Traveling with a family member on the spectrum comes with unique challenges. Crowds may be overwhelming, certain noises might be distressing, or a cruise might be out of the question. Every individual has their own needs, but some destinations go above and beyond to provide a more autism-friendly experience. Based on personal experiences and client feedback, here are some of my top recommendations for autism-friendly travel:

1. Turks & Caicos - Beaches - Beaches Resorts was the first to earn an autism certification with ibcces, and offers incredible services like "Beach Buddies" to assist families throughout their stay.
2. Jamaica - Beaches - see above. Both Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios hold the same autism certifications and provide the same exceptional accommodations, including Beach Buddies.
3. Cancun - Karisma Resorts - Karisma was the first resort chain to become Autism Double Checked. We have personally experienced Karisma resorts and had a chance to test their training when our transfer was late and my son melted down and kicked a table across the reception area. No one freaked out or looked at us funny, in fact a couple of employees just stood behind my son and quietly asked if needed anything and when we said no thank you they went back about their day.
4. Dubai - Dubai is working towards becoming the first Certified Autism Destination! Over 200 hotels and attractions have already started their training. 
5. Disney World - Disney World has always been a great place to travel with autism. They have made accommodations in all aspects including being able to wait outside the line if waiting is a trigger. They are very good with food allergies and since many in this community struggle with dietary restrictions this is very helpful. While there have been some recent changes that not everyone in the community is excited about they are trying to streamline the process and make sure that those that need it can use it and those who don’t aren’t taking advantage. Do they make mistakes? Of course. They are constantly working on tweaking and adjusting things so what may work well for some, may not work well for others.
6. Universal Studios Orlando - Universal recently introduced a process through IBCCES.org where guests can apply for accommodations before arriving. While some prefer the Express Pass over the Attraction Assistance Pass, Universal makes an effort to be inclusive—plus, they offer a fantastic sensory-friendly quiet room and accommodate food allergies well.
7. Sesame Place (both Pennsylvania and California) - Sesame Place was the first theme park to be designated as Autism Certified. 
8. San Diego - The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer disability accommodations and there are autism - friendly beaches like Moonlight Beach with accessible facilities.
9. Myrtle Beach - Myrtle Beach is designated as an autism-friendly city with sensory friendly events, restaurants and even attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium who offer sensory friendly hours.
10. Royal Caribbean Cruises - While not a single location, Royal Caribbean has made huge strides in autism-friendly cruising. They allow muster drills to be completed in-room rather than in crowded spaces and have a dedicated department to assist families in planning for specific needs.

This list is by no means exhaustive, and every individual with autism has different needs. However, these destinations have consistently provided great experiences for my own family and many others. If you're ready to plan an autism-friendly vacation, reach out—I’d love to help make your next trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible!