Expedia has teamed up with Wheel the World, an accessible travel company, to offer more accessible travel options to individuals with disabilities. The partnership aims to make it easier for people with disabilities to plan and book trips by providing accessible accommodations, tours, and activities. Wheel the World will provide Expedia with a list of more than 1,000 handpicked accessible activities and experiences that can be booked directly through Expedia’s website or call centers.
The partnership started in 2018 when Wheel the World participated in Expedia Group’s Innovation Lab, a program aimed at identifying and developing solutions to challenges in travel. Wheel the World co-founders Alvaro Silberstein and Camilo Navarro were searching for a technology partner that could help them expand their reach and simplify the booking process for travelers with disabilities.
According to a report by the World Health Organization, around 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability, of which many have travel restrictions due to inaccessible tourism options. The travel industry has not provided adequate accommodation for people with disabilities, causing many of them to skip on leisure travel. However, with the rise of accessible travel agencies such as Wheel the World and the collaboration with large companies like Expedia, it’s hoped that travel experiences can become more inclusive and accessible.
Expedia has recognized the importance of accessible travel and inclusivity in the travel industry. In a statement, the company emphasized the need to create a more positive travel experience for all travelers, regardless of their abilities, race, gender or sexuality. Expedia aims to reflect and welcome all travelers by enabling them to create the trip that suits them the best.
In 2021, the travel industry is emerging from the pandemic with a newfound appreciation for more balanced and responsible tourism. Sustainable travel and social responsibility initiatives have been at the forefront of the industry since the pandemic’s onset. Many travelers are looking for meaningful and responsible travel experiences; therefore, providing safe and accessible options within these experiences is essential.
Traveling is more than just moving from one destination to another. It’s often about the memories that are created, the diversity experienced, and the stories to tell. Now, Expedia’s partnership with Wheel the World will enable more travelers to access these precious experiences irrespective of their physical abilities. It’s not just about creating opportunities for people with disabilities; it’s about creating a more inclusive world for all.