In 1990, the Government of Canada has significantly reformed accessibility for people with disabilities of all kinds to various tourist sites and attractions: Wheelchair circulation in public buildings or sidewalks, installation of special equipment in the Visitor Centers or special trails in some national parks, reserved parking spaces, a proliferation of Braille signs, for example in elevators, as well as the installation of systems for the hearing impaired implemented by TV channels or Internet websites, are just some examples.

Canada is especially well suited for travellers with reduced mobility. Despite the many advances made, the Federal State still cannot overcome some obstacles or issues. Before you leave for Canada, it is good to know that there are specialized agencies or agencies with specialized departments that also employ disabled staff. Thus, the culture of inclusion of people with disabilities is far ahead. This explains why the majority of tourist attractions in Canada are accessible to people with disabilities. In particular, thanks to the introduction of new and increasingly precise standards and regulations for transport, there exist accommodation and services tailored specifically around people with disabilities.

Although this is also a good idea for a person in good health, it is recommended for a disabled person to carry a document (preferably in English and French) mentioning at least one emergency number, the address of your destination, your blood group, the condition you suffer from and any medical contraindications as well as any regular medications prescribed to you (their components and active ingredient rather than their trade name).

For people with disabilities requiring the help of a pet, you should know that in restaurants and cafes, pets are rarely allowed. The same is true of administrative offices, attractions, public transport and shops. However, a visually impaired person may be accompanied by their guide dog. Accessibility in Canada

In 1996, Canada passed legislation concerning the need for the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) to improve access to transportation for people with disabilities. Canada has ratified the concept of "universal accessibility", which ensures better accessibility for all persons with disabilities in all areas of daily life.

Accessibility in Canada is among the best in the world

Accessibility in Canada is based on the fundamental right of all citizens to have the same services. In Canada, many efforts have been made to bring the territory up to standard, making it as accessible as possible to everybody. Many associations are also working to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. Most tourist offices in the regions therefore offer search agents to help find accommodation or activities that are accessible to people with disabilities.

Canada is a country known for its strong climatic contrasts

During the summer, temperatures can go up to 40°C and dive down to -40°C in the winter. This has many consequences on the accessibility of cities. The best time for people with reduced mobility to travel to Canada is in the summer, when the country is globally accessible. In winter, on the other hand, snow and weather conditions make travel in the country more complicated.

For security reasons, US and Canadian airlines restrict the number of people with disabilities. The presence of an assistant may be requested by the airline depending on the degree of disability, the person’s age or the duration of the flight. An assistant is obligatory on long-distance travel if the disabled person can’t fasten their seat belt, use the oxygen mask, take their meals or use the toilet independently. International Airports are equipped to receive people with reduced mobility and have a help desk.