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Inclusive Hospitality
Break down barriers, seize opportunities
Lived inclusive hospitality is becoming increasingly important in tourism. Those who create a fair offer not only adhere to fundamental human rights and promote sustainable development, but also benefit from a success model of the future. This is because the loyalty factor of this guest group is significantly above average.
Equal opportunities and accessibility are on everyone's lips: 27% of the EU population live with disabilities, and by the year 2100, the proportion of those aged over 65 will account for one-third of the total population. The number of people who need and value accessibility is therefore constantly increasing. At the same time, we are nowadays more mobile and keen to travel than before. We travel well into old age, and fortunately, disabilities are no longer a reason to forgo vacations. Practiced inclusive hospitality is thus becoming a true success factor for the future in tourism.
Inclusion is not an addition, but a true benefit. With this project, we want to move forward together with our businesses - towards a region where all guests truly feel seen, appreciated, and well taken care of.
Elias Walser, Managing Director
Tyrol's high plateau has therefore, in the past two years, collaborated with Innsbruck Tourism on the LEADER Project Breaking Down Barriers, Utilizing Opportunities – Inclusive Tourism. The two regions are intensively dealing with the topic, their existing offerings, the problems, and missing points. As a result, a compact practical guide has emerged. This contains many valuable pieces of information on how businesses can successfully create an accessible offering. Especially helpful are the concise practical tips and the detailed checklist, which clearly and easily illustrate what is important and can serve businesses as a solid basis for planning and work.
The Seefeld Tourism Association has put together several regional offers in addition to the project, as well as its own landing page. In the region, for example, six accessible hiking trails certified by the state of Tyrol have been established. In winter, certified ski trails will follow. You can find more information about the other offers on our website at: Barrier-free vacation in Tyrol – Experience the Seefeld region barrier-free.
In the coming weeks, all regional businesses will be contacted again, and their current accessible offerings will be requested. The region hopes for active participation and reliable information. Only in this way can all accommodations and offerings be fully represented. It should be considered that the loyalty to the travel destination among guests with disabilities is significantly above average. Fair and true accessibility is not only a human right but will definitely be a success factor in the future. In addition to the defined target group of guests with disabilities and special needs, accessible offerings can also cater to the groups of an increasingly aging but travel-oriented senior citizen population as well as those of families with young children. Because they also enjoy and appreciate accommodations, restaurants, and experiences that can be easily enjoyed without obstacles using walking aids, strollers, health limitations, or the special needs of elderly individuals or small children.
So let's be there when it comes to making the special moments on Tyrol's most beautiful plateau accessible for everyone together.
This project has been supported by funds from the federal government, state, and the European Union.