In a notable stride toward fostering inclusive travel experiences, Virgin Hotels has announced its collaboration with Autism Double-Checked, a pioneering firm specializing in autism-awareness training for the travel sector. This partnership underscores Virgin Hotels’ dedication to creating welcoming and accessible environments for all travelers, particularly those within the neurodiverse community.
Already, four Virgin Hotels locations – Nashville, New York, Dallas, and Chicago – have achieved Autism Double-Checked certification. This credential signifies that staff at these properties have undergone comprehensive training to better understand and accommodate the unique needs of guests with autism. Plans are underway to extend this certification to Virgin Hotels New Orleans and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh later this year, further demonstrating the brand’s commitment to inclusivity.
Virgin Hotels Collection CEO, James Bermingham, emphasized the importance of removing barriers to travel for neurodiverse individuals and their families. “Our mission is to ensure that travel is accessible to everyone, enabling all guests to create lasting memories with their loved ones in a safe and supportive environment,” Bermingham stated. The partnership with Autism Double-Checked is a critical component of this mission, equipping hotel staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to cater to the needs of neurodiverse travelers effectively.
In addition to the certification initiative, Virgin Hotels has introduced the Hotels with Heart program. This initiative provides discounted rates for “practice stays” at certified Virgin Hotels, allowing neurodiverse guests and their families to familiarize themselves with the hotel environment in a stress-free, supportive setting.
Virgin Hotels’ efforts to enhance travel accessibility through education, certification, and thoughtful initiatives like Hotels with Heart reflect a broader industry trend towards more inclusive hospitality practices. By prioritizing the needs of neurodiverse travelers, Virgin Hotels is setting a standard for empathy and accommodation that enriches the travel experience for everyone.
