The first free program that self-evaluates tourist accessibility is born: PROA
11-05-24
With the support of the Tourism and Society Think Tank for its promotion and global collaboration, PROA emerges as a software specialized in measuring tourist accessibility in a variety of spaces, both public (roads, beaches, tourist offices) and private (hotels, restaurants, commercial activities). Offered free of charge to all destination companies and administrations that request it, PROA facilitates the evaluation of tourist accessibility, rating spaces in three categories: accessible, practicable and non-accessible.
This innovative tool can evaluate up to 20 types of spaces adapted to various needs, including those of people with reduced mobility, visual and hearing disabilities, wheelchair users and families. In addition, PROA not only evaluates the current state of accessibility, but also generates customized recommendations for improvement.
Integrated within the tools for the DTI (Destino Turístico Inteligente) Network and recognized in the Segittur catalog as the only technological solution in its category, PROA aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Spanish State Secretariat and is presented as a strategic option for SEGITTUR grant applications. Its global implementation, supported by the Tourism and Society Think Tank, strengthens its position as an essential solution for improving accessibility in tourism worldwide.
Presentación PROA Think Tank ENG.pdfIn the case of Spain, and in view of the imminent opening of the Smart Destination Platform Call for Proposals (Spain), incorporating PROA in these proposals allows: aligning the proposal with the Smart Tourism Destinations strategy developed by the Secretary of State, arguing the proposal and improving the overall scores of the candidacy in strategic opportunity for action, technical project, sustainability or governance model.
In this context, the Catalan Tourism Agency (Spain) has already adopted the software as an official tool and according to Jaume Marín, CEO of PROA, "we are working to expand the number of entities that incorporate it as an official tool because it is a really useful tool to know the state of the offer and to implement improvement policies for a universal tourism in line with the SDGs".
We are therefore facing a software that is already tested and that an entity of tourism relevance -as the Catalan Tourism Agency- decides to implement in a brave and firm commitment to promote the social sustainability of tourism for all, as a key axis of tourism competitiveness.
Benefits of promoting accessibility
Promoting accessibility can benefit you for the following reasons:
1 Access to a large potential market 2.
Global reach: It is estimated that around 1.2 billion people worldwide have some type of disability, which constitutes a substantial part of the world's population and represents an important potential market for accessible tourism (Emerald Insight).
In the case of Europe alone, there are some 50 million people with disabilities, i.e., a sizeable market of potential tourists with special accessibility needs, and the potential market for accessible tourism is expected to reach considerable numbers, with expected potential revenues of up to €88 billion by 2025, indicating strong demand and economic capacity among travelers with disabilities (NextBillion).
Adapting your services for this population can open up new business opportunities.
Purchasing power: in the United States alone, adults with disabilities spend more than $17 billion a year on travel (NextBillion). This figure highlights the economic impact and revenue potential that can be realized by making tourism more accessible.
Traveler behavior and needs: People with disabilities are often accompanied by caregivers or family members, which influences the size of travel groups and the type of accommodations and services needed. This demographic tends to travel in larger groups than the average tourist, further increasing their overall purchasing power and market impact (NextBillion).
Emerging economies: there is growing recognition of the untapped market potential in emerging economies. Countries are increasingly taking steps to make tourism more inclusive and accessible, which not only improves the quality of life for people with disabilities, but also capitalizes on a significant business opportunity (NextBillion).
2. Reducing seasonality in tourism
People with disabilities tend to travel throughout the year, not only in high season. This can help tourism businesses reduce their dependence on the tourist season and maintain a steady flow of customers throughout the year.
3. Social responsibility and improved quality of life
Promoting accessibility is not only a social responsibility, but also improves the quality of life of people with disabilities. This includes providing them with opportunities to enjoy travel and tourism experiences, thus contributing to their inclusion and well-being, in line with the UN SDGs.
The software, also offers the possibility to the different DMOs to access specific modules that will allow them to know in depth the state of tourism accessibility in their territories. Among different functions, you will be able to:
Know the current state of tourist accessibility of the destination's tourist areas.
Have updated and real-time information on accessibility levels in order to be able to inform end users or intermediaries.
To have data analysis tools, which allow comparisons to be made at the accessibility level.
Mapping of accessible resources in the territory.
Analytical basis and suggested actions to develop strategies to promote the model of tourism for all at the destination.
Accessible tourism, also known as inclusive tourism or tourism for all, is an important part of the tourism sector that seeks to ensure that destinations, products and services are accessible to all people, regardless of their physical limitations, disabilities or age.
Overview of how different continents are addressing accessible tourism for people with disabilities:
1. Europe
Europe is a leader in accessible tourism, with numerous initiatives and regulations promoting accessibility. The European Union has implemented policies and guidelines that promote accessibility in tourism, and many European countries have adapted infrastructure, such as accessible public transportation, hotels with adapted rooms, and tourist attractions that offer full accessibility.
2. North America
In North America, especially in the United States and Canada, laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have established strong standards for accessibility. This includes accessibility requirements in hotels, transportation and public spaces. In addition, there are training programs for tourism sector personnel to improve service to tourists with disabilities.
3. Asia
Asia shows variable progress in accessible tourism. Countries such as Japan and South Korea have made significant progress, developing accessible infrastructure in preparation for international events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Other countries are gradually raising awareness and improving accessibility in major tourist areas.
4. Latin America
In Latin America, accessible tourism is gaining attention but still faces significant challenges due to the lack of adapted infrastructure and specific legislation. However, efforts are underway to improve accessibility in major tourist destinations and foster a culture of inclusion.
5. Africa
Africa has a long way to go in terms of tourism accessibility. Although some tourist destinations have begun to consider accessibility, the lack of resources and specific legislation are major barriers. However, there are local initiatives that seek to improve the situation.
6. Oceania
Australia and New Zealand are quite advanced in terms of implementing accessible tourism. These countries have robust policies and offer numerous options for tourists with disabilities, including accessible national parks and tourism experiences designed to be inclusive.
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