The implementation of the tourism project "Hospitable Accessibility" continues. The Invatur team went on an expedition to the Republic of Dagestan to test a tourist route for people with disabilities. Anastasia Roganyan spoke about her impressions of the trip
I want to tell you about an unforgettable expedition together with NROO “Invatur ” to the Republic of Dagestan and about the recreation center “Vesna” for disabled amputees. This is the place, where everyone can get a sea of positive emotions and independently enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature. And an organized, accessible environment allows you to fully experience a good vacation at sea.
One of the main advantages of relaxing at a recreation center “Vesna” is a lift, which allows people with mobility impairments to easily and safely dive into sea water. The built pier makes it easy to move around in a stroller along the beach. All base infrastructure, despite the difficult terrain, turns out to be completely convenient for moving in a wheelchair using lifts. This is truly a unique opportunity to enjoy a sea holiday and feel completely free.
During our trip we also managed to visit several attractions of this amazing region. One of the most memorable was the trip through the Sulak Canyon. Vertical cliffs and the crystal clear Sulak River - all this creates a unique atmosphere and leaves an unforgettable impression. A trained guide provided a top class excursion.
I would also like to mention the fishing recreation center “Adji-Papas” – ideal place for fishing and nature lovers! Located in a beautiful picturesque location, this recreation center offers many unique opportunities for recreation and fishing.
One of the advantages of the base – these are accessible houses for people with disabilities. The owner of the base recognizes the importance of equal access to natural resources for everyone, and therefore they created special houses, fully equipped for the comfort and convenience of disabled people. We had a wonderful time, everyone found something to suit their interests: fishing, natural photo zone, silence and privacy. It’s a pity we didn’t have the opportunity to admire the Red Book birds, since we only spent a day there.
Naryn-Kala fortress in Derbent, protecting the centuries-old traditions and history of Dagestan, also became a discovery for us. We walked around its territory, unraveling the mysteries of the past and enjoying stunning views from the tops of the walls. The excursion to the fortress began from the Western Wall, where you could drive a car inside the fortress. The guide chose convenient paths and paths with the least number of steps or their complete absence. We were able to visit two observation decks overlooking the city, ancient reservoir, get acquainted with the excavation objects in the fortress (various fragments of ancient dishes, jewelry and other artifacts), see a photo exhibition about archaeological work on the territory of the fortress and the stages of its restoration. Again due to the terrain, we couldn't get through the whole wall, but thanks, the most interesting story from the guide, we were able to visualize the smallest details of an ancient historical monument.
Another amazing place awaited us in the city - the Armenian Church, which houses the carpet and decorative arts museum. The region's carpets have been famous for their beauty and patterns since ancient times.. We learned a lot of interesting things about the traditions and art of Dagestan craftsmen and enjoyed the indescribable colors and ornaments on these handicraft masterpieces. It is worth noting, that despite the steps, The entrance to the church is organized using sliding channels, which the museum staff knows how to use. I was pleased with the presence of special toilets on the territory of the church and fortress.
For the opportunity to visit these places almost freely, I would like to express my gratitude to the Deputy Director for Security and Preservation of Cultural Heritage Objects, Vadim Dzhafarovich Kuliev, to the head of the scientific department of the Derbent Museum-Reserve Fakhratdin Aliyev and the head of the Museum of Carpets and Decorative Arts Naila Ismailova.
The Republic of Dagestan amazed us with its diversity, cultural heritage and beautiful nature. We experienced special emotions, having met so many interesting and open people here. Recreation center “Vesna” became an opportunity for us to enjoy our holiday to the fullest, despite physical limitations.
Thank you very much to the director of the recreation center and public organization “Vesna” Ali Magomedovich Musaev for the warm welcome. And I want to wish further development!
Finally, I want to tell you more about the road to Dagestan and back.
We flew to Dagestan by plane. We were pleasantly surprised by the service, organized at Strigino Nizhny Novgorod airport. Escort service employee Eremin Nikita Sergeevich spoke in detail about all stages of pre-flight control and conditions for passengers with disabilities at the airport. Delivery on board the plane was organized using a special machine, equipped with a lift. Upon boarding I was given an onboard stroller, with the help of which I successfully got to my seat on the plane. Once again I want to express my gratitude to all the airport staff, and in particular Nikita Sergeevich and paramedic Vladimir Avdonkin. Upon arrival at Makhachkala airport we were also greeted by a friendly and united escort service team, which took us to the meeting car without any problems.
On the way back we chose the Makhachkala-Moscow train. With partial accessibility of the Makhachkala railway station, We were met by the attendants and were transported to the train. A lift was used when boarding the carriage., and the special coupe met all the necessary requirements.
I can’t help but mention the escort service of the Moscow Metro. I have used this service several times and have always been satisfied with their work..
I highly recommend you visit this amazing region, get to know its culture, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of hospitality and beauty. After all, every trip opens up new horizons for us and fills our lives with unforgettable impressions.!
