We Are Travel Girls is a global travel community created to inspire, connect, educate and empower female travelers around the world. Founded by Becky van Dijk and Vanessa Rivers in 2016, We Are Travel Girls is my favorite travel blog! I frequently visit the We Are Travel Girls website to seek travel advice and find destination inspiration. I also love to read stories of female travelers in the We Are Travel Girls ‘Ladies We Love’ interview series.
When We Are Travel Girls invited me to share my own story, I was beyond humbled. I was also excited to have an incredible platform to raise awareness for Usher syndrome.
We Are Travel Girls: Ladies We Love Interview Preview
We Are Travel Girls: What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is afraid to travel?
Hannah Corderman: It took me a while to figure this one out, but my best piece of advice is to not be afraid to ask for help. For the longest time, I was determined to ‘hide’ my disability and do everything independently.
I used to avoid going to certain places, such as dimly lit restaurants or concerts because I was scared that I would not be able to navigate the place on my own. Regrettably, I used to not drink water on nighttime flights because I was afraid that if I got up from my seat to use the restroom, I wouldn’t be able to find my way back in the dark. There are so many moments that I look back on and wish I simply just asked for help. I also wonder how many great life moments I missed out on because I was afraid.
I am far from perfect when it comes to listening to my own advice, even today, but I have definitely learned that asking for help is the best course of action when it comes to having a disability. Whether asking a friend, a family member, or even a complete stranger, I have found that embracing, rather than hiding, my disability makes my life easier and makes traveling less scary. I have also noticed that this connection can truly bring out the best in people and people genuinely want to help. You just have to ask!
Be sure to check out my full interview here!