My extended family of 9 (ages 5-65) has planned a 3-week trip Salzburg>BadGastein>Fussen (Hohenschwangau)>Munich>Szolpmbethy, HU. Looking for Xmas markets, skiing, spas, museums, castles, beerhalls, etc. We leave in 3 days. One of the older members of our party (an active 60-ish female) fractured her kneecap the other day, and is in a leg brace. Can't really bend her knee, but is otherwise relatively mobile. We are traveling by train (but are considering a van-service from MUC to Salzburg upon our arrival from the US). Obviously skiing in Gastein is out for her - any alternative suggestions? Maybe the Alte Pinahotek in Munich will be tiring, but what about the SOM tours in Salzburg? Taxis vs. walking? What do we need to think about to make the trip exceptional? Except for Bad Gastein, we are generally staying in the "Altstadts" I'm researching the Helpline for disabled- and handicapped-related posts, but given the time frame, I would appreciate comments from the board in the meantime. We leave in 3 days Suggestions, thoughts, personal experiences, and reassurances are welcome!
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Well since she will not be skiing, her lift ticket and ski rental money will go well towards taxis,, and thats what I would do,, take taxis as much as is needed,, not all the time, but when needed she shouldn't cheap out and get exhausted. Many museums will lend or rent wheelchairs, she should use them, even if she can walk it will save her energy for the walking she must do.
Posted by
Norfolk, USA
255 posts
My concern at this point in time, since you say she can't really bend her knee, is the flight itself. If you are flying economy, that could present a real problem unless you can put her in the appropriate aisle seat where she could stretch the leg out. Even then, the flight attendants might have a problem with that since it could pose a saftey hazard.
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
For plenty of legroom, get her into business class or first class on the airplane. Bulkhead seats in the main body of the airplane may allow enough legroom for her; I would not recommend an aisle seat. A foot sticking out into the aisle is a hazard for everyone. Check with the airline. Notify the airline of her disability. Wheelchairs to/from plane will make that part possible.
Posted by
Lake Forest, CA, USA
1633 posts
Personally, I would forego the taxis and trains and consider renting a car, or two, or a van. Yes, with 9 people it may be interesting. But, it's worth just checking it out. Call AutoEurope and see what the cost will be. You may be surprised. On my flights last week to/from Europe, I reserved the middle of three seats (in the middle of the plane). Then, upon arrival at the check-in counter, I had the seats on each side of me blocked. I could then put up the armrests and stretch out. I also think the middle seats have a bit more leg room. However, this may not work if the plane is full. Check out your seats online and see how the plane looks. I flew American Airlines. I was in Bavaria last week and went to several Christmas Markets. If you want info on anything, Personal Message me. What a wonderful holiday you will have and the wonderful memories you will make with your family!
Posted by
Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.A.
127 posts
If you choose to take the train to Salzburg, you should plan ahead if you intend to take a taxi to the center of town. The train station is undergoing renovation and services may not be as plentiful or accessible as you might expect ; it's about a 15 minute walk down Rainerstrasse to the river. Even if your kneecapped member can walk, it might be too much for him or her...especially if the weather's not good.