The Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) is pleased to announce the first of its keynote sessions for its 2023 People’s Coast Summit, to be held in Astoria on October 17 and 18. 

“Unlocking the World: The Wheel the World Experience” will feature Alvaro Silberstein, co-founder of WheelTheWorld.com, an online marketplace for people with disabilities to plan and book accessible trips.

People with disabilities and their companions face numerous difficulties when planning a trip, which can generate friction and less-than-stellar travel experiences for all. How can (and how should) destinations and hospitality providers speak to the more than 500 million travelers yearly who are ready to travel but don’t have the resources they need to understand how a destination can be accessible to them? 

This session will provide the latest stats on and needs for travelers with disabilities and help attendees understand what needs to be done to be a resource for travelers with accessibility needs. An additional breakout session, “Inclusive Destinations: Embracing Accessible Travel” will further empower attendees to welcome travelers with disabilities.

Since 2018, Wheel the World has allowed more than 2,500 travelers to have accessible travel experiences in more than 150 destinations worldwide. A Chilean entrepreneur, public speaker, and passionate disability advocate, Alvaro Silberstein created the company in 2018 to empower millions of people to explore the world without limits. 

The People’s Coast Summit is OCVA’s annual end-of-season tourism industry gathering, featuring delicious food, great company, helpful workshops, and inspiring talks. Registration is now open for this can’t-miss opportunity to connect with colleagues and gain tourism industry insight. This year’s expert presenters will speak to topics such as marketing for tourism businesses, destination development and stewardship, coastal adaptation and resiliency, and more.