Of all the special facilities for travelers with disabilities found throughout Puerto Rico, one definitely stands out as a model of innovation and caring.

Mar sin Barreras, "Sea Without Barriers," began as a plea written in verse by a young girl. She sent a poem to the island's governor, and this simple gesture set in motion the creation of a wonderful facility with specially designed access for people in wheelchairs, at Luquillo Beach.

Built to conform to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this innovative facility features a system of ramps leading from the parking lot to a protected platform in the ocean. A person confined to a wheelchair can glide into the soothing tropical sea and enjoy a refreshing dip.

"Sea Without Barriers" provides the disabled and their families a whole array of facilities to enjoy the beach. These include a recreation area, bathrooms with indoor showers and accessible outdoor showers, aquatic wheelchairs, and specially trained lifeguards and emergency medical personnel.

All facilities in Puerto Rico are required to meet ADA requirements, all public buses, buildings, and sidewalks. Most commercial facilities can accommodate travelers with disabilities as well.