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Here at Welcoming Wow, we prioritize inclusivity in our mission to help vacation rental owners succeed!
As vacation rental owners, we have the incredible opportunity to help create memorable experiences for a wide range of guests. By embracing inclusivity, we can ensure that our properties cater to diverse needs and provide a welcoming environment for everyone.
While we definitely believe that you cannot cater to everyone and that you should narrow your target market, we still feel that you can improve inclusivity within your target markets.
Let’s explore practical tips and strategies to make your vacation rental more inclusive and accommodating for a wide range of guests.
Prioritize Accessibility:
Ensure your property has accessible entryways, pathways, and common areas.
Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and showers.
Consider providing wheelchair ramps or lifts for entryways with steps.
Make sure doorways are wide enough to accommodate mobility devices.
Enhance Safety Measures:
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in each room.
Provide clear emergency evacuation instructions and contact information.
Make sure fire extinguishers are easily accessible and in good working condition.
Consider adding safety features like childproof locks, outlet covers, and pool safety measures.
Include Emergency Exit Lights near all exterior doors to light the way in case of a power outage.
Communication and Information:
Offer clear and concise property descriptions that highlight accessibility features.
Provide detailed instructions for operating appliances, electronics, and amenities.
Find out if you frequently have foreign speaking guests staying at your home. If so, create multilingual materials in the other languages that are most commonly used by your guests.
Ensure your website and booking platforms are accessible and user-friendly.
Consider Special Needs:
Offer adjustable lighting options and blackout curtains for guests with sensory sensitivities.
Provide noise-cancelling devices or soundproofing options in bedrooms or common areas.
Have allergy-friendly bedding and cleaning protocols in place.
Consider the needs of guests with dietary restrictions and provide cooking utensils for various needs.
Join the Spectrum-Friendly movement and make your property safe & comfortable for families with children on the autism spectrum. Click here!
Thoughtful Amenities and Equipment:
Consider offering a range of adaptive equipment like shower chairs, raised toilet seats, or bed rails.
Provide a selection of board games, books, and toys suitable for different age groups and abilities.
Include accessibility features like grab bars, handheld showerheads, or shower chairs in bathrooms.
Offer inclusive entertainment options such as closed captions or audio descriptions for TVs.
Embrace Diversity in Marketing:
Showcase diversity in your promotional materials and imagery - meaning use a variety of genders, races, mobility, etc in pictures that are used.
Highlight nearby attractions and activities that are accessible and inclusive.
Partner with local organizations that promote inclusivity and share resources.
Engage with guests and listen to their feedback to continually improve your inclusive offerings.
Conclusion:
By taking steps to make your vacation rental more inclusive, you are not only opening doors to a wider range of guests but also creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for all. Embracing accessibility, safety, communication, and thoughtful amenities can make a significant impact on your guests' vacation experiences. Let's work together to create unforgettable stays that cater to the diverse needs of our guests and foster a sense of inclusivity in the vacation rental industry.