Developing a Strategic Planning for the Promotion of Accessible and Inclusive Tourism in Italy
摘要
Ensuring equal access and enjoyment of tourism by the widest range of people of all ages and abilities is a right for all, as clearly stated in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, despite efforts to implement the aims and objectives of the Convention, the gap between the supply and demand of accessibility is still very high in Italy. Many accessibility problems remain in relation to information, services, transport, tourist destinations, accommodation and all types of facilities and attractions. The lack of long-term planning and the absence of a holistic accessibility perspective are further exacerbating the situation in Italy. This chapter will investigate the challenges and opportunities for developing inclusive forms of accessible tourism through a survey of potential users. It will propose a reference grid for best practices that covers barriers and factors that support the accessibility and usability of cultural activities for people with disabilities. This will provide a point of reference to support planning and governance policies for sustainable tourism. The chapter will answer two fundamental research questions to improve the conditions of the Italian tourism system: what is the perception of people with disabilities regarding their ability to travel in Italy? Which parameters should be considered for a proper planning of accessible and inclusive tourism in Italy?