05 Mar 2026
SONOMA COUNTY, Calif., March 4, 2026 — Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) today announced a region-wide commitment to accessibility and inclusive hospitality, advancing a long-term approach to making Sonoma County increasingly welcoming, navigable, and usable for people of all abilities.
This work is part of SCT's broader Wine Country for All of Us, an ongoing effort to ensure Sonoma County reflects how people truly live, travel, and connect today. The initiative includes a new accessibility landing page on sonomacounty.com, clearer planning tools for travelers, and a growing network of partners committed to transparent, reliable accessibility information.
As a cornerstone of this effort, SCT has partnered with Wheel the World to formally verify accessibility features across the destination. In the initial phase, Sonoma County has been designated “Destination Verified” by the accessible travel platform, with 72 lodging, attraction, and experience partners verified to date, giving travelers trusted, detailed insights to help them plan with confidence.
“Accessibility isn't a box to check; it affects nearly everyone at some point,” said Claudia Vecchio, President and CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. “People travel with diverse needs and at different stages of life. This work is about meeting people where they are and making it easier for them to fully experience Sonoma County.”
Wheel the World's verification process goes beyond self-reported claims, using consistent criteria to document layouts, features, and experiences. The result is clearer expectations and fewer unknowns for travelers.
“Knowing what to expect can change everything,” said Sofia Bravo, Head of Customer Success at Wheel the World. “By investing in verified accessibility, Sonoma County helps travelers feel informed, confident, and welcome before they even arrive.”
The initiative meets a wide range of needs, including travelers with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, visual or hearing impairments, cognitive differences, chronic conditions, temporary injuries, and those traveling with children or aging family members. As multigenerational travel continues to grow, accessibility is increasingly important for bringing people together.
Local partners say the process has been both practical and eye-opening. “I am so proud to be part of this initiative, which reflects what Sonoma County does best — care for people and care for place,” said Aphrodite Caserta, Director of Marketing and Communications for Safari West. “We've seen how powerful it is when guests feel supported and prepared. Inclusive hospitality isn't complicated; it's about clarity, empathy, and intention.”
That commitment extends across the organization's leadership. “Accessibility is about removing uncertainty. When guests have clear, verified information, they can plan with confidence and fully engage in the experience. As both a hospitality partner and Chair of the Sonoma County Tourism Board, I'm proud to support this long-term commitment to inclusive travel across our region,” said Keo Hornbostel, Executive Director of Safari West.
Sonoma County Tourism will commemorate the milestone with a Partner Recognition Ceremony on March 4 in Santa Rosa, recognizing the 72 partners designated as Accessibility Verified. The gathering will include a brief presentation and a celebratory toast to honor the collective commitment to making Sonoma County more welcoming and accessible to all visitors.
Looking ahead, SCT plans to expand its network of verified partners and continue supporting businesses through education and shared best practices. The organization has also licensed the Seven Secrets of Inclusive Hospitality, a values-based framework focused on curiosity, empathy, and connection, to be shared with partners in upcoming training sessions.
“This isn't a one-time effort,” Vecchio added. “It's a long-term commitment to learning, listening, and doing better. When people can move through a place with ease and confidence, everyone benefits.”
More information is available at sonomacounty.com/media, and Sonoma County's verified listings are available at https://www.sonomacounty.com/accessible-travel/.
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About Sonoma County Tourism
Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) is the official organization responsible for destination stewardship in California's Sonoma County. Committed to cultivating a vibrant economy through inclusivity, sustainability, and community connections, SCT promotes the area as a welcoming destination for all. Learn more about the organization's innovative efforts to support the local economy responsibly at sonomacounty.com/partners/about-sonoma-county-tourism/.
For additional details or media inquiries, please contact:
Birgitt Vaughan or Chris Vomvolakis
Sonoma County Tourism
Sonoma County Tourism
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