Episode Summary

This episode explores the essentials of safe and confident solo travel for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. Host Kim Wardlow welcomes back seasoned traveler and travel advisor Sue Slater, who brings more than 40 years of firsthand experience traveling independently around the world.

Kim and Sue break down domestic and international travel safety, including airport navigation, researching safe neighborhoods, using rideshare responsibly, preparing for currency differences, avoiding scams and pickpockets, and keeping your passport, cards, and devices secure. Sue also highlights essential apps—including Aira, Be My Eyes, Google Translate, CityMapper, Ally, and XE Currency—and walks through realistic scenarios, from navigating New Orleans solo to handling unexpected passport emergencies abroad.

Listeners will learn how to plan ahead, assess risks, stay connected with loved ones during travel, travel with a guide dog, and build confidence through preparation. Sue closes with actionable guidance: research everything, book ahead, use vetted companies, and travel on your own terms—because “the world is your oyster” when you’re prepared.

Contact Info

Guest – Sue Slater

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: 314-541-8400

• Additional resource: Rising Star Kulach (inclusive travel organization; contact Sue for details)

Aftersight (Feedback & Questions)

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: 720-712-8856

Produced by Jonathan Price, Podcast & Program Producer, Aftersight

Show Credits

Host: Kim Wardlow

Guest: Sue Slater

Producer: Jonathan Price

An Aftersight Original Podcast

Chapter Markers

00:00 — Intro & episode overview

01:20 — Meet Sue Slater

03:10 — Domestic solo travel basics

06:45 — Airport navigation & accessible tools

09:05 — Researching hotels and neighborhood safety

11:30 — Using Lyft/Uber safely when traveling alone

13:30 — International travel: currency & language prep

16:00 — Phone access, SIM cards & connectivity challenges

18:45 — Booking tours and transportation in advance

21:10 — Travel insurance essentials

23:00 — Protecting passports, cards & preventing theft

27:00 — Sue’s solo travel stories: New Orleans

29:30 — Sue’s solo travel stories: Dubai

31:20 — Emergencies abroad & contacting the embassy

33:00 — Staying connected with loved ones

35:00 — Traveling with a guide dog internationally

37:00 — Best apps for blind and low-vision travelers

40:15 — Final advice for new solo travelers

42:20 — How to contact Sue & inclusive travel groups

43:20 — Outro & listener questions