What is stopping the process? Analysis of obstacles to accessible tourism from a stakeholders' perspective

Abstract

People with disabilities still encounter many hurdles when traveling. This study aims at identifying the factors hindering the development of accessibility in tourist destinations. To this end, we developed a stakeholder analysis using the Spanish Costa Blanca as a case study. Employing a qualitative approach, insights from accessible tourism stakeholders were gathered. Data was collected through 83 semi-structured interviews. The research revealed instances of non-collaborative relationships and conflicts among stakeholders, which are acting as obstacles to accessible tourism. Among others, discrimination by firms and non-disabled customers to tourists with disabilities, inconsistencies in legislation, or challenges associated with the implementation of Universal Design.