Travel

New Travel Startup Makes Finding ADA-Friendly Hotels a Breeze

A Western Washington University alum's bright idea is helping travelers who use a wheelchair find the right accommodations.

By Danny Sullivan January 9, 2018

hotel-door-app-780

This article originally appeared in the January 2018 issue of Seattle Magazine.

Western Washington University grad Daman Wandke started AbiliTrek to provide comprehensive information about hotel accessibility and amenities for those with disabilities. His motivation? Wandke uses a wheelchair and once traveled for work as a website accessibility consultant, frequently discovering that hotels do a poor job clearly stating what needs they can accommodate.

“Hotels are required to have accessible rooms, but what is accessible?” Wandke asks, noting that the term is too broad to account for the varying needs of disabled individuals.

Something as simple as bed height can present a major challenge for someone using a wheelchair, and free shuttles are worthless without a needed lift or ramp to get aboard. Like an ADA-friendly Trip Advisor, AbiliTrek empowers users to review hotels around the globe, log these crucial details and book accommodations that meet their specific needs.

 

Join The Must List

Sign up and get Seattle's best events delivered to your inbox every week.

Follow Us

IWG Flexible Workspaces Foster Transformational Change | Sponsored

IWG Flexible Workspaces Foster Transformational Change | Sponsored

IWG’s hybrid model boost productivity, profits and employee happiness.

IWG is the world’s largest provider of flexible workspace, with 3,500 locations operating under brands including Regus, Spaces and HQ across 120 countries. Its network is unrivaled in its reach, which extends beyond central business districts to suburban and rural areas, where employees have an unparalleled choice of locations in the heart of their local…

Sponsored | How COVID-19 Changed College Admissions

Sponsored | How COVID-19 Changed College Admissions

What Every High School Parent and Student Should Know

After last year’s unusual college admission season, parents of high school juniors and seniors have more questions than ever about applying to college during COVID-19. The global pandemic has created a new landscape for students currently applying for college, says college counselor Kelly Herrington.  “When people ask me how COVID-19 has changed college admissions, I…

All Eyes on Seattle

All Eyes on Seattle

A note from the editor

The new Bill & Melinda Gates Center for Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington.

News Round Up: The West Seattle Bridge is Falling Down, Falling Down...

News Round Up: The West Seattle Bridge is Falling Down, Falling Down…

Plus: Some farmers markets are reopening and Pride weekend is going virtual

The West Seattle Bridge is closed until further notice.