It is important you are registered with disability services at your university so that they can be part of the conversation about the practicalities of certain destinations, to provide advice and assistance for the challenges of air travel and help understand the details of insurance. Insurance companies may deny your claim if you do not disclose your disability and may have higher premiums to cover medical or mobility equipment.

Accessibility for those with mobility issues can be extremely challenging due to poor infrastructure, especially in public spaces where footpaths and walkways are poorly made and maintained, and even in public transport and building entrances. In some countries, people with physical disabilities can be discriminated against, or treated as a curiosity. If your condition is well managed and you have experience travelling independently or with a caregiver, and you are aware of what can be expected, you will be as well supported as can be managed in your destination.

The challenges of poor access, services and local support means any decision to travel requires an understanding of your own capabilities to not only manage your disability without your regular support people and resources but also to cope with the change, discomfort, and unfamiliar environments that challenge any student. This will require discussion with parents, university disability support services and university program leaders as to your preparedness for and suitability of the destination site; and ultimately with the TGS who can provide advice on the practicalities and reality of the potential host city or country.

TGS has in the past welcomed students with chronic illness such as Type 1 diabetes, mental health disorders, and a student without upper limbs. We can provide as much or as little support as is required for a successful program, and without a loss of independence. If you would like a confidential discussion about the suitability of destinations in SE Asia for your disability, please contact us here.

• Investigate your proposed destination to understand the support services available, cultural attitudes towards those with disabilities and accessibility issues for those with mobility issues. the Lonely Planet forums are one way to learn about particular destinations from those who have gone before you.

• Discuss with family and health care provider/s to assess your own ability to cope with change and monitor your triggers in an unfamiliar environment. Discuss the challenges that include adjustment to weather and environment, living conditions, navigating overseas travel and local transport, changes to diet, culture-shock and cohabiting with complete strangers. And the possibility of being a curiosity to locals.

• Consult your destination country’s customs and immigration requirements to be clear on your ability to, and the process for, bringing medications and equipment into a foreign country, and ensure you have requisite prescriptions or documentation outlining your condition and the medications you require. Investigate whether your required medications are available in the destination country in case of emergency. Enquire about the availability of mobility equipment suppliers and repairs in case of emergency. Check with your airline about the use of mobility equipment on aircraft.

• Ensure you or your program coordinator communicates your potential needs to TGS to ensure these services are available at your destination site. Your university might also check-in with their medical insurance provider to determine what help is available in-country. This will help you make an informed decision as to the suitability of a destination.

• Have a clear communication strategy with parents and university in case of an exacerbation of your condition or any situation that impacts on your ability to complete the program and that may require you to return home. The University may involve their insurance provider or health service provider such as International SOS. There is no shame if this occurs, and TGS will assist and support your repatriation.

• An early preparation will minimize stress and prevent any potential triggers, ensure your coping mechanism is on point and enable smooth transit to your destination. Lists will keep you on track, relevant documents should be kept in a folder (you may like to prepare copies for TGS in case of an emergency, and identify and practice your coping or stress breaking techniques such as deep breathing.

• Upon arrival you may wish to have a confidential chat with the Director of TGS, to be reassured of our preparedness to support you, and to share how you intend to maintain a balance and keep yourself on track. Students often do this through regular check-ins with loved ones, maintaining a regular sleep and exercise routine, and through eating healthy and avoiding alcohol. You may like to schedule a regular check-in with the Director to ensure you avoid any obstacles.