TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Accessibility Awards

Wheel the World Partners with Visit Florida to Scale Accessibility Audits

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Woman using a wheelchair beside a pool and a fountain along with logos of Visit Florida and Wheel the World

Visit Florida announced at the Florida Governors meeting in October that it is launching an ad co-op program to finance Wheel the World site assessments at 30 hotels, attractions, POI’s or dining locations in each region. Watch a video of the announcement.  

Wheel the World’s deliverables include not only assessments, but also training through their online academy and online marketing through their highly targeted database as well as their social media channels.

Our TakeAway: This initiative was originally one of the four pilot programs that were featured at this year’s Summit in which three Florida DMO’s (Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and The Palm Beaches) participated.  Following the expansion announcement, seven other destinations signed up.  This is another unique example of Visit Florida’s role as an industry thought leader—along with WtW’s growing reputation for excellence in accessibility site assessments. We hope to see other states follow Florida’s lead. Hey, New York and California, are you listening?

INNOVATEAble Recap: Watch the Presentations of the Top Three Products from the Emerging Markets Summit

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Logo: TravelAbility Presents INNOVATEAble

One of the most talked about segments at the Emerging Markets Summit in Savannah last month was InnovateABLE, a Shark-Tank-like competition of accessible products. Here are the presentations of the judges’ top three finishers:

Tied for First: Translate Live’s Instant translator speaks, reads, and writes more than 100 languages, including American Sign Language and Braille: Watch presentation

Tied for First: Color blindness is now covered by the ADA. Enchroma glasses and screen viewers allow color blind people to see true colors: Watch presentation

Third Place: GRIT Freedom Chair: Designed by MIT engineers, the GRIT Freedom Chair is a mix between a manual wheelchair and a mountain bike. Watch presentation

Travel Michigan’s Dave Lorenz Wins National Award as State Travel Director

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Dave Lorenz, State Tourism Director of the Year,. speaking at a podium at ESTO. (Photo Credit: U.S. Travel Association)

Travel Michigan’s Dave Lorenz has been named the State Travel Director of the year for 2023 by U.S. Travel’s National Council of State Tourism Directors If the Council had a Triple Crown Award, Dave would probably win that too. Not only has he revitalized the state’s tourism industry (and he has the stats to prove it), he has also played a leading role in accessibility and sustainability. Under Dave’s Leadership, Travel Michigan invested in developing a website promoting accessible travel options in the state, and recently launched a grant program to encourage local destinations to improve accessibility for disabled travelers. And in his spare time he has championed sustainability by promoting the expansion of electric vehicles throughout the state. 

“Dave was the first travel director in the country to recognize the potential for accessible travel,” commented Jake Steinman, founder of TravelAbility. “And through his leadership, Michigan was the first state to provide matching coop marketing to DMO’s for accessibility assessments. A true visionary.” Read more.

Our Takeaway:  The Council could not have chosen a more deserving recipient of the award than Dave Lorenz. We’re proud to claim Dave as a member of TravelAbility’s Advisory Board for the past five years. He puts into action our core principles of accessibility leadership and innovative marketing.

Accessibility Superstars Recognized by TravelAbility

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By Jennifer Allen

In a landmark initiative that resonates with the ethos of inclusivity and progress, Travelability proudly presents the first-ever Accessibility Superstars Awards. These awards shine a spotlight on individuals whose resolute dedication and visionary leadership have transformed the travel industry into a more accessible and welcoming realm. This distinguished group of accessibility superstars comprises trailblazers who have not only redefined standards but have also ignited a movement toward a world where every traveler, regardless of ability, can embark on enriching journeys without hindrance. In this inaugural edition, we honor remarkable individuals whose commitment to accessibility and inclusion has propelled the industry forward.In the dynamic landscape of travel and tourism, a group of remarkable individuals have been shining beacons, championing the cause of accessibility and inclusion. Their relentless efforts have not only transformed the way the industry perceives accessibility but have also set new standards that inspire us all. In this spotlight, we honor the superstars of accessibility whose dedication is driving us toward a more inclusive world of travel. As we congratulate our winners, let’s learn from their initiatives.

(Photos by Houston Vandergriff)

Jake Steinman congratulates Visit Orlando’s Danielle Hollander on being named an Accessibility SuperStar.

In a landmark initiative that resonates with the ethos of inclusivity and progress, Travelability proudly presents the first-ever Accessibility Superstars Awards. These awards shine a spotlight on individuals whose resolute dedication and visionary leadership have transformed the travel industry into a more accessible and welcoming realm. This distinguished group of accessibility superstars comprises trailblazers who have not only redefined standards but have also ignited a movement toward a world where every traveler, regardless of ability, can embark on enriching journeys without hindrance. In this inaugural edition, we honor remarkable individuals whose commitment to accessibility and inclusion has propelled the industry forward.In the dynamic landscape of travel and tourism, a group of remarkable individuals have been shining beacons, championing the cause of accessibility and inclusion. Their relentless efforts have not only transformed the way the industry perceives accessibility but have also set new standards that inspire us all. In this spotlight, we honor the superstars of accessibility whose dedication is driving us toward a more inclusive world of travel. As we congratulate our winners, let’s learn from their initiatives.

Orlando readily springs to mind as an exceptionally welcoming destination for numerous disabled travelers, and this recognition is well-deserved. The renowned attractions of the city have been thoughtfully made accessible to all, with a dedication that transcends mere compliance. A comprehensive and empathetic approach, aligned with the diverse needs of travelers, has been the cornerstone of these efforts. Projects initiated by Visit Orlando have brought sensory-friendly experiences to theme parks, empowered hospitality staff through disability-focused training programs, and seamlessly integrated accessibility information into marketing materials. These remarkable initiatives have collectively established Orlando as a destination that embraces visitors of all abilities.

New York City Tourism and Conventions:  Makiko Matsuda Healy, Senior Vice President, Tourism Market Development at New York City Tourism + Conventions

Photo of Makiko Matsuda Healy wearing a yellow dress and Jake Steinman wearing a blue sweater and open colored shirt. He is presentign her with an award that is crystal with a blue star.

New York City’s travel landscape is transforming in a way that resonates with travelers of all abilities. This transformation isn’t just a result of individual effort, but also a reflection of the destination’s commitment to collaboration with disability creators and consultants. The visionary direction set by NYC & Company has manifested in an array of initiatives. From introducing accessible transportation options to crafting informative guides for accessible attractions, and engaging in meaningful partnerships with businesses to bolster their accessibility offerings, the city has truly become an embodiment of inclusive travel experiences.

New York has has also invited someone with a disability who can contribute lived experiences to the accessibility initiatives on their board; to work with a disability consultant; to set a plan in place to keep you accountable as you go; and to always be open to learning along the way.

Open Doors Organization, Craig Kennedy,  Program Director  (accepting for Eric Lipp, Founder)

Craig Kennedy sitting in a wheelchair wearing a plaid shirt accepts an award from Jake Steinman wearing a lightblue sweater and open collared shirt

Eric Lipp, the visionary mind behind Open Doors Organization, has dedicated his life to creating a more accessible world. His organization, which he founded after a personal experience with mobility challenges, has been reshaping the world for travelers with disabilities. Lipp’s unwavering positivity and passion to foster awareness, education, and collaboration is evidenced through Open Doors Organization and has transformed the way businesses and airlines approach accessibility. 

Open Doors organization’s groundbreaking Disability Travel Survey, conducted since 2002 with the Harris Poll,  and training programs have equipped countless professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to offer a more accessible experience. Open Doors is bridging gaps between travelers with disabilities and the travel industry, making them a true accessibility superstar.

Visit Mesa.  Alison Brooks, Director of Destination Experience and Advocacy

Photo o fJake Steinman in blue sweater and Aliosonon Brooks wearing a black floral print dress and holding a crystal award

Visit Mesa has channeled substantial effort into making the city a shining example of inclusive hospitality. Through strategic planning and collaborative endeavors, the destination has established itself as a role model for other locales aspiring to elevate their accessibility offerings. Under Visit Mesa’s guidance, the destination has been the first to join  hands with a range of forward-thinking companies featured by Travelability, including Aira, which provide visual interpreters for blind visitors, the pioneering Sunflower program, Wheel the World, AbleVU, Threshold 360 for know-before-you-go videos and, their most ambitious initiative: becoming the nations first Autism Certified Destination, with over 5000 individuals and 60 businesses being certified by IBCCES. 

Brooks shared how her own lack of awareness shaped her dedication to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and welcome. Her main advice to other destinations is to “just do it.” There is a lot of work to be done, and you’ll never be perfect, but the most important step is the first one.

Visit Lauderdale, Ivonne Macmillan, (Accepting for Stacy Ritter)

Visit Lauderdale, a leader in advocacy for accessibility and inclusion through its “Everyone Under the Sun” campaign, has taken significant strides to ensure an inclusive travel experience. Their dedicated landing page for visitors with special needs offers a curated list of accessible accommodations, attractions, theaters, beaches, and transportation providers, reflecting a commitment to inclusion. During Autism Awareness Month, Visit Lauderdale introduces tailored options for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), facilitating their exploration of Greater Fort Lauderdale. The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program discreetly offers assistance to those with visible and invisible disabilities. Moreover, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents a Sensory-Inclusive Season, featuring adjusted shows for individuals with sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities.  Additionally, they have adopted Aira to help blind visitors navigate the Lauderdale experience as well as Wheel the World  to provide accurate assessments of hotels and attractions and became a sponsor of the the Deaf Seniors Convention held this year in their destination. This comprehensive approach underscores Visit Lauderdale’s dedication to creating an inclusive travel environment for everyone.

These accessibility superstars have elevated the travel industry’s commitment to inclusion. Their passion, innovation, and unyielding determination to eliminate barriers have set new benchmarks for others to follow. As we celebrate their achievements, may we be inspired to embark on our own journeys toward a more inclusive world.

MSP Earns Highest Industry Accreditation for Accessibility

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After reviewing MSP Airport, the ACI has given the airport a Level 3 accreditation. “On behalf of the entire MSP team and our partners, we are honored that ACI recognized MSP Airport for providing the highest level of airport accessibility,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP Airport. “Accessibility is about working collaboratively with our traveling public, our airlines and our business partners to ensure everyone has equal access to the benefits of air travel. MSP has been at the forefront of creating an accessible passenger experience through investing in technology, infrastructure, training, and service.” Read More.

Our Takeaway: MSP’s attainment of the highest level of ACI accreditation sets a positive example for other airports and transportation facilities to follow. Ensuring that airports are accessible and inclusive is crucial in creating a seamless travel experience for passengers with disabilities, promoting equality and diversity, and removing the barriers that keep this community from traveling.