Accessible tourism

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**Overview of Accessible Tourism**:
– Accessible tourism aims to make tourist destinations, products, and services accessible to all, including people with disabilities, children, and seniors.
– Approximately 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability, with 1 billion people having some disability globally.
– The shift from the medical model to the social model of disability has influenced accessible tourism.
– The social model emphasizes removing social barriers for individuals with disabilities.
– The concept of Universal Design focuses on creating inclusive environments for all.

**Regulations and Standards**:
– Article 9 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is a key international standard for accessible tourism.
– The CRPD aims to provide equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities in society.
– Many countries have legislation supporting the needs of people with disabilities.
– The CRPD has gained 164 signatories since its adoption in 2006.
– Legal protections, increased access to services, and decreased discrimination are key goals of the CRPD.

**Market and Industry Trends**:
– Accessible tourism represents an opportunity for new investments and service requirements.
– The European Network for Accessible Tourism defines accessible tourism to include barrier-free destinations, suitable transport, high-quality services, inclusive activities, and accessible information.
– Major resources are being dedicated to the field of accessible tourism.
– Companies worldwide are emerging in the accessible tourism industry.
– Online travel planning and accessibility maps are becoming more common.

**Future Outlook and Impact**:
– The emerging field of accessible tourism will impact tourism destination competitiveness in the future.
– Factors like human rights, emerging market segments, and service delivery will influence the future of accessible tourism.
Research predicts that accessible tourism will continue to grow in importance.
– The future of accessible tourism will be influenced by various perspectives and trends.
– Companies and destinations will need to adapt to meet the needs of diverse populations.

**Specific Accommodations and Practical Examples**:
– Campground picnic table with extended top for wheelchairs and walkers
– Accessible boardwalk ramp with landings for panoramic views
– Wheelchair ramp at Kapiti Island coast accessible beach
– Accessible yurt shelter in Pinery Provincial Park, Ontario
– Accessible shower stall at a State park in Virginia

Accessible tourism (Wikipedia)

Accessible tourism is the ongoing endeavor to ensure tourist destinations, products, and services are accessible to all people, regardless of their physical or intellectual limitations, disabilities or age. It encompasses publicly and privately owned and operated tourist locations. The goal of accessible tourism is to create inclusivity of all including those traveling with children, people with disabilities, as well as seniors. This allows those with access requirements to be able to function as an independent using products following the universal design principle, a variety of services, and different environments.

Nehantic Trail - Rhododendron Sanctuary Trail entrance and Wheelchair-accessible sign
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