ATLANTA, Microtel Inns & Suites, the all-newly constructed chain of budget/economy hotels, and the World Congress & Exposition on Disabilities (WCD) have announced the results of their jointly- sponsored 'Survey of Travelers with Disabilities.' The survey was conducted at the annual WCD Expo in order to expand initiatives to educate the industry about the needs of travelers with disabilities, and to encourage hotels to better serve this market.

The majority of respondents took several trips a year, traveled by car (several used a van) to destinations around the U.S., and had disabilities requiring the use of a wheelchair. More than one third of participants booked their hotel accommodations via the web, followed by calling the toll-free number or contacting the hotel directly. Nearly 100 WCD attendees responded to the survey.

When asked about their experience when staying at hotels in general, following are highlights:

• "How can hotels improve service levels or services offered to make your stay more enjoyable?" Respondents said, 'by being more service- oriented' and 'by having more room to maneuver easily.' Several also indicated, 'by being more sensitive to the needs of the disabled, and more understanding about their needs.'
• "In addition to those items required by the ADA, what would make your hotel stay more comfortable?" Several respondents again mentioned the 'need for more space' and also 'an accessible bathroom that includes a roll-in shower.'
• "What influences your decision on where to stay?" Respondents indicated that 'hotel rates' were most important, followed by 'those ADA features offered,' 'helpful employees,' and the 'type of room.'
• "Do you require an open bed frame?" More than two-thirds of respondents did not.

"We are excited to join with WCD Expo to gain valuable insight from our disabled travelers relative to their travel needs," said Roy E. Flora, senior vice president, franchise operations of US Franchise Systems, Inc. (USFS), parent company of the franchisor of the Microtel Inns & Suites brand. "We are especially pleased to know that the disability etiquette training implemented in all Microtel hotels is consistent with the expectations expressed by the respondents to the survey."

Microtel Inns & Suites is the only budget hotel chain to implement the training program known as Opening Doors(R) systemwide. Opening Doors(R), developed by W.C. Duke Associates of Woodford, Va., is a value-added training tool used to enhance the chain's customer service initiatives, so that staff can practice "attitude accessibility." Opening Doors(R) emphasizes disability etiquette skills training that includes interactive activities and role playing using wheelchairs, blindfolds, earplugs and taped hands so employees can practice how to service customers with disabilities. For more information, visit www.wcduke.com/ .

With approximately 20% of our nation's population living each day with a disability, the WCD Foundation provides support to children and adults with disabilities and their families in the U.S. and worldwide. From pediatrics to geriatrics, some of the most important issues and topics in the disability arena are presented via the annual World Congress and Exposition on Disabilities. This year's event will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pa., from Dec. 1 to 3, 2005. For more information, visit www.wcdexpo.com/ .