How do Hotel Owners and Senior Leaders Really Feel about Accessibility?

Each year, the TravelAbility Summit brings together travel professionals, entrepreneurs, and disability advocates to explore emerging trends, challenges, and solutions in making travel more accessible for all. Last year’s summit included a panel of hotel leaders who discussed their experiences and perspectives on accessibility in hotels, emphasizing its importance and the industry’s challenges in implementing inclusive practices. 

Check out the panel’s key takeaways below and click the YouTube link to rewatch the session. Looking to learn more? Don’t miss the 2025 TravelAbility Summit, happening at the beautiful Sunriver Resort in Central Oregon, October 13-15, 2025. This is a unique opportunity to engage with key players from the hospitality industry, travel sector, and disability space—all focused on making travel more accessible for everyone.

Learn more and register today at travelability.net.

• 💰 Business Impact & Litigation Concerns – Many hotel owners cite fear of litigation as a major barrier to improving accessibility, with examples of lawsuits impacting the industry financially and influencing decision-making.
• 🌏 Global Accessibility Perspectives – Insights on accessibility from different regions, including Taiwan and Europe, highlight varying degrees of inclusivity, with some newer hotels being more accessible than older establishments.
• 👥 Personal Experiences with Accessibility – Several panelists share personal stories about their connections to individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the importance of improving accessibility in hotels.
• 📊 The Growing Market for Accessible Travel – Data shows that the demand for accessible travel is increasing, with baby boomers aging and requiring more accommodations, creating a business case for prioritizing accessibility.
• 🔧 Affordable Solutions for Accessibility – Simple and cost-effective modifications, such as adding shower chairs and adjusting door mechanisms, can significantly improve the guest experience for individuals with disabilities.
• 🎓 Staff Training & Hospitality Mindset – Proper training for hotel staff on accessibility issues is crucial in ensuring a welcoming environment, with examples of how small gestures and proactive communication can enhance guest experiences.

🔢 Insights Based on Numbers

• 26% of the population has a disability, but the figure drops to 15% when excluding minor impairments.
• In 2019, 12.7 million travelers with disabilities took 81 million trips, spending $58.7 billion.
• Baby boomers are aging, with 40% identifying as having a disability by age 65, increasing demand for accessible accommodations.
• Insurance costs have risen by 256% since 2019, adding financial pressure on hotel operations.

Watch the full video here.