.
- The Right to Travel with an Assistive Device or Service Animal.
- The Right to Receive Seating Accommodations.
- The Right to Accessible Aircraft Features.
- The Right to Resolution of a Disability-Related Issue.
What Is ETIAS for?
ETIAS has been designed to enhance the border security of EU member nations. Due to a growing number of terrorist attacks, refugees of war, and annual tourists, the EU needed to devise a scheme to efficiently vet the over 200 million people that cross through EU customs each year.
Upon the implementation of ETIAS, EU customs agents will have already received travelers' information before they arrive. This creates safer, more efficient borders for EU citizens and travelers alike. This system is similar to the electronic authorization systems already used by the United States and Canada.
Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa for European Travel?
U.S. citizens have enjoyed visa-free travel throughout Europe and will continue to enjoy this perk. As early as 2025, U.S. citizens must participate in a visa-waiver program to enter European countries.
This new program is known as ETIAS. Upon approval, U.S. citizens will continue to travel visa-free through Europe for up to three months within six months.
Will ETIAS Make Travel More Difficult for Deaf People?
ETIAS creates a more efficient system that benefits both border security officials and travelers. As traveler information is shared before arrival, ETIAS aims to expedite the arrivals process, creating a more streamlined design for all travelers.
This system creates further benefits for deaf travelers. Pre-registration means that less information needs to be communicated at the border. Deaf people will have the opportunity to share all of the necessary information digitally before travel commences.
How Long Will an ETIAS Take To Process?
ETIAS uses an advanced digital system that will provide approval immediately or within one hour. Furthermore, ETIAS is valid for up to three years or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever comes first. This means travelers will not have to reapply upon each European visit, further enhancing the streamlined nature of ETIAS.
Which European Countries Require ETIAS Authorization?
All the Schengen Area and European Free Trade Association countries will require an approved ETIAS or Schengen Visa. The full list of countries that will require an approved ETIAS upon arrival can be found here.
This assessment will determine the requirements for travelers unsure whether they need ETIAS authorization.
How Long Can You Stay in Europe With ETIAS Authorization?
Under ETIAS, travelers can stay in Europe for up to three months in six months.
Does ETIAS Replace the Schengen Visa?
As ETIAS is a visa waiver program, not a visa, it is not a replacement for the Schengen Visa. Some travelers may still need to obtain a Schengen Visa. Anyone traveling to Europe should understand the differences between ETIAS and the Schengen Visa and how it pertains to them.
What To Do Next
Europe is happy to welcome and accommodate travelers of all disabilities. Due to the incoming implementation of ETIAS, EU borders will be safer and more efficient than ever. Before you book your trip, make sure you understand ETIAS and which travel requirements apply to you.
Sources:
Most Deaf-Friendly Places | The Girl with the Deaf Backpack