🛏️ Accessibility in Hotels for Autistic People – Essential Tips and Care

Accessibility in hotels for autistic people is an increasingly important topic in inclusive tourism. Ensuring comfort, predictability, and a welcoming environment is essential for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to enjoy their travels with peace of mind. In this article, you'll find practical tips, accommodation suggestions, and information to help families feel more confident when planning their trips.

Why is sensory accessibility so important?

People with autism, especially those with sensory hypersensitivity, may struggle in environments with excessive noise, bright lights, or unexpected changes. In hotels, it's common to face challenges such as:

• Environments with loud music in common areas;
• Excessive decoration or bright lighting in rooms;
• Employees unprepared to deal with crises or communication difficulties.

Therefore, considering accessibility in hotels for people with autism goes far beyond the physical structure: it involves human preparation, clear communication, and respect for sensory needs.

Tips for choosing hotels with accessibility for people with autism

Before booking your accommodation, there are a few things you can do to ensure a more comfortable stay:

1. 🔍 Check if the hotel offers quiet and peaceful rooms;
2. 🗣️ Contact the hotel to explain your family's needs;
3. 📷 See real photos of the place and read reviews from other families with autistic children;
4. 📋 Request written information about rules and schedules (this helps with predictability);
5. 💡 Prioritize hotels that accept adaptations, such as reducing stimuli in the room or early check-in.

Real example: hotel with personalized service

During a trip to the interior of Rio Grande do Sul, a family reported that the hotel where they stayed offered a room away from the event area, with softer lighting and simple visual explanations on how the electronic key and air conditioning work. This experience shows that, even without major investments, empathy and goodwill make a difference.

How to help other travelers

Node Autistics Around the World, we've gathered real stories from families who faced various situations in hotels. If you've had a positive experience with accessibility in hotels for people with autism, send us your story! It could be published and help others find prepared and welcoming places.

👉 Read also: What changes for autistic people when booking a hotel?

Quick checklist for your next stay

• ☑️ Avoid hotels with parties and constant crowds;
• ☑️ Confirm that there is a refrigerator and microwave in the room, making restrictive diets easier;
• ☑️ Ask for visual material explaining the hotel's opening hours and common areas;
• ☑️ Bring items that provide sensory safety (ear muffling headphones, favorite blanket, etc.);
• ☑️ Inform in advance about the need to avoid touching or direct contact with the autistic guest.

👉 See other posts with inclusive tips here