Inclusive tourism: the European experience

Abstract

Market data on barrier-free tourism demonstrates the continued need to focus on inclusive tourism. However, it is difficult to estimate the exact number or percentage of people in the world who are disabled. In some European countries, in particular, most of the available information on this issue is based on the number of people with disabilities who have a disability document issued only to people with a disability of 50% or more. Thus, the number of disabled people with less than 50% disability is not specified anywhere. In addition, most types of disability occur due to an accident or illness or simply due to life and aging, and only about 4% are congenital. Market dynamics expand the possibilities of people with reduced mobility. The demand for affordable tourism is constantly growing. The article aimed to study the trends, opportunities, and problems of inclusive tourism growth in Europe. It is determined that the tourism industry plays a vital role in the national development of each European country as a generator of income for all, including people with disabilities. Thus, the tourism sector must contribute to achieving its goals for people with disabilities, mainly through employment and self-employment in the tourism sector and as consumers and users of tourism products and services. Affordable tourism can be booming if considered with general tourism and integrated into critical proposals. From a marketing point of view, there is an opportunity to approach barrier-free tourism as part of tourism of particular interest. As more people with disabilities join the tourism industry, this segment will become integral to overall tourism. It will play an influential role in the further development of European countries. The review of the European experience of inclusive tourism was since neighboring countries face similar challenges, and the sharing of resources and capacities should be encouraged. Developing a strategy for identifying specific problems and their possible solutions is necessary. Geographical and cultural similarities within European countries are the basis for cooperation and joint strategies. Keywords: affordable tourism, inclusion, international tourism, inclusive tourism business, European countries.