traveler8586

We are a family of 4, ages 21+, with one person in a power wheelchair. We're trying to decide on a destination for our upcoming vacation right after Christmas when we'll have 10-15 days.

We are definitely not the type to lay on the beach all day (maybe we'll have one beach day) but instead like to stay pretty active. We enjoy sightseeing, spectacular scenery, accessible hikes/trails, some shopping/entertainment, good dining, quaint towns/villages, road trips, etc.

We thought about Australia and New Zealand (would have extended it to 3 weeks) but coming from the Midwest, the travel time is horrendous. Especially when it is such an extreme sport kind of destination (NZ in particular). The scenery looks spectacular but not sure the scenery alone would be worth it for our situation. Thoughts on AU/NZ for a wheelchair user?

We've also considered the Caribbean but most of the islands seem to be R&R type destinations...beautiful beaches and water but not much else to do. We did consider St. Martin as it seems to have a bit more to do as well as great dining and a European influence.

We've always wanted to visit Hawaii and it seems it might be a happy medium between the action packed NZ/AU and the laid back Caribbean vibe...thoughts? Since we are coming from the Midwest, it'll will be a 10-12 hr travel time for us so I want to get your thoughts on if it'll be worth it for our situation. Are there wheelchair accessible trails/hikes so that we can experience the beauty of the islands (volcanoes, rain forests, waterfalls, etc)? Also, we are thinking of doing 3-4 nights in Oahu and 7-9 nights on Maui. Would like to visit the Big Island as well but not sure if we'll have enough time (maybe if we cut a few nights from Maui).

Would love to hear your thoughts/opinions!!

Songdoc

I've been to NZ and Australia ten times. While there are extreme sports activities available in NZ, I would guess the vast majority of visitors do not partake in them. I certainly have no interest in bungee jumping, zorbing, skiing, speed-boating, or any of the other activities. There is spectacular scenery to be seen, and marvelous attractions in both countries. FYI, the exchange rates are fabulous, making them very affordable, but it certainly is a long series of flights.

I think there will be "some" accessible trails in all of the places you've mentioned--but not many. However, you will find many scenic overlooks.

I love Hawaii (although Maui is my least favorite island--see my recent trip report). But I'm not sure it's a place I would go if I were not interested in beaches. FYI, I rarely lay on a beach, but I love walking in the surf. Obviously, the beaches themselves are not wheelchair accessible. Kauai has one of my favorite walking/bike paths that runs parallel to the ocean. That is accessible. Hanalei Pier is also easily accessed from the parking lot. But, while it has more than enough for me, Kauai has fewer entertainment and dining options than the other major islands.

Good luck with your decision!

traveler8586

Thanks for the advice! Since you've been to NZ, AU, and HI, which do you consider the most spectacular scenery wise? Just trying to decide if NZ/AU is worth the extra 8-10 hrs flight time.

If going to NZ/AU (would hate to not visit both if going that far), would 10 days for each give us a pretty good feel for each country? I understand we'd probably have to pick out one or two places in Australia to focus on, but I think we could do most of New Zealand in 10-12 days?

suze

have been both to Hawaii and some of the Caribbean islands (~a dozen trips between the two places). Never New Zealand or Australia.

From what I noticed I think Hawaii would be MUCH more easily wheelchair assessable. There's plenty to see and do there besides lay on the beach (especially on Oahu, museums, etc.)

I agree with your observation that it would be a 'happy medium' for this trip.

Inakauaidavidababy

What are your wheelchair plans? Will you rent a motorized wheel chair and handicap van? Those logistics would be a first priority.

Gilbert56

New Zealand would be the most spectacular scenery wise, especially the South Island.
I grew up in Australia, & travelled to NZ several times. I visit Hawaii every year (sometimes twice a year).
Australia has some great scenery, but the country is so big and things are spread out - to see some of the best you would need to fly from place to place.
FYI - Tasmania is my favorite place there.