The Culture Vulture…
Hey there fellow travelers! Welcome back to Mr. Bill’s Travel Blog, where we’re all about embracing new cultures, traditions, and experiences. Today, we’re continuing our series of the different types of travelers and diving into the world of the “Culture Vulture Traveler” – those adventurous souls who live for immersing themselves in local customs, traditions, and arts.
But here’s the twist – we’re also focusing on being handicapable. That’s right, whether you’re traveling with a wheelchair, cane, or any other accessibility device, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored, and we’re here to show you how!
So, what exactly does it mean to be a Culture Vulture Traveler?
Well, picture this: you’re wandering through cobblestone streets, soaking in the vibrant colors of street art, the sounds of local music filling the air, and the tantalizing aromas of exotic cuisine beckoning you to explore further. Sounds pretty amazing, right?
Most historic cities like NOLA have walking tours, horse diven carrigage tours, bus tour and even food tours. We took a walking cementary tour, a city tour on a bus and even a tour on the Natchez Steamboat Jazz tour on the old Mississippi! All of these tours were excelent, and very accessable. Some of the city sidewalks are uneven and caution should be used by everyone, not just the handicapable!
For us Culture Vulture Travelers, museums are like our playgrounds.
New Orleans has no shortage of Museums and Cultural Tours to choose from!
From ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, there’s something truly magical about getting lost in the halls of a museum, learning about the history and artistry of a culture. And the best part? Many museums around the world are becoming more and more accessible, with ramps, elevators, and audio guides for those with different mobility needs.
But it’s not just about museums – cultural festivals are where the real magic happens.
Picture yourself dancing to the rhythm of traditional music, savoring the flavors of local delicacies, and joining in on age-old traditions alongside locals who welcome you with open arms. These festivals are a celebration of life, love, and the beauty of diversity – and everyone, regardless of ability, deserves a seat at the table.
The MartiGas is one of the most iconic festivals in NOLA held since the early 1700’s! New Orleans was established in 1718 by Bienville. By the 1730s, Mardi Gras was celebrated openly in New Orleans, but not with the parades we know today. In the early 1740s, Louisiana’s governor, the Marquis de Vaudreuil, established elegant society balls, which became the model for the New Orleans Mardi Gras balls of today.
As a Culture Vulture Traveler, sampling exotic cuisine is a must.
Let’s not forget the food! Hit’s feasting on street food in New York City, indulging in Brisket in Texas, or savoring the spices of Cajun or Creole Cusine in NOLA there’s no better way to experience a culture than through its food. And with more and more restaurants offering accessible seating and menus, there’s no reason why everyone can’t enjoy a delicious culinary adventure.
And if your in New Orleans don’t forget to stop at Cafe Du Monde for Beignets! The locals tell me the secret is to avoid the long lines to be seated and go around back to the take out line! Then enjoy your treat as you stroll along the river or through City Park!
So, how can you embark on your own handicapable cultural adventure?
It’s simple – do your research, plan ahead, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. From accessible transportation options to barrier-free accommodations, there are plenty of resources available to make your journey as smooth as possible.
But most importantly…
Remember to embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and open your heart to the beauty of the world around you. As a Culture Vulture Traveler, every corner of the globe is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others – and that’s a journey worth taking, no matter where you are or what challenges you may face along the way.
So, fellow adventurers, are you ready to spread your wings and soar into the world of cultural exploration? The world is waiting – let’s go discover it together, one handicapped-accessible adventure at a time!
A few photos from our trip to New Orleans!
