Families with children on the autism spectrum are entitled to a vacation just like anyone else, but often face challenges when it comes to planning — particularly if their children have specific dietary requirements or sensory needs.
With that in mind, two Orlando hotels — SpringHill Suites and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld — are among the first in the city to earn Certified Autism Center designations. Both hotels completed a certification program from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to ensure staff have the training, tools and skills needed to work with guests with autism or other sensory needs.
To make vacation planning even more seamless, the hotels are partnering with fellow Certified Autism Centers SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando and Discovery Cove located nearby.
Springfield Suites. Photo: Marriott International, Getty Images
“All of us at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld are committed to creating a brilliant and memorable experience for each and every one of our guests every day,” said Michael Wilke, dual general manager. “We are excited to be in the first group of hotels in Orlando to become autism certified and be able to best serve individual guests with autism. This effort hits close to home for me as two of my family members have autism. I am proud to bring light and dedicate my time to serving those with special needs.”
The SpringHill Suites property offers 200 suites with mini-fridges, a 24-hour convenience store, a swimming pool, free breakfast, complimentary WiFi, a Splash Bar & Grill poolside restaurant with kid-friendly fare and shuttle bus service to area theme parks.
The recently renovated, 200-room Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld offers an outdoor pool with a kids’ splash zone and poolside bar, a game room with new and retro arcade games, a free breakfast buffet and complimentary WiFi.
“We’re excited to work with another SeaWorld of Orlando partner that is fully committed to serving guests on the autism spectrum,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “We know training and certification from an established credentialing board is critical to ensuring a positive guest experience and we’re excited to see these organizations working together to create a seamless welcoming and fun experience for visitors.”
IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ requirements.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Sep 28, 2023Gramping Getaways at Chateau Mcely, Czech Republic
What better setting for grandparents and granddaughters to connect and share than a fairy-tale château set beside a fabulous forest? The Gramping Getaway at Chateau Mcely Spa Hotel & Forest Retreat in Mcely, Czech Republic, offers a themed adventure centering around the charming story of the château’s Princess Nely and her magical cheetah friend Pralinka. The character of the princess is based on the children’s book Nely, the Princess of Chateau Mcely written by château owner Inez Cusumano.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations / Europe
Sep 28, 2023Visit These 3 London Spots Going All out for Halloween
This October, take the whole family to London and take time to not only enjoy the classic sites but also these scary fun Halloween events and experiences. Whether it’s a spooky-filled trip to the London Zoo or a step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, here are the three can’t-miss experiences:
Slideshow
Sep 28, 20238 Medellín, Colombia, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Medellín, Colombia, with us.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Destinations
Sep 27, 2023Family Vacation Bundles in Orlando Now Include Luxury Boating Experiences
Make your family trip to Orlando so much more than just visiting the theme parks. Thanks to new vacation bundles from luxury hotels in Orlando, available as of Sept. 1, you can enjoy exclusive boating experiences during your trip.
ShareThis