Nath, Author at The Wheelchair Traveller

Day 6 (Thailand) – Ferry to Koh Yao Yai

If one was to Google whether the islands of Thailand are wheelchair accessible, a large proportion will either say no or recommend places like Phuket. This is due to passenger ferries being inaccessible to wheelchair users, however, there is another way. A little known vehicle ferry runs once a day from Phuket to Krabi (and vice versa) via the islands of Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi. Indeed, this ferry appears to be used for the transportation of supplies, however, as one learnt in Greece, vehicle ferries mean accessibility…

As one mentioned, this ferry route appears to be primarily for supplies rather than to accommodate passengers. This means wheelchair users have two options, sit in the van with a limited view or, if one is able to, climb a set of stairs for a panoramic view…

The ferry crossing from Phuket takes around a hour or two hours from Krabi and very much opens up the possibility for wheelchair users to explore a Thai island.

Day 5.5 (Thailand) – Sirinart Rajini Ecosystem Learning Center

Just under a hours from the Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk lies the Sirinart Rajini Ecosystem Learning Center which aims to preserve mangrove ecosystems.

It is worth noting that the center closes at 16:30pm, however, one was lucky enough to explore just before closing time. One of the main draws to the center is its wheelchair accessible boardwalk which meanders its way through a section of preserved mangrove forest. Although short, it still gives one a taste of what it is like to explore such forest…

Both the Sirinart Rajini Ecosystem Learning Center and the Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk are within a 90 minute drive of Hua Hin hence making a perfect day trip.

Day 5 (Thailand) – Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk

Before we delve into this attraction, it needs to be noted that despite the location being on the fringes of Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, one must travel directly rather than the visitor centre who may inform you that none of said National Park is wheelchair accessible.

The Bueng Bua Wood Boardwalk spans across a large nature reserve and wetland home to a wide array of species. The wheelchair accessible boardwalk meanders its way through this…

Towards the end of the boardwalk sits an observation tower which is not wheelchair accessible, however it does provide spectacular views from the top…

Wheelchair users should also be prudent as some planks may contain holes!

N.B. For the remainder of the journey through Thailand, one is utilising a van from BB Travels who are, let’s say, more on the adventurous side!

Day 4 (Thailand) – The Thai Railways Experience

Railways in Thailand (Thai Railways) are perceived by many to be inaccessible to wheelchair users. Granted, there are still obstacles as of 2026, however it is clear that Thai Railways are making a significant investment. To a wheelchair user wishing to traverse one of Thailands main arterial routes. Not only has a handful of stations been rebuilt with elevators, a large proportion of smaller stations now possess higher platforms to enable level boarding (with a ramp to bridge the gap) plus entrance and exit ramps, what more could one want!

One took the CNR Sleeper from Bangkok Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Hua Hin. One must say that the former is fairly large in size but easy enough to navigate including level boarding…

After many calls, it was determined that the CNR is yet to possess a dedicated wheelchair space. This leaves one with two options; transfer to a normal seat or sit in the luggage area. The latter is not as awful as it sounds as a large window is present providing one doesn’t mind air conditioning…

It most be said that Thai Railway staff are incredibly helpful also. For example, when reaching Hua Hin, station staff realised that one couldn’t get off due to a pole blocking the ramp. To overcome this, the train simply moved forward.

It is hoped that CNR will gain new rolling stock in the future to become truly wheelchair accessible.

Day 3 (Bangkok) – Mahanakorn SkyWalk

Nothing beats seeing a city from high above which is what Mahanakorn enables one to do. With its wheelchair accessible SkyWalk, one can marvel at the city of Bangkok below. Before we delve further, it is worth noting that foreigners will need to show passports when purchasing tickets. In addition, as of 2026, security is quite tight hence it is not uncommon for guards to take photos of ones wheelchair!

Now, if we dismiss the ‘immersive experience’, there are three elements to the SkyWalk; an indoor observations deck located on the 74th floor, an outdoor observations deck located on the 78th floor in addition to ‘The Peak’. Both the indoor and outdoor observation decks are wheelchair accessible, however it is not possible to access ‘The Peak’ due to stairs.

As one would expect from an observation tower, the indoor portion provides 360 degree panoramic views over the city of Bangkok plus a few perks…

One must then return to the elevator to access the outdoor portion. This area also contains a ‘Glass Tray’ which is not wheelchair accessible. However, one can still enjoy drinks etc…

This wheelchair accessible attraction is, perhaps overlooked by many, however it was a fitting end to ones visit to Bangkok.

Now let’s go on an adventure…

Day 2 (Thailand) – Ayutthaya Accessibility

Once the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, the historic city of Ayutthaya has now become an UNESCO World Heritage Site. As multiple sites are located across the city, one utilised Wheelchair Holidays Thailand to be the transport between. A large proportion of the sites contain ancient ruins and temples, the latter of which are not wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the structures, however, one can still marvel from the exterior…

In regards to navigating the ancient ruins, many sites do have wheelchair accessible routes with ramps etc, however, these are not always clear thus one may need eagle eyes. In addition, a few ramps may surprise, take speed humps for example…

Considering visits to various UNESCO Heritage Sites as a wheelchair user across the world, Ayutthaya pleasantly surprised. Definitely worth a visit.

Day 1.5 (Bangkok) – Tinidee Trendy Khaosan Hotel

Known as one of the worlds ‘megacities’, Bangkok is home to a plethora of wheelchair accessible hotels whether it be international or home grown chains. For this reason, it allows one to book a more ‘budget friendly’ yet accessible hotel. Located in the Khaosan district of Bangkok, the Tinidee Trendy Hotel is conveniently situated a mere 25-30 minute walk from sights such as The Grand Palace. It is worth noting that drop kerbs have recently been installed enabling one to cross the AH123 without issue.

Accessibility wise, the room contains ample room for wheelchairs plus a wet room with a shower seat (albeit a little small), perfect for those who wish to visit the city on a budget…

One caveat, however is that Khaosan is named as one of the ‘back packer’ districts of Bangkok hence the parties continue late into the night!

Day 1 (Bangkok) – Wheelchair Accessible Transportation

Wheelchair Accessible Transportation in Bangkok is not uncommon with several operators providing this service. For the next few days (before heading down to Hua Hin courtesy of Thai Railways), one will be using an accessible vehicle provided by Wheelchair Holidays Thailand to navigate Bangkok and Ayutthaya. Akin to many accessible vehicles, a tail lift is provided with ample space for luggage, wheelchairs etc…

It is worth noting that Wheelchair Holidays Thailand also offer tailored tours nationwide if one wishes for a organised trip rather than DIY! Also, on a personal note, the company has been very accommodative of ones ever changing and last minute plans…

Day 6 (Tbilisi) – Final Thoughts

Situated at the crossroads between Europe and Asia lies the country of Georgia. Once a Soviet city, Tbilisi has rejuvenated itself into a thriving capital surrounded by stunning landscapes. However, as of 2026, accessibility still remains a challenge for wheelchair users who wish to roll around Tbilisi. The biggest challenge occurs when crossing roads. Unlike Yerevan which possesses a number of over ground crossings and the underpasses in Riga which have been retrofitted with ramps and elevators, it seems that Tbilisi has, for now, remained with stepped underpasses for individuals to cross major roads. This is particularly evident rolling along Shota Rustaveli Avenue where one may have to travel 20 minutes in the opposite direction to seek an over ground crossing. Despite this, as we have learnt from the blog, simply plan your route using Street View.

Of course, one can also navigate Tbilisi via the bus network, the majority of which is wheelchair accessible or hire “Adapted Taxi Minivan” to explore further afield. It is also clear that Georgians are proud and willing to go the extra mile to embed one into the culture of Georgia. For example, on the way back from Kassland, one explained to the driver that we needed some food. Instead of taking us to a chain restaurant, we ended up at a local Georgian restaurant with said driver teaching us how to eat dumplings!

In conclusion, if one is up for a little prior planning, Georgia is a great destination for something that bit different!

Day 5 (Tbilisi) – Holy Trinity Cathedral

Albeit located slightly outside of Tbilisi city centre, the Holy Trinity Cathedral remains one of the top attractions. Despite its location, a multitude of hotels have been constructed within the vicinity, some with wheelchair access. Now, if one is planning to rely on private or public transportation to navigate Tbilisi, these hotels provide panoramic views. However, if one is planning to walk or roll, this option could present challenges.

In addition to steep gradients and cobbled streets leading up to the Cathedral, it needs to be remembered that planning is essential when rolling around Tbilisi. It appears that many pavements are either stepped or a little narrow…

As one would expect from attractions such as this, once one enters the grounds, the majority of accessibility issues fade…

Despite the large amount of steps leading up to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, it merely takes a stroll through the grounds to reach the ramped entrance. Once inside, one is free to marvel at the intricate architecture..

Nath