Traveling to a different state or country requires thorough research in order to find accommodating hotels, restaurants and activities. We have discovered ways to facilitate your travel adventures throughout the United States, but what about traveling the rest of the world? Imagine a one-stop site for all of your accessible travel needs. A new website called Accomable allows people with disabilities to search for travel accommodations tailored to their specific needs.
Accessibility Features on Accomable
In order to book a property, a user can enter criteria for their specific needs. First, enter a location and the type of property you would like to stay in. Next, select from a list of filters designed to narrow your search. For instance, a user can enter specifications such as “roll-in shower” or “wheelchair seat” along with some other common specifications such as “internet” or “gym.” Each listing features a photo of the property and its characteristics. The site will also soon add videos of the properties demonstrating their accessible features. The users can enter their name, email, desired location and accessibility requirements to receive recommendations for new listings. Accomable also directs travelers to a site that enables them to find medical equipment to rent in the area they would like to visit. Accomable provides over 500 listings in 40 countries (primarily in Europe) and this number is expected to grow dramatically. Founder Srin Madipalli predicts the site will reach 5,000 listings by the end of the year.
How it all Began
The site was co-founded by Srin Madipalli and Martyn Sibley, two friends with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Sibley had already made efforts to increase awareness about accessible travel with his online magazine, Disability Horizons– a lifestyle blog for disability lifestyle tips. With this blog, Sibley hoped to encourage people with disabilities to branch out and try enjoyable activities. Madipalli and Martyn have traveled all over the world, and during their travels they discovered a need for more information about disability accessible properties in one convenient, easily accessible location. This catalyzed the creation of Accomable, an Expedia-type platform in which users can enter information about their disability requirements and easily find and book a property. After this was developed, the site then expanded to include accessible care hire companies and medical equipment booking. The site is growing rapidly and has plans to include listings within the United States, accessible city guides and travel accommodations for the elderly.
Visit Accomable while planning your next vacation! If you need to rent or purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle, contact your local NMEDA Quality Assurance Program dealer to find a vehicle customized to fit your individual needs.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a handicap accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our Quality Assurance Program mobility equipment dealers.