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Meet Robin Vistnes: Founder of WanderAble
Travel should be possible for everyone. That’s the belief that drives me, and it’s the reason I started WanderAble.
I’m Robin Vistnes, an occupational therapist with more than 27 years of experience in aged care, disability support, and community health. Alongside my clinical work, I hold current certifications including AHPRA registration, First Aid and CPR, a Working with Children’s Check, and a National Police Check — all of which give clients and families peace of mind that they are traveling with someone qualified, professional, and trustworthy.
For much of my career, I worked in roles that supported older adults and individuals with disabilities to live life to the fullest. When the company I had been working for, Freedom 4 U, closed its doors after the owner retired, I realized there was still a huge need for people to have support in traveling. Rather than letting that dream fade for my clients, I decided to create my own business — and WanderAble was born.
What WanderAble Offers
WanderAble is about making travel accessible. Some NDIS plans will cover support hours, and families or individuals can also choose to privately fund travel support. What this means in practice is that I can join someone on their journey — whether it’s a weekend getaway, a domestic coach tour, a cruise, or an overseas holiday — and provide one-on-one assistance to make it possible.
That support might look like helping with mobility needs, personal care, medication routines, or simply being an extra set of hands so someone can feel relaxed and safe. It might also be about handling logistics: accessibility research, liaising with airlines, arranging equipment, or communicating with hotels and operators so everything runs smoothly. My goal is always the same — to let clients set the pace and the activities, while I take care of the details in the background.
Partnerships and Connections
I’ve built strong ties with providers who believe in the same vision. For example, I work with Port Stephens Coaches, and I have connections with travel agents who can assist with bookings when needed. These relationships allow WanderAble to create seamless experiences that combine professional travel services with personalized support.
Favorite Travel Memories
One of the best parts of my work is seeing people do things they never thought possible. Chris, one of my clients, lit up when he went on a helicopter ride during a cruise. He told everyone on the ship about it, signing with pride to every person we passed. Another client, who thought her physical limitations would keep her grounded, flew over Uluru in a small plane and couldn’t believe the view she was able to experience. And Steve, who has a lifelong love of animals, got to hand-feed a giraffe at Dubbo Zoo. These are just a few of the moments that remind me why WanderAble exists. There are so many stories, and I carry each one with me.
My Travel Philosophy
If I had to describe WanderAble in three words, they would be: inclusive, empowering, and adventurous. Travel shouldn’t be limited to the young, the able-bodied, or those without care needs. Everyone deserves to feel the thrill of seeing somewhere new, the joy of connecting with others, and the peace that comes from knowing someone is there to support them every step of the way.
My advice to anyone who thinks travel is out of reach: give me a try. Let’s have a conversation. You may be surprised at just how many options are available to you, and what’s possible when the right support is in place.
A Little About Me
Outside of WanderAble, I’m usually behind a camera, a guitar, or a watercolor paintbrush. Photography has always been a passion.I love capturing the little details that others might miss on a trip. Music and painting keep me grounded and creative, which is the same spirit I bring to my work with clients.
The Bigger Picture
WanderAble is more than just a business. It’s a way of changing how people think about travel. By showing that inclusive, supported travel is not only possible but deeply rewarding, I hope to encourage tour operators, cruise lines, and families to open doors for people who might otherwise stay home.
Every trip is a reminder that adventure doesn’t have an age limit or an ability requirement. With the right support, travel is for everyone.
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