FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Out of Sight is Not Out of Mind for Hoteliers Accommodating Hidden Disabilities

by Carley D. Thornell

Mar 21, 2025

© MORGAN’S

March 2025

The Hidden Garden Kids Club at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa offers an Alice in Wonderland-like enclave of enchantment. Blocks, books and Bluey on a big screen await toddlers through teens.

PHOTO: © MARRIOTT

Dedicating much of the sixth floor to children isn’t much of a surprise given the resort’s proximity to Walt Disney World. But what does surprise many — pleasantly — is a dedicated Sensory Calming Corner. Designed with weighted blankets, noise-cancelling headphones and a texture wall with colorful ribbons and velvety fabrics, this space aims to meet the needs of kids with autism especially, but every little one gasps with delight at the light-up touch tiles and 3-D butterflies.

The resort is among the growing ranks of hoteliers designing for inclusivity and guests with invisible disabilities in mind. Ed Warner, cofounder, Motionspot, a U.K.-based accessible design firm, notes just 8 percent of people with disabilities use a wheelchair, but design regulations like the Americans with Disabilities Act largely focus on people who need mobility aids. That leaves a lot open to interpretation for the other 92 percent with invisible disabilities such as hearing loss, food allergies and anxiety.

Motionspot earned a top hospitality award for redesigning Hotel Brooklyn in Manchester, England, with hidden disabilities in mind. Improvements included bathroom fans that don’t interfere with hearing aids and, for those with vision limitations, enhanced lighting and more contrast from the earth-toned, monochromatic standard popular in many hotels.

Once completed, the under-construction Morgan’s Hotel in San Antonio will feature sensory-sensitive colors and lighting, hearing aid loops, and easy access to elevators, said Sharon Newhardt, Director of Inclusion and Culture.

© MORGAN’S

The hotel lies near Morgan’s Wonderland theme park, which features rides designed for mobility-aid users. The park also accommodates those with special needs such as cognitive disorders, and bright pops of green and yellow are common on the many guests wearing sunflower lanyards — an increasingly universal indicator of invisible disabilities.

Beyond the physical features, employee training proves an essential component to offering an inclusive experience, noted Newhardt. Hotel employees will receive the same comprehensive sessions now provided to park talent regarding terminology, etiquette and specialized interpersonal skills.

Massachusetts teacher Robin Perron, whose students are primarily autistic, says sensitivity training can make all the difference beyond physical accommodations. “People with sensory needs may not make eye contact. Saying hello may be a struggle,” said Perron. “Having staff training to deal with that, who understand the reasons why, can create a better [hospitality] experience.”

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
July 2025
Jul 15, 2025

Global City Guidebook: Cancún

Known for its powdery white beaches and brilliant turquoise sea, Cancún combines nature and adventure with the rich cultural heritage of Riviera Maya, offering activities such as diving in the largest coral reefs in the Western Hemisphere and exploring archaeological sites. Zona Hotelera, the hotel zone, stretches along 14 miles of beaches, glamourous resorts and a buzzing party scene. Downtown Cancún has its own locally focused, vibrant social scene.

Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November

Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.

Daily
Jul 15, 2025

Viking Announces Its First River Voyages in India on New Ship

On July 10, Viking announced its first river voyages in India, set to launch in late 2027 on Viking Brahmaputra, Viking’s new, 80-guest vessel built especially for Brahmaputra River. On this 15-day Wonders of India journey, guests will experience a fully guided land program with overnights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

Daily
Jul 14, 2025

Wellness Retreat Brand Launches New Programming in Partnership with Tata Harper Facials

With two properties located in Malibu and the Hudson Valley, The Ranch is a holistic wellness destination offering a variety of guided programs that incorporate principles of movement, mindful nutrition, wellness in nature and authentic connection. New initiatives include a partnership with Tata Harper Facials.

Sail Unique with Explora Journeys

SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.

Destinations / Asia
Jul 14, 2025

Global City Guidebook: New Delhi

A city like no other, India’s exhilarating capital captivates with a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and scents. Delve into its rich heritage amid old-world charm; bustling markets; and architectural marvels alongside modern buildings, green spaces and swanky shopping malls. New Delhi’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultural history and status as an international melting pot.

Cruises
Jul 12, 2025

Windstar Debuts Exclusive Air + Hotel Cruise Offer

Have your Polynesian dreams come true with Windstar Cruises’ new Air + Hotel offer. Receive complimentary economy airfare from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tahiti (PPT) on select 2025/2026 Air + Hotel cruise packages, a value of up to $1,500 per person.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

Step Lively in Fashionable Sneakers Designed for City Walking

Morgen Trainers, Black-Gum  Colombian craftsmanship meets European-inspired style in Beckett Simonon’s Morgen Trainers. Handmade in Bogotá with full-grain Italian leather exterior and ultra-soft Vachetta leather lining (feel free to go sockless), these low-profile sneakers feature sturdy, vulcanized rubber soles and plush internal padding to withstand all-day city walking. The black-gum colorway feels timeless, but with five additional combinations to choose from, it’s easy to add some of your own personality while maintaining a neutral look that travels well with a variety of outfits. With slow fashion roots and lasting construction, they’re built to go the distance. $270.