Navigating Paradise: A Fully Accessible Summer Holiday in Fuerteventura with Your Autistic Child

When it comes to planning a family vacation, the Canary Islands offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler's needs. For families with autistic children, Fuerteventura stands out as a destination that not only boasts breathtaking landscapes but also embraces accessibility. In this blog post, we'll explore how Fuerteventura, with its sensory-rich environment and family-friendly amenities, can provide a fully accessible and enjoyable summer holiday for families with autistic children.

**1. Accessible Accommodations: Fuerteventura offers a variety of accommodations that prioritize accessibility. Look for hotels or resorts that provide accessible rooms with features like wide doorways, roll-in showers, and grab bars. Many hotels also offer sensory-friendly rooms with adjustable lighting and calming decor.

**2. Sensory-Rich Natural Wonders: The island's stunning natural landscapes provide a sensory-rich environment for your child to explore. Visit the Corralejo Natural Park, where the soft sand dunes and gentle waves offer a calming sensory experience. For nature lovers, the Oasis Park Fuerteventura allows for up-close encounters with animals and lush gardens.

**3. Autism-Friendly Beaches: Fuerteventura boasts some of Europe's most beautiful beaches, and many of them are autism-friendly. El Cotillo Beach, with its calm waters and lagoons, provides a serene setting for relaxation and sensory exploration. Playa de Sotavento, known for its shallow waters and windsurfing, offers a unique sensory experience.

**4. Sensory-Friendly Activities: Explore activities that cater to sensory needs. The Baku Water Park in Corralejo features a sensory zone with quieter rides and calm pools. Dolphin and whale-watching tours in the Atlantic Ocean provide an opportunity to observe marine life in their natural habitat.

**5. Autism-Friendly Restaurants: Many restaurants on the island are autism-friendly, offering quiet corners, allergen-free menus, and understanding staff. Be sure to communicate your child's needs, and the staff will often go the extra mile to accommodate them.

**6. Local Support and Resources: Reach out to local autism organizations or support groups in Fuerteventura before your trip. They can provide valuable information, resources, and even sensory-friendly recommendations for your stay.

**7. Travel at Your Own Pace: Plan your itinerary with flexibility in mind. Allow for downtime and breaks when needed, and be prepared to adjust your plans based on your child's comfort level.

**8. Communication is Key: Prepare a communication tool, such as a visual schedule or a communication app, to help your child navigate the trip more comfortably. This can also assist in explaining the day's activities and transitions.

**9. Embrace Local Culture: Take the opportunity to immerse your family in Fuerteventura's vibrant culture. Attend local festivals, explore traditional markets, and engage in hands-on cultural experiences that your child may find enriching.

**10. Plan Ahead: Before your trip, communicate with your child about the upcoming vacation. Use social stories and visual aids to help them understand what to expect during the journey and the stay.

Fuerteventura, with its accessible amenities, natural beauty, and welcoming community, provides a fully inclusive summer holiday destination for families with autistic children. By embracing the island's sensory-rich environment and planning with your child's unique needs in mind, you can create a memorable and enriching vacation experience that caters to the entire family.

*These beautiful photos were provided by my client Cintia and her son Italo went on a fully planned summer holidays trip to Fuerteventura this month, they enjoyed so much that have requested me to book their 2024 holiday! That makes my heart so happy!

If you want to go to Fuerteventura, I will be happy to assist you, just email me at sanchayourjourneyplanner@gmail.com