With travel restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic starting to lift, many people — with and without disabilities — want to get away and get outside. And, in an effort to encourage accessibility, Airbnb is highlighting ways to get closer to nature through their ‘Experiences’ designed by hosts with accessibility in mind and, also, places to stay with accessibility features.
Experiences
From adaptive hiking with off-road wheelchairs and therapeutic surfing designed for neurodiverse guests, to serene sound healing in Sedona, Airbnb Experiences that consider a variety of interests and needs are more readily available to book. Plus, for those who want to explore the world from home, Online Experiences like this virtual farm visit with therapy animals can transport guests.
Stays
From a cabin overlooking a picturesque lake and to a luxury yurt with a deck to relax on, Airbnb has many unique rentals inclusive of an array of accessibility features.
Prioritizing Accessible Travel
To celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Airbnb partnered with No Barriers, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people of all backgrounds and abilities to get some of their members out and exploring the great outdoors.
“More than 90 percent of No Barriers community members say they are ready to explore the world this summer, with nearly 90 percent planning visits to natural areas and 53 percent to urban centers. Yet, people with disabilities need more accessible options when it comes to planning travel and activities. We are glad to see Airbnb is working to help fill that need and we are honored to be partnering with Airbnb to help make more accessible adventures possible for our community this summer,” said Erik Weihenmayer, co-founder of No Barriers, bestselling author and blind adventurer
“As part of our mission of belonging, we continue working to grow the number of stays and Experiences for guests with accessibility needs. With guests starting to embrace the great outdoors again, I’m delighted to highlight adventurous Experiences, from a beginner’s horseback ride designed for neurodiverse guests to an adaptive canoe excursion. As a full time wheelchair user, I’ve also been inspired by Hosts’ stylish rural homes with accessibility features,” said Suzanne Edwards, Airbnb Head of Accessibility Standards.
Are you traveling this summer? Share your pictures with AmeriDisability via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For more inspiration, check out more experiences and stays by AirBnB.
For more travel ideas, read more AmeriDisability articles:
- The Best National Parks for Accessible Travel
- Tips for Visiting Theme Parks with Kids on the Autism Spectrum
- Best Florida Destinations for Travelers with Disabilities
Photos courtesy of AirBnB
