Summary:
A Vauclusian person with a disability plans to ride a specially-designed bike from Monaco to Paris to raise awareness about the difficulties faced by people with disabilities in accessing public transportation.
Full Story:
A resident of Le Thor, Amaury Martin, is preparing for an exceptional journey – cycling from Monaco to Paris in April 2026. The over 800-kilometer trip aims to draw attention to the difficulties faced by people with disabilities when it comes to accessibility in public transportation.
Amaury Martin, who uses a wheelchair, will use a specially designed bike that can be attached to his wheelchair. With this device, he will be able to pedal with his arms throughout the 800-kilometer journey, which will take him to the Élysée Palace, where he plans to meet the French President.
The journey will begin in Monaco, where Amaury Martin also hopes to mobilize the attention of local institutions. He wants to address the issue of people with disabilities by reaching out to the President of the French Republic and Prince Albert of Monaco.
Amaury Martin invites the people of Monaco and the region to join him on this adventure. Whether you’re an athlete or not, able-bodied or disabled, he calls for solidarity in accompanying him on this challenge.
This is not the first time Amaury Martin has fought for this cause. In 2022, he went on a hunger strike to denounce the accessibility shortcomings of trains in France. Today, he also highlights common issues in many countries, such as the high cost of essential equipment like wheelchairs. He stated, “A wheelchair costs 5,222 euros, and the Social Security only reimburses 558 euros.”
Monaco pays special attention to the accessibility of persons with reduced mobility, as it is home to 400 individuals with official disabled status. Numerous efforts have been made to assist them. For example, the bus network is fully equipped with wheelchair ramps, and the stops are adapted for ease of use. The majority of Monaco’s parking lots offer 181 spaces for people with reduced mobility.
Many establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and cultural sites, are equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets. For instance, Villa Paloma, the Prince of Monaco’s car collection, and the Museum of Stamps and Coins are all fully accessible. The Louis II Stadium Sports Complex is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility and those who use wheelchairs. However, the Prince’s Palace, with the exception of the Grand Apartments, is not wheelchair accessible.
Since 2024, a “Priority for Disabled Persons” card has been available. The card has a more visible and identifiable logo, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to indicate their situation. It provides priority access to seats in public transportation, waiting areas, establishments, and public events. It also grants priority in queues.
Overall, Monaco strives to support individuals with disabilities, with various initiatives in place to enhance accessibility and ensure their needs are met.
Source:
Monaco Tribune
