A new TV show will explore traveling with autism in these SC cities. Here’s where and when
“Traveling the Spectrum,” an unscripted documentary series following three families with members on the autism spectrum as they vacation in the Myrtle Beach area, is set to debut on Peacock on Dec. 12.
In the six-episode season, the families embark on sensory-friendly trips in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach.
All three municipalities are designated as autism-friendly destinations by Autism Travel Club, a program that connects families with autism-friendly experiences, environments and businesses.
“‘Traveling the Spectrum’ has the potential to change the world by helping families on the autism spectrum feel more comfortable exploring new destinations,” Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Chief Marketing Officer Stuart Butler said in a statement.
“By following along on their vacations and hearing their personal stories, we see the unique challenges each family faces and how our community steps up to provide a welcoming, inclusive experience,” Butler said.
Autism and travel
Of the parents of autistic children asked, 87% said they don’t currently take family vacations and 93% said they’d be more likely to travel if autism-certified options were available, according to a survey by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards’s website Autism Travel.
The show will follow the Gielink, Hall and Tilk families as they navigate travel and make vacation memories at Myrtle Beach-area attractions like the Intracoastal Waterway, Pelicans Ballpark and Ripley’s Aquarium.
Myrtle Beach
With a history of working to create a welcoming environment for visitors with autism, the Grand Strand is a natural fit for “Traveling the Spectrum.”
According to Autism Travel Club, Myrtle Beach is “the birthplace of the autism-friendly travel initiative,” and the area is home to more than a dozen restaurants, attractions and stores offering accommodations and discounts to club members.
“I just think it’s pretty remarkable. Like, if I allow myself to think about it, I feel blessed and honored and stoked,” said Becky Large, Champion Autism Network and Autism Travel Club Executive Director Becky Large told The Sun News. “If we can spread autism awareness like how this show is starting, it’s pretty epic.”
To learn more about Traveling the Spectrum before it premieres, check out the show’s page here. To join Autism Travel Club, either as a family with autism or a local business welcoming visitors with autism, visit the program’s website here.
This story was originally published November 23, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "A new TV show will explore traveling with autism in these SC cities. Here’s where and when."