It’s Wednesday night, and I’m busy downloading music, videos, and books for my upcoming trip to China. Even with an e-sim and VPN, I anticipate needing offline content during the long flight and at other times when internet access might be unreliable. So, I’m curating my favorite music, books, and videos to enjoy over the next couple of weeks.
This isn’t my only preparation, though. This trip is significant; it’s my first since my amputation a couple of years ago. It’s also my first major solo trip in a while. Before COVID, I used to travel independently overseas quite often without much worry, but a lot has happened in these past few years. Consequently, I feel the need to be more prepared than I used to be, particularly now that I have a physical disability that requires extra consideration.
Despite having travelled with friends and family recently, I’m keen to regain my confidence in travelling independently. That’s why I’ve chosen a destination I’m familiar with. About 10 years ago, my friend Sue and I went on an organised tour of China. Even before that, in 2010, I visited my friend Kate when she was living there. So, I’ve been to China before and have visited most of the places on this itinerary, meaning I know what to expect.
When I booked this trip a few months ago, I knew what I was getting myself into. A bonus was that it was incredibly cheap – around $888 for everything included, although I anticipate some optional extras. But the core experience is familiar.
This time, however, I need to consider my physical limitations more. I’m thinking about how much I can walk each day and the terrain. For instance, I know the Great Wall of China will be challenging due to its steepness and cobblestones. But having been there before, I know I don’t need to climb to the highest point. I can enjoy the experience without covering a huge distance or scaling great heights. I can take my time and don’t need to walk excessively.
I’m aware I’ll be part of a tour group and need to keep pace, which I believe I can manage. However, I’m also prepared: if things become too much, I can rest on the bus or sit and wait. It’s not crucial for me to see and do everything, as I might have felt compelled to in the past. I also know from previous excursions that if a day or two proves too strenuous, I can inform the tour guides and opt to stay at the hotel or leave an activity early without it being a major issue or letting others down. I’m also mindful that on similar tours, I’ve seen others with mobility or weight issues that limit their movement, so I likely won’t be alone in taking things easier.
My research and preparations have been quite thorough. A new aspect of this has been using artificial intelligence to help me plan. For example, I’ve used AI to find out the closest restaurants, metro stations, and bars to our hotels. Alongside this, I’ve been watching a lot of YouTube videos for general tips and tricks about visiting China.
This combination gives me a good sense of accessible options. For instance, if a restaurant is only 100 metres away, I know that’s manageable for me independently, without needing to walk kilometres. That kind of information is really helpful. I’ve also researched nearby shopping centres and pharmacies.
Due to health issues, including diabetes, I’ve seen my doctor and have ample prescriptions, so I should be covered on that front. Furthermore, I’ve read some very useful travel guides written by other amputees, offering practical advice which has been invaluable. https://www.limbs4life.org.au/uploads/amplifiedFiles/Amplified-Edition-3-2023.pdf
Additionally, my research into flying as an amputee also highlighted the need for compression socks to manage potential swelling in my residual limb due to cabin pressure, so I’ve made sure to pack those.
My research has helped me identify what’s feasible. For instance, I noticed a jazz club that was relatively close to one venue, but still far enough that it might be an issue, so I’ve decided against it. Looking at the itinerary, I’ve noted free days, which I plan to use for rest if needed. There are also optional tour segments, and I’ve decided to skip most of them, though I will participate in a couple. I have booked an external food tour, which I’m excited about, and I’m also planning to meet up with a friend who lives in Beijing during my free time. These are things I’m looking forward to.
Overall, I’m feeling okay about the trip. When a friend asked how I was feeling, I said I’m pretty good, but also slightly apprehensive about the possibility of falling or injuring myself. I don’t think it will happen, but the concern is there.
My friend mentioned someone she knows who also had an amputation around the same time as me. She asked if I had disclosed my situation. And yes, I’ve informed the airline and the travel company about my needs. And I have travel insurance!! This includes arranging for wheelchair assistance at the airports, as distances within them can often be quite long and challenging. However, a part of me feels I shouldn’t have to disclose it, that I should be able to manage and plan for myself.
This increased level of planning has become routine for me over the past couple of years – consciously thinking about my steps and movements. So, downloading books, music, and videos is actually one of the simpler parts of my preparation.
I head off on Tuesday, so if you think of anything I should consider, please comment below.