[stylist] Wondering if anyone has thoughts on blindness and independant vacation travel?

[Chris Kuell]

Hi Sem,

I have a sighted wife, which is how I've done most of my traveling. However,
I have gone to NFB national conventions solo--although that's much easier
than going to Hungary or Prague, since there are plenty of people to ask
questions and talk to. I've also gone to a writer's conference in West
Virginia by myself. It was at a conference center in the woods, taking place
in 6 different buildings. But, again, people were very friendly and when I
got lost--which happened more often than I wished--I always found someone
willing to point me in the right direction.

However, I have a blind friend, Esther, here in Connecticut who is one of my
heroes. A couple of years ago she and another totally blind friend went to
Italy and had a great time. They didn't go on a tour--they just made plans
and went to do the things they wanted to do. Another time they went to San
Diego, again, just to check it out. She went to Norway one winter to ski,
and will pretty much go anywhere she wants without hesitation.

Esther is pretty fearless, which is what I admire about her. She has great
travel skills, and is confident that she can think her way out of any
problems that might occur, and so far she has. Me, I'm not quite that
self-assured. I still get a twist in my gut when I go somewhere unfamiliar
by myself, even though I have years of experience now telling me I've always
made it to my destination and back home again in one piece.    

Chris