Getting acclimated to a hotel room will present challenges to anyone. The difficulty increases with the progression of vision loss. Figuring out how to turn on the lights, locating and regulating the thermostat, opening or closing the blinds and deciphering how to get the shower on and which shower products are in what container,  are some of the questions that need answers. It can be a hellish experience, if you are not prepared to accept some assistance.  

Hilton Be My Eyes Services

Perhaps the best way to get the assistance you need as a traveler who has low vision or is blind, would be to give the Hilton and Be My Eyes partnership a try. In an industry first, the hotel chain now offers accessibility assistance through the BME mobile app. Connect with dedicated and specially trained Hilton customer care agents, and access both live and AI generated, visual assistance, on select Hilton properties.  

The enhanced accessibility services at  Hilton, for visually impaired guests, are currently available in the United States and Canada, through the Be My Eyes app, at Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, Curio Collection, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton by Hilton, and True by Hilton, through the Be My Eyes app. 

Access Assistance at Any Hotel

If one of these Hilton hotels is not in your plans, no matter where you stay, communicating your needs goes a long way. Hotels are, after all, in the hospitality business, which is all about making their guest comfortable. Request the assistance you want and don’t be surprised when you get it. 

• Ask for Assistance. Inform the hotel staff about your vision impairment when booking the reservation and again upon arrival, so they can show you to the room, open the door and point out things like light switches, electrical outlets, temperature controls, TV remote, and anything else you want to know.  

• Location of Room. Request a room that is close to the elevator, and on a lower floor, for easier access. 

• Arriving & Departing. Ask for assistance with check-in and check-out procedures.

• Mobile Technology. Utilize accessibility apps like Seeing AI and Be My AI to read signs, menus, identify objects and describe your surroundings.

• Mobility & ID. Using a white cane will help you navigate unfamiliar places safely and it also indicates your visual impairment to others.

Gaining a level of familiarity with the hotel provides a greater sense of comfort and security. Remember, hotels are in the hospitality business, and that’s what this is all about.