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PUBLICATIONS


001 – Redefining Accessible Tourism: A Novel Stakeholder-Based Approach

Abstract

Academia defines accessible tourism as a form of tourism that assures equality and dignified participation for tourists with special physical, sensory, and cognitive access needs. However, the literature lacks a conceptualization of accessible tourism from a practical viewpoint. This study addresses this gap by examining how stakeholders define accessible tourism and its benefits. Data were collected in A Coruña (Spain) through interviews and focus groups within a sample of 23 representatives from the public, private, and associative sectors related to tourism and disability. The analysis followed Grounded Theory guidelines and was supported by Atlas.ti. The results reveal that accessibility is viewed as a ‘cultural concept,’ a ‘legal imperative,‘and ‘something temporary.’ Furthermore, accessible tourism is perceived as a model that provides not only social and economic advantages but also environmental benefits. This study contributes to the literature by distinguishing accessible tourism from other tourism models and presenting a new categorization of its characteristics and benefits. On a practical level, it provides valuable insights into accessibility, helping Destination Management Organizations facilitate the participation of tourists with specific access needs in tourism activities.


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