Showing papers on "Accessible tourism published in 2020"

From tourism and disability to accessible tourism: a perspective article

Abstract: This paper aims to examine the development of disability and tourism to the conceptualising and defining of accessible tourism.,This paper uses a limited review of the literature as its main approach.,In reviewing the development of the field from disability and tourism to accessible tourism, it became apparent that there has been a change in focus on the accessibility of the key sectors of tourism (e.g. transport, accommodation and attractions) to incorporating an embodied understanding of tourism in developing accessible destination experiences that provide an equality of offering to that of nondisabled tourists.,This paper makes a contribution by clearly following the development of the field from papers that only considered tourism and disability to conceptualise and define the accessible tourism field. It then goes on to identify a significant challenge due to an underlying empirical data gap through a lack of nationally and regionally collected tourism data that incorporates disability questions.

Accessibility and Inclusive Tourism Development: Current State and Future Agenda

Abstract: Accessibility constitutes one important consideration in the field of scholarship relating to inclusive tourism development because it is fundamentally about the inclusion of people with disabilities in tourism and in society. This conceptual paper maps how accessible tourism is currently positioned against an established framework of inclusive tourism development and gives examples of relevant accessible tourism studies to recommend a future agenda for more inclusive outcomes that move towards sustainability. The seven elements of Scheyvens and Biddulph’s (2018) conceptual framework for inclusive tourism development form an appropriate and useful tool upon which to examine the current state of accessible tourism. The application of this framework reveals that we still have some way to go. We conclude this paper with a future agenda that posits attention to all seven elements of the inclusive tourism framework for accessible tourism, notably, to increase the involvement of people with disabilities as tourism producers and consumers; increase their self-representation and participation in decision-making; transform power relations; reimagine tourism places and people; and break down social barriers. We especially urge researchers to examine the dominant ableist discourse, to consider how our inquiry can be more participatory and inclusive, and to seek to bridge inquiry, industry and community.

Finding a way towards high-quality, accessible tourism: the role of digital ecosystems

Abstract: PurposeDespite a growing interest in accessible tourism, delivering high-quality tourism experiences to people with disabilities (PwD) remains a major challenge Beyond a number of acknowledged barriers (e g cultural, architectural, relational), the main issue is the lack of coordination amongst the many actors participating in the co-creation of tourism experiences This paper intends to advance available knowledge on this issue by conceptually suggesting a solution that draws on the concepts of the tourism experience and digital ecosystems Design/methodology/approachThis paper is developed as a conceptual contribution, drawing also on an illustrative example that considers a tourist with mobility disability as the focal actor FindingsThe results indicate that a digital ecosystem could contribute to making tourism locations more accessible by enabling information sharing and coordination amongst all actors that co-create the tourism experiences Moreover, the analysis underlines that tourism locations should be designed to be useable by all people, drawing on the principles of the universal design Research limitations/implicationsThis paper describes a path to fostering accessible tourism, drawing on local authorities, particularly municipalities and universities The suggested solution would benefit from future empirical analyses to assess its strengths and weaknesses Originality/valueBy drawing on the concept of digital ecosystems, this paper is amongst the first studies to suggest a path to making tourism locations more accessible to all tourists (with or without disabilities) based on technology

Understanding technological contributions to accessible tourism from the perspective of destination design for visually impaired visitors in Hong Kong

Abstract: Increasing concerns about disability, accessibility and universal environments for travel and destinations have reached the academic and industrial attentions worldwide, especially for the understanding of the role of technology in tourism. This study presents a qualitative study to the objectives of: (1) understanding different types of barriers encountered by the visually impaired (VI) in visiting urban attractions; (2) exploring technological contributions in removing barriers for the VI smartphone and computer users in touring urban attractions; and (3) examining the implications for technological innovations that improve the accessibility of tourism in Hong Kong for the VI. The targets of the study were young local VI visitors of Hong Kong attractions who were also smartphone and computer users. Results revealed that the interviewees' main concerns regarding barriers were knowledge constraints. This study confirms the contribution of technology toward increased accessibility by highlighting that mobile applications have the capability to remove knowledge constraints for the VI. The study also shows that maps and images are the two areas for future technology innovation.

Accessible Tourism in Natural Park Areas: A Social Network Analysis to Discard Barriers and Provide Information for People with Disabilities

Abstract: Although regulations designed to meet the necessities of tourists with disabilities are allowing disables to travel more, they are still encountering barriers and discriminatory practices. A relevant obstacle in making the tourist policy effective is represented by the lack of information and communication about needs and expectations of disabled categories. In this context, the present paper focuses on the coproduction process of tourist public policies for disables by looking at the network that facilitates communication among the actors taking part in the process. We adopt the Social Network Analysis (SNA) to study the policy network, i.e., how public administrations and policy users (associations of citizens/people with disabilities and entrepreneurs) exchange information about the accessibility to the Gargano National Park, a protected natural area in the South of Italy. In particular, we investigate the role of entrepreneurial stakeholders in channeling information and the presence of policy brokers, i.e., stakeholders that spread the policies to the whole network. Our findings show that a limited number of actors involved in granting accessibility to tourists with disabilities is engaged in information exchanges. Moreover, information flows are guided by only one public administration that plays, therefore, a key role in the implementation of policies that support the parks’ accessibility.

Senior Travelers to Integrated Resorts: Preferences, Consuming Behaviors and Barriers

Abstract: This study expands the literature on senior tourism in Asia by investigating buying preferences, behaviors and accessibility barriers of seniors visiting integrated resorts (IRs). In-depth intervie...

Assessing social media accessibility: the case of the Rock in Rio Lisboa music festival

Abstract: This paper aims to present a framework to analyse whether information published on social media is accessible for people with disabilities (PwD), namely, visual and hearing disabilities, with an application to a music festival.,The methodology used in this exploratory study consists of establishing a recommended framework to assess social media accessibility for PwD, especially for people with visual and hearing disabilities (PwVHD), and analyse, through an observation grid, if the information published on the official pages of the “Rock in Rio Lisboa” music festival on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube is accessible for this target audience.,The results indicate that, although the Rock in Rio Lisboa music festival is promoted as a festival for all, posts on social media are not accessible for people with visual and/or hearing disabilities and do not meet most of the defined parameters established in the proposed assessment framework.,Social media accessibility has not been analysed in previous research in the tourism context. This paper aims to fill in the void by establishing criteria and parameters that can serve as a basis for a framework for accessibility assessment in social media for PwVHD.

Enhancing the Smart Tourism Experience for People with Visual Impairments by Gamified Application Approach through Needs Analysis in Hong Kong

Abstract: Sustainability studies in tourism are increasingly emphasizing social matters, for instance, “Accessible Tourism for All.” Research on people with visual impairments with smart tourism has so far been sparse. In order to resonate with the global call for sustainable tourism development, this paper aims to contribute to understanding the aspirations of people with visual impairments in terms of tourism and to explore how smart tourism destinations could potentially enhance the tourism experience they offer. We utilized multisensory participant observations and interviews to empathize with the target users and gain insights into their needs. The results showed that they were generally positive about travel, particularly autonomy, achievement needs, and socializing with other individuals. The findings also shed light on their desire to play games on their phones. Consequently, based on the findings and the theoretical groundings of PERMA model and MDA framework from positive psychology and game design, the study proposed a gamified approach to future tourism app design for people with visual impairments, which could enhance engagement, motivation, and enjoyment in the tourism experience.

Understanding Stakeholder Attitudes, Needs and Trends in Accessible Tourism: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

Abstract: The inclusion of people with disabilities (PwD) in tourism is a phenomenon that encompasses various influencing factors, such as accessibility, which must be reviewed for this process to work correctly. Accessible tourism has advantages for both people with disabilities and everyone else. It provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy leisure without barriers. However, there are still factors that limit the proper operation of the sector, which require a review and new strategies for its improvement. The objective of this review is to offer a synthesis of those challenges that must be addressed in order to achieve quality accessible tourism, as well as to present the various emerging trends that can represent an important advance for the future of accessible tourism. To this end, a qualitative study review process has been carried out where the different opinions and perceptions of the various actors involved in the accessible tourism sector are considered. A thematic analysis and synthesis of the information was conducted using the “Thematic Synthesis” procedure. The methodological quality of the studies included in the synthesis was also assessed. The studies reviewed show a need to recognize disabled travelers as autonomous and independent people who seek to escape from their daily routine, and who require certain specific supports to facilitate their tourist experience. Accessible tourism is valued as a good market opportunity, but its proper development requires greater staff awareness to promote co-creation in tourism, as well as the support of technological systems to create individualized tourist profiles detailing the needs of each person.

Digital accessibility on institutional websites of Portuguese tourism

Abstract: In this chapter we address the problem of accessibility and accessible tourism concerning the various types of information and communication, namely, the digital information resulting from technological innovation implemented in recent years in various websites.

Web Accessibility in the Tourism Sector: An Analysis of the Most Used Websites in Portugal

Abstract: The technologies have received predominant interest in the tourism industry. The increase of technology and wireless connection reduces time and distance limitation which leads to a positive communication and relationship between suppliers and consumers. However, are the web tools properly designed and coded, to be used by people with disabilities? This paper was aimed to present the results of the web accessibility of tourism websites. Each homepage was analyzed in terms of the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) web accessibility. The majority of tourism websites homepages were found to fail one or more of the W3C web accessibility measures which means disabled users may have substantial problems when accessing websites. Several suggestions on how to improve the accessibility of the websites are then offered. This study contributed to the discussion about the use of tourism technologies by people with disabilities.

Infoaccessibility on the Websites of Inbound Markets of Portugal Destination

Abstract: In this article we discuss the problem of infoaccessibility and its importance in the promotion of tourist destinations. In the era of globalization and a perspective of constant competitiveness among the territories, a new paradigm arises in the way the tourist offer is available to any type of user, regardless their limitations. The relevance of information and its communication, crucial in the management of destination’s brand, and the way in which different websites reconfigure and adapt to the European guidelines is one of our main approaches.

Improving the Accessibility of the Tourism Industry in New Zealand

Abstract: Internationally, the accessible tourism market has been identified as a growing segment that could lead the way for social inclusiveness, as well as providing the industry with financial gains and destination competitiveness. Despite the increased number of people who travel with access requirements, the sector still lacks an understanding of the expectations and experiences of access tourists. Accessible tourism covers an array of impairments from people who are immobile, visually impaired, an invisible impairment, parents with pushchairs, and seniors. The purpose of this study was to understand the expectations and experiences of the access consumer to suggest improvements for accessibility for the New Zealand tourism sector. The social model of disability was adopted to examine the sector and framed the semi-structured interviews with access consumers. Key results identified from the data were the need to achieve dignity in service offerings to gain experiences that facilitate independence and equity of access, access to information before the travel that is clear and accurate to aid planning, and accessible transport and education. In conclusion, the paper calls for the New Zealand tourism industry to align with the Disability Strategy sustainability goals to achieve equity and inclusion and create enjoyable accessible experiences in their tourist offerings.

Understanding the Discrimination Experienced by Customers with Disabilities in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry: The Case of Seoul in South Korea

Abstract: This article begins with the view that the research of accessible tourism should not only find justification for increasing demand but also have the ultimate purpose of seeking justice for an equitable society. To this end, prior research on accessible tourism is theoretically outlined, and the concepts, causes, and aspects of disability discrimination are considered. In addition, cases of discrimination of customers with disabilities in the tourism and hospitality industries are investigated by an ethnographic approach. The findings are categorized into seven sections, depending on the type of lack of understanding of customers with disabilities. In other words, service providers have a stereotypical view that customers with disabilities have similar attributes, and they also fail to free customers with disabilities from the prejudice of customers with nondisabilities, who may generalize the group with disabilities with a negative and hostile attitude. Additionally, tourist attractions, lodging, and dining infrastructure have caused a stigma that lowers the activities of customers with disabilities to bystanders or makes customers with disabilities more recognized as a social protection target rather than members of society. Therefore, marketing implications can be discussed in terms of physical facilities and human services at the key points where discrimination against customers with disabilities occurs, as can be seen from the results of this study.

Inclusive tourism: a priority for Portugal

Abstract: This paper aims to outline how inclusive tourism promotes competitiveness by making the destination more accessible and so able to receive any tourist.,This a viewpoint reflection that outlines why inclusive tourism should be a priority for Portugal.,Portugal has been demonstrating, over the years, that it is imperative to think strategically about tourism from different perspectives, with the numerous awards and recognition of exceptional results confirming this practice.,The viewpoint advocates an urgent and positive response to the challenge of inclusion and accessibility, by adapting policies to make destinations available for all.,The case of Portugal is presented, revealing a country that is open to the world and attentive to changes in tourists’ profiles.

Tourism Destination Management Strategy for Young Children: Willingness to Pay for Child-Friendly Tourism Facilities and Services at a Heritage Site

Abstract: The present study seeks to establish tourism destination management centered on young children for accessible tourism from a public perspective. Preferences for services and facilities for young children were identified using a choice experiment (CE). The present study was conducted at Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Suwon City, which leads the clean restroom culture. Overall, 1870 experiments were conducted with 374 participants to estimate their willingness to pay for child-friendly tourism facilities and services. As a result, willingness to pay was found in the order of specialized courses for young children, rest areas, restrooms, and rides. In conclusion, the importance of health/hygiene and amenities has implications for tourism destination management for young children. This study contributes to a better understanding of families with young children by evaluating preferences for levels of services and facilities for young children.

Information as the First Attribute of Accessibility: A Method for Assessing the Information Provided by Urban Rail Systems to Tourists with Reduced Mobility

Abstract: It is estimated that more than one billion people worldwide have some form of disability, and that number is expected to rise as the population ages. A lack of accessible transport can represent a challenge to commuting citizens and it can also inhibit tourists with reduced mobility. Online information about accessibility is the first point of contact that tourists have with their destination and it should therefore be considered an attribute of accessibility. In that context, this paper aims to: (a) propose a method for classifying the information about accessibility provided by the official websites of public transport systems; and (b) present and discuss the results of the application of the method to the official websites of 212 urban rail systems around the world. The results suggest that, despite it being the first indication of destination accessibility, many cities do not provide or provide unclear or insufficient information for tourists with reduced mobility on their official websites. Moreover, few official websites provide information on accessibility around stations or in the case of transfers. This novel method proved to be suitable for classifying the websites, as well as identifying aspects of the information provision that can be improved.

Online Recommender system for Accessible Tourism Destinations

Abstract: Traveling for leisure has become an important part of our society. It has proven time and again its benefits for wellbeing and personal growth. There are many types of tourism and one of them is Accessible Tourism (AT), an ongoing endeavor to ensure that everyone, regardless of condition, has the right to benefit from tourism experiences. Recommender systems (RSs) represent a mature technique for generating clear and personalized suggestions. While being widely researched and used by the tourism academic community and the tourism industry in general, Recommender Systems (RSs) can still do much more for Accessible Tourism (AT). This thesis aims to build a recommender system dedicated to recommending accessible tourism destinations and easy the process of e2e trip planning for people with disabilities. With a modular design, use of ontologies, machine learning techniques and a “start small, define expansion, expand” approach, this recommender system, once built, aims to be validated by real users.

Website accessibility of travel agents : An evaluation using web diagnostic tools

Abstract: Travel agents (TA) play an important role in the tourism system, providing information and intermediating the purchase of tourism products. The relevance of these players is higher to the accessible tourism market, due to the various environmental, attitudinal and informational constraints that people with disabilities (PwD) face in carrying out a tourism trip. To overcome some of the information constraints, communication channels, such as websites, used by TA, should be accessible for all people, regardless of their psychological and physical abilities. To accomplish this aim, in this study the website accessibility of (TA) located in the Central Region of Portugal was examined. Based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, a sample of 182 websites was analyzed, considering the three-conformance level of WCAG (A, AA and AAA) and using two automatic evaluation tools (AccessMonitor and “Test de Accesibilidade Web”—TAW). Results show that the websites of TA reveal several problems in relation to accessibility, particularly in the basic accessibility requirements (level A of the WCAG). Moreover, several problems were identified, mainly in the perceivable and robust principals. The paper ends with some guidelines to increase the level of web accessibility of TA.

Has tourism the resources and answers to a more inclusive society

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to introduce the various papers in this issue and explain the pertinence of the strategic question.,A brief context for the strategic question is provided, as well as the issue alignment and a content analysis of the papers selected.,From the analysis of the papers selected for this theme issue, it becomes clear that destinations should reflect and work in a new model of tourism – more sustainable, innovative, responsible and supportive – adding value to the tourism ecosystem.,From various angles of analysis, the papers selected for this issue shed light on a relevant problem: the importance of tourist destinations in adopting a more inclusive approach. All tourist agents need to maintain their commitment to work together to promote universal accessibility and inclusiveness.

Turismo accesible: estudio bibliométrico

Abstract: The present study analyzes the scientific production in ScienceDirect and Scopus databases associated with 94 original ar­ticles on accessible tourism in the period 2008 to the first half of 2019. Methodology: Exploratory-descriptive study, based on the selection of keywords and search criteria; standardization, systematization of inquiry and analysis of information through the use of EndNote X8, Bibexcel, Pajek; and, vos­viewer. Results: It was identified that the year of greatest productivity was 2016 with a total of 18 publications. The scientific journals with the highest production are: Annals of Tourism Research with 17 publications and Tourism Management with 11 disclosures. Conclusion: During the period under study there was gradual growth in recent years, whereby roughly 17 publications on the sub­ject are foreseen for 2020. It was identified that the most common issues are: disability, accessibility, inclusion, accessible tourism, legislation.

Accessible and inclusive tourism: why it is so important for destination branding?

Abstract: By embracing the entire community of travellers, despite their capacity, tourism destinations that have the opportunity to appeal to the art of inclusive tourism policies in the Center of Portugal, are analyzed, showing the importance for a tourist destination to adapt these policies to the notoriety of the destination brand.,This paper offers a practical viewpoint based on the state-of-the-art of public policies relating to inclusive and accessible tourism in the Center of Portugal and their impacts on the destination branding.,Taking into account the territorial specificity of the Center of Portugal, the asymmetries of development and cohesion, Tourism Center of Portugal (TCP) has sought to develop projects and actions in partnership with the different actors in the territory that promote territorial cohesion, integrated and sustainable development and the attractiveness of the inland region.,All the projects developed to support accessible and inclusive tourism, in which TCP is an active part, create a network of tourist services to become destinations more accessible and inclusive for everyone.,Inclusive and accessible tourism is little explored by DMOs. In this paper, the case of the Center of Portugal region is presented, highlighting a series of unprecedented initiatives that are being developed, aiming to provide the destination with unique points of differentiation.

Internet for Supporting and Promoting Accessible Tourism: Evidence from Italy

Abstract: In the last 10 years “accessible tourism” represents one topic that has been becoming more and more relevant, not only because of the increasing attention paid to civic and social values, but also because this tourism segment represents an undoubted economic opportunity able to create added value over time and, consequently, to increase profits. This conceptual study provides a deep analysis of “accessible tourism” phenomenon through a description of the evolution process of the regulatory system. Also, the role of the internet and new technologies to the dissemination of information analyzing tourist websites has been investigated with focus on the Italian context.

Web Accessibility in Portuguese Museums: Potential Constraints on Interaction for People with Disabilities

Abstract: Museums play a major role as tourism attractions worldwide. Nevertheless, and despite the increasing awareness of the need to improve accessibility for people with disabilities in tourism, museum websites are still identified by this group as a major constraint for visiting and having pleasurable experiences in museums. Despite the existence of constraints in this scope, empirical research that examines the accessibility of museums websites is very scarce with only one study being known in this field. Even this study only considers a small set of museums in one region of the United States and adopts a non-automatic, and thus subjective procedure, not enabling great conclusions about the accessibility of these museum web platforms. The present paper aims to fill some of the previous gaps by assessing the accessibility of websites of museums located in Portugal. To achieve this aim, a total of 575 websites of museums located across different regions were assessed using two automated tools based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines: AccessMonitor and Test de Accesibilidad Web. Results reveal that although websites of museums present higher levels of accessibility than those of other tourism supply agents, they still have several accessibility problems that must be solved. Findings also show that there is a higher prevalence of failures related to the ‘perceivable’ and ‘robust’ principles, and that the accessibility level differs among the NUTS II regions where museums are located. The paper ends by identifying the main conclusions and the major implications for designers or managers of these websites.

Europe without barriers: accessible tourism between places and projects

Abstract: In the last few decades, the tourism sector in Europe is facing growing demands from travellers who want better access in hotels, at holiday destinations and tourist attractions. The number of European travellers in the 55+ age group is increasing and, together with disabled people and their families, these customers are looking for travel options where basic accessibility features are standard. The so-called accessible tourism for all is not about providing separated services for separated targets or niche tourist markets. It aims at full integration or rather inclusion of people with special needs (age, size, disability) in the tourism sector. Its long-term goal is the creation of a tourist environment in which all tourists can participate actively. Viewed from the perspective of accessible tourism for all, tourism policy in the European Union can be said to unite accessibility targets that are part of the otherwise trade-related aspects of tourism policy and a disability policy that, based on the United Nations’ Standard Rules, support goals and specific measures at various levels that are designed to enhance accessibility in connection with tourism policy. Within this framework, the main purpose of this research is to investigate strategies and actions in which the European Commission is committed to increase accessibility in tourism. Using a qualitative methodology, the paper explores objectives and activities of some initiatives that are helping to make travel and tourism accessible for all. Therefore, it offers an overview on some projects and good practices taking place in European countries.

Digital Marketing Strategies for Accessible Tourism

Abstract: This chapter addresses the applications of digital marketing in the construct of communicational practices aimed at target audiences that have some physical, motor, psychological, or other disabilities, who require additional information or specialized advice to fully comprehend all elements involved, when planning/deciding to travel. Throughout the text there are several references of the conceptual framework, as well as several examples of case studies that highlight some of the practices used in diversified contexts, using digital tools as privileged means of intervention in the different dimensions required to support the so-called accessible tourism.

A Longitudinal Study About Mobile Applications in the Tourism Sector

Abstract: Over the last years, the results of international tourism industry have exceeded expectations and the number of tourists has increased continuously. Taking into account that about 95% of tourists use digital tools when searching for the best experience before, during and after travelling, and that the average customer accesses a combination of 19 sites and apps during his trip, we quickly realize that this is a golden opportunity for tourism-based companies. This paper aims to present a longitudinal study of touristic applications’ evaluation. One methodology was applied to evaluate the mobile application. As a result, it was found that all applications were updated, their size increased and the number of installations also increased and, in general, the ranking of the applications was maintained.

Barrier-free environment as an aspect for the development of accessible ecotourism

Abstract: Nowadays, in the entire palette of famous types of tourism, accessible ecotourism is one of the most promising ones. This area of tourism plays an important social role in the life of people with physical disabilities. Thanks to accessible ecotourism, the environment for people with disabilities is expanding. The paper analyzes the development of accessible tourism using the example of Krasnodar and the Krasnodar Krai, actualizes the need for the development of this type of tourism and establishes its importance for people with disabilities. It was revealed that it is necessary to carry out the state policy of the field of accessible tourism and plan the development of this sector at the state and regional levels using advanced information technologies. Routes that will be equipped with the necessary equipment for a comfortable moving and stay of people with disabilities are presented. The project approach allowed developing a model of mobile application for the development of accessible ecotourism in the Krasnodar Krai and throughout the whole country with the inclusion of all interested authorities in the solution of the problem, pooling the necessary resources and social survey. The results of the study and the experience of personal participation of the authors are given in this paper.