Inclusion and Sensory Accessibility in Hotels and Its Importance for Branding

Abstract

AbstractAccessibility is a crucial factor in the hospitality industry, especially concerning guests with special access needs [1]. While significant strides have been made to create environments conducive to mobility, efforts to support individuals with sensory challenges often require further improvement. The hospitality industry seems to be still far from ensuring equal opportunities and access for all visitors regardless of their diverse needs (including mobility, vision, hearing, and cognitive dimensions of access). The paper explores the challenges, as well as the opportunities, associated with sensory accessibility in the hotel industry. Strategies and technologies that allow hospitality providers to offer a more comprehensive and welcoming experience to all guests are key to quality accommodation. Training staff, utilizing technological tools, and education, along with the integration of innovative strategies and solutions, can significantly improve the customer experience. These advancements in service delivery and technology can offer a distinct and unparalleled experience for guests, exceeding the usual expectations of hotel hospitality. This not only enhances hotel branding and marketing but also emphasizes the importance of sensory accessibility. It is crucial to adopt best practices in the hospitality sector for guests with special access needs, aligning with branding and marketing strategies.