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Tourism Must Be Accessible to All, Experts Urge
25 Sep
Summary
- Tourism projects need inclusive designs beyond basic accessibility features.
- Guides and hotel staff require training in disability-friendly practices.
- Destinations must undergo audits to ensure accessibility standards.
Tourism destinations require a fundamental shift towards inclusive and accessible designs, according to insights shared at a seminar during the Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) 2026.
Experts stressed that travel experiences must be crafted to accommodate everyone, including individuals with visual, hearing, and intellectual disabilities. Training for guides and equipping hotels with suitable rooms are highlighted as immediate needs, with a call for videos about destinations to consider diverse impairments.
Furthermore, officials emphasized that accessibility must encompass more than just ramps and special rooms. Awareness and capacity building for government officials across various departments are crucial for implementing effective disability-friendly practices.
The seminar called for comprehensive training for all tourism stakeholders, from tour operators to taxi drivers. Ensuring accessibility across public transport, restrooms, and hotel rooms is paramount, with audits of tourism destinations identified as a critical initial step.
Kerala's Responsible Tourism Mission showcases a model for inclusion, with a large portion of its units managed by women's collectives, demonstrating a commitment to making destinations welcoming for both residents and visitors.
