TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Accessibility

BIG Things Are Happening with the TravelAbility Advisory Board

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This month’s board meeting was a series of mic drops as advisors shared the monumental projects they’re working on. Here’s what’s in the works.

Steve Nelson from Alaska Airlines detailed his initiatives, including testing autonomous wheelchairs and autism rehearsal flights as well as an overview of their Seattle pilot including testing autonomous wheelchairs and developing programs for individuals with autism. Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines will continue testing the autonomous wheelchair in Seattle through July and explore further rollout options

Alan Fyall, from Rosen College of Hospitality Management, discussed how accessibility has ignited passion with their students and partner and he was looking forward to expanding the offerings.

Chris Maher from Samaritan Partners shared insights on their social impact fund focused on disability investments and the establishment of an Accessibility Lab in collaboration with Travelability and The Schoolhouse Hotel in West Virginia.

Nick Nerbonne from Travel Michigan provided updates on local accessibility initiatives, such as the introduction of four autonomous wheelchairs at Detroit Metro Airport and the creation of accessible pathways in state parks and posited that Michigan was the state with the highest number of Action Trax wheelchairs.

Dr. Josh Loebner, Global Director of Accessible Design, VML. presented a project aimed at connecting songwriters with blind communities to create lyrics that describe Tennessee tourism experiences emphasizing the need for evocative imagery.

Mike May, ambassador for American Printing House for the Blind, shared his insights on accessible navigation and advising startups, and mentioned an upcoming event focused on blind-specific travel in Austin.

Alison Brooks announced a new grant program through Visit Mesa to assist small businesses in becoming autism certified.  They will fund at least five small businesses to become autism certified in the next few months.

Meg Raby Klinghoffer highlighted her work with Kulture City on sensory accessible training specifically for nine beaches in Fort Lauderdale and improvements to sensory rooms at Salt Lake City Airport, including plans for a sensory tunnel.

Todd Brook founder and CEO of Unchained, provided an update on his work creating an AI companion for the Accessibility Playbook with a focus on developing a roadmap for organizations to adopt AI technologies to enhance accessibility. Todd will switch to a database-driven approach for AI accessibility tools within 5 to 10 days.

Kathleen Harvey from Destination British Columbia shared insights on the tourism landscape and the growing interest in accessible tourism events.

Laura Skufca from AARP presented findings from their 2025 travel trend study, indicating that many older adults face mobility challenges they travel and a partnership with TravelAbility to provide content for the next Playbook with tips for the aging traveler

Jake Steinman, our Founder and CEO, introduced the concept of the accessibility disability trifecta, highlighting that whatever content is created for visitors with disabilities is basically a down payment for baby boomers aging into a disability with the side benefit of the accessibility attributes, features and amenities will also be used by the 17% of residents who have a disability as well as a series of “Cultivating Accessibility Leaders” tentatively planned for Orlando, Myrtle Beach, and Lansing.

Mark Jones, who leads accessibility for Disney Orlando, shared that Orlando is becoming a popular travel destination this summer, with new offerings from both Disney and Universal. He detailed upcoming attractions at Magic Kingdom, including themed lands and new stage shows, as well as a ride based on Encanto at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Additionally, he announced that all Walt Disney World buses will be equipped with the Quantum automated restraint system to enhance safety and reduce driver injuries.

Alexander Hauerslev Jensen from Google highlighted several new accessibility features from Google, emphasizing the integration of AI in technologies like TalkBack on Android and facial gesture controls for Chromebooks. He also introduced expressive captions, which enhance traditional captioning by conveying emotions and ambient sounds. Additionally, updates to Google Maps include more detailed walking instructions for screen reader users and expanded information on wheelchair accessibility for over 50 million

Ron Pettit shared that he has left Royal Caribbean to pursue new opportunities while remaining in the accessible travel and hospitality sector. He highlighted his past contributions to making vacations more accessible for people with disabilities and mentioned Rob Harris as the interim manager of the Global Accessibility Team.

Houston Vandergriff and his mother Katy talked about their Oregon trip, highlighting their pleasant stay at Mount Hood Resort and their plans to return with Wheel the World.

Makiko Healy from New York City Tourism provided updates on her collaboration with the DMO group and introduced ELLIS an AI assistance tool that improves accessibility information on their website and social media.

Greg Evans discussed Simpleview’s role in enhancing digital accessibility for over 900 DMO websites and their recent acquisition by Granicus. He noted the significance of Title II legislation and the need for local governments to improve their digital accessibility efforts. Evans also mentioned the launch of a new business toolkit by Visit Britain aimed at gathering ADA information from local businesses to better serve travelers.

Chelsea Bear discussed her work as a social media influencer in accessible travel, noting her recent acquisition of a new scooter and her plans to engage with destinations for partnerships. She has over 800k followers on social media platforms.

Sophia Hyder Hock, Chief Impact Officer, Destinations International, discussed the continued partnership in marketing the Accessible Playbook to their members along with ongoing inclusion efforts.

Camilo Navarro, co-founder of Wheel the World, shared that they have surpassed 120 active destinations and are improving their homepage to provide more information about verified locations. He also mentioned the upcoming release of an API to help destinations integrate accessibility information into their websites.

John Morris discussed his evolving role at Wheelchairtravel.org, emphasizing a shift towards solo and family accessible travel. He recounted a recent trip to Europe with Steve, which provided valuable insights for disabled travelers. Additionally, he announced upcoming group tours in Greece, where he plans to spend significant time this year, and expressed excitement about collaborating with destination marketing organizations.

Ivor Ambrose, executive director for ENAT,highlighted the enforcement of the European Accessibility Act starting June 28, which mandates accessibility in ICTs and public buildings. He also invited participants to the World Summit on Destinations for All in Torino, Italy, from October 5-7, expecting around 400 attendees.

Lynn Osmond, former CEO of Choose Chicago, is working with TravelAbility and Wheel the World to introduce an end-to-end solution for the 1.1 million visitors and their companions who are expected to attend the World Cup events in North America next year.

Kristy Durso, Travelability’s ambassador to the industry and a travel advisor who specializes in accessibility,  announced that this year she was a keynote speaker at ITB in Berlin, and has already presented at five events this year.  She’s working with Alan Fyall on training workshop and tools for travel advisors.

Every Journey Matters: Leisure Group Travel Spotlights Disability Travel

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This month, Leisure Group Travel reached out to several tourism leaders who are working to make the world more accessible for disabled travelers. They offer valuable advice to destinations on how to be more inclusive and share their thoughts on what the future holds for accessible travel. LGT also interviewed Jake Steinman, the founder of TravelAbility. The issue covers barrier free destinations and highlights the people who are paving the way for an accessible future.

Read the full issue here

Tennessee Tourism Rewrites Accessibility with Music-Driven Alt Text

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Watch the Video Here.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – April 10, 2025 – The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is redefining accessibility through the power of music, partnering with songwriters in an industry-first initiative to enhance the online travel experience for blind and visually impaired visitors. This groundbreaking program called “Sound Sites” replaces standard image descriptions known as alt-text on TNVacation.com with beautifully-crafted song lyrics, allowing travelers using screen readers to experience Tennessee’s landscapes, culture and spirit through poetic, immersive storytelling.

Leveraging one of Tennessee’s most iconic assets—its legendary songwriters—this initiative creates a richer and more evocative way for visually impaired travelers to connect with the state. Instead of generic, uninspired alt-text such as “image of a mountain” or “street at night,” visitors will hear lyrical descriptions that bring Tennessee’s scenic beauty to life.

Tennessee Sound Sites Reimagining image descriptions for blind communities Broadway in Nashville, TN Photo courtesy of The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development It’s more than just a street, More than a busy four-lane road, More than just a place the shiny new boot tourist goes, It’s where the kid from Minnesota With a big ole dream to chase, Is working on his best new Nashville twang, On the street we call Broadway. Written about Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee Michael Farren, Brian Davis, David Tolliver

Innovating Accessibility Through Music

More than seven million Americans have a non-corrective visual disability, including more than one million who are blind, according to the National Federation of the Blind. That number is expected to double by 2050. Recognizing the need for more meaningful and engaging online experiences, Tennessee is going beyond traditional accessibility standards. While accessibility standards have traditionally focused on functionality, Sound Sites elevates them to an art form, using human creativity to ensure all travelers can experience Tennessee with wonder and excitement.

“Music has the power to connect us all, regardless of how we experience the world,” said Billy Montana, a Tennessee-based, award-winning country songwriter known for hits recorded by Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw. “Sound Sites is a beautiful example of how we can use creativity to make travel more accessible and welcoming to all. I’m honored to be a part of a project helping people feel more connected to Tennessee and to each other.”

Montana is one of 12 talented songwriters bringing Sound Sites to life, joining an all-star lineup that includes country music legend Dolly Parton, Brooks & Dunn’s Kix Brooks and Grammy-nominated songwriter Michael Farren. The initiative also features a diverse range of artists, from Americana storyteller Hilary Williams—daughter of Hank Williams Jr.—and indie-rock powerhouse Nicole Atkins to Nashville hitmakers David Tolliver, Adam Wood, Brian Davis, Thomas Edwards and Jack Settle. JP Williams, a celebrated blind singer-songwriter, brings an especially meaningful perspective to the project, helping to ensure that Tennessee’s landscapes aren’t just seen, but truly felt.

A Unique Approach to Accessible Travel

With Sound Sites, Tennessee is laying the foundation for a new kind of travel experience—one that will continue to grow, evolve and connect people in new ways.

The program follows the success of Tennessee’s Colorblind Viewfinder initiative, which introduced specialized scenic viewfinders that allow colorblind visitors to experience the full spectrum of fall foliage. With Sound Sites, Tennessee continues to expand what accessible and engaging travel looks like, proving that the state isn’t just seen—it’s felt.

“We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience Tennessee’s unmatched beauty, including the millions who travel with visual impairments,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “Tennessee’s deep musical roots make this campaign a natural fit, and we’re proud to champion travel experiences that embrace everyone. This is just the beginning of a meaningful, ongoing effort to connect people to the beauty of our great state.”

Experience Tennessee Beyond Description

Hundreds of images are featured across TDTD’s digital properties and social channels, marking the start of an ongoing collaboration with songwriters and members of the blind community to enhance descriptions. The state is also developing best practices to share with tourism partners, aiming to improve accessibility across destination, lodging, and attraction websites throughout Tennessee.

Travelers can explore the Sound Sites experience now at TNvacation.com, where song-driven descriptions bring Tennessee’s landscapes to life in an entirely new way. Join the conversation on social media with @TNvacation using hashtag #TNSoundsPerfect.

About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development 

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, X, and Instagram for travel inspiration.

PBS: Change, Not Charity

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Change, Not Charity: The Americans with Disabilities Act tells the emotional and dramatic story of the decades-long push for equality and accessibility that culminated in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. While curb cuts, ramps at building entrances, and braille on elevator buttons seem commonplace today, they were once the subject of a pitched battle that landed on the steps of Congress. Told through the voices of key participants and witnesses, the film highlights the determined people who literally put their bodies on the line to achieve their goal and change the lives of all Americans. A story of courage and perseverance, the film brings to life one of the great civil rights movements in American history, where ordinary people made their voices heard and Congress responded. A testament to the power of coalition building and bipartisan compromise, the passage of the ADA is a shining example of democracy in action.

To mark the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, TravelAbility is launching a powerful lineup of initiatives designed to educate, engage, and equip the travel industry to better serve travelers with disabilities. Download the full slate of activities here.

Watch the episode here. WATCH NOW!

Observations from Abilities Expo Los Angeles and Destination International’s CEO Summit

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From Jake Steinman

Last week, I attended the CEO Summit in Savannah, where I had the opportunity to engage with over 25 CEOs from various destinations. The event offered a valuable pulse check on the industry, revealing a mix of uncertainty, strategic shifts, and a growing focus on accessibility. Here are some key observations and insights.

Navigating Uncertainty: The Mood Among Industry Leaders

A prevailing sentiment was that “kindness has gone out of style”

The general atmosphere among attendees was one of confusion and uncertainty. Vendors voiced concerns that large-scale projects might be put on hold or canceled altogether, reflecting a cautious approach to future investments. A prevailing sentiment was that “kindness has gone out of style,” a troubling notion in an industry where hospitality and empathy are core values.

Adding to the uncertainty, the CEO of Panama City Beach shared a revealing anecdote. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, whom he previously worked for, informed him that his destination marketing organization (DMO) would be the first to undergo an audit under the newly introduced mini-DOGE initiative. This heightened sense of scrutiny is contributing to industry-wide apprehension.

The Evolution of DEI: Going Undercover

Diversity initiatives are facing new challenges in the current political climate. At a breakfast discussion on the future of “Tourism Diversity Matters,” it became clear that organizations are adapting to maintain these efforts, sometimes discreetly. Several attendees noted that their DEI staff had been reassigned to other departments while continuing their work under a different guise—essentially going undercover.

A proposal was made to rename “Tourism Diversity Matters” to simply “Tourism Matters.” The suggested rebranding aimed to ensure the initiative’s longevity while advancing its mission in a more politically palatable manner. Several Black audience members supported this shift as a strategic move to preserve and expand the program’s impact.

Accessibility Gains Momentum at Conferences

Accessibility was a standout topic at the DI’s CEO Summit, gaining traction as a non-partisan, forward-thinking initiative. Wheel the World delivered a compelling presentation that resonated with many CEOs, reinforcing that accessibility is not just an ethical responsibility but a strategic imperative for future-proofing destinations. One particularly insightful takeaway came from Alvaro Silberstein, founder of Wheel the World, was that he chose UC Berkeley for his MBA over other options largely due to the city’s strong history of accessibility. (Similarly, Sophie Morgan—wheelchair user, BBC news anchor, and Conde Nast Traveler’s accessibility editor—moderated a panel I participated in at Visit California’s Marketing Outlook Forum in LA. After a month-long coast-to-coast tour of America, she decided to relocate to the U.S., finding accessibility here, while imperfect, it was consistently superior to anything she had experienced in the UK.)

Meanwhile, Don Welsh, CEO Destinations International, underscored DI’s commitment to accessibility in his closing remarks, highlighting strengthened partnerships with TravelAbility and Wheel the World. The momentum in this space is clear, with destinations increasingly recognizing the economic and reputational benefits of inclusive travel. Also, at the Oregon Governor’s conference on Tourism held last month in Portland, three out of the 10 sessions focused on accessibility.

Risk Mitigation and Training: A New Approach

Conversations at the Abilities Expo further reinforced the need for improved accessibility training. In discussions with two ADA plaintiff attorneys, I proposed adding a scenario-based section to the newsletter and conference, tentatively titled “Would You Sue Over This?” or, as another community member suggested, “To Sue or Not to Sue.” 

One attorney noted that in 95% of cases, lawsuits could have been avoided if businesses had simply treated their customers with dignity and respect. Incorporating accessibility training into regional Master Class workshops could serve as both a compliance measure and a safeguard against litigation, making it a win-win for the industry.

Looking Ahead: ADA35 as a Unifying Initiative

As we approach 2025, which marks the 35th anniversary of the ADA, we have a unique opportunity to elevate accessibility initiatives on a larger scale. My plan is to roll up several key efforts—the Playbook, the InnovateAble Showcase, research collaborations with Longwoods and USAE News, Regional Masterclass Workshops, and the 7th Annual TravelAbility Summit—into a year-long ADA35 celebration.

If industry leaders see themselves as contributors to a long-term foundation rather than just attendees of isolated events, the momentum behind accessibility will continue to grow.

Accessibility remains a strong, future-focused initiative that destinations are willing to champion.

The CEO Summit made one thing clear: while uncertainty looms over various aspects of the industry, accessibility remains a strong, future-focused initiative that destinations are willing to champion. With ADA35 on the horizon, we have a compelling narrative to drive meaningful progress forward.