Interview (Autistic Adult - Travel experience)
Participant: Female, 25–34
What does independence mean to you?
“Have the time and finance to do what I want when I want.”
This response frames independence around choice, freedom and control, rather than necessarily doing everything alone. This is useful for my project because it reminds me that independent travel may mean having the ability to make your own decisions and travel on your own terms, even if support is sometimes needed.
Can you tell me about an international trip you have taken? Were there any parts of planning or travelling that you found particularly difficult?
“New passport/immigration steps implemented in Europe.”
Changes to familiar processes appear to create difficulty. This connects strongly with my research around uncertainty, unfamiliar procedures and the need for clear advance information. It suggests that changes to travel rules or processes could be particularly important to communicate clearly before someone reaches the airport.
Have any barriers affected your confidence, independence, or willingness to travel internationally?