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Accessible Tourism: The Demand-Side Perspective

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Accessible Tourism in the Digital Ecosystem

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Abstract

Accessibility is beneficial for anyone facing challenges in experiencing tourism, not only for people with disabilities. Therefore, the demand for accessible tourism is highly diverse and warrants in-depth analysis. Based on a systematic review of the scientific literature published since 2010, this chapter investigates the aspects characterizing the demand for accessible tourism. The analysis led to the identification of five major themes: market dimension and value, tourist experiences, travel motivations, travel constraints, and travel needs. Practical implications are derived for destination management organizations and tourism companies wishing to improve the accessibility of their offerings.

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Vigolo, V., Simeoni, F. (2023). Accessible Tourism: The Demand-Side Perspective. In: Cassia, F., Castellani, P., Rossato, C. (eds) Accessible Tourism in the Digital Ecosystem. SpringerBriefs in Applied Sciences and Technology. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38782-1_2

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