A few years ago, as People Like Us was just beginning, Drew Seitam, Founder of People Like Us, received a thoughtful message from Debby van der Linden, a PLU in Amsterdam. She wrote:
"A lot of people with disabilities would like to see more of the world, but they often don’t travel due to the lack of suitable housing. If they do travel, they tend to return to the same place every year simply because they know it works. Finding a suitable hotel is both expensive and time-consuming.”
A passionate advocate for accessible travel, Debby saw the incredible potential of home exchange for people with disabilities. But she also saw the gap: travellers with disabilities needed a way to easily find homes that met their needs.
Drew loved the idea! After research and collaboration, we introduced 25 accessibility filters based on the Australian Standard Design for Access and Mobility. These filters help homeowners describe the accessibility features of their homes, inside and out, and enable travellers with disabilities to find the perfect match.
Thank you, Debby, for raising awareness and helping us create a more inclusive community! It’s a reminder that a little extra effort can make a world of difference. 💜
If you’re already a member, have you updated your profile with accessibility details? Take a moment to review and ensure your description is specific and welcoming!
Today, let’s celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—an estimated 1.3 billion people who make up 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 of us, according to the United Nations.
Home exchange offers everyone, including people with disabilities, the chance to explore the world in the comfort of homes designed for their needs. Together, we’re creating a more accessible, connected world. 🌎✨
Thank you for being part of this journey.
People Like Us is the world's most trusted home exchange community. We believe in sharing, trust, generosity, respect, communication, equality, cooperation, honesty, hospitality, friendship, flexibility and adventure. We take pride in our homes and we care about the environment in which we live: our village, city, country and our planet. We care about the ethos of home exchange and we do it because we love the experience and the friendships that it generates.
People Like Us
Home Exchange Pty Ltd