2024 Host Week - Fri - EduSpots, Making Travel More Accessible, De'Andrea Matthews

When most people think about accessibility, the first thing that comes to mind are mobility challenges. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 61 million adults across the United States identify as having a disability of some kind. Some disabilities are not visible or obvious, like sensory or dietary needs. About 10% or 6.1 million people have hidden or invisible disabilities. People with hidden disabilities are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which includes being entitled to accommodations in lodging. What does this mean for our international travelers, though? How can travel advisors continue to provide stellar service through accommodations, amenities and cultural experiences as the country’s aging population grows at a rapid rate? These and other questions will be explored in “Shifting Identities: Making Travel More Accessible”. This presentation will focus on five aspects of diversity – language, dietary restrictions, transportation, religion and technology – to share the impact of accessibility in travel.

Take away:

1. Learn the accessibility features (and new logo) to highlight with travel amenities as a new approach to meeting the needs of your client.
2. Hear relevant examples of “travel gone wrong” to avoid.
3. Simulate how to ask the uncomfortable, but needed questions so your client enjoys the best travel experience from beginning to end.
4. Incorporate immersive cultural experiences for an inclusive travel itinerary while promoting repeat business. (They will tell their friends!)

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