TravelAbility and KultureCity Team Up to Make Travel More Accessible for Individuals with Sensory Needs!

Published on November 9, 2024

TravelAbility has announced a strategic partnership with KultureCity, a nonprofit leader in sensory inclusion, to make travel experiences more accessible and enjoyable for individuals with sensory processing needs. This collaboration, revealed at the World Travel Market in London, aims to foster inclusive environments across the travel industry, providing essential resources and training to improve accessibility for travelers with sensory challenges.

Creating Inclusive Journeys for Travelers with Sensory Needs

TravelAbility’s partnership with KultureCity represents a significant step toward a more inclusive travel industry. By integrating sensory-friendly practices, the collaboration ensures that destinations and travel facilities are equipped to cater to individuals with sensory processing challenges, enabling everyone to experience the joys of travel. KultureCity has already set a high standard, training over 5,000 venues worldwide, including NFL stadiums, NBA arenas, Major League Baseball stadiums, and LEGO theme parks.

Key Elements of the Partnership

1. Certification for Sensory Inclusion: Venues that undergo KultureCity’s rigorous training receive certification when at least 50% of customer-facing staff complete a comprehensive sensory inclusion exam.
2. Ongoing Quality Audits: KultureCity maintains high standards through secret shopper audits, conducted six months after the initial training, to ensure effective implementation and continuous improvement of sensory inclusion practices.
3. Sensory Bags: Each trained location receives five sensory bags equipped with items to support individuals with sensory needs. These resources help create a comfortable environment for guests, enhancing their experience.
4. Industry Endorsements: The partnership has received positive feedback from several destinations, including a testimonial from Allison George, who managed the KultureCity training for Travel Oregon’s seven Welcome Centers. George remarked, “The sensory bags provided by KultureCity complement their training perfectly, making a significant impact.”

Sensory Inclusion: An Essential Element of Accessible Travel

Dr. Julian Maha, founder of KultureCity, highlighted the widespread impact of sensory inclusion, citing research showing that 1 in 4 people have an invisible disability or sensory need. “The reach goes beyond these individuals, impacting families, friends, and communities,” said Dr. Maha. “KultureCity is dedicated to creating spaces where all individuals are accepted, included, and celebrated.”

TravelAbility’s Vision for an Inclusive Future

Jake Steinman, Founder of TravelAbility, emphasized that this partnership with KultureCity is integral to achieving TravelAbility’s mission of accessible travel for all. “By addressing sensory needs, we are taking a critical step toward creating a more inclusive industry,” he said. This collaboration signifies TravelAbility’s commitment to empowering individuals of all abilities to enjoy the freedom and joy of travel.