Today we’d like to introduce you to Apryl Shue
Hi Apryl, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2013, my life took an unexpected turn when I was involved in an accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, forcing me to step away from my special education career. Recovering and adjusting to my new reality was a long and challenging journey, but one thing consistently brought me joy and a sense of normalcy—traveling with family and friends.
Travel became a way for me to reconnect with life, even amidst the challenges of managing my health. I quickly learned the importance of careful planning, especially as I navigated travel with my disability. Every trip required thoughtful consideration, contingency plans, and a focus on maximizing the experience despite potential setbacks.
As I shared my travel experiences and strategies, friends and family began seeking my advice for their own adventures. Whether it was crafting itineraries, finding cost-saving options, or sharing tips for managing travel logistics, I became the go-to person for planning memorable trips.
This encouragement, combined with my love for travel, sparked the idea for my business—Traveling Shues. My personal journey has given me a unique perspective as a travel advisor. I understand the importance of accessibility, flexibility, and making every moment count, especially when traveling with challenges.
Since starting Traveling Shues, I’ve used my skills to help others create unforgettable travel experiences, from small family vacations to large group trips with extended family, friends, or my daughters’ cheer teams. Travel is about creating memories, and I’m passionate about helping others do just that, regardless of their circumstances.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Living with a disability and managing chronic illness is a constant challenge—physically, mentally, and financially. My days are a careful balance between taking care of my health and dedicating myself to my clients. Being an online-based travel advisor has been a game-changer, giving me the flexibility to work from home and set hours that accommodate my needs.
Even during major health flares, I can still support my clients by sending emails, generating quotes, and researching travel options. This work not only allows me to help others create meaningful experiences but also gives me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It’s been incredibly uplifting for my mental health and has added a fulfilling dimension to my life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve always had a deep love for theme parks, and Orlando is where the magic truly comes to life! There’s just something about stepping through those gates that brings out the kid in all of us. As someone with a disability, I’m incredibly grateful for the efforts theme parks make to ensure accessibility for all guests. While no system is perfect, I’ve learned how to navigate the parks and their resources, and I’m passionate about helping my clients do the same.
Looking for the best quiet spots to recharge? I’ve got you covered! Need to locate the service dog relief areas? I’m your go-to guide! Curious about what happens if you need assistance from park health services? I can walk you through it because I’ve experienced it firsthand.
I understand how important it is to plan for these little details, and I’m here to make sure my clients can focus on enjoying the magic of the day. From tips and tricks to personalized guidance, I help create seamless and stress-free park visits so that everyone can fully immerse themselves in the joy and wonder of the experience.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
One of the things I love most about Orlando is how much it offers in such a compact area. Everything you could want is within reach. Even with the occasional traffic on International Drive, getting around is a breeze. For me, the biggest challenge is the heat! To make the most of my visits, I try to avoid the hottest times of the year and always come prepared with tools and strategies to stay cool and comfortable.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traveling_shues?igsh=MXd3ajU0eDV1c2JqYg%3D%3D
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561686933909
