Visalia is designated as the nation’s first Certified Autism Destination awarded by the International Board of Accreditation and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
This follows a year-long effort by local tourism partners to better accommodate the destination travel needs of autistic adventurers and their families. According to a recent study conducted by Autism Travel, 87% of parents of children with autism do not travel, but 93% are more likely to travel if they have the option of autism certification. higher. Today, travelers can enjoy comprehensive and accessible trips to Visalia and the nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
John Oneto, President of Visit Visalia, said: “Viselia has long prided itself on being a welcoming and engaging community. Downtown and nearby national parks.”
The city’s destination marketing organization, Visit Visalia, launched a city-wide initiative a little over a year ago, with key tourism-focused partners participating in a professional autism training program and certified autism. encouraged to become a disease center. This training is designed for face-to-face hospitality and service staff to better recognize and respond to the needs of travelers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With his 42% of the city’s major hotels and several family-friendly attractions certified, Visalia is designated as a certified autism destination.
In addition to extensive training, Visalia’s tourism operations offer accommodations such as sensory guides, additional signage, introduction of quiet spaces, and low-sensory nights. For example, this year he has three sense-friendly holiday events. The ImagineU Children’s Museum hosts sensory nights once a month, starting in September and restarting in the New Year.
Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California, said: “Visalia is featured as an ‘Autism Friendly California Adventure’ in her Trip Guide to Visit California’s Roads. The city is a picturesque destination for the family and the perfect base her camp when experiencing the largest trees on earth in nearby Sequoia National Park. “
IBCCES is a global leader in online training and certification programs. IBCCES created AutismTravel.com as a free resource for families looking for trained and certified travel and recreation options. Each organization listed on the site, including Visit Visalia, meets the requirements of a Certified Center for Autism (CAC).
IBCCES President Meredith Tekin said: “This will help more visitors and travelers with autism and sensory needs and sensitivities have places to stay and play when they visit Visalia, and that their experience will be a great one.” It means you can rest easy knowing that you have the resources to check.”
The city’s comprehensive approach extends beyond this designation to include the Hidden Disability Sunflowers program. Under this program, Visit Visalia provides free sunflower strings and bracelets to travelers upon request. When worn, the sunflower acts as a visual cue to trained hospitality her staff throughout Visalia that travelers may need additional support during their visit.
