Traveling the world is a dream for many, but for those with disabilities, it can often seem like a distant reality. However, Australian travel blogger Shane Hryhorec is changing the narrative by showing that with a bit of planning and determination, wheelchair users can explore the globe too. His journey is not just about sightseeing; it's a mission to revolutionize travel for the disabled community and to overcome the obstacles that often stand in the way.

Shane Hryhorec's adventures are a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of travelers with disabilities. His TikTok channel, 'Wheel Around the World,' has become a beacon of hope and a source of practical advice for many. With over a million views and nearly 70,000 likes on a video documenting his challenging experience with Asiana Airlines, Shane has highlighted the need for better understanding and accommodations in the travel industry.


The incident with Asiana Airlines, where Shane was initially told he could not travel with two wheelchair batteries, underscores the challenges that travelers with disabilities face. Despite checking the airline's policies beforehand, Shane encountered resistance, which he skillfully navigated to eventually board the flight. This experience, while frustrating, served as a powerful connection point with his audience, many of whom have faced similar discrimination and exclusion.


Shane's approach to travel is both pragmatic and inspiring. He encourages those living with a disability to thoroughly research their destinations before setting off. This advice is echoed by ABC's Charles Brice, who also uses a wheelchair and often turns to Shane for overseas travel tips and tricks. Charles's own preparations for covering the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games highlight the importance of verifying accessibility in advance, especially in historic cities where modern accessibility standards may not have been a consideration.


The call for an international standard for hotel accessibility is a crucial one. As Charles points out, many hotels claim to be accessible, but the reality can be quite different. A step into the hotel or a shower chair in a bathtub does not equate to true accessibility. Shane's rating system for each location he visits is a valuable tool for the disabled community, providing insights into the good, the bad, and the ugly of accessibility around the world.

Shane's experiences reveal a mixed bag of accessibility across the globe. While Japan may have excellent public transport for those with disabilities, its approach to accessible accommodation leaves much to be desired. This inconsistency is a reminder that there is still a long way to go in making travel truly inclusive.

Members of the Seniors Discount Club, many of whom may have mobility issues or disabilities, can draw inspiration from Shane's journey. His story is not just about the places he's visited but about the barriers he's broken down along the way. It's a reminder that with the right mindset and resources, the world can be an accessible place for everyone.


We invite you to share your own experiences with travel and accessibility in the comments below. Have you encountered similar challenges? What destinations have you found to be particularly accommodating? Your stories can help others navigate the world more confidently and enjoyably.
Shane Hryhorec's advocacy and determination are paving the way for a more inclusive world of travel. His message is clear: don't let anything hold you back from discovering the beauty of our planet. With each trip, each blog post, and each shared experience, we move closer to a world where travel is accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations.