NM LIVE with Teal Sherer
March’s Guest: Traveler Cory Lee
Cory Lee, a power wheelchair user, has visited 37 countries and all seven continents and documented everything on his award-winning website, Curb Free with Cory Lee. He recently published his first children’s book, is a regular contributor to New Mobility and was our 2018 Person of the Year. Though Lee’s next international trips are postponed because of the pandemic, he’s been exploring destinations in the U.S. In our interview, he talks about the COVID-19 precautions he takes and when he plans to hop back on a plane. He also shares three travel tips for wheelchair users and details on an upcoming adventure. Here are five quick Q’s for Lee:
What is a travel highlight from this past year?
Visiting the Florida Keys surpassed my expectations with its accessible beaches, beach wheelchairs and good food.
Dream travel companion?
President Barack Obama. I lived in Washington, D.C., in 2008 and remember celebrating outside the White House when he won. I was also a 2009 Presidential Inaugural Committee volunteer.
Best meal you’ve had abroad?
Anything in Spain. Paella and churros — I could eat it all day, every day.
Favorite piece of adaptive equipment while traveling?
I have a wheelchair battery charger that I use here at home that is 110 volts but when I am traveling to places like Europe, I bring a separate charger that is 240 volts. That way I don’t have to take a converter, as they often don’t mix well with wheelchair battery chargers.
Best advice you’ve gotten from a fellow wheelchair user?
To be your own advocate and know your rights. I think this is especially important when we are traveling. For example, I know the Air Carrier Access Act — the law airline carriers must abide by regarding disabled travelers — like the back of my hand.
For more of Cory Lee’s travel tips, insights and writing, visit his site at curbfreewithcorylee.com
Instagram: @newmobilitymag
Facebook: @newmobility
YouTube: bit.ly/3980Fu4
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You are so lucky that so many companies like Winnebago are eager to work with you. I’m sure they are offering you the RV for free. Too bad they weren’t more responsive to me when I contacted them about 6 months ago asking about much smaller accessible RV and got really no support, no answers, no suggestions!