In travel news for April 25, 2024 we talk aboutBeaches Resorts continues to lead the industry in accessibility by maintaining their Advanced Certified Autism Center certification.
Beaches Resorts has reasserted its commitment to making travel accessible and enjoyable for all by retaining its status as an Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC), a recognition given by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). As the only hospitality entity with this accreditation, Beaches Resorts sets a high standard for support and facilities tailored specifically to autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers.
Key Points
- Beaches Resorts remains the only ACAC-certified hospitality organization, ensuring a supportive environment for travelers with autism.
- The resort offers tailored vacation planning, sensory-friendly environments, and inclusive activities designed to ease the challenges faced by neurodivergent guests.
- Special programs like the Beaches Buddies initiative and annual Autism All-Inclusive Week provide additional support and enjoyment for families.
Understanding the Challenges of Traveling with Autism
Traveling can present significant challenges for individuals with autism and their families. The unfamiliar environment, large crowds, new routines, and sensory overload can be overwhelming. Recognizing these difficulties, Beaches Resorts has developed specific strategies and accommodations to address these issues, thereby transforming travel into a positive, stress-free experience for families with neurodivergent members.
Tailored Accommodations and Sensory-Sensitive Planning
At Beaches Resorts, each family's needs are carefully considered to create the most comfortable and enjoyable vacation possible. Upon booking, guests can fill out a detailed questionnaire that helps the Beaches Special Services Team recommend the most suitable experiences and room placements. For instance, rooms are strategically located to minimize noise and other stimuli, helping to create a calming environment. The resort also features a sensory guide that rates areas on a scale from one to ten, aiding guests in navigating the resort spaces with ease.
Personalized Services and Inclusive Activities
To further accommodate guests with autism, Beaches Resorts provides personalized menus for those with specific dietary needs and allergies. The Beaches Buddies program is another standout feature, offering one-on-one assistance for a variety of vacation activities, whether it's building a sandcastle on the beach or exploring underwater life through snorkeling.
Additionally, Beaches Resorts hosts special events that cater specifically to autistic guests, such as the Annual Beaches Autism All-Inclusive Week, which takes place from September 22 through the 29. This week is filled with activities tailored to be inclusive and enjoyable for all guests, including a unique Sesame Street workshop featuring Julia, a Muppet who is on the autism spectrum.
Leading the Way in Accessible Travel
Beaches Resorts has been recognized for going "above and beyond" in leading the hospitality industry towards a more inclusive future. The resort’s ongoing efforts to accommodate neurodivergent travelers not only enhance the vacation experience for these families but also set a benchmark for other companies in the travel and hospitality sectors.
Final Thoughts
The initiatives by Beaches Resorts exemplify their enduring commitment to Accessible Travel. Their comprehensive approach—from personalized planning and sensory-sensitive environments to inclusive activities and specialized care—ensures that every guest, regardless of their neurological condition, can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation. For families traveling with autism, Beaches Resorts offers a beacon of hope and a model of what truly accessible travel should look like, making it a preferred destination for those seeking a seamless and accommodating vacation experience.
