Travel Websites: Traveling with Unique Needs

Internet travel sites have become the standard for savvy travelers. But what sites are best? In a series of articles, we examine the travel site phenomenon and the best sites for reservations, ideas, and in-depth information.

You’re dreaming of that weekend or weeklong getaway, the perfect antidote to the routine of stress and daily demands.

The only problem is you have some special needs. Maybe you want or need to bring your newborn along. Or you must ensure that the flight or cruise you’re taking is properly accessible. Or you’re in need of information about proper vaccinations and other safety tips for certain destinations.

Yet another advantage of online travel planning and booking.

In addition to sites offering low fares, vacation packages, and even inside information on your travels, sites have popped up catering to travelers’ unique needs that may not be taken care of with traditional reservations.

Below, find some of the best sites that keep the needs of each unique, individual traveler in mind.

Special Requirements

• Babygoes2.com. This site’s title speaks for itself. Developed by two working moms in the UK, this site has won numerous awards for its family focus during the “holiday.” Search by destination, or look for potential family-friendly vacations wtih categories such as spas, skiing, cruises, and single parents. Also look for budget buys and special deals for kids at hotels.


• Holidayaccessdirect.com. Looking for a vacation that is inclusive for people with disabilities? This site highlights the flights, accommodations, taxis and more that make traveling with special requirements simple and enjoyable. Additional features include insights into car rental, insurance, taxis, resort support, and even mobility equipment suppliers. 

Staying safe

• Travel.state.gov. Learn direct from the source which destinations may not be safe due to current conditions. Read about travel warnings,spring break tips, and even  international financial scams. Also at this site, you can find more details than you could ever wish for regarding the federal requirements for traveling abroad, as well as special considerations for family and children. 


• Nomadtravel.co.uk and travel.state.gov. At these British and American sites, find out what medications and vacciations are advised for traveling to particular destinations. Also, learn how to access health care and emergency prescriptions while abroad. NomadTravel even advises specific medical items to bring, and sells them in easily packed and condensed kits.
  

Traveling Partners

• Traveling Alone: Vacationing alone can be an exhilarating and heady experience, but also a frightening one. Visit sites such as solotraveloneline.com to get real-life experiences and lists of travel companies that specialize in singles. In addition, major travel advice sites offer articles and information on traveling alone, such travelsense.org and smartertraveler.com.


• Looking for Travel Buddies: At ThelmaandLouise.com, you can view women-only holidays and find female travel buddies. RetiredBackpackers.com allows viewers to find like-minded travellers and even travel buddies. And if you’re a single person looking for love on vacation, check out sites such as singlestravelintl.com, club1travel.com, and trekamerica.com.

For more travel website information, read our other installments in this series, where we examine the online travel industry, techniques to get your ideal trip, and the best sites for online reservations and accommodations. 

Other Related Articles:

Travel Websites: The Inside Track

Travel Websites: The industry and the Inspiration

Travel Websites: Reservation and Accommodation Sites

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