Returning to a Western European country such as Portugal reminded one just how much of an impact accessibility has both in terms of cost and movement around the chosen place. For example, one was able to book a ‘budget’ hotel in the knowledge that it would be up to a high standard in terms of accessibility. This simply would not be possible in countries such as India.
The central area of Porto is very hilly indeed (on par with Valletta) hence it is prudent to plan your walking route carefully to minimise said hills, especially for wheelchair users. The great thing about Porto is the fully accessible transportation system whether it be the Gaia cable car, metro or the funicular. As a result, a wheelchair user should use it to their advantage. For example, after trekking up the hills of Vila Nove de Gaia, Superbunnys battery began to drain rather quickly whilst we were still 40 minutes walk from the hotel (excluding the gradients). One was able to head down to the Gaia cable car and then swiftly hop onto the Porto Metro taking us within 10 minutes of the hotel.
In regards to general accessibility, drop curbs are present for the majority making for a smooth roll.
After a little sense of normality in terms of accessibility in Portugal, one steps off the beaten track once again with a trip to the Azerbaijani capital of Baku. From here, the plan is to head into the Caucasus Mountains once more and to the country tourist hotspot of Gebele. The main hurdle for this trip is the lack of accessible transportation from Heydar Aliyev International Airport to the centre of Baku.