{"id":6980,"date":"2024-09-17T10:32:48","date_gmt":"2024-09-17T10:32:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/?p=6980"},"modified":"2024-09-17T10:32:55","modified_gmt":"2024-09-17T10:32:55","slug":"the-need-for-better-accessibility-drives-change-for-business-travellers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/the-need-for-better-accessibility-drives-change-for-business-travellers\/","title":{"rendered":"The need for better accessibility drives change for business travellers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Advancements in accessibility and an increasing focus on inclusivity are helping businesses future-proof their success. Whilst also positively impacting employee satisfaction, recruitment and growth. With business travel an essential part of modern day operations, companies are building travel programmes, and seeking suppliers, who are adopting more inclusive outlooks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In a recent documentary, Sophie Morgan\u2019s Fight to Fly, we see first-hand that the reality of travel remains a real challenge for those with disabilities;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;No one who has used a wheelchair in public needs to be convinced that transport, especially air, is often shamefully inaccessible. But Morgan knows she doesn\u2019t have the luxury of preaching to the converted. To create change, first she has to convince non-disabled decision-makers that this matters.&#8221;<sup data-fn=\"12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69\" class=\"fn\"><a id=\"12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69-link\" href=\"#12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69\">1<\/a><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this blog post, we\u2019ll explore accessibility options for business travellers, including practical tips and services that ensure smoother, more comfortable, and dignified experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Booking Accessible Travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning a business trip, ensuring that your mode of transportation and accommodation cater to accessibility needs is crucial. Here are a few points to consider when booking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Air travel: Accessibility features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Priority boarding: Most airlines provide priority boarding for passengers with mobility issues, allowing extra time to board and settle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wheelchair assistance: Almost all airports provide wheelchair assistance, but it is important to request this service at least 48 hours in advance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In-flight accessibility: Some airlines offer onboard accessibility features such as aisle chairs, accessible lavatories, and dedicated seating for passengers with disabilities. Research which airlines prioritise these features<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Train &amp; bus accessibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>For short-haul business trips, trains and buses are viable alternatives to flying. Most train services and many bus companies provide accessible seating, bathrooms, and assistance at stations. However, not all routes or vehicles are equally accessible, so confirming ahead of time is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Booking an accessible hotel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Accommodation is a major consideration for any traveller, but for those with disabilities, it\u2019s particularly important. Some tips for booking accessible hotels include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check for ADA compliance: If you&#8217;re travelling in the U.S., ensure that the hotel is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Similarly, look for equivalent certifications in other countries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Request specific features: If you need features like roll-in showers, handrails, or visual alarms, ask for detailed descriptions or photos of the room<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Location of the room: Request a room close to elevators or the lobby to minimise long walks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Ground Transportation Solutions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Navigating a new city can be daunting, especially when local infrastructure is not always designed with accessibility in mind. Luckily, there are several transportation solutions for business travellers with disabilities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Accessible car rentals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Major car rental companies offer accessible vehicles with features like hand controls and wheelchair lifts. When renting a car for business, be sure to reserve an accessible vehicle well in advance, as availability can be limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ride-Sharing services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Popular ride-sharing providers and apps offer options for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV) in some cities. These services allow you to book a ride from your phone and track your driver\u2019s arrival. While not available everywhere, it\u2019s worth checking if WAV services are operational in your destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Public transport options<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Many cities have public transportation systems that are increasingly accommodating to people with disabilities. This may include elevators in subway stations, low-floor buses, or specialised transportation services for those with mobility challenges. Before your trip, research the accessibility of the local public transport network to ensure it meets your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Digital tools for accessibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>For business travellers with disabilities, digital tools can make a significant difference in ensuring a smooth experience. Here are a few technologies to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel apps with accessibility features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Google maps: Google maps has an &#8220;Accessible Places&#8221; feature that highlights wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking spots in various locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be My Eyes<sup data-fn=\"4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614\" class=\"fn\"><a id=\"4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614-link\" href=\"#4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614\">2<\/a><\/sup>: This app connects visually impaired users with volunteers who can assist them via video call with everyday tasks, such as navigating new surroundings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wheelmap<sup data-fn=\"e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662\" class=\"fn\"><a id=\"e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662-link\" href=\"#e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662\">3<\/a><\/sup>: This app allows users to find and review accessible places worldwide, including restaurants, hotels, and conference centres<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Assistive devices &amp; gadgets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Portable ramps: If you&#8217;re attending meetings in older buildings that may not have wheelchair access, a portable ramp can be a lifesaver<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Noise-cancelling headphones: For those with sensory sensitivities, noise-cancelling headphones can provide relief in busy, overwhelming environments like airports and conference centres<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Speech-to-text devices: For those with hearing impairments, devices like live transcription apps or hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity can help with communication during meetings and events<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Inclusive business travel management\" class=\"wp-image-6992\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Inclusive-Travel_dk.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Navigating business conferences &amp; events<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Business conferences are an important part of networking and professional development. However, accessibility at large-scale events can be inconsistent. Here\u2019s how you can ensure a more inclusive experience:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Research venue accessibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Before attending a conference, research the venue\u2019s accessibility features, such as ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and seating arrangements. Contact the event organisers to ensure that accommodations, such as sign language interpreters or assistive listening devices, are available if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use virtual meeting platforms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The rise of virtual meetings has created opportunities for greater accessibility in business events. Platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams offer features like live captions, screen readers, and high-contrast displays, allowing attendees with disabilities to participate fully from wherever they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Inclusive Business Practices for Employers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>For businesses, ensuring that travel policies are inclusive is not just a matter of compliance, but also one of creating a positive work environment. Here are some ways employers can support business travellers with disabilities:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Flexible travel arrangements: Allow employees to choose the transportation and accommodation options that best meet their needs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Provide accessible technology: Ensure that your employees have the right tools, such as accessible mobile apps or assistive devices, to make travel easier<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pre-arranged support services: Employers can arrange for ground transportation, mobility aids, or personal assistance to meet employees upon arrival at their destination<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion: Towards an Accessible Future for Business Travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>While business travel can present unique challenges for people with disabilities, growing awareness and innovations in accessibility are having a positive impact. By planning ahead, utilising digital tools, and taking advantage of the accessibility features offered by airlines, hotels, and ground transportation, business travellers with disabilities can enjoy smooth, stress-free trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employers also play a critical role in ensuring that travel policies and support systems are inclusive, creating a more equitable and comfortable experience for all business travellers. With continued focus on accessibility, we move closer to a future where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate in the global business landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>MIDAS Travel works with clients to build tailormade business travel programmes. We use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/traveller-profiles-help-make-the-most-of-business-travel-programmes\/\" title=\"Traveller profiles help make the most of business travel programmes\">traveller profiles<\/a> to ensure personalised traveller experiences and that all needs are met and exceeded for all. To review your corporate travel programme, then get in touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"mailto:cst@midas-travel.com\">GET IN TOUCH<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">USEFUL LINKS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/Traveller profiles help make the most of business travel programmes\" title=\"\">Traveller profiles help make the most of business travel programmes <\/a>&#8211; MIDAS Travel Blog<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/business-traveller\/\" title=\"\">Are you a business traveller? <\/a>&#8211; MIDAS Travel Website<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virgin.com\/virgin-unite\/latest\/how-virgin-atlantic-is-helping-people-with-hidden-disabilities-overcome\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">How Virgin Atlantic is helping people with hidden disabilities overcome travel challenges<\/a> &#8211; Virgin Atlantic Website<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Footnotes<\/h2>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-footnotes\"><li id=\"12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69\">Sophie Morgan\u2019s Fight To Fly, August 2024, <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/LNh0iNC6RUk?si=aHfNeJtfyCoiav-W\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Channel 4<\/a> <a href=\"#12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69-link\" aria-label=\"Jump to footnote reference 1\">\u21a9\ufe0e<\/a><\/li><li id=\"4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614\">Be my eyes, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bemyeyes.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">mobile app<\/a>  <a href=\"#4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614-link\" aria-label=\"Jump to footnote reference 2\">\u21a9\ufe0e<\/a><\/li><li id=\"e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662\">Wheelmap is a map for wheelchair accessible places, <a href=\"https:\/\/news.wheelmap.org\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Wheelmap<\/a> <a href=\"#e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662-link\" aria-label=\"Jump to footnote reference 3\">\u21a9\ufe0e<\/a><\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Advancements in accessibility and an increasing focus on inclusivity are helping businesses future-proof their success. Whilst also positively impacting employee satisfaction, recruitment and growth. With business travel an essential part of modern day operations, companies are building travel programmes, and seeking suppliers, who are adopting more inclusive outlooks. In a recent documentary, Sophie Morgan\u2019s Fight [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":6991,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":"[{\"content\":\"Sophie Morgan\u2019s Fight To Fly, August 2024, <a href=\\\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/LNh0iNC6RUk?si=aHfNeJtfyCoiav-W\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noopener\\\" title=\\\"\\\">Channel 4<\/a>\",\"id\":\"12d68c82-a425-4e67-a312-851d82fe9a69\"},{\"content\":\"Be my eyes, <a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.bemyeyes.com\/\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noopener\\\" title=\\\"\\\">mobile app<\/a> \",\"id\":\"4d91193a-8e07-4d1b-b954-f6c11884a614\"},{\"content\":\"Wheelmap is a map for wheelchair accessible places, <a href=\\\"https:\/\/news.wheelmap.org\/en\/\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noopener\\\" title=\\\"\\\">Wheelmap<\/a>\",\"id\":\"e666f9aa-fa35-4f97-b88b-a633aa4fd662\"}]"},"categories":[10,143,144],"tags":[157,85,156,88],"class_list":["post-6980","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","category-travel-management","category-travel-policy","tag-accessibility","tag-business-travel","tag-inclusive","tag-travel-management-company"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6980","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6980"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6980\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6997,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6980\/revisions\/6997"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6991"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6980"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6980"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.midas-travel.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6980"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}